When preparing for the IELTS test, building a broad vocabulary is one of the most critical aspects. There are several ways of developing your vocab: reading more, watching videos and films in English, listening to podcasts etc.

One of the most effective ways to improve IELTS vocabulary is using mind maps. Mind Maps are a useful tool that will help you build the necessary vocabulary required for that.

Mind maps help to generate thoughts linked to a particular topic and quickly organise ideas. This can be especially useful in the IELTS Writing Task 2 and IELTS Speaking Part 2.

Let's understand how a mind map works with the help of an example topic 'last holiday destination'. With a map, it becomes easier to quickly list out different themes and talking points connected to the main topic, as shown below.

Example of a mind map:

With the help of a mind map, it gets easier to write/speak about any given topic. So, anyone who knows how to build a mind map will indeed have a good grip over IELTS exam vocabulary.

What is the connection between Mind Maps and Vocabulary?

As you may know, in the IELTS exam, you can expect to get questions based on a variety of topics. Therefore, it is essential that you possess the requisite vocabulary, good enough to fetch you a higher band score.

Right off the bat, it may not be easy to construct a mind map. With enough practice, the process of quickly brainstorming for relevant related themes connected to any topic becomes more natural.

The idea is to break the information you come up with into different logical groups:

1. Connected themes and supporting examples
2. Vocabulary (part of speech)

Tips and Strategies to Make a Mind Map

• Choose any topic which is comfortable for you.
• Think of ideas that are related to the topic, and you are going to write.
• Pick all those words that describe your ideas and thoughts.
• Know how you are going to connect all the information with the supporting examples.
• Also, ensure to think of the advantages or disadvantages related to it.
• Practice with topics that you can expect in the exam.

Here is a list of some common topics that you may expect in the IELTS exam.

You can practise with these to enhance your vocabulary resource.

To keep track your preparation, take mock tests regularly. Sign up with IELTS Tutorials to get 20+ Free IELTS mock tests for more practice. Also, consider downloading the IELTS Tutorials Exam Practice apps to prepare for the test anytime, anywhere.