Improve Reading Skills for IELTS – Top Tips & Resources for Filipinos

The IELTS exam tests your ability to understand and interpret written texts, which is crucial for academic success in an English-speaking environment. The reading section of the IELTS exam consists of 40 questions based on three long reading passages. These passages are taken from books, journals, magazines, and newspapers, and they cover a range of topics. The questions assess various reading skills, including:

• Identifying main ideas (understanding the central theme or main points of a passage)

• Locating specific information (finding specific details or facts within the text)

• Recognizing writers’ opinions (identifying the author’s viewpoint and attitude)

• Understanding logical arguments (following the flow of arguments and reasoning)

A strong grasp of reading comprehension is not only vital for scoring well on the IELTS exam but also for thriving in an academic setting where you will encounter complex texts regularly.

1. Read Regularly and Diversely

Dedicate time each day to read a variety of texts, such as newspapers, academic articles, and books. This helps you get accustomed to different writing styles and expand your vocabulary. Aim to read at least 30 minutes to an hour daily. 

2. Practice Active Reading

Active reading involves engaging with the text by asking questions, making predictions, and summarizing information as you read. This technique helps you stay focused and improves your understanding of the material. When practicing active reading, take notes, highlight important points, and jot down any questions that come to mind. This approach will help you retain information and make it easier to recall details during the exam.

3. Expand your vocabulary

A strong vocabulary is essential for understanding complex texts. Create a vocabulary journal to record new words and their meanings. Practice using these words in sentences to solidify your understanding. Additionally, focus on learning synonyms, antonyms, and word families to enhance your lexical resource. 

4. Develop Skimming and Scanning Techniques

Skimming and scanning are essential techniques for efficiently navigating the IELTS reading section. Skimming involves quickly reading through a text to get a general idea of its content, while scanning involves looking for specific information within the text. Practice these techniques to improve your reading speed and accuracy, which will help you manage your time effectively during the exam.

5. Enhance Critical and Analytical Thinking Skills

Critical and analytical thinking is crucial for analyzing and interpreting the texts in the IELTS reading section. To develop this skill, practice evaluating arguments, identifying biases, and understanding the author's perspective. Engage in discussions and debates on various topics to sharpen your critical thinking abilities. This practice will help you approach the reading passages with a more analytical mindset.

6. Take IELTS Practice Tests

Taking practice tests is one of the most effective ways to prepare for the IELTS reading section. These tests simulate the exam environment, familiarizing you with the types of questions and time constraints you will encounter. Fortunately, IDP offers free English assessments and other practice tests on its official IELTS website. By regularly taking these tests, you can identify your strengths and weaknesses, allowing you to focus on areas that need improvement.

7. Seek Professional Help

If you find it challenging to improve your reading comprehension skills on your own, consider seeking professional help. Tutors and IELTS preparation courses can provide personalized guidance and strategies tailored to your needs. You could also enroll in IELTS review sessions or classes to engage yourself with others. Professional support can help you overcome specific challenges and accelerate your progress.

As previously mentioned, reading a wide range of materials can expose you to different writing styles and topics. Here are some recommendations:

Novels or Short Stories

• "To Kill a Mockingbird" by Harper Lee: A profound narrative that explores complex human emotions and social justice.

• "The Great Gatsby" by F. Scott Fitzgerald: A classic novel that offers rich vocabulary and intricate themes.

• "Dead Stars" by Paz Marquez Benitez: A significant work in Philippine literature that explores themes of love and disillusionment.

Newspapers and Magazines

• The New York Times: Offers articles on a variety of topics, from current events to scientific discoveries.

• The Guardian: Provides in-depth analyses and opinion pieces on global issues.

• National Geographic: Features articles on nature, science, and culture, which can help you develop a broader vocabulary and understanding of diverse subjects.

Academic Journals:

Access free journals on platforms like Google Scholar and JSTOR to read research articles and studies relevant to your field of interest. This will help you get used to academic language and complex sentence structures.

Several websites and apps can also aid in improving your reading comprehension for the IELTS exam. Here are some recommended resources:

1. Vocabulary-building apps like Anki and Quizlet

2. Online reading comprehension exercises on platforms like ReadTheory and Newsela

In conclusion, improving your reading comprehension skills is crucial for succeeding in the IELTS exam and achieving your dream of studying abroad. By following the tips and strategies outlined in this blog, you can enhance your reading abilities and perform better on the test. Remember to read regularly, practice active reading, expand your vocabulary, take practice tests, and develop critical thinking skills. Don’t forget to utilize the free IELTS review and preparation materials available on the IDP IELTS Philippines website to further support your preparation.

By investing time and effort into improving your reading comprehension skills, you can boost your IELTS performance and unlock new educational opportunities. Once you feel that you are ready to embark on this test, book one now with IDP and let us help you achieve your goals of studying abroad. Remember, preparation is key, and IDP Education Philippines is here to support you every step of the way. Start your journey today towards a brighter future!

Written by: Reigh Anne Margaret R. Bautista