Mastering Reading – General Training

 

Mastering the IELTS General Training Reading Test requires a combination of strategic preparation, consistent practice, and familiarity with test-taking techniques.

 

Here’s a structured approach:

1. Understand the Test Format

• Sections: The General Training Reading test has three sections:
  • Section 1: Two or three short texts (everyday English, social survival, notices, ads).
  • Section 2: Two texts related to work (job descriptions, contracts, etc.).
  • Section 3: One long text of general interest (magazines, newspapers, books).
• Questions Types:
  • Multiple-choice
  • True/false/not given
  • Matching headings, features, or information
  • Sentence completion, flowcharts, and tables
  • Summary completion
  • Short-answer questions

2. Develop Skimming and Scanning Skills

• Skimming involves reading a passage quickly to understand the gist or main idea.
• Scanning is searching for specific information (names, dates, places, or keywords).
• Practice Tip: Set a timer to practice skimming a text in 1-2 minutes and then scanning to answer specific questions.

3. Practice Reading Different Types of Texts

• Since the test covers a wide range of content types, read various materials like newspapers, ads, notices, official documents, and magazine articles.
• Focus on content related to daily life, work settings, and general interest topics.

4. Mastering Timing and Pacing

• You’ll have 60 minutes to complete 40 questions across three sections. A common approach is:
  • Spend 15-20 minutes on Section 1.
  • Spend 20 minutes on Section 2.
  • Spend 20-25 minutes on Section 3 (most challenging).
• Practice Tip: Regularly time your practice tests to simulate test conditions and build speed.

5. Familiarize Yourself with Different Question Types

• Each type of question requires a different strategy:
  • Matching headings: Look for key ideas or themes in each paragraph.
  • True/false/not given: Focus on the precise meaning and implications of statements.
  • Sentence completion: Scan for key terms, paying attention to words that indicate relationships (e.g., “however,” “therefore”).
• Practice Tip: Take individual question-type practice tests to hone your skills in each area.

6. Build Vocabulary

• A broad vocabulary will help you understand different types of texts and infer the meanings of unfamiliar words from context.
• Keep a vocabulary journal and regularly learn new words by reading and noting definitions, synonyms, and usage in sentences.

7. Identify Keywords

• For each question, highlight keywords (nouns, verbs, dates, numbers) that you can easily spot in the text. This helps with scanning for answers.
• Be mindful of paraphrasing in the text vs. questions. The test often rephrases words, so understanding synonyms is crucial.

8. Answer Every Question

• There’s no penalty for incorrect answers, so always guess if unsure.
• Check for spelling and grammar errors, especially in short-answer questions.

9. Practice with Past Papers

• Use authentic IELTS General Training Reading practice tests to get used to the format and question types.
• Regular practice will help you identify patterns and common question structures.

10. Review Your Mistakes

• After completing a practice test, review your errors and understand why you made them. Focus on improving the areas where you struggle (e.g., timing, certain question types).

Additional Resources

• IELTS Prep Books (e.g., Cambridge IELTS series for General Training given below)
• Online practice sites (www.ieltsclassesonline.com)
• IELTS preparation apps (vocabulary, reading material)

BUY: IELTS 18 General Training Student’s Book with Answers & Audio

BUY: IELTS 17 General Training Student’s Book with Answers & Audio

BUY: IELTS Advantage Reading Skills: A step-by-step guide

Final Tips

• Keep practicing daily.
• Maintain a calm mindset during the test to avoid panicking or rushing.

With consistent practice and strategic preparation, you’ll become more efficient and confident in mastering the IELTS General Training Reading test. Get in touch with us at contact@ieltsclassesonline.com and let us know how can we help you.