Effective Strategy for Handling Short Answer Questions in IELTS Reading

Short Answer Question is one of the most popular and important types of questions in the IELTS Reading test. To achieve a high score in this test, you need to understand the test-taking strategies, the rules of the test as well as be careful throughout the test.

The following article will give you an overview of the Short Answer Question type in the IELTS Reading test, test-taking strategies and tips to help you achieve the highest score!

Short Answer Questions require candidates to respond using words or short phrases taken directly from the reading passage, with answers limited by word count. This format resembles a fill-in-the-blank task.

Typical instructions include:

• ONE WORD ONLY from the passage

• NO MORE THAN THREE WORDS AND/OR A NUMBER

• NO MORE THAN THREE WORDS FOR EACH ANSWER

If the instructions include “from the passage”, you must use the exact phrasing from the text—no paraphrasing, synonyms, or altered word forms are allowed.

Step 1: Read Instructions Carefully

Note the exact word limit and whether numbers count as words. For example, “25 October” counts as two words (number + word).

Step 2: Identify Keywords in the Question

Underline changeable keywords (concepts that may be paraphrased) and unchangeable keywords (proper nouns, dates, numbers). For instance, in the question “Which part provided shade for people?”, keywords include “Which part” and “provided shade.”

Step 3: Skim the Passage

Skim each paragraph quickly to understand its main idea—often found in the topic sentence. This helps locate sections most relevant to the question.

Step 4: Locate the Answer Paragraph

Use your underlined keywords to narrow down which paragraph contains the answer. Remember that questions follow the text’s order—if question 2 relates to a paragraph before question 1, respond accordingly.

Step 5: Write and Verify Your Answer

Enter your answer within the allowed word limit. After completing all items, double-check that each answer matches both the passage wording and the instructions.

Common Mistakes:

• Failing to recognize paraphrased keywords

• Exceeding the specified word limit and losing marks

• Overreading the entire passage instead of focusing on keywords

Top Tips:

• Answers appear in the same sequence as questions in the text

• Read the question first, then skim to find relevant visuals or topic sentences

• Do not use personal opinion—answers must come from the passage only

A short passage about chimpanzee culture is followed by these example questions:

Questions 23–26 (Each answer uses no more than three words or a number taken directly from the text.)

• When did the unexpected discoveries occur?

• Which country hosted Nishida and Goodall’s research?

• What did chimpanzees become accustomed to in the initial study?

• Which term did Jane Goodall use in 1973 to describe tool use variation?

Answer Key: 23. in 1960s 24. Tanzania 25. close observation 26. cultural origin

Consistent practice with question types like summary completion, matching headings, gap fill, and multiple choice is essential. Try Short Answer Question exercises daily, check your replies carefully against the text, and track your accuracy. The more you practice, the better you become at spotting answer locations and following instructions precisely.

When you’re ready, explore comprehensive IELTS resources, webinars, and courses, and consider registering for an official IELTS test with IDP. You’ve got the strategy—now take the next step toward your highest score!