A month ago, I faced a dilemma: should I prepare for the IELTS exam on my own using free online resources, or should I invest in a tutor and follow a structured learning plan?

I decided to give self-study a try. For the first week, I was highly motivated – I studied every day, wrote essays, completed tasks, and felt like I was making progress. But then life got in the way. Work became hectic, family obligations piled up, and soon, my study sessions became less frequent. By the third week, they had almost disappeared altogether.

What was missing? Discipline? Motivation? Probably both. But I wasn't ready to give up on my goal, so I decided to hire a tutor. It's been less than a month, but here's what I've noticed:

• I never skip a lesson – because I paid for it. The financial commitment keeps me accountable, no matter the holidays, a mild cold, or other distractions.

• I complete my homework to get feedback. It's much more effective than studying in isolation. Getting corrections and guidance motivates me to improve.

• The learning materials are already structured. I don't waste time searching for resources or figuring out what to study next. I just follow the plan.

• My tutor identifies my weak points and helps me fix them right away. When studying alone, I wouldn't even notice some mistakes.

Of course, self-study has its benefits. It's flexible, free, and works well if you have strong discipline. But if you struggle to stay consistent, a tutor can be a game-changer.

So, if you're debating between self-study and hiring a tutor, ask yourself: Can you stay committed without external pressure? If yes, go for self-study. If not, investing in a tutor might be the best decision you make.

At the end of the day, it's not about how you prepare – it's about getting the results you need. Good luck!