Test takers are only asked for either an exact phrase or factual information.
Although both exact phrase and factual information might be required, there might be other types of questions, e.g., requiring a paraphrase or summary.
Sometimes the information you are asked about is not given.
TRUE/FALSE/NOT GIVEN is a common question type in Reading part.
Answers are encountered in text in the same order as questions
Unlike IELTS Listening module, the order might be different in IELTS Reading.
You might need to identify views or opinions of characters or writer.
Sometimes this is indeed the case.
IELTS Reading
- 60 minutes, 3 passages, 40 questions (no extra transfer time)
- True / False / Not Given — the trickiest question type
- Matching headings, gap-fill, multiple choice, short answer
- Academic: journal/textbook level. General Training: workplace/everyday texts.
IELTS Reading tests fast, accurate comprehension under time pressure. 20 minutes per passage is the target pace — most candidates run out of time, not ability.
Key strategy: don't read the whole passage first. Skim headings/first sentences, then go straight to questions and scan for keywords. Speed comes from strategy, not faster reading.
IELTS
- Listening: 30 min, 40 questions, 4 recordings (played once)
- Reading: 60 min, 40 questions, 3 passages
- Writing: 60 min, 2 tasks (chart + essay or letter + essay)
- Speaking: 11–14 min, face-to-face interview
IELTS is the world's most widely accepted English proficiency test: four sections, scored 0–9, accepted by universities, employers, and immigration bodies in 140+ countries.
Key fact: IELTS tests all four skills equally. Your overall band is the average — one weak section drags the whole score down.