4 Steps to Master Sentence Completion in IELTS Reading

Sentence Completion in IELTS Reading is considered one of the easiest among all question types in the IELTS Reading test. That is why this question type helps test takers easily get full marks in the IELTS Reading test. Therefore, the article below will provide useful information for Preppies such as steps to tackle questions, and tips to answer Sentence Completion questions effectively.

I. Overview of Sentence Completion in IELTS Reading

1. What is Sentence Completion in IELTS Reading?

Sentence Completion questions are a variation of gap-filling questions. Test takers are presented with incomplete sentences containing one or more blanks, which they must fill in by extracting relevant information from the reading text.

2. Format of Sentence Completion in IELTS Reading

Typically, Sentence Completion questions follow a specific format. Test takers need to understand the structure of these questions to tackle them effectively. The following is the typical question format for Sentence Completion in IELTS Reading:

II. 4 Steps to Master Sentence Completion in IELTS Reading

1. Step 1: Carefully read the instructions to understand the limits of words/numbers to fill in each blank

Carefully read the instructions provided with each Sentence Completion question. Pay attention to word limits and any specific requirements, such as using only one word per answer.

2. Step 2: Read the question, underline keywords, and predict the required information

Before diving into the reading text, analyze the question and underline keywords. Use context clues and grammar structures to predict the type of information required to fill in the blanks. This step helps in narrowing down possible answers and focusing your search on the reading passage. For example, 

•  Certain diseases have disappeared, thanks to better ………………. and healthcare  → A noun to refer to something that has been improved - we can think of medicine here.
• Because there is more contact between people, ………………. are losing their usefulness → A plural noun referring to things that are no longer effective.

3. Step 3: Scanning

Once you have a clear understanding of what you are looking for, employ scanning techniques to locate relevant information in the reading passage quickly. Focus on the keywords identified in the question and scan the text for matching phrases or synonyms.

4. Step 4: Check the answers

After identifying potential answers, carefully evaluate them to ensure they fit grammatically and logically within the context of the sentence. Cross-reference the information with the reading passage to verify the accuracy of your answers.

III. Some Useful Tips for IELTS Reading Sentence Completion

• Before starting the questions, we should do a quick scan of the question types to find the best strategy. Filling in the blanks questions are usually the easiest question type → These can be prioritized before more difficult ones like matching questions.
• Matching information to paragraphs is a common question type in IELTS, often appearing in Reading Passages 2 and 3. Test takers must be able to precisely locate specific information within the given paragraphs.
• The questions can be about reasons, descriptions, summaries, characteristics, definitions, or explanations. The paragraphs will be labeled A, B, C, etc. for test takers to select answers.

IV. Sentence Completion In IELTS Reading Practice Questions with Detailed Answers

Below is an example of Sentence Completion In IELTS Reading Practice Questions with Detailed Answers

Text:

The concept of sustainable development aims to promote economic growth while ____________ natural resources for future generations.

Options:

a) depleting

b) conserving

c) squandering

d) exploiting

Detailed Answer:

Correct Answer: b) conserving

Explanation: Sustainable development emphasizes the responsible use and preservation of natural resources. The blank requires a verb that aligns with the concept of preserving resources for future generations. Among the options, "conserving" best fits the context, indicating the intention to use resources wisely without exhausting them.

For additional practice, consider enrolling in specialized IELTS preparation courses tailored to enhance your skills in tackling Sentence Completion questions. These courses provide comprehensive practice materials and detailed explanations to strengthen your proficiency in this question type.

In summary, you Preppies have explored useful methods for tackling Sentence Completion in IELTS Reading together with PREP. IELTS Reading skills are truly not too difficult if you hone and develop an effective personal test-taking strategy, as well as understand how to apply some useful tips.

For further assistance and 24/7 support in your IELTS preparation journey, do not hesitate to reach out to reputable preparation resources like PREP. With their guidance and expertise, you can navigate through the complexities of the IELTS test with confidence and achieve your desired score. PREP wishes you the very best with your studies and exam preparation!