What I can do instead:

Out of the six common question types in the IELTS Listening test—including multiple choice and matching—the remaining four are, at their core, dictation exercises. If you struggle to recognize numbers, spell names correctly, or quickly jot down key details while listening, you're losing points on the majority of the exam. Dictation training directly builds the cognitive pathways needed to process and produce information simultaneously, a crucial requirement for test day.

Consistency outperforms intensity when it comes to ear training. Dictation requires intense mental focus, so short, daily sessions are highly recommended.

Use a timer to ensure you are not spending too long on one section.

This book is a training tool, not just a collection of tests. To get the most out of it, follow this effective practice protocol:

How many do you have before your official exam date?

Listen to the entire audio file for the question without writing anything. Your goal here is not to catch every word, but to get the general vibe. What's the situation? Is it a phone call to a hotel? A student registering for a course? Understanding the context builds crucial scaffolding.

The dominant accent of the test.