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Strategies for IELTS Academic Reading

Strategies for IELTS Academic Reading

Edited By Team Careers360 | Updated on Jul 15, 2025 09:25 AM IST | #IELTS
Ongoing Event
IELTS  Exam Date : 01 Jul' 2025 - 31 Jul' 2025

When we are looking for success in the IELTS Academic Reading section then we are bound to understand the requirement and this is a combination of effective time management, IELTS Academic strategies , and continuous practice. Among all these factors, IELTS academic reading strategies is a very basic requirement that must be followed by each candidate to perform better in the IELTS Reading section. These academic reading strategies can not only help the candidates to perform better but also give the candidate an edge over the others.

This Story also Contains
  1. Strategies for IELTS Academic Reading
  2. IELTS Academic Reading Test Format
  3. Clear the Misconception Before Opting for IELTS Academic Reading
  4. Top 5 IELTS Academic Reading Exam Tips and Strategies
  5. Top 5 IELTS Reading Tips for Band 9
  6. What’s the Difference Between the Academic and General Training Reading Tests?
  7. IELTS Preparation Books
Strategies for IELTS Academic Reading
Strategies for IELTS Academic Reading

Strategies for IELTS Academic Reading

Excelling at the IELTS reading section might be challenging due to the presence of varying levels of intricate passages, but with efficient IELTS academic reading techniques and IELTS academic reading strategies , the candidates can greatly improve their scores. It will be a wise step to develop a personalized approach that suits your strengths and weaknesses by remembering that consistent effort and targeted practice will contribute significantly to your performance on the IELTS academic reading practice test. This articles covers the most essential IELTS academic reading tips that can help the candidates to prepare in a meaningful way and through which, they can obtain their desired band scores. Through the contents of this article, let us study in depth about the IELTS Academic reading and learn necessary IELTS general reading tips and tricks for improving the overall band scores. The candidates are also strongly advised to devise their own reading strategies for IELTS examination after going through this article as it can be conducive to the candidates.

IELTS Academic Reading Test Format

The IELTS Academic Reading Test assesses the candidate’s ability to comprehend academic texts from various sources, including books, journals, and other publications. It consists of a total of 40 questions and three passages, which consist of multiple skills like skimming, scanning, understanding main ideas, etc. and below is the detailed table.

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IELTS Academic Reading Test Format

Total Duration

60 minutes

Total Questions

40

Number of passages

3 long passages

Skills assessed

Skimming, scanning, identifying main ideas, understanding specific details, recognising implied meaning

Time Allocation for the passages

20 min each

Scoring

1 mark for each correct answer

Clear the Misconception Before Opting for IELTS Academic Reading

Misconceptions are common IELTS mistakes. Hence, it is necessary that the candidates clear all their misconceptions and confusions before the IELTS examination. In this topic, let us discuss some of the popular misconceptions related to the IELTS reading section.

Retention vs. Comprehending

It is not important to retain every single word to solve the passages. Comprehension is required but in case some word or sentence is not clear it is better not to be anxious and the strategy is to move on with rest.

Accuracy vs. Speed

Time management is very important for IELTS academic reading but the first target should be to work on accuracy. Everyday practice can help to work on your accuracy level.

Reading the Question vs. Reading the Passage

Both processes are correct. Technically it depends on the test taker how he or she is comfortable with the things. Each process has its pros and cons. So, while opting for IELTS academic reading practice tests have a deep analysis and clear understanding.

Learning Vocabulary by Heart Helps

Vocabulary challenges can be taken by not mugging up but rather being dependent on Contextual Vocabulary skills. That will make one confident about both General and jargon-specific words especially while opting for the IELTS academic reading practice test.

Only Reading Newspapers or Novels Will Not Help

If you looking to achieve a good band in IELTS academic reading add variety to your reading schedule. Read from different resources, different modes and different styles or genres. The holistic improvement will take place immediately after that.

