IELTS Reading Test : IELTS Reading Tips, Free Practice Tests Online, Exam Format
International English Language Testing System ( IELTS )
The IELTS Reading Test is an important part of the International English Language Testing System (IELTS). The IELTS reading exam will assess your ability to read and comprehend various types of texts in English. This article provides an overview of the IELTS reading test format, free online practice resources, and important tips to help you succeed.
The IELTS Reading test is divided into two different formats: IELTS Academic and IELTS General Training. While both tests share a similar structure, they differ significantly in content, complexity, and purpose.
| Feature |
IELTS Academic Reading |
IELTS General Training Reading |
|---|---|---|
| Duration |
60 minutes |
60 minutes |
| Total Questions |
40 questions |
40 questions |
| Number of Sections |
3 sections |
3 sections |
| Text Sources |
Academic texts from books, journals, magazines, and newspapers |
Everyday texts from advertisements, notices, company guidelines, and brochures |
| Text Complexity |
More complex and academic; includes descriptive, factual, and analytical texts |
Generally easier; focuses on everyday topics and social situations |
| Typical Content |
Scientific and technical passages |
Texts related to daily life, such as work-related documents and general information |
| Skills Assessed |
Skimming for main ideas, understanding detailed information, and analyzing arguments |
Skimming for information, understanding general meaning, and reading for detail |
IELTS Academic Reading
The IELTS Academic test is designed for students seeking higher education or professional registration in an English-speaking environment. The Academic texts for IELTS reading exam are usually longer and more complex, requiring a higher level of comprehension.
IELTS General Training Reading
The IELTS General Training test is aimed at those migrating to English-speaking countries or applying for secondary education. The General Training texts for IELTS reading test are shorter and focus on practical language skills used in everyday situations.
Both tests feature similar question types (e.g., multiple choice, matching headings), but the Academic test may include more analytical questions that require critical thinking.
Commonly asked questions
Q: How do I practice IELTS Reading?
To get good band scores in IELTS Reading test, applicants should prepare well and practice a lot. Some tips to prepare for IELTS Reading module includes:
- Understand the pattern of the Reading module and take IELTS Reading mock test to understand where the applicant stands.
- Once applicants take the IELTS Reading mock test, create a schedule.
- Read regularly - books, newspapers and magazines for academi purposes (like Outlook, Business Today).
- Learn new words maybe five each day with their meanings and using them in conversations.
- Attempt different types of passages with a mix of various question types. Try to solve 2-3 everyday.
- Ensure that IELTS Reading practice covers all topics that are tested on the module.
- Apply techniques of skimming and scanning and answer all questions when attempting IELTS Reading practice.
- Consider trying the new, 1-month free online IELTS course to aid students prepare for their IELTS Exam with certified British Council trainers.
- Finally, be consistent with IELTS Reading mock tests, and practice so that there is no break in the flow of preparation.
Want to try some IELTS Reading practice tests? Try and solve these IELTS Reading passages with answers:
| IELTS Reading Practice Test 1: The Dead Sea Scrolls | IELTS Reading Practice Test 2: The Truth About the Environment |
| IELTS Reading Practice Test 3: Airports on Water | IELTS Reading Practice Test 4: The Mega Fires of California |
Q: How can I get 8.5 in IELTS Reading?
To achieve an 8.5 in IELTS Reading, applicants will have to focus on their accuracy and speed. They would need to answer almost all the questions on the IELTS Reading module correctly. To aim for 8.5 band score on IELTS Reading test, applicants should aim for:
- Regularly practice with past papers
- Focus on understanding main ideas, supporting details, and specific information.
- Improve vocabulary and reading speed by reading diverse texts. Check IELTS Vocabulary Words with Meanings
- Effectively learn to skim and scan techniques to locate answers quickly.
- Time management is crucial.
- Finally, analyze your mistakes to identify areas for improvement.
This way, applicants will be able to aim for 8.5 IELTS Reading band score.
