Grasp the IELTS reading test format to get the maximum score

Referring to the timing and IELTS reading test format will make it easier for you to confidently achieve a high band score. If you want to secure a high score in this skill, let PREP reveal the secrets to you in the below article.

I. IELTS Test Format

The IELTS test format has been mentioned by PREP in both the structure of the IELTS Writing test and the structure of the IELTS Speaking test. Please refer to the two articles to have a clear understanding of the IELTS test format.

II. The format of IELTS Reading Test

The IELTS Reading test consists of 40 questions. Some of the questions are designed to assess the candidate's reading ability. Candidates must understand the main idea, comprehend key concepts, and remember specific details. Along with this, they must also analyze the arguments, and identify the author's perspective, attitude, and purpose in the text.

• IELTS Reading Test Format– IELTS Academic:
  • For the academic version, the IELTS reading test format includes three passages, each approximately 1500 words long. The difficulty level of each passage increases gradually throughout the test. The test includes descriptive, discursive, or analytical content.
  • The IELTS Reading test sources its passages from books, journals, magazines, and even newspapers. These topics cover various fields, making them suitable for candidates who have aspirations for university studies, postgraduate studies, or specific professional fields.
• IELTS Reading Test format - IELTS General requires passages to be taken from books, magazines, and newspapers, as well as notices, advertisements, company handbooks, and instructions. These are materials that candidates might encounter in their daily English language environment.

As we can see, the time allocated for the IELTS Reading test is not extensive, as candidates have 60 minutes to complete three reading passages. Therefore, it is important to maximize skim-reading skills during IELTS preparation. This way, candidates can easily grasp the main ideas and topics presented by the author in the IELTS Reading test.

III. Some Notes when Taking the IELTS Reading Test

• Time: With only 60 minutes to complete three reading passages, time management is crucial. Divide your time wisely among the passages, allocating more time to longer or more challenging passages and less time to shorter ones. Stick to your time allocation plan to ensure you have enough time to answer all questions within the given time limit.
• If you take the paper-based test: Note that you should write your answers directly on the answer sheet. As mentioned above, time is limited in the IELTS test, so you won't have enough time to write your answers on a draft paper and then transfer them to the answer sheet.
• Carefully read the instructions: To avoid the most basic mistakes, thoroughly study the instructions before starting the test.
• Analyze the questions carefully: Before searching for the answers, analyze the questions carefully.
• Develop Skimming and Scanning Techniques: Skimming and scanning are two essential techniques for efficiently navigating through the passages and locating specific information. Skimming involves quickly reading through the passage to grasp the main idea and overall structure while scanning involves scanning for specific keywords or phrases to locate relevant information quickly. Practice these techniques during your preparation to improve your reading speed and accuracy.
• Understand the details in the footnotes: The IELTS Reading test always includes footnotes. Therefore, make sure to understand the footnotes.
• Focus on Answering Each Question: Each question in the IELTS Reading test is worth the same number of points, so it's essential to answer all questions, even if you're unsure of the answer. Don't spend too much time on any single question. If you're unsure, make an educated guess and move on to the next question. You can always come back to it later if time permits.
• Check Your Answers: If you have time remaining at the end of the test, go back and review your answers. Double-check for any errors or incomplete responses. Ensure that you have followed all instructions correctly, especially regarding how to record your answers on the answer sheet.

Always keep the saying that PREP shares in mind "Know yourself, know your enemy, and you will win a hundred battles". Understand the IELTS reading test format to equip yourself with knowledge and skills. This will help you feel more confident when entering the actual test. PREP wishes you high scores in this skill.