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The comparison between IELTS (International English Language Testing System) and spoken English depends on your goals and needs. They serve different purposes:

1. IELTS:

Purpose: IELTS is a standardized English proficiency test often required for immigration, university admission, and professional certifications. It assesses four language skills: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking.

Focus: The test evaluates your overall ability to use English in academic or professional settings, including your ability to understand complex language structures, write essays, and interact fluently in spoken English.

Goal-Oriented: If you're aiming to study or work abroad, particularly in countries like the UK, Canada, Australia, or New Zealand, or if you need to meet a specific language proficiency requirement, IELTS is the better option.

Structure: It's a formal test with strict guidelines, and preparation often involves learning strategies for test-taking, in addition to improving language skills.

2. Spoken English:

Purpose: Spoken English focuses on developing conversational fluency, pronunciation, and confidence in real-life communication. It’s crucial for day-to-day interactions, socializing, or improving communication in the workplace.

Focus: Spoken English concentrates solely on your speaking ability, such as clarity, accent, fluency, and vocabulary usage. It's less concerned with formal skills like essay writing or reading comprehension.

Practical Communication: If your primary goal is to improve your day-to-day conversation skills, interact fluently in English, or reduce your accent, focusing on spoken English is more useful.

Flexible Learning: Improving spoken English can be done informally by practicing with native speakers, watching English media, or using language learning apps, without the need for taking a formal test.

Which is Better for You?

If you need certification for academic or professional purposes, IELTS is better. It’s recognized worldwide and opens opportunities for immigration, study, and work.

If your goal is to improve communication and fluency in everyday situations or in business contexts, spoken English is more practical.

Many people choose to focus on spoken English before preparing for IELTS, as it helps improve the speaking section of the test. Both can complement each other, depending on your language goals.

Improving your accent in English often involves listening, speaking, and learning from a variety of sources. However, books that focus on pronunciation, intonation, and phonetics can help guide your practice. Here are some recommendations:

1. "English Pronunciation in Use" by Mark Hancock and Martin Hewings

This series covers different levels (Elementary, Intermediate, Advanced) and includes audio materials. It focuses on clear pronunciation, including common sounds, intonation, and stress patterns.

2. "Ship or Sheep?" by Ann Baker

This classic book is designed to help with English pronunciation through minimal pairs (words that only differ in one sound, like "ship" and "sheep"). It also comes with audio resources.

3. "American Accent Training" by Ann Cook

For those focusing on American English, this book offers exercises and tips for developing a neutral American accent. The book includes extensive audio tracks and practice materials.

4. "Mastering the American Accent" by Lisa Mojsin

This is a comprehensive guide for non-native speakers who want to develop an American accent. It includes audio exercises and focuses on key sounds, rhythm, and intonation patterns.

5. "The Sounds of English" by J.D. O'Connor

This book focuses on the phonetic aspects of British English and offers detailed explanations of English sounds and their variations.