Q: What is the format of IELTS Reading Test?
As of 2025, the IELTS Reading Test format remains consistent with previous years, designed to assess a range of reading skills, including skimming, understanding logical arguments, and recognizing writers' opinions, attitudes, and purposes.
Test Structure:
- Duration: 60 minutes
- Number of Questions: 40
- Sections: 3
IELTS Academic Reading:
- Content: Three long passages sourced from books, journals, magazines, newspapers, and online resources, written for a non-specialist audience. Topics are of general interest to students at the undergraduate or postgraduate level.
- Question Types: Multiple choice, identifying information (True/False/Not Given), identifying writer's views/claims (Yes/No/Not Given), matching information, matching headings, matching features, matching sentence endings, sentence completion, summary/note/table/flow-chart completion, diagram label completion, short-answer questions.
IELTS General Training Reading:
- Content: Sections include everyday materials such as advertisements, official documents, brochures, and newspapers.
- Section 1: Two or three short factual texts.
- Section 2: Two work-related texts.
- Section 3: One longer text on a topic of general interest.
- Question Types: Similar to the Academic module, including multiple choice, matching information, and sentence completion.
Q: What types of questions appear in the IELTS Reading test?
There are 12 different types of questions in the IELTS Reading test. These include:
- Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs): You choose the correct answer from A, B, C, or D.
- True/False/Not Given: You determine if statements are true, false, or not given in the passage.
- Yes/No/Not Given: Similar to True/False/Not Given but used for opinions instead of facts.
- Matching Headings: You match headings to paragraphs.
- Matching Information: You match information to different paragraphs in the passage.
- Matching Features: You match people, places, or events with descriptions.
- Matching Sentence Endings: You complete sentences using given options.
- Sentence Completion: You fill in blanks using words from the passage.
- Summary Completion: You complete a summary using words from the passage or a word list.
- Table Completion: You complete a table using words from the passage.
- Diagram Label Completion: You label diagrams based on information in the text.
- Short-Answer Questions: You answer questions using a specific number of words.
Q: Can I Use Synonyms Instead of Words from the Passage in the IELTS Reading Test?
The short answer is NO, you must use the exact words from the passage for most question types. However, synonyms can help in understanding the text and finding the correct answers.
When You MUST Use the Exact Words from the Passage
For the following question types, you must copy words exactly as they appear in the passage:
- Sentence Completion
- Summary Completion
- Table Completion
- Diagram Label Completion
- Short Answer Questions
Example:
Passage:
"The Amazon rainforest is home to thousands of unique species."
Question:
The ______ is home to thousands of unique species.
? Incorrect: "Jungle" (Even though "jungle" is a synonym for "rainforest", it is not the word used in the passage.)
? Correct: "Amazon rainforest" (Must be copied exactly from the passage.)
When Synonyms CAN Be Used
In some question types, synonyms can help you understand the passage, but your final answer must still match the given options.
? Matching Headings? The passage might use "increase," but the heading option could say "growth."
? True/False/Not Given & Yes/No/Not Given? Synonyms often appear in the question to test comprehension.
? Example:
Passage:
"The company experienced a rapid increase in revenue last year."
Question:
The company's earnings grew quickly last year.
? Answer: TRUE (Since "earnings" = "revenue" and "grew quickly" = "rapid increase")
Common Mistakes to Avoid
? Using synonyms instead of exact words in fill-in-the-blank questions.
? Adding extra words—If the answer must be "solar energy," don't write "the solar energy."
? Ignoring word limits—If the instruction says "NO MORE THAN TWO WORDS," stick to it.
Final Tip
- Use synonyms to locate the right section in the passage but write the exact word (s) from the passage as the answer.
- Always check the instructions carefully to avoid unnecessary mistakes.
