I have the requirement of L-8.5, R-8.5, W-8, S-8 for my IELTS general exam. I have given the exam previously also in which I got L-8.5, R-6.5, W-7, S-6.5 and I want to improve my score, specifically in writing and speaking. Can I get advice/recommendation from a tutor who can help me achieve this target?

It is advisable to seek guidance from an IELTS tutor to improve your overall IELTS band score. You can also follow the tips given to score better. 

Speaking section

• Firstly, you need to listen carefully to understand the question asked by the examiner and answer accordingly. If your answer is diverted from the question asked, then the examiner will consider that you have failed to understand the question.
• IELTS speaking test is conducted to check whether you can communicate effectively or not. So, try to talk as fluently as possible, and it is good to be spontaneous.
• Improve your fluency and coherence, pronunciation, grammatical range and accuracy and vocabulary with regular practice. These are 4 marking criteria of the speaking section.
• If you didn’t understand the question asked, then it’s ok to ask for clarification. 
• Develop your answers, express your opinions and speak confidently as you’ll be marked on your ability to communicate. 
• Regular practice is essential, so practice way ahead of the exam and record yourself. 
• It’s not advisable to learn prepared answers as IELTS examiners are highly skilled and trained to spot such things. All they want is originality and your communication skills. 

Reading section

• IELTS reading section involves complex language, especially the second and third sections include extended texts with complex sentence structure, thus it is essential for you to improve your vocabulary to understand the text.
• There are a variety of question types such as multiple-choice, TRUE, FALSE/NOT GIVEN, matching headings, sentence completion, table completion, etc., so a lot of practice is required. 
• Learn to scan and pay attention to timing, avoid spending too long on one question as time is extremely limited. If you face difficulty finding an answer, then you must move onto the next one. 
• Read the instructions carefully and check your spelling and keep an eye on singular and plural correctly. 
• Understand the question and try not to read every word. Look out for the title, headings, etc., always remember that you’re reading for a purpose. 

Writing section

• IELTS writing is conducted to measure your ability to write appropriately. So, you need to improve your overall formal writing skills. 
• You must learn time-management strategies to complete your tasks on time. 
• You must avoid writing unrelated topics and repeated ideas. Moreover, avoid grammar, spelling and punctuation mistakes.
• Plan your answers correctly. Always remember that a good essay comprises an introduction, a body and a solid conclusion. 
• Avoid writing extra words; at the same time, you must write the number of words required for the particular task. If not, you’ll end up losing marks.
• Do not copy sentences from the question instead paraphrase it and present it in an original way to show your vocabulary. 
• Towards the end, you need a lot of practice as this section demands effort and dedication to achieve your desired score.