Most test-takers believe that scoring 9 Bands in IELTS Reading is an impossible task to achieve. On the other hand, for non-native English speakers, it is an unimaginable thing to aim for! It is also found that despite having a healthy grip on the English language, students find this module complicated as it requires sharp focus and attention to key details. In fact, several money-oriented consultants market IELTS training in such a complicated way that it terrifies the aspirants, so much that some even drop the idea of giving it a try.
The core idea behind IELTS Reading is to simply assess a candidate’s comprehensive ability. That means whether one could practically understand what the text suggests.
The IELTS Reading skills require locating the relevant information and identifying fitting answers. It is a common belief that test-takers fail to score better due to lack of command over the English language, but that is a myth! It is due to simple mistakes and misinterpretations under time pressure that affect the outcome.
Brief Outline of IELTS Reading
Types:
Academic:
- Applicable to Admissions in Colleges/Universities across the world
- Texts based on Books, Journals, Magazines and Newspapers
- Complex and lengthy text
General:
- Applicable to Professional Requirements and Immigration Purposes
- Texts based on Newspapers, Handbooks, Notices and Advertisements
- Small and tricky text
Timeline:
Total 60 Minutes, 20 minutes dedicated to each passage, and 1 to 1.5 Minutes for each question generally.
Level of Difficulty:
Increases with each proceeding passage
Type of Questions:
Multiple choice Questions (MCQs), Filling the Blanks, True-False-Not Given, No-Yes-Not Given, Match the Headings, Complete the Sentence, Diagram Label Completion, Summary-Note-Table-Flow Chart Completion, Short Answer Questions
Fundamental tips to begin with IELTS Reading
1) Understand the test format and question types
2) Read the instructions very carefully before attempting the questions
2) Develop reading with speed and accuracy
3) Skim passages to quickly locate relevant information
4) Pay attention to key information and details
5) Practice regularly to strategize time management in a better way
Getting better with IELTS Reading
- Keep a record
Maintaining an index of each practice test will help you throughout this journey. Thus, you can identify areas that need improvement, and learning from your past mistakes is crucial to fine-tune your IELTS Reading skills. - Read, Read, and Read often
Reading a variety of texts will surely improve your vocabulary skills, and will provide you with a better understanding of complex grammar structures.
- Develop your personal Strategy
It may take time for you to maximize your score, but you can always priortize questions that are comfortable for you to deal with. Strategize your level of difficulty, so that you can make use of limited time more effectively. - Questions First
Some people prefer skimming the passage at first and then answering the questions. Knowing that it may consume a lot of time, especially for slow readers. A healthy advice would be to go through the questions first and then locate the answers. - Use a Pointer
Always use a pencil to train your eye to follow the text accurately. This method will reduce the chance of jumbling information in the sentences when in a hurry and will also reduce the errors significantly. - Read between the lines
Sometimes, the answers to the questions could not be established easily. Despite repetitive efforts, the students find it puzzling to understand the context of the keywords presented in the questions. It is then, one needs to realize that the answers are indicative and indirect. - Look for Guidance
It is always better to seek guidance from someone proficient in English. It will help you to avoid repeating mistakes and save you sufficient time. - Attempt all Questions
Since there is no negative marking in the IELTS Test overall, one should always look up to guesswork when there is a lack of time or you are not sure about an answer. Guessing incorrect answers will bring you no harm, but you may get lucky if your answers are correct. - Do Not Panic
The major cause of anxiety during the IELTS Reading is either due to the sizeable passage which consumes more time or due to difficulty finding answers. Remember, it will only cause you to lose focus and affect your performance. So, it is always wise to avoid any distractions, and a few deep breaths can do wonders in repositioning your focus. - Do Not Fall For Sequence
Most of the time, the answers to the questions are provided in advancing order. But on several occasions, it has been observed that to make the test complex, the answers are put randomly in the passage and follow no particular order. So do not keep your scope of search restricted while finding answers. - Believe Yourself
You will come across a lot of topics in IELTS Reading that you are not aware of. In that situation, over-thinking will only kill your time and create unnecessary fear. Follow your instincts, as there is no sufficient time to over-analyze and it will only leave you struggling more for correct answers. Remember, subject knowledge is not what the IELTS Reading test is meant for. It is only to assess your English language skills to be able to communicate effectively. - Transfer your Answers Timely
Like listening, you are not given separate time to transfer your answers. Occupied with finding solutions from the passage, candidates under pressure often tend to forget to write answers into the answer sheet. Thus, it is always advisable to practice with an answer sheet so that you have a better sense of timing, and feel more confident during the test. Make sure you transfer your answers either after each question or after each passage. Failing to do so will only leave you with little or no time at the end for transferring the answers entirely, and it will surely impact your score.
FAQs
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Is it possible to achieve 9 Bands in IELTS Reading?
There is no question about it! With time, dedicated practice and developing proficiency in the English language can surely help you to achieve it.
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Do I have to use capital letters in the answer sheet?
People who have the habit of using cursive writing may make it difficult for the examiner to understand the answers. They may mark your answer wrong due to lack of readability. Capital letters are always regarded as good for clarity.
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Are spelling mistakes considered?
Yes! Spelling mistakes are marked as wrong and can lower your overall band score despite the correct answer. Fortunately, you do not have to guess the spelling in IELTS Reading like IELTS Listening as you always have the reference from the passage handy.
We hope you found this article helpful in your journey to prepare for the IELTS. The tips and strategies we shared are designed to make your test-taking experience smoother and more effective. Remember, mastering time management and pacing can make a big difference in your IELTS score.
If you liked what you read here, be sure to check out our other articles. We’ve got a bunch of resources and guides that can help you get even more prepared for the IELTS. From subject-specific strategies to general study tips, we’re here to support you every step of the way. Good luck with your IELTS prep, and remember, you’ve got this!