To effectively tackle these questions, here are some useful tips:

1. Underline Keywords in the Question:

– Identify and underline the keywords in the question. These are usually nouns, verbs, or important words that help you understand the question’s meaning.

– Focus on underlining the main keywords and avoid including prepositions, articles, and other unnecessary words.

2. Identify the Focus in the Question:

– Pay attention to words like “what,” “where,” “when,” “which,” and “how long” in the question. These words indicate the focus or stem of the question and help you determine the type of answer expected (e.g., word, number, noun, adjective).

– Understanding the focus helps you avoid making careless mistakes.

3. Pay Attention to Nearby Words in the Passage:

– While searching for answers in the reading passage, look for words that are similar or identical to those in the question.

– Pay attention to phrases or prepositions that may be repeated in both the question and the passage, as they can guide you to the relevant information.

4. Write Answers as per Word Instructions:

– Consider the word instructions provided with the question. Follow any specific instructions regarding the number of words allowed or the inclusion of articles (e.g., “a,” “an,” “the”).

– Be mindful not to exceed the word limit specified (usually three words in IELTS Reading).

By following these tips, you can enhance your approach to solving short answer questions in the IELTS Reading test. Remember to practice using these strategies to improve your speed and accuracy in locating the answers within the given passage.