Why is Computer-based IELTS Easier - Reasons for Choosing It

While you might be confused that is computer-based IELTS easier than the paper-based format or not, here are the reasons why students prefer the former one. When you take the IELTS test, whether you opt for the computer-based or paper-based one, the format, time allocated, content and the question types are the same for both formats. An examiner conducts the Speaking test for IELTS in a face-to-face interview in both test formats. 

However, the only difference lies in the way the test is taken. In the computer-based test, the candidate has to type the answer on the screen for the Reading, Writing and Listening parts. For the paper-based test, the candidate can use an HB pencil or pen for the writing test, whereas only an HB pencil is allowed for writing the answers for the reading and listening test on the paper. 

Is Computer-based IELTS Easier?

As the questions and content for both the computer-based and paper-based formats are the same, the difficulty level also remains unchanged. However, there are many advantages offered that make the students buy the idea that is computer-based IELTS easier than paper-based IELTS.

Availability of More Test Dates

Since many test centers hold the IELTS computer-based test, there are ample options in terms of test dates and timings. There are also options to choose your slots from. For instance, there is a morning, afternoon, or evening slot to choose from as per the candidate's convenience.

Faster Results

One of the major advantages, why applicants think that the computer-based IELTS is easier, is the convenience it offers to a candidate. Opting for a computer-based IELTS can help the user get faster results than the paper-based IELTS test. While the paper-based IELTS test result comes out in 13 days, the computer-based test takes 3-5 days. 

Bye-Bye to Messy Handwriting 

Messy and hard-to-read handwriting is one of the major concerns in an IELTS test. The computer-based IELTS has made it much easier and more convenient for the students, and they can manage time for each section through typing, which is faster than the handwritten test. Unlike the paper-based IELTS test, you don’t have to strike out what you don’t want in the answer and can easily rephrase the sentence by deleting it. 

Use of Headphones for better focus

Concentrating might be a difficult task in a test centre with many students. However, one advantage of taking the computer-based IELTS test is that they allow the use of headphones which act as ear muffs and help the students to concentrate on the reading and writing part of the test. 

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