IELTS Reading Tips

These IELTS reading tips will provide you with essential strategies-

1.Skim the questions first- it is a good idea to skim the reading to get an idea of what is the topic about and who it is written for. Look at the headings, sub headings and pictures, then look at the questions to answer them. Underline the important words and line which will help you latter.

2. Do what ever works for you- there will be many mix advice given to you like read the questions first and then answer, read the first paragraph and then answer first two questions or read the whole passage and then answer. All these tips do not work for every one, do what ever is best for you. Choose yourself and act.

3.Read the instructions carefully- it is an important tip, do read the instructions before beginning the test. As there are different instruction given on different parts, for example some times it is mention write down one word answer, some time not more than three words, tick one of the answers. If you write more or any thing else it will be considered as a wrong answer.

4.Take care of the spellings and grammar- do keep a check on your spelling incorrect spelling will cost you as a wrong answer and also look at your grammar. There is no way that you can make spelling mistake if you are coping it from the test.

5.Move on if you don’t know the answer- if you do not know the answer don’t worry just move forward, if you can make any guess make it. Do not panic just move on.

6.Learn the skill of skimming and scanning- it is a method of speed reading and test takers must practice it as they are very helpful. Skimming is reading the text from starting to the end by running your eyes through  the text and scanning is finding a specific piece of information.

7. Read some parts in detail- you will not get time to read the whole passage but at times you will need to read some text in details in order to get the desired answer.

8.Spend 20 minutes on each passage- it is not compulsory, some might take extra time some take less than 20 minutes. It all depends upon your understanding and skill. However it is recommended to give 20 minutes to each passage to manage your time.

9.Start practice test slowly- if you are new to IELTS then you must start the reading section by reading the passage slowly and understand it carefully.

10.Practice, practice and practice- keep on practicing the reading sections regularly as it requires time and gradually increase your speed as you progress.