IELTS Reading Test Pattern
The IELTS Reading Test lasts for 60 minutes and consists of 40 questions divided into three sections. The test assesses your reading skills, including understanding the main ideas, locating specific information, and recognizing the author's opinion. The IELTS Reading module consists of three passages of increasing difficulty, drawn from authentic sources such as academic journals, textbooks, and newspapers.
The IELTS Academic Reading section assesses a candidate's ability to comprehend complex academic texts. International applicants preparing to study abroad for any level of study - undergraduate or postgraduate, are eligible for IELTS exam. This guide offers essential strategies and insights to help you master the challenges of the IELTS Reading test, boosting your confidence and maximizing your score potential for IELTS band scores.
IELTS Reading Test Format
| Parameters | Details on the IELTS Reading Test |
|---|---|
| Format |
Three passages with increasing difficulty, 40 questions, 60 minutes
|
| Question Types |
True/False/Not Given, Matching Headings, Multiple Choice, Sentence Completion, Gap-fill, Summary Completion, Diagram Labeling, Table Completion
|
| Scoring |
Each correct answer is worth one point, scored out of 40. Converted to IELTS 9 band score.
|
| Focus |
Academic module: Authentic academic sources; General Training module: everyday life and workplace texts
|
| Time Management |
Approximately 20 minutes per passage
|
| Tips |
Skim for overview, scan for specific information, manage time effectively, understand question types, build vocabulary
|
| Challenge |
Time pressure, varied text types, academic language
|
Applicants can choose their preferred IELTS exam date to register for the exam. Candidates looking to register for the IELTS exam can visit the official IDP IELTS India website.
Predict your IELTS, TOEFL, and PTE in just 4 steps!
Types of Questions on IELTS Reading Section
While the IELTS Reading test doesn't have a fixed set of topics in its syllabus, there are different question types which the candidates frequently encounter in the Reading Section of the IELTS exam syllabus. These are the broad types of IELTS Reading section's question types. Applicants preparing for the IELTS exam should include an extensive IELTS Reading practice based on these question types.
The questions in the IELTS Reading Test assess various reading skills. Here are some common question types:
| Question Type |
Description |
|---|---|
| Choose the best topic for each paragraph based on main ideas. |
|
| Matching Paragraph Information |
Select statements that best fit the content of specific paragraphs. |
| Matching Features |
Match facts or ideas from the text with a list of statements (e.g., names to discoveries). |
| Complete sentences by matching them with alternative endings based on the reading provided. |
|
| True/False/Not Given |
Determine if statements are correct (True), incorrect (False), or not mentioned (Not Given) in the text. |
| Choose the correct answer from four options based on the reading material. |
|
| List of Options |
Select multiple correct answers from a list based on information in the text. |
| Choose a Title |
Select the most appropriate title for a given passage from a list of options. |
| Answer questions using words or numbers directly from the text. |
|
| Complete sentences using information from the reading material. |
|
| Fill in missing words in a summary based on information provided in the text. |
|
| Complete a table with appropriate information derived from the reading passage. |
|
| Flow Chart Completion |
Fill in missing details in a flow chart based on content from the text. |
| Complete diagrams with relevant information extracted from the reading material. |
IELTS Reading Question Types - Do's and Don'ts
1. Diagram Label Questions
- Description: You’ll label parts of a diagram based on details in the text.
- Example: Label parts of a cell structure using words from the passage.
- Do’s:
- Skim the text to find sections describing the diagram.
- Look for key vocabulary linked to parts of the diagram.
- Match each label to the relevant text.
- Don’ts:
- Don’t guess based on general knowledge; rely only on passage information.
- Avoid spending too much time on one label; move on if stuck.
Read More: Diagram Label Questions
2. Identifying a Writer’s Views or Claims (YES/NO/NOT GIVEN)
- Description: You’ll determine if a statement aligns with the writer's views or claims.
- Example: “The author believes that recycling is the best solution for plastic waste.” (YES, NO, NOT GIVEN)
- Do’s:
- Carefully read the question and find supporting text in the passage.