Top 5 IELTS Academic Reading Exam Tips and Strategies

The IELTS reading can be a nightmare for any candidates without adequate IELTS preparation. Hence, it is essential that they engage in adequate IELTS exam preparation. The IELTS reading tips and preparation strategies can equip the candidates with all the necessary skills to ace this section. Let us discuss some of the essential IELTS reading tips and strategies.

1. Simulating the Test Conditions:

When practising, simulate the test conditions as closely as possible by practising in a quiet environment, and strictly adhere to time limitations. This helps build your stamina and improves your ability to concentrate during the actual test. Take the analysis seriously to have clarity regarding the strength and weakness parameters. Practising regularly is very important as keeping yourself exposed to different difficulties of questions so that hesitation and nervousness can be also handled with utmost confidence. Avoid overthinking or second-guessing and completely trust your initial instincts, and remember that the passages are designed to be challenging.

2. Be Well-Versed in the IELTS Test Format

Get familiarise yourself with the test format. In total, there are three passages, each with around 13-14 questions. Topics are diverse, covering academic topics from journals, magazines, newspapers, and books. Different Question types include multiple-choice, matching, true/false/not given sentence completion, and summary completion. Each type is completely different from the other one. So, strategies to solve are also completely different. So, keep trial and testing in IELTS academic reading mock tests as much as possible.

For Example: -

For True/False/Not Given Questions: It is important to pay attention to the nuances in language. True means the information in the passage agrees with the statement, while False means it contradicts, and Not Given means there's no clear information. And it is a must to be cautious with extreme words like 'always' or 'never' in the statements.

For Multiple-Choice Questions: Reading the options before the passage is a must strategy This gives clarity about the framework to focus on while reading. Cross out incorrect choices. Be very careful about synonyms or paraphrasing in the options, and choose the one that best fits the information in the passage.

3. Be Confident About the Language Trap

Be confident in Identifying keywords in both questions and passages. Start to Underline or highlight Keywords to stay focused on what you need to find. This will make it easier to locate information during scanning and detailed reading. Like while matching headings to paragraphs, understand the main idea of each paragraph. Because the heading should capture the essence. Don’t choose headings with specific details rather opt for broader statements that encapsulate the paragraph's theme. But while doing Sentence Completion and Summary Completion it is very important to Carefully read the sentences before and after the gap to understand the context. Guess the basic type of word needed (noun, verb, adjective) and be attentive to grammar. Overall, the completion should make logical sense within the sentence or summary.

4. Follow the Steps to Crack a Passage Like a Pro

Steps like first skimming the passage where the target should be to get the area and understanding and decision making whether to opt for the passage or not. 2nd is scanning; the target is to reach the main idea because that’s the most important question. Failing to do so can make one to face toils in other question types a lot. Reading the title, headings, and subheadings to grasp the main idea helps a lot. Keep looking at any illustrations or diagrams, as they can provide valuable information. This step also involves quickly running your eyes over the text to find specific details. So, develop an eye for scanning, understanding and making quick decisions by differentiating between important and not-so-important questions. And the third step involves solving, where every day target should be set to solve. Strategies are never by default so keep customizing them in IELTS academic reading practice.

5. Urgency is the Name of the Game

If your reading speed lies between 165-240 WPM, you may have formed habits of wandering through print in a random, purposeless way, letting words and ideas wash over you, making no demands on what you are reading – irrespective of the material type. In short, uncommitted and over-relaxed when you read and as a result, you rarely stay with a book for more than 30-60 minutes at a time, for passivity leads to boredom, and boredom is so unpleasant that it is natural to avoid it. In that case, the most important learning will be to attack all your reading, of whatever purpose, with a sense of urgency.

Speed-Reading Activity for IELTS Reading

Total time taken: __________ minutes _________ seconds

Carbon, an elemental building block of life, plays a pivotal role in Earth's ecosystems. However, the rapid increase in carbon emissions, primarily in the form of carbon dioxide (CO2), has emerged as a significant environmental challenge with far-reaching consequences.

