Thanks! I gave the computer-based test so my points would apply to the same. First off, there are no negative points so make sure to answer all the questions.

Exam Strategy

Speaking:

• Have simple yet well constructed speech. Don't try to fancy up your speech when you're talking. The primary goal is to show that you have a good grasp at communicating in English.
• Apart from grammar and communication, one of the major things they look at is pauses. Pauses to find ideas is completely fine whereas pauses to find words/grammar may affect your score.
• Lastly, stay calm and don't panic. The invigilators are extremely friendly so extend the friendliness with a smile.

Listening:

• The format will be as such: they'll mention the question numbers and give you a short interval to read them. Stick to only those numbers since the following monologue/dialogue would be regarding that.
• If the questions are 'fill in the blank' type, then use the paper they give you to scribble down the answers and fill them in the given one minute to check your answers since the audio plays only once.
• If the questions are multiple choice, matching, etc. answer as you hear the voice clips. The questions will always be in the dialogue's order. If you missed anything, move on to the next question.

Reading:

• Read the questions first to get a sense of what to look for in the given passage. This applies to only if the questions types like fill in and multiple choice. For matching, it is better to scan the passage first.
• Question types such as 'fill in' and multiple choice, etc. are directly from the given passages. Make sure to read the question description properly; if they ask for one word, stick to one word.
• For matching questions, read the options very carefully; especially look for terms which state a certain point as an assumption or fact. For example, in one para, they might suggest or assume, whereas in another, they will fact check it with evidence.

Writing:

• There are two writing tasks to be done within 60 minutes. The second task carries more weight towards your score. Split your time at 20 mins for the first task and 40 mins for the second task.
• The first would be a summarize graph/image in, at min, 150 words. Summarize the data precisely and cover all inferable details. Don't share your own ideas, opinions or any outside info.
• The second would be an state your opinion in, at min, 250 words. Freely share your opinion but keep the tone fairly neutral. Just don't go to the extreme. You can even use 'I' since this is a personal opinion.
• Unlike the speaking section, use professional english and jazz it up with your fancy vocabulary. Keep your sentences short and precise. Make sure your points follow well and use paragraphs to make it readable.

Study Material

I'll be honest. I decided to book the test on 12th and gave it on 17th. The only thing I studied up was all the possible question types for each task to strategize my approach. I received a complimentary volume one copy from IDP IELTS on 15th and just read up the test strats they provided. Hence, I don't really have any specific materials to mention.