What Is IELTS Reading Test?

IELTS reading test

IELTS is an international Standardized Test of English Language Proficiency for non-native English language speakers. While there are many parts of this test, one of them is the IELTS reading test. The test is divided into three portions with a total of 40 questions.

IELTS Reading assesses a wide range of reading abilities, and while the question patterns are similar, the text styles for Academic and General Training are distinct. You will have about 60 minutes to answer 40 questions, and you will have to read three distinct reading texts.

7 Tips To Improve Your IELTS Academic Reading Score

1. You Do Not Need To Be Knowledgeable About Reading Topics

The answer is in the passage

To answer these questions, don’t rely on any prior information you may have on the subject. The academic reading portion covers a wide range of topics, but you don’t need any prior knowledge to answer the questions effectively. The reading passage comprises the answers. All you have to do is read the passage carefully and spot the answers.

2. Focus On The Questions First

Instead of reading the material first, concentrate on the questions. Read them thoroughly and underline any important words, like names, dates, figures, adjectives, and adverbs. Next, skim through the text for the part that has these important words. Then, carefully study this part and match the information to the information in the questions. You may be reading too quickly if you can’t find the answer. Read the section again at a slower pace.

3. Synonyms And Paraphrasing Are Important

Build your vocabulary

The Reading component of the exam is essentially a vocabulary comprehension test. The passage will explain thoughts similar to those conveyed by the key phrases in the questions but differently, using synonyms and paraphrases. They will not use the same essential terms to communicate. Understanding the topics in the reading passages will be easier if you have a good vocabulary.

4.Manage Your Time

Block time

In 60 minutes, you will have to answer 40 questions. Make the calculations. You will not finish the test on time if you spend five minutes on each question, and you will leave many questions unanswered. Even if you have to make educated guesses on a few, make sure you answer all of the questions. Leave a question if you are having trouble answering it, and go on. This method will assist you in moving through the test more quickly. If you have time at the end of the test, go over the questions you missed and make sure you answered them.

5. Computer Or Paper?

Paper vs. computer

You may be unsure which form of the IELTS test to take, as there are now two: paper and computer. The answer depends on your reading preferences. Some people like to read on paper and answer questions with a pencil, while others prefer to use a computer. Neither format is simple or more challenging, but you now have the option of taking the test in the format that best suits your needs. You can circle or underline essential words on the paper version, and you can utilize the highlighting option on the computer version.

6. Practice

Practice makes perfect

You have the option of getting the best IELTS teacher or reading hundreds of test preparation suggestions. However, if you don’t practice, you won’t feel prepared on the test day. However, it’s important to choose reliable materials when practicing IELTS Reading because this is the only method to acquire a real picture of current abilities. 

7. Don’t Panic

Relax your mind while taking the test

Some questions will be simple, while others will be highly challenging. Spending a lot of time on a difficult question is the wrong thing to do. Challenging questions can always be revisited later. You must maintain your calm and keep your nerves in check. Accepting that you are unlikely to get all of the questions correct on exam day may help you control your anxieties and timing!

Conclusion 

The IELTS Academic Reading test can be tough, so make sure you’re well prepared. Never take an IELTS test lightly. Make sure you are taking a lot of reading practice tests. Prepare, prepare, and prepare some more—the six suggestions above will help you achieve that ideal mark and improve your IELTS reading. You can get the reading score you need with persistent practice. Best of luck! 

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