9 proven tips that will help you improve your IELTS reading speed and score

TOI-Online Aug 19, 2024

Prioritise Active Reading Strategies

Instead of passively reading, practice active reading by asking questions, summarizing paragraphs, and predicting content. Engage with the text by highlighting keywords and main ideas. This keeps you focused and helps retain information faster. Image Source: Canva

Skim for Structure, Then Scan for Details

Start by skimming to understand the overall structure and main ideas. Identify headings, subheadings, and topic sentences. Then, scan for specific details related to the questions. This two-step approach saves time and improves accuracy. Image Source: Canva

Master Time Management with Practice Tests

Take timed practice tests regularly to simulate exam conditions. Focus on completing each passage within 20 minutes. This builds your stamina and helps you manage time effectively during the actual exam. Image Source: Canva

Identify Common Question Types

Familiarise yourself with the common question types like True/False/Not Given, Matching, and Multiple Choice. Understanding the format helps you quickly identify what the question is asking for, allowing you to locate answers more efficiently. Image Source: Canva

Expand Your Vocabulary Strategically

Build a robust vocabulary by focusing on common IELTS topics like education, environment, and technology. Use flashcards or vocabulary apps to reinforce new words, and practice identifying synonyms and paraphrases within reading passages. Image Source: Canva

Practice Skimming with Real-World Texts

Incorporate skimming into your daily routine by using real-world materials like news articles, blogs, and academic journals. Skim for main ideas and practice summarizing content quickly. This sharpens your ability to process information rapidly. Image Source: Canva

Develop Inferencing Skills

IELTS often tests your ability to infer meaning from context. Practice reading between the lines by analyzing the tone, implications, and unstated assumptions in various texts. This skill is crucial for answering questions that require more than just factual recall. Image Source: Canva

Avoid Over-Reading and Focus on the Question

Don’t fall into the trap of reading every word. Focus on finding the specific information needed to answer the question. Learn to ignore irrelevant details and stay focused on the task at hand. Image Source: Canva

Review Mistakes and Adjust Your Strategy

After each practice session, review your mistakes and analyze why you got them wrong. Was it a vocabulary issue, misinterpretation, or time management? Adjust your reading strategy based on these insights to continuously improve your performance. Image Source: Canva

Next: Why do successful people start their day at 5 AM? 8 reasons for students to consider

Thanks For Reading! Read Next