How to Speed Up Reading in IELTS (Answered!)

Speeding up reading in IELTS is about unlearning subvocalization and reading in word chunks instead to increase your speed. You’ll need a good grasp of speed reading techniques and a great deal of practice in IELTS-specific reading tests.?

IELTS tests are designed to test proficiency in the English language through:

• listening tests,?
• reading tests,
• writing tests,
• and speaking tests.

If you are getting ready to sit for an IELTS Academic or General Training Test, you must target a high reading score to perform well. Speed reading skills can help you answer specific questions within a given timeframe. They will help you retain as much information as possible while reading under time pressure.?

The IELTS reading exam has three reading segments for the Academic exam and five reading segments for professionals, and the test runs strictly for just one hour. So, reading at high speed while retaining information is critical.?

This article will cover how to speed up reading in IELTS, essential tips for speed reading, and the best practices for a high IELTS reading score in one exam sitting.??

Here are the best IELTS reading tips for reading passages.?

Skim the questions first

Skimming questions in the reading section before actually reading the text helps you know what information you should be looking for. This will help you achieve a more purposeful reading, recognize trigger words, and spend less time figuring out the important details.?

Reading three to five passages in a limited time, although short, can expose the brain to lots of information at once. This is why it’s important to recognize and prioritize crucial details. The best way to do this is to understand what the examiner wants you to use this information for.?

Some peer-reviewed studies?have also revealed that skimming a text before reading it can increase good understanding.?

So, before reading each text, skim through the questions under it. Notice what type of questions they are and what they are supposed to test.?

This isn’t complex; the IELTS reading test typically checks for

• ability to choose the correct answers (multiple-choice),
• ability to identify information given in texts,
• ability to identify the writer’s views or claims without bias,
• match information, headings, sentence endings, and features,
• ability to complete sentences using words from the passages,
• understanding of summaries, notes, tables, diagrams, and flowcharts?
• ability to write out short answers that display comprehension.?

The matching headings questions are often revealed before the texts. With the questions’ purpose in mind, it becomes easier for the brain to categorize information accordingly when you finally dive in to read. You’ll shift from passive to active and purposeful reading, which will multitask your brain.?

Multitasking can improve reading focus. When reading to gain specific information, you will likely stay on task without feeling distracted. This can reduce your reading time and also help you avoid rereading.?

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