Preparing for IELTS (International English Language Testing System) but do not know to choose self-study or coaching for preparation? Do not worry this blog will give you a complete map of the advantages and disadvantages related to both. This way you will be able to make an informed decision that will work out best for your IELTS preparation.

We understand being a non-native English speaker and sitting for an exam that tests your command over this language can be dreadful. A lot of students either study and prepare on their own. Or opt for coaching from the best IELTS coaching centers in Delhi or other states. A good band score can open up many opportunities, such as enrolling in the best colleges and finding a top job in a top company.

Before you start preparing for IELTS, it is also important to know which IELTS exam to opt for immigration and migration.

Let’s discuss the pros and cons of self-study and coaching in more detail:

Self Study For IELTS

Self Study is a great option for the preparation for IELTS provided you have a disciplined curriculum. Also, the fact that you have a decent understanding of the subject, meaning, you have studied in an English medium school. With no prior experience in English, it will become really challenging. It would be better to enroll yourself in the best IELTS coaching institute. Before making a conclusion about IELTS self study or coaching, it is good to now about pros & cons of each.

Pros of Self-Study

• Customized Learning Approach: As each student’s learning style is unique, tailoring your study methods to align with your personal preferences becomes more feasible in a self-study scenario.
• Flexibility and Comfort: Studying within the familiar confines of your own home eliminates the need for daily commuting to a coaching center. This can help conserve energy and optimize your study sessions.
• Cost-Effective: Self-study tends to be more budget-friendly, sparing you from the potentially hefty expenses associated with coaching classes and allowing you to allocate resources elsewhere.
• Abundance of Online Resources: The internet offers a plethora of educational videos, websites, and software that offer diverse study approaches, catering to different learning needs

Cons of Self-Study

• Lack of Expert Guidance: Self-study may lack the expert guidance and structured curriculum that coaching institutes provide, potentially leading to gaps in knowledge or misconceptions.
• Limited Accountability: Without external accountability, maintaining a consistent study schedule and tracking progress can be challenging.
• Isolation: Self-study might lead to a sense of isolation, with fewer opportunities for peer interaction and collaborative learning.

Coaching Institute For IELTS

Opting for the best IELTS coaching in India is the safest option, though you will have to prepare for the exam yourself. Coaching institutes can be a great option for preparing for the IELTS exam. They offer expert guidance, a structured curriculum, and opportunities for peer interaction.

Pros of joining a coaching institute

• Expert Guidance: Coaching institutes are staffed with experienced instructors who possess in-depth knowledge of the IELTS exam format, content, and scoring criteria. Their guidance can help you navigate the intricacies of the test effectively.
• Structured Curriculum: Coaching centers provide a well-organized and systematic study plan that covers all aspects of the IELTS exam. This structured approach can ensure comprehensive preparation and a clear path to follow.
• Motivation and Discipline: The classroom environment and peer interactions in coaching institutes create a motivational setting that fosters focused study habits and a disciplined routine. This can be particularly beneficial for students who struggle with self-motivation.
• Regular Assessments: Coaching institutes conduct frequent practice tests and assessments, enabling you to gauge your progress accurately. These evaluations help identify strengths and weaknesses, allowing you to adjust your study strategies accordingly.
• Personalized Feedback: Instructors provide personalized feedback on your performance, highlighting areas that require improvement. This targeted feedback can facilitate focused study and skill enhancement.
• Test-Taking Strategies: Expert trainers share valuable test-taking strategies, shortcuts, and mnemonics that can simplify complex concepts and optimize your approach to tackling different sections of the IELTS exam.

Cons of joining a coaching institute

• Cost: Coaching institutes typically involve financial expenses, including tuition fees and study materials. This can be a significant factor for individuals on a tight budget.
• Fixed Schedule: Attending coaching classes requires adhering to a set schedule. For some, this might not be convenient for everyone, especially those with other commitments.
• Limited Flexibility: The predefined curriculum and teaching pace in coaching institutes might not align. This might be as every student’s learning style or speed.
• Group Learning Dynamics: While peer interactions can be advantageous, a classroom setting might not be good. This is because some students require personalized attention in order to address specific challenges.   
• Dependence on External Resources: Relying solely on coaching might hinder the development of independent study skills and self-directed learning.
• Geographical Constraints: Accessing a reputable coaching institute might require commuting, limiting options for students who live in remote areas. Though Plutus Academy provides coaching in three different modes: Online, Offline & Hybrid.

Conclusion

I hope this blog has been helpful in providing you with information about IELTS self study or coaching dilemma. The decision of which option is right for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. However, I want to remind you that the IELTS exam is not easy, so it is important to choose a preparation method that will help you achieve your desired band score.

If you are looking for a reputable coaching institute with a proven track record of success, I encourage you to consider Plutus Academy. We have been helping students achieve their IELTS goals for many years, and we are confident that we can help you too.