IELTS Reading: Tips to Finish All Passages on Time
The IELTS reading section assesses how well you are able to read complex academic texts, comprehend them and answer the corresponding questions accordingly.
The IELTS reading section assesses how well you are able to read complex academic texts, comprehend them and answer the corresponding questions accordingly. Also, you will have to answer the IELTS reading section within a very limited time frame, with 60 minutes to read three passages and answer 40 questions. Thus, managing your time effectively is the key to ace this exam and achieve a good IELTS reading band score. In this blog, get to know about the strategies you can utilize for acing the academic IELTS reading section.
IELTS Reading: Format
The IELTS academic reading section consists of three passages with increasing difficulty. These passages are taken from academic journals, textbooks or newspapers. Within just 60 minutes, you will need to read 3 passages that are around 2000-3000 words, following which you will be asked to answer 40 questions related to these passages. It is ideal to give 20 minutes per passage. The pattern of questions asked in the IELTS reading test is TRUE/FALSE, Match the headings, MCQs, fill in the blanks, complete the summary, label the diagram and complete the table. For every correct answer, you will be scoring 1 point which will then be converted into the IELTS reading band score from a range of 0 to 9. If you need any assistance regarding preparation for the IELTS or other exams, reach out to Immimart and we'll help you get in touch with the best consultants who can assist you with your study abroad journey. Also read our complete guide on the IELTS Speaking and Writing sections.
IELTS Reading section : Practice strategies
To effectively finish all the passages on time, you’ll need to thoroughly take the IELTS reading practice test that includes solving mock tests and sample papers. This section really tests how well you can comprehend and analyse texts within a specified duration. Note that this section can prove to be very scoring if you understand the pattern and improve your English vocabulary. Below are 5 tips on how you can achieve 8+ on the IELTS reading band score.
Practice Skimming and Scanning
The word skimming means to read quickly or have a quick glance to understand the main idea of the text. This means that you don’t have to pay much attention to the passage in the first read; it’s just a quick read to get an idea of what it is about. Scanning on the other hand refers to looking for specific details- such as the date, venue, time or other relevant details provided in the text. Thus, try to maintain a fine balance between skimming and scanning while you read the passage.
Improve your Reading skills
You can improve your reading skills only if you have maintained a consistent habit of reading texts. It can be newspapers, magazines, books or even academic texts. Once you get into the habit of reading, you will start getting familiarized with new words that will enrich your vocabulary. Reading frequently will also help you to build your skills in grammar. In the IELTS academic reading section, try to read your passages 3 times. Once, when you skim and scan; second, when you try to go through the details and the third time, start answering the questions.
Practice mock papers
The only way you can ace the IELTS reading test is by practicing several mock test papers that will give you an idea of how the actual paper will be. By timing yourself and answering the sample IELTS reading questions, you can easily familiarise yourself with the pattern. The IELTS reading section will also help you practice reading on a diverse range of topics. The IELTS reading practice test will help you in not only practicing for the exam but also analysing your strengths and weaknesses.
Improve your concentration
Even the hardest of things can be solved with full concentration and attention. Thus, while reading the essay of the IELTS reading section, try to go through it with undivided attention. Avoid getting stuck on one question. If you’re unsure about a question, make an educated guess (make a guess instantly) and mark it rather than leaving it unanswered. You can revisit the question later as well when all the sections are finished answering. While time-management is necessary, also ensure that you have transferred answers neatly to the answer sheet if you’re giving a paper-based test. You can also buy the Cambridge Learner’s Dictionary that will come handy while you’re preparing for the IELTS academic reading test.
Final Thoughts on acing the IELTS reading section
The IELTS reading test can be challenging due to the increasing difficulty of passages and answering 40 questions in 60 minutes. However, by effectively practicing IELTS reading practice test papers and mock tests, you will be able to score well in this section. All the best for your exam preparation!
