Which format of the IELTS test is easier, computer-based or paper-based?

by Admin · Published October 10, 2022 · Updated October 10, 2022

The computer-delivered and paper-based IELTS tests are the same levels of difficulty. The computer-delivered test has a help button to assist you throughout the test. The test format, question types, time allocated to each test part, and content is the same for both computer-delivered test and paper-based test. You do not need your own computer or laptop to sit a computer-delivered IELTS test.

And because the content for both the paper-based and computer-delivered IELTS tests is the same, the level of difficulty is also the same. The only difference might be your level of confidence in sitting your IELTS test on a computer. If you are tech-savvy, you might prefer to take IELTS on a computer.

This help option describes question types as well as how the test works. In the computer-delivered IELTS test, there is also an option to change some of the settings, such as font size on the screen.

All equipment, including computers and headphones, will be supplied by the test center where you booked your computer-delivered IELTS test.

Table of Contents

ON THE BASIS FORMAT

The difference between both types of tests, in paper-based IELTS test Reading & writing, is given by the means of pen and paper. While in the computer-delivered IELTS test you have to use the computer desktop to answer the given questions. You need to write your answers on the answer sheet within the time limit. In computer-delivered IELTS, you have to type your answers in both the test, IELTS paper-based or IELTS computer-based you have to be physically present at the registered location allocated to you. The main difference you can experience between them is that paper-based IELTS is taken at a place which has large generally comprises 100-150 students while the computer-based IELTS takes place with one candidate per computer at a small place given boxes on your screen.

ON THE BASIS OF THE ASSESSMENT

The assessment part is different in both cases, in the computer-based IELTS test, the answers are saved in the computer itself and are directly uploaded to the server of Cambridge. Whereas in the paper-based IELTS test, the answer sheets are collected by the examiner, in person which is then sent to the Cambridge marking facility, which apparently takes more time than the former.

If you take IELTS on the computer, you will receive your results 3 to 5 days after sitting your test. However, if you take IELTS on paper, you will receive your results 13 days after sitting your test.

ON THE BASIS OF THE TIMING.

For both methods of giving the test, the timings are generally the same. In the paper test, at the end of the Listening section, you will get 10 minutes to transfer your answers to the answer sheet. In the computer-based test, you must type your answers in their corresponding place on the screen. You do get time between sections to check your answers but no extra time in the end.

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There are pros and cons to both. First, let’s see what are the pros and cons of writing on a computer-based test or on a paper-based test.

BENEFITS OF COMPUTER-BASED TEST

Many students found that using a computer made it easier to edit their answers. Therefore, for them giving a computer-based IELTS would be easier than a Paper-based IELTS exam.
For the Reading section, the computer screen will be divided into two parts: the text and the questions which are more helpful compared to the paper-based test where you have to keep flipping the pages.
Computer-based IELTS test centers are generally more organized and less crowded. While this won’t directly impact your score, some candidates may feel comfortable giving in such a kind of atmosphere.
If your handwriting is difficult for others to read, it is best to write on a computer.
There is no need to count words in the writing section, it will show itself.
Often these exam centers are less crowded.
You can get the exam results for you as soon as possible.

CONS FOR COMPUTER-BASED TEST

Students who prefer to use a pen and paper for highlighting or drawing or making any kind of notes will find it difficult to give exams on the computer screen because Highlighting, drawing, or making notes on the screen is not easy despite the fact you can right-click to highlight the text or make notes on the screen.
Student Should choose this if they cannot see the computer screen for a long time.
To score well in the computer-based IELTS exam you must be good at typing. You should have a good typing speed so that you can complete the test on time without leaving any questions blank. If you are not a good typist then this will be difficult for you.
The IELTS exam is already stressful as it is not easy for non-English speakers, if the idea of using a computer makes you nervous, the computer-Delivered test could make your test even more stressful and you may lose your score.
Some may find it difficult to sit in front of the computer screen for a long time. For example, a sore head or tired eyes. For them, it is one of the disadvantages of the computer-based IELTS exam.
When others type their answer, that noise can sometimes bother us.
If you are not used to computers at all, then you may not be right to choose this.

BENEFIT OF PAPER-BASED TEST

Keywords can be highlighted when writing on paper.
Questions can be read over and over again on paper.
Noise should not be too high when writing on paper so your attention is not distracted.
This is a good choice if your typing skills are very low.
If you are not at all computer literate then you are a good choice.
Keywords can be highlighted when writing on paper.
Noise should not be too high when writing on paper so your attention is not distracted.
This is a good choice if your typing skills are very low.
If you are not at all computer literate then you are a good choice.