The Multiple Choice Question (MCQ) is considered one of the challenging question types in the IELTS Reading test. Candidates often find MCQs daunting as they struggle with choosing the correct option and end up guessing the answers. However, with the right strategies, MCQs can be effectively tackled. Let’s explore some highly useful strategies:

1. Underline Keywords:

An effective strategy for solving MCQs in IELTS reading is to underline important keywords in both the question and the options. By highlighting these keywords, you can focus on them, avoiding distractions and confusion while selecting the correct option. This approach is particularly helpful when dealing with lengthy options. Let’s take an example:

Question:

What is the major reason behind Mike joining a job at a young age?

Options:

A) He was facing financial constraints and a job was the only way he could earn income.

B) He wanted to gain work experience as early as possible for an early start in his career.

C) He was not interested in studying and wanted to be employed.

In this example, the main keywords can be marked as follows:

What is the major reason behind Mike joining a job at a young age?

Options:

A) He was facing financial constraints and a job was the only way he could earn income.

B) He wanted to gain work experience as early as possible for an early start in his career.

C) He was not interested in studying and wanted to be employed.

By concentrating on these important words, you can create a mental image of the question, and it will assist you when you read the passage to confirm the right option.

2. Focus on the Stem of the Question:

The stem or focus of the question in MCQs of IELTS reading is vital; it is a word or phrase that helps eliminate confusion and identify the correct option. In the example above, “major reason” is the focus or stem of the question. Although all the options may be valid reasons in Mike’s case, you must select the one that is the major reason based on the passage.

3. Understand the Question Well:

Simply matching keywords in the question with keywords in the passage without fully comprehending the question won’t lead to the correct answer in MCQs. It is crucial to read the relevant paragraph carefully and then choose the right answer. Matching keywords helps identify the paragraph you need to refer to, but understanding the question is essential to determine the actual answer.

4. Attempt All Questions:

Lastly, when you are unsure about an answer even after reading the passage carefully, you can make an educated guess. It is recommended to attempt all the questions as there is no negative marking in the IELTS Reading test. Leaving any question unanswered may result in a missed opportunity to score points.

By employing these strategies, you can approach MCQs in the IELTS Reading test with confidence and improve your chances of selecting the correct answers.