Hiya, I did my IELTS test in April and it was easier than I thought it would be. I got 3 9s and an 8.5 in writing, even though I had mild food poisoning
The reading test was very easy, there's no inference, it's all there in the text and its in order so, for example, if you can find the answer to question 1and 3, the answer to 2 will be between them if you see what I mean.
The listening test was easy too, but I missed one question as I thought it was an introduction to a new section, so lost concentration for a moment; keep listening all the way through!
I can't remember the exact title of the essay, but it was about whether it's better to live in the city or countryside. If you've done academic essays, it can be quite difficult as the IELTS essay is very different. You don't need to,provide a balanced argument, just say what you think. You don't need research but do use anecdotes from your own experience/ knowledge. I practised writing good openers and conclusions and obviously use paragraphs, connectives and a range of language, punctuation and sentence lengths.
the speaking test was horrible. My topic was my favourite food. I mean, how much is there to say about food?! The examiner does help prompt you to elaborate though and it must have been ok as I gotta 9, but I felt like I was waffling.
hope that helps