The combustion of fossil fuels for energy production and industrial processes is the primary contributor to the surge in carbon emissions. This influx of CO2 into the atmosphere intensifies the greenhouse effect, trapping heat and leading to global climate change. Rising temperatures, extreme weather events, and disruptions in ecosystems underscore the urgent need for effective carbon management strategies.

One avenue of addressing the carbon crisis involves embracing renewable energy sources. Shifting from fossil fuels to cleaner alternatives such as solar, wind, and hydroelectric power can substantially reduce carbon emissions. Governments and industries worldwide are increasingly investing in sustainable energy initiatives to mitigate the impact of carbon on the environment.

Carbon capture and storage (CCS) technologies offer another promising solution. By capturing CO2 emissions from industrial processes and power plants, and storing or repurposing them, CCS aims to prevent a significant portion of carbon from entering the atmosphere. Continued research and investment in CCS hold the potential to revolutionize the carbon-emitting industries.

Additionally, reforestation and afforestation projects play a vital role in carbon sequestration. Forests act as carbon sinks, absorbing CO2 during photosynthesis and storing it in trees and soil. Initiatives to protect existing forests and plant new ones contribute to maintaining the delicate balance of the carbon cycle.

Despite these efforts, addressing the carbon challenge requires a comprehensive, global commitment. International cooperation, stringent regulations, and incentives for sustainable practices are essential components of any effective strategy. The adoption of circular economy principles, emphasizing reduced consumption and increased recycling, can further mitigate carbon emissions associated with manufacturing and waste.

In conclusion, the carbon conundrum necessitates a multifaceted approach involving technological innovation, policy changes, and individual responsibility. Striking a balance between meeting energy demands and minimizing carbon footprints is crucial for ensuring a sustainable future.

(Total=332 words and the target speed is 330WPM)

To conclude, we can say that just approach the IELTS Academic Reading test with a confident and well-prepared mindset, maximizing your chances of achieving the desired score by using the required strategies. The IELTS academic reading exam requires your attention and hard work on every single minute parameter by being wise.

Top 5 IELTS Reading Tips for Band 9

1. Time Management is Essential

As far as the reading section of the IELTS examination is concerned, the candidates should answer 40 questions spanned across four paragraphs in 60 minutes. The candidate should spend 20 minutes for each passage to be able to complete the test timely. This includes reading the questions and understanding the answers for 16 minutes and the rest for transferring the answers. The candidates should also engage themselves in extensive IELTS reading practice tests and IELTS reading mock tests to enhance their IELTS Reading preparation.

2. Familiarize Yourself with the Test Format

To excel in any examination, a complete understanding of the examination structure is necessary. To familiarise themselves with the IELTS test format, the candidates can attempt various IELTS reading practice tests. The candidates should also be aware of the various question types asked in the IELTS reading examination such as:

  • Multiple choice
  • Identifying information
  • Identifying a writer's views/claims
  • Matching information
  • Matching headings
  • Matching features
  • Matching sentence endings
  • Sentence completion
  • Summary, note, table, flow-chart completion
  • Diagram label completion
  • Short-answer questions
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3. Proofread Before Submission

Human beings are vulnerable to making mistakes. For each spelling or grammatical error made in the IELTS examination, the candidates would be penalised accordingly in the IELTS reading test. Therefore, the candidates need to check their responses before submitting them. Through this, the candidates can secure their scores. Efficient time management skills are required to ensure the candidates have ample time to proofread their responses.

4. Practice Skimming and Scanning

Skimming and Scanning is an essential skills required for IELTS reading success. Skimming is when the candidate searches exclusively for the main ideas by ignoring the other content. The candidate must read the instructions carefully and adhere to the word limits while answering the questions.

5. Do not Panic

The candidates may encounter difficult or unknown vocabulary while going through the passages of the IELTS reading exam. Due to this, they might panic. The candidates should instead go through the entire sentences and try to guess the meaning instead of being nervous.

What’s the Difference Between the Academic and General Training Reading Tests?

