IELTS 5 Practice Tests, General Set 1: Tests No. 1-5: Volume 2 (High Scorer's Choice)

**Book Review: _IELTS by Simon_ (General Training)** _IELTS by Simon_ is one of the most practical and effective resources available for anyone preparing for the IELTS General Training exam. Written by Simon Corcoran, a former IELTS examiner with years of experience, this book stands out for its clarity, structure, and realistic approach to exam preparation. What makes _IELTS by Simon_ so valuable is its focus on **understanding the test rather than memorising tricks**. Each section—Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking—is explained in simple, direct language that helps test-takers understand exactly what examiners expect. The strategies are based on real IELTS marking criteria, making the advice authentic and reliable. The **Writing Task 1 and Task 2** sections are especially strong. Simon breaks down different types of letters and essays, shows sample answers, and explains vocabulary and grammar choices in detail. This helps learners not only improve their band score but also develop genuine writing skills. Similarly, the **Speaking** section encourages natural communication rather than memorised answers, which is exactly what examiners look for. Another highlight is the author’s focus on **clarity and simplicity**. Many IELTS books overwhelm learners with complex phrases or unrealistic tips, but Simon’s method is grounded, easy to follow, and practical for everyday English users—especially those preparing for immigration or work abroad. In summary, _IELTS by Simon_ is a **must-have guide for General Training candidates**. Whether you are aiming for CLB 7, 8, or higher, this book provides a clear path to understanding the test format, improving your language, and gaining confidence. It’s an excellent choice for self-study and a trustworthy companion for achieving your IELTS goals.

I purchased the General Set and the Academic Set. They are beautifully produced and easy to access and understand. Made preparing for the exams a pleasure. Gave my students a huge confidence boost and helped them to gain a better score than they had hoped! Highly recommend these books!

This practice book breaks down the answers with clear explanations. It’s perfect for anyone studying on their own, because first, it tests your knowledge, but then it helps you understand the reasoning behind each answer. The questions are well-written and mirror the real exam. Great for confidence building and fantastic for self-prep.

As an IELTS tutor and coach, I have access to large numbers of books and practice test materials for IELTS Academic but it's not been so easy to find high quality practice for the General Test. Having found IELTS Blog, hand on heart I'm highly delighted with quality of GT practice and the additional support materials provided by the author Simone, and the Academic tests I seen are at least as good. I highly recommend this series to both fellow IELTS tutors and students In fact, I love them so much that I purchased a complete set of the GT practice books and am using them with my students.

I used it to prepare for General IELTS exams. The book helped me tremendously on improving Listening and Reading skills. Writing section has very good topics and examples. Speaking section, each test has an example of a test taker including the score and comment(s). It helps me to get an idea about how speaking test would happens on the test day. However, to practice speaking more effectively, I need to talk 1 on 1, listen to mock speaking test on YouTube.

As an IELTS tutor and coach, I have access to large numbers of books and practice test materials for IELTS Academic but it's not been so easy to find high quality practice for the General Test. Having found IELTS Blog, hand on heart I'm highly delighted with quality of GT practice and the additional support materials provided by the author Simone, and the Academic tests I seen are at least as good. I highly recommend this series to both fellow IELTS tutors and students In fact, I love them so much that I purchased a complete set of the GT practice books and am using them with my students. ============= Como tutor y entrenador de IELTS, tengo acceso a una gran cantidad de libros y materiales de prueba de práctica para IELTS Academic, pero no ha sido tan fácil encontrar práctica de alta calidad para la prueba general. Habiendo encontrado el Blog de IELTS, estoy muy satisfecho con la calidad de la práctica de GT y los materiales de apoyo adicionales proporcionados por la autora Simone, y las pruebas académicas que vi son al menos tan buenas. Recomiendo esta serie tanto a los compañeros tutores de IELTS como a los estudiantes. De hecho, los amo tanto que compré un juego completo de libros de práctica de GT y los estoy usando con mis estudiantes.

The IELTS practice test books by S. Braverman and R. Nicholson are a very valuable resource for test takers. The sample tests include all four sections (reading, listening, speaking, writing) and so allow candidates to simulate the whole test experience in one sitting, but also enable them to focus on the parts they find more difficult. The correct solutions to all questions in the reading and listening parts are provided. The recordings of previous speaking tests including the examiner’s reports are also very useful for estimating and improving one’s performance. Overall, the IELTS practice test book series by S. Braverman and R. Nicholson is highly recommendable.

IELTS 5 Practice Tests, General Set 1 – A Valuable Resource for Test Preparation! If you’re preparing for the IELTS General Training exam, the IELTS 5 Practice Tests, General Set 1 is an excellent resource to help you get ready. This book offers realistic practice tests that closely mirror the actual exam, allowing you to familiarize yourself with the format and time constraints. Key Benefits: ✔ Realistic Practice Tests – Contains 5 complete practice tests that simulate the real IELTS General exam, covering all four sections: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. ✔ Comprehensive Answer Key – Includes detailed answers and explanations for each test, helping you understand why certain answers are correct. ✔ Time Management Practice – The tests are designed to help you improve your time management skills, ensuring you can complete the exam on time. ✔ Valuable for Self-Study – Perfect for self-study or supplemental practice alongside other study materials. ✔ Useful for All Levels – Whether you’re a beginner or intermediate-level student, these tests will help you assess your current level and focus on areas that need improvement. Performance & Usability: The practice tests are well-structured, and the explanations are clear and easy to understand. It provides real exam-like conditions, which can help reduce test anxiety and improve your performance. Many users find the Writing and Speaking tips helpful for refining their skills before the exam. Final Verdict: For anyone preparing for the IELTS General Training exam, IELTS 5 Practice Tests, General Set 1 is an invaluable resource. It provides realistic practice and clear explanations, helping you feel more confident and prepared. Highly recommended for effective IELTS exam preparation!

Review on (Set 1 & Set 6) I have completed 2 sets of the books. (Set 1 & Set 6) And i must say, author has very well arranged things inside. In the starting you may feel that the answers are not matching, listening is fast, accents are not appropriate. But don't forget, it is very important to have a habit of understanding every type of english accent. As in the exam discussion may be happening in any accent. In short, one stop book from the preparation of IELTS I bought it for General Training. Don't go for confused writers. Try this one once and get the others incase you feel its worth the shot.