Mastering IELTS Reading: Skills & Test Differences

The IELTS Reading test is a crucial component of the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) examination, which assesses an individual’s ability to understand and interpret written English texts. The test is designed to evaluate a range of reading skills, and these skills are essential for academic and professional success, as well as effective communication in English-speaking environments. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the various reading skills tested in the IELTS Reading test, including skimming, scanning, and reading for detail. We will also discuss how these skills apply to both the IELTS General Training and Academic tests, highlighting the differences in text topics.

Read also: Master the IELTS Speaking Test Easily

Skimming: Reading to Grasp the Main Idea Quickly

Skimming is a reading skill that involves quickly going through a text to get a general sense of its content. When skimming, test-takers aim to grasp the main idea or the central theme of the passage without delving into the details. This skill is particularly valuable when test-takers are working against the clock, as it allows them to prioritize certain parts of the text.

In the IELTS Reading test, skimming is most often used in the initial stage of tackling a passage. Test-takers are provided with a brief introduction or title that offers some context about the passage’s topic. Skimming helps them form an initial understanding of what the passage is about before they move on to deeper reading.

To effectively skim a passage, test-takers should focus on key elements, such as headings, subheadings, the opening and closing paragraphs, and any bold or italicized text. These elements often contain essential information that can provide insight into the passage’s central theme. By using skimming, test-takers can quickly identify the main topic and purpose of the text.

Read this article and learn the step-by-step guide to prepare yourself for the IELTS exam.

Scanning: Reading Rapidly to Locate Specific Information

Scanning is another crucial reading skill tested in the IELTS Reading test. While skimming provides an overview of the text, scanning involves searching for specific pieces of information within the text. This skill is especially valuable when test-takers are required to answer questions that ask for precise details, such as dates, names, or specific data.

In the IELTS Reading test, scanning is often employed when test-takers are presented with questions that refer to specific lines or paragraphs in the passage. To scan effectively, test-takers should have a clear understanding of the question and the type of information they are looking for. They then rapidly move through the passage, focusing on keywords or phrases that match the question’s requirements.

For example, if a question asks for the date of a historical event mentioned in the passage, test-takers would scan for any mentions of dates or chronological information. By honing their scanning skills, test-takers can efficiently locate the required information and answer questions accurately.

Read also: Master IELTS with Simulation Tests

Reading for Detail: Understanding Logical Arguments, Opinions, Attitudes, and the Writer’s Purpose

Reading for detail is a more in-depth reading skill that involves comprehending the finer nuances of a text. This skill goes beyond skimming and scanning and requires test-takers to delve into the writer’s arguments, opinions, attitudes, and the purpose behind the text. It is crucial for understanding the text’s overall meaning and for answering questions that assess comprehension and interpretation.

In the IELTS Reading test, questions that require reading for detail often ask test-takers to analyze the author’s viewpoint, identify the writer’s tone or attitude, infer the meaning of specific words or phrases in context, or understand the logical flow of the passage.

To excel at reading for detail, test-takers should read the passage carefully, paying attention to the author’s arguments and the evidence provided to support them. They should also be able to identify rhetorical devices, such as persuasive techniques or figurative language, and understand how they contribute to the text’s overall message.

Get advice from experts for the IELTS Writing exam in both General and Academic versions, here.

Additionally, reading for detail is essential for recognizing the writer’s purpose. Understanding whether the author is informing, persuading, entertaining, or expressing an opinion is crucial for comprehending the text fully and answering related questions accurately.

Comparison of IELTS General Training and Academic Reading Tests

Both the IELTS General Training and Academic Reading tests evaluate the same fundamental reading skills—skimming, scanning, and reading for detail. However, there are notable differences in the types of texts used and the specific topics covered in these two versions of the test.

Text Types:

• IELTS Academic: The Academic Reading test is designed for individuals who plan to study in an English-speaking academic environment. Consequently, the texts in this version of the test are typically academic in nature. Test-takers might encounter passages from academic journals, research papers, textbooks, or other scholarly sources. These texts often contain complex vocabulary and are written in a formal style.

• IELTS General Training: The General Training Reading test is intended for individuals who are seeking to immigrate to an English-speaking country or pursue non-academic endeavors, such as work or training programs. The texts in this version are more varied and can include materials like advertisements, job descriptions, travel guides, or informal letters. They are generally less complex in terms of vocabulary and formality.

Topics:

• IELTS Academic: The topics covered in the Academic Reading test are diverse but tend to be related to academic disciplines and fields of study. Test-takers may encounter passages about science, history, literature, technology, or social sciences. These topics require a higher level of specialized knowledge.

• IELTS General Training: The General Training Reading test includes texts that are relevant to everyday life and practical situations. Test-takers might read about topics such as travel, health, hobbies, consumer information, or workplace issues. These topics are more accessible and do not require specialized knowledge.

Read also: Choose the Right IELTS Course in Jakarta

Question Types:

While the fundamental reading skills assessed (skimming, scanning, reading for detail) are the same in both versions, the specific question types may vary slightly to align with the text types and topics. For example, the General Training test might include questions related to job advertisements or travel itineraries, whereas the Academic test could have questions about research findings or academic arguments.

