Why Map Questions Feel Harder

In map and diagram labelling, you must track a spoken description while simultaneously navigating a visual. Your eyes and ears are competing. The fix is preparation — orient yourself to the map before the audio starts.

What This Task Tests

Map labelling tests your ability to follow directions and location language: north of, adjacent to, opposite, between, to the left of. Diagram labelling tests part-names and sequences. Both require matching spoken words to a visual layout.

The Pre-Listening Setup (30 Seconds)

Before the audio begins, you get reading time. Use it for maps like this:

  1. Find the compass rose or orientation marker — identify North
  2. Find the entrance or starting point — this is usually where the audio tour begins
  3. Read all existing labels on the map — these tell you what vocabulary to expect
  4. Number the gaps mentally — predict the route the speaker will take
The Route Prediction

Speakers almost always give a logical tour: they start at the entrance and move in one direction. If you can predict “they’ll go left first, then around the back,” you will never lose your place.

Direction Language to Know

Heard Meaning
“just past the…” immediately after
“directly opposite” facing it across a space
“adjacent to” next to / beside
“in the north-east corner” top-right area of map
“between X and Y” in the space separating them
“to the left as you enter” left side from entrance perspective
The Perspective Trap

“To your left as you enter” means left from the entrance looking INTO the building — this may be the RIGHT side of the map if you are looking at it from above. Always check the orientation before committing to an answer.

Diagram Labelling: A Different Challenge

For process or equipment diagrams:

  1. Read the title — it tells you the topic and likely vocabulary
  2. Follow the arrows or numbered sequence
  3. The audio follows the diagram’s logical order
  4. Labels are usually nouns or short noun phrases
Word Count for Diagrams

Diagram labels almost always require ONE word or a number. If you find yourself writing three words, re-read the question — you have likely included unnecessary words.

Common Errors

Error Fix
Losing place on the map Mark each gap as you pass it — even if unanswered
Spelling errors on labels These are technical terms — listen extra carefully
Using compass directions backwards Always check the map’s north arrow first
Waiting for exact words Descriptions paraphrase — car park may be described as parking area

The map is a script. The audio reads it aloud. Your job is to match what you hear to what you see — nothing more.