The Keyword Table is a smart learning technique that helps you optimize your IELTS Reading strategy. This method not only helps identify and locate keywords in the passage but also supports vocabulary retention. Let’s learn how to use the Keyword Table to maximize your reading performance in the IELTS test.
1. What Is a Keyword Table?
A Keyword Table is a recommended method introduced by former IELTS examiner Simon. It helps you summarize key terms from the questions and match them with paraphrased expressions found in the reading passage.
A Keyword Table typically has two columns:
Keywords in Questions
Similar Words in the Passage
In the first column, write down the keywords from the questions. Then scan the passage for synonyms or paraphrased expressions and record them in the second column. This helps you locate information more accurately and enhances your understanding of vocabulary and grammar structures commonly used in IELTS Reading.
Example:
Keywords in Questions | Similar Words in Passage |
|---|---|
Rio de Janeiro: more ____ lifestyle | cities with a more laid-back way of life |
People do not have so much ____ | cities where people have fewer financial resources |
Explanation:
“More ____ lifestyle” is paraphrased as “laid-back way of life”
“Do not have so much ____” is expressed as “fewer financial resources”
2. How to Apply the Keyword Table in the IELTS Reading Test
Let’s see how to use the Keyword Table technique in practice with an example from Cambridge 9 Test 3 Passage 1: Attitudes to Language.
Reading passage excerpt:
Language belongs to everyone, so most people feel they have a right to hold an opinion about it. And when opinions differ, emotions can run high. Arguments can start as easily over minor points of usage as over major policies of linguistic education...
Questions 1–3
Write:
YES if the statement agrees with the passage
NO if the statement contradicts the passage
NOT GIVEN if there is no clear information
Statements:
There are understandable reasons why arguments occur about language.
People feel more strongly about language education than about small differences in language usage.
Our assessment of a person’s intelligence is affected by the way he or she uses language.
Step-by-step process:
Step 1: Identify Keywords from Questions
arguments occur about language
strongly about language education vs small differences
assessment affected by language use
Step 2: Search for Synonyms in the Passage
Step 3: Create the Keyword Table:
Keywords in Questions | Similar Words in Passage |
Small | Minor |
Assessment | Judge |
The way he or she uses language | Linguistic factors |
Be affected by | Influence |
Answers:
YES
NO
YES
3. Practice Exercise with a Keyword Table
Source: Cambridge 9 Test 3 Passage 3: Information Theory – The Big Idea
Questions 27–32: Match the statements with paragraphs A–F
Answers:
27. D
F
B
E
A
C
Keyword Table:
Keywords in Questions | Similar Words in Passage |
|---|---|
Unnecessary | Superfluous |
Omit | Strip out |
Fame | Acclaim |
Incident | Event |
Initially | Originally |
Use Keyword Tables to Improve Your IELTS Reading Skills with IDP
Using a Keyword Table is a smart and efficient method that helps you identify synonyms, improve vocabulary, and locate answers quickly in the IELTS Reading test. When applied properly, it not only saves time but also improves your overall test accuracy.
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