How to Do the Matching Information Question in IELTS Reading

Matching Information is one of the common question types in the IELTS Reading test. It is considered relatively challenging because you need to locate information in the passage while comparing paraphrased content between the questions and the text.

So, what is the right strategy to approach this task? This article outlines essential steps and proven techniques to help you solve Matching Information questions quickly and accurately during the test.

Matching Information in IELTS Reading requires test takers to connect pieces of information. You will be asked to match given statements with the paragraphs that contain the corresponding information. These statements usually refer to topics, opinions, explanations, predictions, reasons, or challenges.

Format of IELTS Reading Matching Information:

Matching Information IELTS Reading

To tackle this question type effectively, follow these steps:

Step 1: Carefully read the instructions and underline keywords

Start by identifying exactly what the question asks. Underline or highlight the keywords in each statement. This will help you understand the main idea of each statement and make it easier to search for the corresponding information in the text.

There are three types of keywords to identify:

• Unchangeable keywords: These include names, numbers, dates, and technical terms. They are unlikely to be paraphrased in the text, so they are useful markers for locating information.

• Changeable keywords: These may be paraphrased using synonyms or rephrased in different grammatical forms, such as verbs, adjectives, or noun phrases. Recognizing these helps you track related content even when the wording differs.

Step 2: Scan the text and locate the keywords

Read the passage while analyzing the statements in detail. Most questions are built around two parts: what is being discussed and what is being said about it. By identifying the keywords, you can narrow down the sections that contain the answer.

Use the skim and scan technique. Skim each paragraph for its main idea and scan for exact or paraphrased versions of the keywords.

Step 3: Match the information and select your answer

Once you are confident you have found the correct paragraph, match the information and write down your answer as instructed.

Common Challenges Test Takers Face

Matching Information can be particularly difficult due to the following reasons:

• You must understand the overall meaning of each paragraph because the answer to a question may be located anywhere in the passage.

• Compared to Matching Headings, this question type is harder since you need to locate specific information, not just identify the main idea.

Tips for Solving Matching Information Questions:

• The number of paragraphs is usually greater than the number of questions. Some paragraphs may not contain any answers, while others might contain answers for multiple questions.

• Not every question is easy to match. Some may refer to the entire text rather than one specific paragraph.

• The order of the questions does not match the order of the information in the passage. You must search the entire passage without relying on sequence.

IELTS Reading Matching Information Practice

Answers:

14 C

15 F

16 E

17 H

18 A

19 D

We hope the method shared above helps you tackle this question type quickly and accurately. Always pay attention to small clues and keywords that guide you to the correct answer and the paragraph that contains the relevant information.

Most importantly, develop the habit of regular practice. This is the only way to build your skills and answer questions more efficiently. You can explore IDP’s extensive IELTS preparation resources, including Masterclass webinars, IELTS prep courses, and expert tips from international IELTS specialists.

Check the latest IELTS test dates and register with IDP today.