SKIMMING AND SCANNING TO ACE IELTS READING
The Difference Between Skimming and Scanning in IELTS Reading
When preparing for the IELTS reading test, it is crucial to understand and master the techniques of skimming and scanning. These two reading strategies allow you to efficiently locate the information you need without reading the entire passage word by word. However, they serve different purposes, and it’s important to know when and how to apply each one.
What is Skimming?
Skimming is a reading technique used to quickly get the general idea or the “big picture” of a passage. The goal of skimming is not to understand every detail but to grasp the overall theme, purpose, or concept of the text. Skimming is particularly useful when you need to quickly understand the context before answering questions about the passage in the IELTS reading section.
SKIMMING AND SCANNING
When skimming, you are essentially trying to answer the question: What is this text about?
What is Scanning?
Scanning, on the other hand, is a technique that focuses on finding specific details within the text. Unlike skimming, which involves a quick overview, scanning requires you to search for particular keywords or pieces of information, such as dates, numbers, names, or specific terms mentioned in the questions.
When scanning, you are looking for precise answers to specific questions, often related to facts, figures, or direct statements in the text. In short, while skimming helps you understand the passage’s main ideas, scanning helps you find the finer details.
SKIMMING AND SCANNING
Why Both Techniques are Essential in IELTS Reading
In IELTS reading, you are often asked to find both general information and specific details. Skimming and scanning are essential because they help you approach the passage efficiently and locate the information you need without wasting time. Skimming gives you an understanding of the passage’s context, which will help you answer more complex questions. Scanning, however, helps you find answers to questions that require specific facts or information.
Mastering both techniques allows you to use your time wisely and answer questions more accurately and quickly, which is key to scoring well in the IELTS reading section.
SKIMMING AND SCANNING
How to Skim in IELTS Reading
Skimming involves reading the key sections of the text to get an overall understanding. Follow these steps to effectively skim an IELTS reading passage:
Read the Title
The title usually provides a clear indication of the passage’s main topic. Understanding the title will help you anticipate the theme and set a mental framework for what to expect in the passage.
Read the Introduction Paragraph
The introduction often outlines the purpose of the text and introduces the main idea. This is where you’ll find the gist of the topic, which will help you understand the context of the entire passage.
SKIMMING AND SCANNING
Read the Headings and Subheadings
Headings and subheadings break the passage into smaller sections, each addressing a specific aspect of the topic. By reading these, you can quickly understand the structure of the text and what each part is about.
Read the Conclusion Paragraph
The conclusion typically summarizes the key points discussed in the passage. It often restates the main idea or provides a final argument, which is critical for understanding the overall message of the text.
Read the First Sentence of Each Paragraph
The first sentence of each paragraph often acts as a topic sentence that introduces the main point of that paragraph. By reading these sentences, you can quickly grasp the key points in each section.
SKIMMING AND SCANNING
Read the Last Sentence of Each Paragraph
The last sentence in a paragraph often serves as a conclusion or summary of the main idea. This can help reinforce your understanding of the paragraph’s message and confirm the main points.
How to Scan in IELTS Reading
Scanning is used when you need to locate specific details within the text. This technique involves looking for keywords or pieces of information that are directly related to the questions you are answering. Follow these steps for effective scanning:
Underline the Keywords in the Question
Before scanning the text, carefully read the question and underline the key terms or phrases that will help you locate the answer. These keywords could be dates, names, numbers, or any other specific details mentioned in the question.
SKIMMING AND SCANNING
Look for Keywords in the Passage
Once you have identified the keywords, quickly scan the passage for them. You are not reading every word; rather, you are searching for the keywords that you underlined. Use your finger or pen to help guide your eyes along the lines of text, and when you find a keyword, stop to examine the surrounding sentences.
Skim Before and After the Keyword
After locating a keyword, skim the sentences before and after it to gather more context. This can help you understand the specific detail or fact being asked about in the question. Sometimes, this may narrow down your options if there are multiple possible answers.
Cross Out Incorrect Answers
Once you’ve found the relevant part of the passage, read it carefully to check if it answers the question. Eliminate the obviously incorrect options to leave yourself with the most likely answer.
SKIMMING AND SCANNING
Choosing the Correct Answer
After scanning and narrowing down the possible answers, you will need to close-read the remaining options. This means reading the relevant part of the text carefully to ensure that you have selected the correct answer. Pay attention to the details and how they relate to the question. Often, once you focus on the right part of the passage, the correct answer will become clear.
Practice Makes Perfect
Skimming and scanning are essential skills for success in IELTS reading. By practicing these techniques regularly, you will increase your speed and accuracy, allowing you to manage your time effectively during the test. Incorporate skimming and scanning into your daily reading practice, and soon they will become second nature, enabling you to tackle any IELTS reading passage with confidence.
