Speed is an important component in the IELTS General Reading test. A candidate is given 60 minutes to respond to 40 questions, giving an average time of 90 seconds per question. Some candidates do not get an opportunity to finish the test paper despite having ample knowledge, as they tend to waste time or are not efficient in their approach to improve their speed.
Allocate 15 minutes for Section 1, 20 minutes for Section 2, and 25 minutes for Section 3. This structured timing prevents early overinvestment and preserves focus.
Before reading a passage, it is essential to read the questions first. This method builds a reading intention and draws attention to important information. It is necessary to ask oneself: “What am I actually searching for while reading this text?”
For example, true/false/not given questions often follow the order of the text. Matching headings requires understanding the main idea, not the details. When candidates recognise these patterns, decision-making becomes faster and more confident.
Learn synonyms actively, since IELTS frequently paraphrases information. If the question says “cost,” the passage may say “fee” or “charge.”
Understand the structure before increasing speed
The IELTS General Reading Test has three sections with varying levels of difficulty. Section 1 involves reading social survival texts like ads and announcements. Section 2 involves job-related texts like workplace policies, job descriptions, among others. Section 3 involves an in-depth piece of writing. Studies carried out in IELTS prep centres indicate that questions from Section 1 and 2 comprise nearly 60% of the total marks, yet most candidates spend too much time on Section 3. Prioritisation is basic for efficient speeding up.Allocate 15 minutes for Section 1, 20 minutes for Section 2, and 25 minutes for Section 3. This structured timing prevents early overinvestment and preserves focus.
Train your eyes to scan, not read word by word
General Reading promotes scanning and skimming, not full understanding. If the test takers or candidates focus on each sentence in a test, the rate will be lowered dramatically. Scan key words such as persons' names, price, dates, places, and directions. Efficiency studies on scanning and reading show that one can scan 30-40% faster with no loss in accuracy.Before reading a passage, it is essential to read the questions first. This method builds a reading intention and draws attention to important information. It is necessary to ask oneself: “What am I actually searching for while reading this text?”
Build familiarity with common question types
Speed improves when the brain recognises patterns. IELTS General Reading repeatedly uses the same formats: multiple choice, matching information, true/false/not given, and short answers. Practising each type separately helps you predict where answers usually appear.For example, true/false/not given questions often follow the order of the text. Matching headings requires understanding the main idea, not the details. When candidates recognise these patterns, decision-making becomes faster and more confident.
Improve vocabulary strategically
A limited vocabulary slows reading because the brain pauses to decode meaning. However, memorising long word lists offers little benefit. Focus instead on functional vocabulary commonly found in notices, contracts, workplace emails, and manuals. According to IELTS trainers, candidates who master high-frequency General Reading vocabulary improve speed by up to 25% within four weeks.Learn synonyms actively, since IELTS frequently paraphrases information. If the question says “cost,” the passage may say “fee” or “charge.”