Map Labelling in IELTS Listening

Listening to a voice prompt and answering the questions asked from the prompt is one of the important sessions in the IELTS examination. This normally comes under section two of the test.

So basically, you will be provided with a map, all you need to do is listen to the voice prompt carefully and label the blank spaces provided in the map with the correct name of the places in the voice prompt. You will either be provided with blank space or multiple word choices.

Check: Get 10 Free IELTS Sample Papers

Check: Register for IELTS Coaching - Join for Free Trial Class Now

Whenever you are attempting on this map labeling skills make sure to remember the following steps, in that way it will make things easier for you:

• Read the map: Before the audio starts you will be provided with 30 seconds to study the map. Make sure to utilize this time to study the map as this time is a much-needed and appreciated time.
• Read the instructions: Always remember to read the instructions mentioned in the questioner. ‘Write no more than 2 words’ or ‘Choose the answer from the options provided only’
• Read the clues on the map: Always remember to read the small clues on the map. There will be arrows mentioning the directions in the map like ‘North’, ‘South’, ‘East’, and ‘West’. Make sure to concentrate on the locations mentioned. In some cases, you will be provided with a prompt saying ‘you are here.
• Remember to notice things close by: Always remember to notice things close by the places that you need to fill. Some maps will have a lot of markings on it which are not required, they are provided just to confuse you.
• Listen to the Audio: The speaker, before starting with any directions will always mention what the map is all about and where you are located on the map. The reason you need to listen carefully is, in some maps, you will not be provided with the marking that says ‘you are here
• Remember the location: Always become familiar with the language of location and directions in the map.
• Spelling errors: Make sure to give the right spelling for the word in the map, because one error in that will make a drastic difference.
• Signposting: Always make sure you listen to sign posting languages like ‘We are now at the park and as we go ahead, then you will see’\ Now you can see in the middle of the trees, etc.

Read More IELTS Listening Related Articles

Check: Get 10 Free IELTS Sample Papers

Check: Register for IELTS Coaching - Join for Free Trial Class Now

Before you start answering any questions, pay attention to these words in the sentences.

• To you left\to your right
• At the front of the building\at the back of the building
• Go through the doors and turn left
• Walk up this road\Go straight on
• Walk past the ____\just before the ____
• Opposite\in front of
• Go over the bridge
• Next to\ alongside\adjoining
• Between A and B
• Down the south\To the north\to the east
• In the middle\in the center
• Above\below
• Inside\outside
• Just beyond\a little beyond\just past
• Next to\alongside\adjoining
• In the middle of the park
• As you move towards
• Alongside the road
• North\south\east\west
• On the ground floor\at the entrance\in the reception area
• Around the bend\around the curve

Example 1

Take a look at the below given map, you will be able to get an idea about the things that happen in the location.

Source: Cambridge English past paper

In this sample recording, the chairman of the highway committee is explaining the new traffic regulations and parking arrangements proposed for Cranford.

Example 2

For this, the speaker is the librarian of a new library. The explanation is provided to the group of people who are visiting the library.