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EFFECTIVE TIPS FOR THE READING TASK IN IELTS
Ubaydullaeva Madina Khabibulla qizi
Teacher of English at National University of Uzbekistan named after Mirzo Ulugbek,
Faculty of Foreign Languages, Department of English Language and Literature.
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.15698403
Keywords:
IELTS reading, skimming and scanning, reading strategies, question types,
paraphrasing, time management, study tips, test preparation and vocabulary building.
Annotation:
This article provides effective, research-based strategies to excel in the
IELTS Reading task, which requires answering 40 questions from three passages in 60
minutes. Key recommendations include developing skimming and scanning skills to improve
reading speed, understanding different question types for accuracy, expanding academic
vocabulary and paraphrasing awareness for better comprehension, managing time efficiently
during the test, and practicing with authentic IELTS materials to build familiarity and
confidence. The article emphasizes that success in IELTS Reading depends not only on
language proficiency but also on strategic preparation and regular practice.
Effective Tips for the Reading Task in IELTS
The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is widely recognized for
assessing English proficiency for academic, professional, and immigration purposes. Among
its four components -Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking - the Reading task often poses
unique challenges. Test-takers must complete 40 questions based on three lengthy texts
within 60 minutes, assessing a range of reading skills including skimming, scanning, detailed
comprehension, and understanding the writer’s opinion or attitude. This article outlines
effective, research-based strategies for succeeding in the IELTS Reading section.
1. Develop Skimming and Scanning Skills
Two key strategies for navigating the reading section efficiently are
skimming
(reading
quickly to get the general idea) and
scanning
(looking for specific information). These skills
help test-takers avoid reading every word and instead locate relevant information quickly.
According to Grabe (2009), developing rapid reading strategies significantly improves
performance in time-limited reading tests such as IELTS.
Tip
: Practice reading newspapers or academic articles and try summarizing the main
idea within 30 seconds (skimming) or finding dates, names, or statistics without reading
entire paragraphs (scanning).
2. Understand the Question Types
IELTS Reading includes a variety of question types, such as multiple choice, matching
headings, True/False/Not Given, and sentence completion. Each type requires a different
approach. For instance,
True/False/Not Given
questions require close reading and comparison
of statements to the passage, while
matching headings
benefits from effective skimming of
paragraphs.
According to Cullen (2008), understanding the purpose and logic of each question type
can reduce confusion and improve accuracy. Familiarity allows test-takers to identify
distractors and locate information more effectively.
Tip
: Regularly practice each question type individually to build accuracy before
integrating them into full reading tests.
3. Build Academic Vocabulary and Paraphrasing Awareness
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IELTS reading texts are drawn from books, journals, and newspapers, often containing
complex vocabulary. A wide range of vocabulary, especially academic and topic-specific terms,
enables better comprehension. Moreover, many IELTS questions use paraphrased versions of
text from the passage. Recognizing synonyms and reworded phrases is essential.
Nation (2001) highlights that knowing 2,000–3,000 high-frequency word families can
significantly enhance reading comprehension. Additionally, practicing paraphrasing can help
link questions to answers more quickly.
Tip
: Use vocabulary-building tools like Quizlet or Anki and make note of paraphrases in
reading passages during practice.
4. Manage Time Effectively
With only 60 minutes for three passages, time management is critical. Many test-takers
fail not because they lack understanding, but because they run out of time. Allocate no more
than 20 minutes per section and leave time at the end to check answers.
Tip
: Do not dwell on one difficult question. Make an educated guess, mark it for review if
needed, and move on. Always attempt every question—IELTS does not penalize for wrong
answers.
5. Practice with Authentic IELTS Materials
Using official IELTS practice materials familiarizes test-takers with the test structure,
vocabulary, and timing. According to Moore (2012), consistent exposure to authentic tasks
enhances both confidence and competence. Repeated practice with timed conditions
improves reading speed and accuracy.
Tip
: Use books published by Cambridge University Press or the British Council and
simulate exam conditions during practice.
Conclusion
Success in the IELTS Reading task requires more than just English proficiency—it
demands strategy, time awareness, and familiarity with the test format. By developing
skimming and scanning skills, understanding question types, expanding vocabulary, and
practicing with real materials, candidates can significantly improve their scores. As with any
skill, regular and deliberate practice, combined with reflective review, leads to greater
success.
References:
Используемая литература:
Foydalanilgan adabiyotlar:
1.
Cullen, P. (2008).
Cambridge Vocabulary for IELTS
. Cambridge University Press.
2.
Grabe, W. (2009).
Reading in a Second Language: Moving from Theory to Practice
.
Cambridge University Press.
3.
Moore, T. (2012).
Critical Thinking and Language: The Challenge of Generic Skills and
Disciplinary Discourses
. Bloomsbury Academic.
4.
Nation, I. S. P. (2001).
Learning Vocabulary in Another Language
. Cambridge University
Press.
