The only definitive method of measuring your English ability is through a process of testing. You may think that your English is of a certain standard but on testing be surprised that it is below the standard measures of competency. Knowing this result is a positive, as you now can work to make quantifiable improvements.

Your lead up to taking a test, and the approach you take during this period of time, will decide the result you are able to achieve in the formal test. A positive attitude is at least seventy percent of the requirements, as you may in theory know a language but get performance anxiety and blow the test completely.

Testing of the English language has several components, testing all aspects of your comprehension. The spoken English test is the most common and is structured to deliver questions at a lively pace leaving little time for contemplation or thinking through words that you don’t quite understand. The test usually uses tape recorders and is timed, but other technology is also used to record your answers. Knowing these facts, your preparation to the test, should take this into account. The simulation of a real test environment is the easiest approach to achieve better results.

Purchase past testing papers where possible, and practice, practice, practice. Of course the tests will change, but there are enough similarity in the patterns of questions asked that this approach will be of great benefit to your test preparation. It is important to feel confident prior to entering an exam environment.

If when you are in the midst of a spoken English test, you have a panic attack and think you are scoring poorly. Take a breath in through your mouth, and out through your nose and try to relax. Just try and concentrate on the section you are currently working through, and forget about what has passed. It is no longer important, as scoring well in one section can make up for a poor score in another section.

If, unfortunately you fail the test, then don’t despair. Sometimes you can sit the test again. In the meantime speak more English in your day to day activities.. This is the only way to improve your English, and it is also the easiest approach.