Many IELTS students often face the challenge of completing the IELTS reading exam within the given one-hour timeframe, and finishing it in less than an hour seems unimaginable to them. However, with the right strategies, it is indeed possible to complete the three IELTS reading comprehension passages in less than 60 minutes. Let’s explore the effective strategies to achieve this:

1. Solve Questions While Reading Passages:

Instead of the traditional approach of first reading the entire passage and then attempting the questions, a more practical and time-saving strategy is to solve the questions while reading the passage for the first time. Begin by reading the question before delving into the passage. As you come across the answers while reading, mark them in the passage. Then, proceed to the next question and continue reading from where you left off. This approach ensures that you can complete the reading passages on time and even have some spare moments for review.

2. Transfer Answers Simultaneously:

Time management is crucial in the IELTS reading test, and transferring answers is one aspect where you can save time. As you solve each passage, mark the answers on the question paper, and immediately transfer them to the answer sheet. This prevents last-minute rushes and boosts your confidence. Additionally, instead of writing down answers on the question paper, you can mark the relevant words in the passage and then transfer them directly to the answer sheet.

3. Divide Your Time Effectively:

With 60 minutes to solve 40 questions across three passages, it is vital to allocate your time wisely. The last passage is usually the most challenging, so plan to spend some extra time there. Aim to complete the first two passages in less than 20 minutes each, so you have more time to dedicate to the third passage.

4. Do Not Spend Excessive Time on a Single Question:

While implementing the above strategies, be mindful not to linger excessively on a single difficult question. Some questions may be more challenging and require peace of mind to solve. If you find yourself stuck on a difficult question, move on to simpler ones to save time and build confidence. Later, if time permits, you can return to the challenging questions or make educated guesses. Ensure that you mark any unanswered questions properly to avoid missing them.

By adopting these effective strategies, you can enhance your time management skills and confidently tackle the IELTS reading exam within the allotted timeframe. Practice these techniques during your preparation to ensure a successful performance on the test day.