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Ultimate IELTS Reading Test Preparation Guide: Master the Exam

Here is everything you need to know about the Reading section of your IELTS test. Plus, access to some useful IELTS Reading practice materials too.

About IELTS Reading

The Reading section is one of four parts of your IELTS test and takes around 60 minutes to complete. It includes 40 questions for you to answer. The test content differs depending on whether you are taking the Academic or General Training test.

General Training Reading vs Academic Reading IELTS test

The General Training Reading section content covers topics of more general interest than the Academic test. The Academic test is more tailored to those entering university or higher education.

About the General Training IELTS Reading Section

There are three parts to the General Training Reading section which break down as follows:

Section 1: This contains 2-3 short factual texts. The topics in the texts are related to everyday life in an English-speaking country, such as Canada.

Section 2: This contains two short factual texts on work-related issues, including anything from applying for jobs, company policies, pay and conditions, workplace facilities and staff development.

Section 3: This contains one longer and more detailed text on a topic of general interest.

About the IELTS Academic Reading Test

The Academic Reading section includes three long texts typically taken from newspapers, magazines, books and journals. No specialised knowledge is needed on the subjects in the reading texts. The reading texts have been chosen specifically for those entering university courses or seeking professional registration.

IELTS Reading practice materials to help you succeed

We have a range of practice and learning materials to help you get the score you need in the Reading section of your IELTS test. Simply follow these quick links below to access them!

Webinars

We run regular webinars to help you prepare for your IELTS test. These include Reading section specific webinars which give you a better idea of what to expect in the Reading section of your test. Use the link above to view our upcoming webinars and sign up.

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IELTS Study Pack

The IELTS study pack offers webinar updates straight to your inbox, plus free resources to help you prepare for all areas of your IELTS exam, including the Reading section.

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IELTS Ready Premium

The IELTS Ready Premium is A comprehensive e-learning and online assessment tool. It is your best possible online preparation & practice resource. Download sample tests, practice interactive activities and get expert advice.

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Free Learning Apps

Learn more about each section of the IELTS test, including the Reading section, and practice your skills ahead of the exam. This App has tons of resources and is completely free to download.

Prep app

How much preparation should I do for the Reading section of the exam?

It is important to prepare as much as possible. Make sure you take practice Reading tests, so you know exactly what to expect on test day and also what level you are at. It’s difficult to give an exact number of hours as everyone learns at different speeds, but it is certainly worth over preparing!

Want to improve your IELTS Reading band score? Read our blog for more guidance.

Top tips to remember when completing your IELTS Reading test

If you are taking IELTS on paper, some test takers like to write answer notes on the question sheet. It is important to remember that these will not be marked. Please make sure that all of your answers are transferred onto the answer paper. Unlike the Listening section, you will not be given extra time to transfer answers. If you are taking IELTS on computer, all answers will be typed and notes can be written down separately if you wish.

You may only use a pencil if you are taking IELTS on paper (not a pen).

Find out more about how to improve your Reading band score.

Reading test tips:

  • Be aware of titles, headings, and other special characters. This includes italics, capitals, underlining, facts, graphs, tables, and figures.
  • Carefully read each question to make sure you fully understand it.
  • Manage your time to ensure you have enough time to finish the section.
  • Stay calm if you have not come across the subject of the text before. All the information you need will be in the text.
  • Don’t worry too much if you don’t know some of the words.
  • Check your spelling carefully.
  • Check your use of plural and singular words.
  • When answering ‘completion’ questions, focus on what you are being asked to do.
  • If a question asks you to complete the phrase ‘in the ___’ and the correct answer is ‘evening’, just use ‘evening’ for your answer; using ‘in the evening’ would be incorrect.
  • Be careful of the word limit. If the question asks for two words, then answer in two words.
  • If you are not sure of an answer but still have some time left, have a go at answering it anyway. You have nothing to lose.
  • Check your answers carefully before the end of the test.

Download the Reading test answer sheet.

7 common types of IELTS Reading questions.

Additional types of Reading questions.

Still yet to book your IELTS test?

Register online now with British Council. We have over 80 test centres located across Canada, so are sure to have one near you. Use our simple online booking platform to register for your test online today and start your IELTS journey.

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Need more information on the other parts of your test?

Test & practice tips for IELTS Speaking

Learn more

Test & practice tips for IELTS Listening

Learn more

Test & practice tips for IELTS Writing

Learn more

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I improve my reading in IELTS?

How do I pass the IELTS Reading section?

How do I prepare for IELTS Reading?

How do I read fast in IELTS Reading?