How to Master Multiple Choice IELTS Reading and Score Full Marks

Reading the question first, identifying keywords, locating relevant sections, and analyzing all answer choices are key steps to maximize your score. Let’s explore how to do Multiple Choice IELTS Reading the right way.

Multiple Choice is a question type where test takers choose the correct answer(s) from a list of options. The number of correct answers can vary depending on the instructions.

This format is familiar to most English learners and shares some similarities with True False Not Given questions. Multiple Choice typically appears in two main forms:

Type 1: One correct answer

You will be given 3 or 4 answer choices, and only one is correct. The common answer types include:

• An option with unrelated information that still contains the keyword.

• An option that contradicts the passage.

• An option that includes information from the passage but is not the correct answer.

• The correct answer.

These options are designed to confuse you, especially because they all usually contain the keywords. That’s why reading carefully and analyzing each option is crucial.

Type 2: More than one correct answer

You will be asked to choose multiple correct answers from a list of 4 to 5 options.

This version is more challenging and requires high concentration since each answer typically contains keywords. You must be extra careful to avoid traps.

Common traps include:

• Answers with information that seems accurate but contains a factual error.

• Inferences that are not explicitly mentioned in the passage.

• Misleading information that alters the original meaning.

Here are some helpful reminders before you tackle Multiple Choice questions in IELTS Reading:

• Do not read the entire passage in detail: Focus on reading the questions first, then scan the passage using keywords to locate answers efficiently.

• Read the question first: This helps you narrow down the relevant section in the text.

• Eliminate clearly incorrect answers: Rule out options that are obviously wrong to save time and focus on the remaining ones.

• Avoid choosing answers without full understanding: Don’t pick an answer just because it contains a keyword. Make sure you understand the full context before selecting it.

• Read questions carefully: Always read both the question and the relevant section in the text thoroughly before answering.

• Follow the order of information: Answers typically appear in the same order as the questions.

• Underline or highlight sections containing relevant information: This helps you navigate the passage more quickly and stay focused.

• Guess if needed: If you’re short on time, take an educated guess. You still have a 25 percent chance of getting it right.

• Answers are based on the passage only: Do not rely on your own knowledge or assumptions.

Scanning is an essential skill for finding keywords and locating information quickly.

Step 1: Read the instructions carefully

Check how many answers you are required to choose.

Step 2: Read the question and identify keywords

Determine if the question requires a sentence completion or a direct answer, and find keywords for locating information.

Step 3: Locate the relevant section in the passage

Use scanning techniques to find where the answer is mentioned. Focus on the context around the keyword to fully understand its meaning. Mark this area for reference.

Step 4: Analyze all answer choices

Read each option carefully. Do not skip any answer without reading fully, even if it seems wrong at first glance.

Step 5: Double-check your answer

Confirm your answer choice by re-reading the passage if necessary. If you’re unsure, choose the most logical answer based on the context.

Step 6: Mark your final answer correctly

Make sure you fill in the correct answer on your answer sheet to avoid losing points.