The Bard's words may seem distant from the demands of the IELTS test, but William Shakespeare's influence on English is profound. Here's how exploring his vocabulary can supercharge your IELTS preparation:

1. Enhance Your Range: Shakespeare was fearless in coining new words or breathing fresh life into existing ones. Studying his plays exposes you to a rich tapestry of vocabulary, from the common ("lonely") to the more obscure ("lackluster"). This broadens your expressive range in the IELTS writing and speaking sections.

2. Master Nuance:  Shakespeare excelled at using words with multiple meanings and connotations. Understanding these subtleties elevates your comprehension in the IELTS reading and listening sections. You'll be better equipped to grasp the finer points of a passage or speaker's intent.

3. Impress the Examiner:  While you won't quote entire sonnets in the test, incorporating a well-placed Shakespearean word (think "audacious" or "ethereal") demonstrates a sophisticated command of the language. This can leave a lasting impression on the examiner.

Here's how to strategically leverage Shakespeare for IELTS prep:

Focus on Commonly Used Words: Prioritize learning Shakespearean words that have become ingrained in everyday English. Resources like "The Shakespeare Authored Dictionary" can be a helpful guide. 

Context is Key: Don't just memorize definitions. See how Shakespeare uses these words in context within plays or sonnets. Online resources and annotated versions can be a big help here.

Practice Makes Perfect:  Incorporate these newfound words into your IELTS practice tasks.  Write essays or speaking prompts that allow you to showcase your expanded vocabulary.

Remember: Shakespeare's language is complex. Stay calm in the archaic. Focus on enriching your understanding of modern English through the lens of the Bard. 

By strategically incorporating Shakespearean vocabulary, you can enhance your fluency, impress the examiner, and conquer the IELTS!