- Only answer YES if there is clear evidence of agreement, NO if there is a clear contradiction, and NOT GIVEN if it is not addressed.
- Don’ts:
- Don’t assume the answer based on personal beliefs.
- Avoid overthinking; stick to the passage.
Read More: Identifying a Writer’s Views or Claims (YES/NO/NOT GIVEN)
3. Identifying Information (TRUE/FALSE/NOT GIVEN)
- Description: You’ll judge if statements are factually correct according to the passage.
- Example: “The company was founded in 1995.” (TRUE, FALSE, NOT GIVEN)
- Do’s:
- Look for specific details or dates to confirm or contradict the statement.
- TRUE if information matches exactly, FALSE if it contradicts, and NOT GIVEN if there’s no mention.
- Don’ts:
- Don’t make assumptions outside the text.
- Avoid marking TRUE or FALSE based on general knowledge.
4. Matching Headings & Features
- Description: You’ll match paragraph headings or specific features with information from the passage.
- Example: Match headings like “Innovations in Transport” to paragraphs discussing transportation advances.
- Do’s:
- Identify the main idea of each paragraph before matching.
- Cross-check between options to see which fits best.
- Don’ts:
- Don’t be distracted by words in headings that appear in the passage but do not represent the paragraph’s main idea.
- Avoid spending too long on one heading.
Read More: Matching Headings & Features
5. Matching Information & Sentence Endings
- Description: You’ll match pieces of information or sentence beginnings with suitable endings.
- Example: “Air pollution affects…” (Match: “the respiratory system.”)
- Do’s:
- Skim the text to find parts of sentences or information that directly match.
- Pay attention to logical connections and grammar.
- Don’ts:
- Don’t just look for keyword matches without understanding the meaning.
- Avoid rushing; ensure each pair makes sense as a whole.
Read More: Matching Information & Sentence Endings
6. Multiple Choice Questions
- Description: Choose the best answer(s) from several options based on the passage.
- Example: “What is the primary reason for deforestation?” (A. Agriculture, B. Urban Development, etc.)
- Do’s:
- Locate the relevant part of the text and read thoroughly before answering.
- Eliminate clearly incorrect options.
- Don’ts:
- Don’t select an option just because it contains keywords from the passage.
- Avoid overanalyzing; trust your initial instinct if it aligns with the text.
Read More: Multiple Choice Questions
7. Sentence Completion
- Description: Complete sentences with words from the passage.
- Example: “The primary function of chlorophyll is to…” (Answer: “…absorb light.”)
- Do’s:
- Find the part of the text related to each sentence.
- Match the exact wording from the text where required.
- Don’ts:
- Don’t alter words unnecessarily or guess based on incomplete information.
- Avoid using synonyms or altering the meaning.
Read More: Sentence Completion
8. Short-Answer Questions
- Description: Answer questions with short phrases or words from the text.
- Example: “What is the main material used in solar panels?” (Answer: “Silicon”)
- Do’s:
- Skim and scan for the keywords in the passage.
- Answer directly and within the word limit.
- Don’ts:
- Don’t add extra words or paraphrase.
- Avoid giving answers that exceed the word count.
Read More: Short-Answer Questions
9. Summary Completion
- Description: Fill in blanks in a summary using words from the passage.
- Example: “The process begins with the heating of ___.” (Answer: “water”)
- Do’s:
- Read the summary carefully for context.
- Use the passage’s exact words if required by the instructions.
- Don’ts:
- Don’t use outside knowledge.
- Avoid adding extra words beyond the specified word limit.
Read More: Summary Completion
10. Flow Chart Completion
- Description: Complete a flowchart summarizing a process from the passage.
- Example: Flow chart showing stages in plant growth.
- Do’s:
- Identify the sequence of events or steps in the process.
- Use exact words from the text if specified.
- Don’ts:
- Don’t assume steps; they must be in the passage.