In summary, the IELTS Reading test evaluates essential reading skills that are applicable in various contexts. Test-takers should be proficient in skimming to quickly grasp the main idea, scanning to locate specific information efficiently, and reading for detail to understand complex arguments and the writer’s purpose. The choice between the Academic and General Training versions of the test depends on an individual’s goals, with the former being suitable for academic pursuits and the latter for general immigration or non-academic purposes. Regardless of the version chosen, developing strong reading skills is essential for success on the IELTS Reading test and beyond.

Read this article and discover the IELTS band scores with expert insight.

Tips to Ace the IELTS Reading Test

The IELTS Reading test can be a challenging endeavor, but with effective strategies and careful preparation, you can improve your performance and achieve your best score. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into four valuable tips to help you succeed in the IELTS Reading test: time management, effective reading, strategies for matching headings, and handling True, False, and Not Given questions.

1. Time Management: Divide and Conquer

Time management is crucial in the IELTS Reading test, where you have 60 minutes to answer 40 questions across three sections. Each section becomes progressively more difficult, so allocating your time wisely is essential. Here’s a recommended time distribution:

• Section 1: Spend approximately 20 minutes on the first section. This section usually consists of relatively straightforward questions, and you should aim to complete it efficiently to reserve more time for the subsequent sections.

• Section 2: Allocate another 20 minutes to the second section. Questions here might be a bit more challenging than in the first section, but a well-structured approach can help you navigate them effectively.

• Section 3: The final 20 minutes should be dedicated to the third section, which tends to be the most complex. These questions often require a deeper understanding of the text, so having ample time is crucial.

By adhering to this time allocation, you ensure that you have a balanced approach to all sections and don’t get stuck on any one part, jeopardizing your ability to answer questions in the others.

Read also: IELTS vs TOEFL: Choosing the Right Test

2. Effective Reading: Question-Driven Approach

Before diving into the text, it’s advisable to read the questions first. This approach allows you to understand what you need to look for in the passage, which can significantly enhance your reading efficiency. Here’s on how to effectively use this strategy:

• Read the Questions: Start by reading all the questions related to a particular passage. Pay attention to keywords or phrases that indicate what information you should be seeking in the text.

• Skim the Passage: As you read through the passage, focus on key elements that can help you identify answers to the questions. Begin with the introduction and conclusion, as they often contain essential information related to the passage’s main theme or purpose.

• Identify Keywords: While skimming, keep an eye out for keywords or phrases that match those in the questions. Highlight or underline them in the text. This makes it easier to locate the relevant information when you return to answer the questions.

This question-driven approach not only saves time but also ensures that you stay focused on finding the information needed to answer the questions accurately.

3. Strategy for Matching Headings: Efficient Reading and Note-Taking

Matching headings is a question type that can be time-consuming if not approached strategically. This task involves matching a list of headings or titles with specific paragraphs or sections of the passage. To tackle this efficiently, consider the following strategies:

• Reading or Questions First: You can choose to either read the questions related to matching headings first or read the passage first. Both approaches have their merits. Reading the questions first gives you a sense of what to look for in the text, while reading the passage first allows you to get an overall understanding of the content.

• Efficient Time Usage: Time management is critical for this question type. If you are unsure about the headings for certain paragraphs, jot down potential answers and move on to the next paragraph. As you continue reading, you can eliminate incorrect options and narrow down your choices.

• Cross Off Used Headings: Once you’ve matched a heading to a paragraph, cross it off your list to avoid revisiting it unnecessarily. This helps you stay organized and saves time for other sections.

• Skimming: Skimming can be particularly helpful when dealing with matching headings questions. By quickly scanning the text and identifying the main ideas of each paragraph, you can more effectively match them to the provided headings.

Remember that the headings should not only be related to the content but also capture the central idea or theme of the paragraph. Carefully consider the tone, style, and main point of each paragraph to make the best match.

Get a complete guide to preparing for the IELTS tes. Starting from practice questions to English strategies, it’s all here.

4. Handling True, False, and Not Given Questions: Mastering Information Retrieval

Here’s a step-by-step approach to tackle these questions:

• Read the Statement Carefully: Start by carefully reading the statement provided in the question. Pay attention to the details and specific information it contains.

• Locate the Information: As you read the passage, focus on finding the relevant information that corresponds to the statement. Keep in mind that the information in the text is presented in the same order as the questions.

• Evaluate the Statement: Once you’ve located the information, evaluate the statement against it. Determine if the statement is:
  • TRUE: If the information in the text supports the statement and there is no contradiction.
  • FALSE: If the textual evidence disputes the statement, the statement is untrue.
  • NOT GIVEN: If the text does not provide enough information to make a judgment. This means the information in the text neither supports nor contradicts the statement.

• Be Cautious with Similar Wording: Pay close attention to the wording of the statement and the text. Sometimes, subtle differences in wording can change the meaning, leading to a different answer.

• Use Your Common Sense: In some cases, common sense can be helpful in determining the accuracy of a statement, especially when the information is not explicitly provided in the text.

By following this systematic approach, you can effectively navigate True, False, and Not Given questions and make accurate judgments based on the information presented in the text.

Read also: Find out how much the IELTS test costs and the best preparation tips

Well, now you know what you need to prepare. Let’s start your IELTS preparation to achieve a score that meets the requirements of your target universities. There are many online practice tests available on the internet, but still feeling confused? Join us now.