IELTS READING: EFFECTIVE STEPS TO SOLVE QUESTIONS
The IELTS Reading section consists of three passages with a total of 40 questions, and you have 60 minutes to answer them. Many test-takers find the Reading section challenging, but with the right approach, it can be manageable. The key to success lies in using a structured strategy that allows you to save time and accurately answer the questions. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to solve IELTS Reading questions effectively on exam day.
Step 1: Skim the Passage (Read Quickly for General Content and Layout)
The first step when approaching the IELTS Reading passage is skimming. Skimming means reading through the passage quickly to get a sense of its general content and layout. Focus on:
– The first and last paragraphs: These often provide an introduction and conclusion, offering key insights into the topic.
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– Headings or subheadings: Look for any headings or subheadings (if available), as they often summarize the content of the sections.
– Key terms or phrases: Pay attention to bolded or italicized words, dates, names, and any repeated words that might signal key themes or important concepts.
While skimming, don’t stop to analyze or understand every detail. Instead, aim to get an overall idea of what the passage is about. Skimming helps you create a mental map of the passage, making it easier to locate specific information later.
Step 2: Read the Questions Carefully
Once you have a general sense of the passage, move on to reading the questions. Carefully read through all the questions before you start searching for the answers. This allows you to know exactly what you’re looking for when you return to the passage. Pay close attention to keywords in the questions and any instructions provided.
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For example:
– If the question asks for a specific detail, you need to be ready to locate a specific piece of information in the passage.
– If the question asks about the writer’s opinion or purpose, you’ll need to identify the tone or attitude of the passage.
– If the question is True/False/Not Given, you’ll need to match information directly with what’s in the text.
Step 3: Identify the Type of Question
Once you’ve read the questions, identify the type of each question. Different types of questions require different techniques. The main question types you may encounter in IELTS Reading are:
– Multiple Choice: Requires selecting the correct option from a list of answers.
– Matching Headings: You must match the headings to sections of the passage.
– True/False/Not Given: These questions assess whether information in the passage matches the statement or is absent.
– Fill-in-the-Blanks: You’ll need to complete a sentence with the correct word or phrase from the passage.
– Short Answer: Requires you to provide a brief answer based on the information in the passage.
Knowing the type of question helps you approach it in the most efficient way.
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Step 4: Use Keywords in the Question to Locate the Answer
Next, identify a key word or piece of information in the question. This is the key to locating the answer in the passage. Keywords often include:
– Names (people, places, etc.)
– Dates or numbers
– Key terms from the passage
– Specific phrases from the question
Once you identify the keyword, use it as a reference point when scanning the passage. The more specific the keyword, the easier it will be to find the relevant information in the text.
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Step 5: Scan the Passage
After identifying the keyword, scan the passage. Scanning means moving your eyes quickly over the text, looking for the word or phrase you identified earlier. Don’t read the passage in full—just focus on the areas where you think the keyword might be.
– If the keyword is a name, look for proper nouns.
– If it’s a date or number, look for numbers or related phrases like “since,” “from,” or “until.”
As you scan, pay attention to the surrounding context. The answer is often located near the keyword, but it’s important to understand the surrounding information for context.
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Step 6: Read the Sentences Before and After
Once you find the keyword or phrase, read the sentences before and after the section. This will help you understand the context of the answer. Often, the exact answer will be hidden within a sentence or paragraph, and understanding the surrounding sentences ensures that you don’t miss important details.
Always read around the answer to verify if it matches the question. Be careful of answers that seem too obvious but don’t fully address the question when considering context.
Step 7: Don’t Spend Too Long on One Question
It’s important to manage your time effectively during the test. If you’re having difficulty locating the answer to a particular question, don’t spend too long trying to find it. Move on to the next question and come back to the difficult one if you have time left. Remember, the answers are worth one point each, so spending excessive time on one question may cost you opportunities to answer others.
Step 8: Keep Track of Time
With 60 minutes to complete 40 questions, time management is key. Keep an eye on the clock and make sure you don’t spend too much time on any single passage or question. Ideally, you should spend about 20 minutes per passage, leaving a few minutes at the end to review your answers.
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By following these steps, you can approach the IELTS Reading test with confidence and efficiency.
IELTS READING