- Avoid jumping steps; keep the flow consistent.
11. Note Completion
- Description: Complete notes with words from the passage, often about specific details.
- Example: “In ancient Egypt, ___ was used for writing.” (Answer: “papyrus”)
- Do’s:
- Scan for factual details or lists in the passage.
- Stick to the required word count.
- Don’ts:
- Don’t paraphrase; use wording as it appears in the text.
- Avoid making assumptions outside the passage.
Read More: Note Completion
12. Table Completion
- Description: Fill in a table with information from the passage, often comparing details.
- Example: Complete a table comparing animal species and habitats.
- Do’s:
- Skim for the specific details needed for each row or column.
- Ensure the answers align accurately with each table category.
- Don’ts:
- Don’t fill in with general information; each cell should match precisely.
- Avoid repeating information if it’s meant to be unique for each cell.
Read More: Table Completion
Passage Type in IELTS Reading
There are different types of passages in the IELTS Reading section, and they are as follows:
1. Descriptive
Description: Tells a story or recounts a series of events. Often includes characters, plot, and setting.
How to Identify?
Descriptive passages primarily focus on providing detailed information about a subject. They often employ vivid language, sensory details, and spatial or logical organisation. The primary purpose is to create a mental image of the subject rather than telling a story or making an argument. For instance, a passage about the Amazon rainforest might delve into its biodiversity, climate, and geographic features.
2. Narrative
Description: Presents factual information about a person, place, object, or event. Focuses on providing details and characteristics.
How to Identify?
Narrative passages are essentially storytelling. They present a sequence of events often involving characters, a plot, and a setting. Time-related words, past tense verbs, and the use of descriptive language to portray characters are common features. A historical account of the Industrial Revolution or a biography of a famous scientist would exemplify this type.
3. Argumentative
Description: Presents a viewpoint or opinion and provides supporting evidence to persuade the reader.
How to Identify?
Argumentative passages aim to persuade the reader of a particular viewpoint. They typically present a clear stance or opinion, supported by evidence and reasoning. Counter-arguments may also be addressed. Expect to find persuasive language, logical structure, and the use of data or expert opinions to bolster the argument. An essay discussing the pros and cons of nuclear energy would be an example.
4. Expository
Description: Explains or clarifies a topic, providing information and details to enhance understanding.
How to Identify?
Expository passages prioritise explaining or informing the reader about a topic or process. They often use clear and concise language with definitions, examples, and logical organisation. Diagrams or illustrations might accompany the text to enhance understanding. A scientific explanation of photosynthesis or a guide to writing a research paper would fall into this category.
IELTS Reading Tips
Below is a list of useful IELTS Reading Practice Test tips and IELTS Reading materials to help you prepare better for the IELTS reading tasks and also improve your overall IELTS Reading band score. Check them out:
| Reading Tips | Description | Example |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Practice skimming and scanning | Develop the ability to quickly identify main ideas and locate specific information |
Skim an article about climate change to identify the main topic in 30 seconds; scan to find specific data like "2.0°C temperature increase"
|
| 2. Improve your reading speed | Set timed goals for reading passages to increase your pace |
Start by giving yourself 5 minutes to read a passage, then gradually reduce the time to 3-4 minutes
|
| 3. Expand your vocabulary | Learn new words in context, focusing on academic and topic-specific terms |
While reading about urbanization, learn words like "infrastructure," "gentrification," and "urban sprawl"
|
| 4. Practice different question types | Familiarize yourself with various IELTS question formats |
Work on matching headings, true/false/not given, and multiple choice questions separately
|
| 5. Use official IELTS materials | Work with authentic past papers and practice tests |
Complete Cambridge IELTS book series tests under timed conditions
|
| 6. Develop a strategic approach | Create a personal strategy for tackling the reading section efficiently |
Read questions before the passage, underline key words, and tackle easier questions first
|
| 7. Improve your concentration | Practice reading for longer periods without breaks |
Start with 30-minute focused reading sessions, gradually increasing to 60 minutes
|
| 8. Analyze your mistakes | Review incorrect answers to understand why you got them wrong |
If you misinterpreted a true/false question, practice identifying subtle differences between the text and questions
|
| 9. Read diverse topics | Expose yourself to various subjects that commonly appear in IELTS |
Read articles on science, history, social issues, and culture from sources like Scientific American or The Economist
|
| 10. Practice paraphrasing | Develop the skill of restating information in your own words |
After reading a paragraph, try to summarize its main point without looking at the text
|
Once you understand how to improve your IELTS Reading score, you can also watch other Online IELTS tutorials to amplify your overall band score in the IELTS Exam.