The IELTS Academic Reading and General Training Reading Test sections follow the same format - 3 sections,40 questions and a time duration of 60 minutes, but there are a few key differences like the tone of the passage would be easy in IELTS General Training Tests whereas, difficulty level is high in the Academic Reading. The minimum marking scheme is different Academic Writing Test needs 30 questions to be correct to score band 7, and 34 is needed in the General Training Reading Test to score band 7.

IELTS Preparation Books

Candidates are encouraged to download and study in depth the meticulously crafted IELTS preparation tips and IELTS practice tests curated by IELTS professionals.


Ebooks

Download Links

IELTS Reading Practice Books

IELTS Writing Practice Books


IELTS Speaking Practice Books


IELTS Listening Practice Books


IELTS Preparation Tips 2025 Book


IELTS and TOEFL Vocabulary Guide Book



About the Author:
Pooja Aggarwal is an experienced trainer with over 15 years of expertise in helping students achieve their educational goals. With a degree in Education, she focuses on clear, patient, and personalized instruction. Her approach has successfully guided students from diverse backgrounds, preparing them for both Academic and General Training modules of various exams in a supportive and engaging environment.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How can I read faster?

Understand what makes you read slower and then figure out the correct solution as problems can be many like not being an active reader, reading speed, etc. To read faster, take a quick look at what you're about to read. Then, use your finger or a pen to guide your eyes along the words. Try not to say the words in your head as you read. Just keep practicing these things, and you'll get faster over time.

2. How should I manage my time?

 The aim is to spend around 20 minutes on each passage by being strict with time allocation to ensure you attempt all questions. Allocate a specific amount of time for each passage or set of questions. Try not to spend too long on any single question. If you're stuck, move on to the next one and come back later if you have time. Practicing timed reading sessions beforehand can help you get a feel for how quickly you need to work through each section. 

3. Can I go back to previous questions during the IELTS Academic Reading test?

Yes, one can and if a question is challenging, mark it and return later if time allows. However, it's important to manage your time effectively to ensure that you have enough time to answer all questions. If you're unsure about an answer, it's okay to move on and come back to it later if you have time remaining. 

4. What Question types are expected for IELTS Academic reading?

 Academic students must interact with three long texts of an academic nature. The type of questions asked in the IELTS reading test include:

  • Multiple Choice
  • True/False/Not Given
  • Matching Headings
  • Matching Information
  • Summary Completion
  • Sentence Completion
  • Short Answer Questions
5. Are there labeling a diagram question ?

Yes, you might get a question that asks you to label a diagram.

6. How can I improve my IELTS academic reading?

To improve your IELTS Academic Reading, practice regularly with sample tests and similar texts. Learn to quickly find main ideas (skimming) and specific details (scanning). Also, work on building your vocabulary, understanding different question types, and managing your time wisely during practice tests.

7. How to prepare for IELTS academic reading?

To prepare for IELTS Academic Reading, start by practicing with sample tests and reading materials similar to those in the exam. Learn skimming and scanning techniques to quickly find information. Build your vocabulary by reading academic texts and noting down new words. Understand different question types and practice strategies for each. Finally, simulate test conditions during practice sessions to improve time management skills.

8. What is the strategy in IELTS reading?

The strategy for IELTS reading involves several key steps: Start by skimming the passage to grasp the main idea and structure. Next, scan for specific keywords or phrases related to the questions. When answering, read carefully for details where needed. Manage your time effectively by not taking too long on any one question, and understand the various question types.  These steps help balance comprehension with efficiency during the exam.

9. How can I improve my IELTS academic reading?

You can improve your academic reading by reading the test format, understanding the purpose of the test properly, and carefully following the tips in the above article.

10. What is the strategy in IELTS reading?

The strategy for IELTS reading is to carefully read the questions before reading in detail,practice time management, understand the question types and don’t leave any questions blank.

11. How can I get 8.5 in IELTS Academic Reading?

It’s a big challenge, but achievable; you can get 8.5 by skimming and scanning speed, Scanning speed, by using time efficiently, analyse every mistake, etc.


