IELTS Reading Question Types: Targeted Training Methods
1. Matching Headings
- Skim only first + last sentences of each paragraph.
- Underline the theme of the paragraph in 3 words.
- Pre-read all headings and categorize them.
- Practice with paraphrased headings to train synonym detection.
- Use elimination by conflict to rule out mismatches.
2. Matching Information (A, B, C...)
- Match keywords from the question to the body (names, numbers, dates).
- Use a scanning route: read all questions first, then scan paragraphs.
- Highlight all keywords before answering.
- Remember: answers are not in order.
3. Matching Features (e.g. person idea)
- Create a quick key facts list for each name/theory.
- Match paraphrased phrases and verbs.
- Eliminate obvious mismatches.
- Track verbs used for each person they often contain answer logic.
4. Matching Sentence Endings
- Read the first part only, predict the ending logically.
- Eliminate grammatically incorrect or unrelated endings.
- Focus on logical connectors like 'because', 'so that'.
- Rewrite correct full sentences for memory.
5. Multiple Choice (One or More Options)
- Read all options before reading the text.
- Mark keywords in both question and options.
- Train to spot distractors (correct meaning, wrong subject).
- Explain why each incorrect option is wrong after answering.
6. True / False / Not Given (Yes/No/Not Given)
- Separate stated vs. implied vs. missing info.
- Underline the exact text that supports your choice.
- For 'Not Given': write what info would make it True or False.
- Use a 3-column practice method: Question | Evidence | Reason
7. Sentence Completion
- Predict word type before checking the text.
- Focus on function words and paraphrases near the blank.
- Train with gap-fill grammar drills.
- Locate exact phrases, not general meaning.
8. Summary Completion
- Identify what the paragraph summarizes.
- Look for synonyms (e.g. major impact - serious consequence).
- Match key nouns/verbs from summary to text.
- Practice keyword substitution.
9. Diagram / Flowchart / Table Completion
- Skim the diagram/table before reading the passage.
- Identify the described process or structure.
- Predict the type of word (step, part, place).
- Practice with scientific/technical texts.
10. Short Answer Questions
- Stick to the word limit exactly.
- Answer must be directly from the text.
- Use wh-question logic: what/where/when/how.
- Practice reverse-style: write question, then find answer.