Also Read
| IELTS Reading Tips and Tricks | Writing Tips for IELTS |
| IELTS Listening Tips | Speaking Tips for IELTS |
IELTS Reading Sample
One can check the IELTS reading sample with answers from below.
IELTS Reading Material for Practice
Preparing for the IELTS Reading exam can be challenging, but with Shiksha's Free IELTS Classes, you can access valuable resources and expert guidance to enhance your skills. These classes are designed to help students master the reading techniques needed to excel in the exam.
Key Features of Shiksha's Free IELTS Classes:
- Comprehensive Coverage: The program includes focused sessions on all four IELTS modules—Reading, Writing, Listening, and Speaking—providing a well-rounded preparation experience.
- Expert Trainers: Learn from experienced instructors who understand the nuances of the IELTS exam and can offer personalized tips and strategies.
- Flexible Scheduling: With options for weekday and weekend classes, you can choose a schedule that fits your lifestyle, ensuring you get the most out of your preparation time.
- Interactive Learning: Participate in live sessions where you can ask questions, engage in discussions, and receive immediate feedback on your progress.
Why Choose Shiksha for IELTS Preparation?
Many students have benefited from Shiksha's free classes, with an impressive average band score of 7.0 achieved by participants. By joining these classes, you not only prepare effectively for the IELTS exam but also equip yourself with essential skills for your academic journey abroad.
IELTS Reading Tips: Tactics for a Good Band Score (Do's & Don't's)
One can check the IELTS reading tips on the exam day from below.
IELTS Reading Tips Before the Exam:
| Dos | Don'ts |
|---|---|
| Read various academic texts like journal articles, newspapers, and textbooks to improve your reading speed and comprehension. |
Rely solely on IELTS practice materials, limiting your exposure to different writing styles.
|
| Practice time management by setting a timer for each passage and aiming to finish within the allotted time. |
Spend excessive time on difficult questions, compromising your ability to complete the test.
|
| Through practice tests, familiarize yourself with different question types (matching headings, true/false/not given, multiple choice, etc.). |
Focus on only one type of question, neglecting other important skills.
|
| Build vocabulary related to academic topics by using flashcards, vocabulary lists, or reading extensively. |
Ignore unfamiliar words, that hinder your understanding of the text.
|
During the Exam:
| Dos | Don'ts |
|---|---|
| Skim the passage to get an overview of the main ideas and structure. |
Read the passage word by word, wasting valuable time.
|
| Read the questions carefully to identify keywords and understand what information you're looking for. |
Start answering questions without a clear understanding of the passage.
|
| Underline or highlight key information in the passage to aid in locating answers. |
Highlight the entire passage, making it difficult to find specific information.
|
| Manage your time effectively by allocating approximately 20 minutes per passage. |
Spend too much time on one difficult question, leaving insufficient time for others.
|
| Use synonyms and paraphrasing to match the information in the passage to the questions. |
Rely solely on keywords, limiting your ability to find correct answers.
|
| Check your answers carefully before submitting the test. |
Leave answers blank or rush through the answer sheet.
|
How IELTS Reading is Scored?
How to Improve my IELTS Reading Score?
IELTS Reading Tips: FAQs
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