12. How can I get 8.5 in IELTS Academic Reading?

Hello,

To get 8.5 in IELTS Academic Reading , you need to score 37–38 out of 40 correct answers. Here are some tips to help you reach that:

1. Practise daily using official IELTS reading practice tests.

2. Focus on skimming and scanning techniques to find answers quickly.

3. Improve your reading speed and time management – aim to finish each passage in about 20 minutes.

4. Understand question types like True/False/Not Given, Matching headings, and MCQs.

5. Be careful with spelling and grammar in your answers – no marks are given for incorrect spelling.

6. Review your mistakes and learn why the correct answers are right.

With regular practice and focus on accuracy, you can achieve 8.5 easily.

Hope it helps !

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Questions related to IELTS

Have a question related to IELTS ?

Hello,

It depends on the university you are applying to. Most German universities do not require GATE for admission to a Master's in Biotechnology. However, some universities may ask for the GRE , especially if you are applying to a highly competitive program.

You should check the specific admission requirements of the universities you are interested in. Generally, having IELTS (or TOEFL) and a German language proficiency certificate (if the course is in German) is enough.

Hope it helps !

Hello,

One the most general tips for the preparation of both tests would be to go for a structured approach and understand the format of the tests respectively and work on improving grammar, vocabulary and pronunciation along with it take regular tests and reviews them. Both have 4 section, Reading, Listening, Writing and Speaking, so all four must be kept in focus, and thus you must plan your time according to your needs and areas of improvement.

Now, for TOEFL, it's recommended to use resources from ETS, that is, official materials and tests.

For IELTS, it's recommended to use resources from IDP, British Council and Cambridge, that give you sample tests and questions.

Wishing an all the very best for the test.

Hello Student,

For the AMC (Australian Medical Council) exam , which assesses international medical graduates for practice in Australia, the IELTS requirement is generally a minimum overall score of 7.0 , with no individual band score below 7.0 (in Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking).

Alternatively, the AMC also accepts equivalent scores from OET, TOEFL iBT, and PTE Academic :

  • OET : A grade of B in all four components.
  • TOEFL iBT : A minimum overall score of 94, with minimum scores of 24 in Listening, 24 in Reading, 27 in Writing, and 23 in Speaking.
  • PTE Academic : A minimum overall score of 65, with a minimum score of 65 in each communicative skill.

Meeting these requirements is essential to proceed with the AMC’s application and registration processes.


I hope this answer helps you. If you have more queries then feel free to share your questions with us we will be happy to assist you.

Thank you and wishing you all the best for your bright future.


Hello

To be eligible for the Australian Medical Council (AMC) exams , candidates must demonstrate English .

AMC assessment process :

1. Accepted English Language Tests and Scores

IELTS ( International English Language Testing System ) :

Overall band score : 7.0 in each band ( listening , reading , writing and speaking ) .

PTE Academic ( Pearson Test of English Academic ) :

Overall score of 65 in each band ( listening , reading , writing and speaking ) .

2. Validity of Test Scores

The test results must be no older than two years at the time of submitting your AMC application .

3. Preparation Tips for IELTS

Practice regularly : Build your language skills across all four components .

Take practice exams : practice can help improve speed and accuracy .

professional coaching if needed , specially for writing and speaking , which are often the most challenging part .

Use official IELTS resources : Cambridge IELTS books , online mock tests and other reliable materials can give you an accurate rating  .

4. Application Tips

Ensure that your English test scores are valid and meet the minimum requirements before applying .

Keep a copy of your scores as they may need to be provided to both the AMC and registration authority in Australia .

Hope this helps you .

All the best

If you have completed a master's degree in the UK, you might still need to take the IELTS test to qualify for a Permanent Residency (PR) or Work Visa in Australia. While your degree from an English-speaking country like the UK may demonstrate your proficiency in English, Australian immigration authorities typically require a standardized English language test score, such as IELTS, to assess your language skills formally.

For better guidance, Invicta Institute can provide you with detailed information and assistance regarding the specific English language requirements for Australian PR or Work Visa applications. Invicta's experienced counselors can help you navigate the process and determine if your UK degree suffices or if you need to take the IELTS test.

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