Know the sections. Both exams are divided into four sections: listening, reading, writing and speaking. Listening and speaking are generally the same for the Academic exam and the General Training exam. But the reading and writing sections for the Academic exam are more rigorous. Know what will be required for each section and how long you will have to complete it. The listening section, for example, will take 30 minutes and has four sections.
Decide on a strategy for tackling each test type of question. The time limit to complete the test can increase anxiety, so having a predetermined course of action can help you relax. Skip questions you cannot immediately answer and go back to them later if you have time. In the speaking test, take notes while the examiner is asking questions; this will help you build a good answer.
Practice your English skills as much as you can during the weeks and months before the test. To prepare for the reading section, read as many English-language publications as you can. Do not limit yourself to one style; read newspapers as well as academic journals. For the writing section, practice writing the exact number of words required. To practice pronunciation for the speaking test, listen to a number of native English speakers and try to mimic exactly how they speak.
Start preparing early. While you can take the test as many times as you want, do not take your first IELTS as a "practice test." The test is expensive and exhausting. Give yourself enough time to prepare; think about taking an English language course or purchasing several test-preparation materials. Starting early gives you the best chance to absorb as much information as you can before the test. On test day you will find that it pays off.