IELTS Reading Structure, Score, Practice tests and Passages
IELTS Reading: Candidates can read the article to learn more about IELTS reading, its pattern, question types, IELTS reading band score, and more.
Porishmita Paul29 Dec, 2024
Share
IELTS Reading : Preparing for IELTS? Cracking the IELTS reading test can be a daunting task for candidates. The IELTS exam uses four language skills, namely, reading, writing, speaking, and listening to evaluate candidates applying for study or work opportunities in English-speaking countries. Meanwhile, many aspirants find it difficult to achieve good IELTS reading scores due to its complex test pattern. However, with the right approach, it is possible to crack IELTS reading with ease.
The IELTS reading module has three passages designed to test the ability of the candidates to comprehend, analyze, and interpret the given text. The average duration of the IELTS reading topics is 60 minutes to answer 40 questions. Candidates applying to study, work, or migraine in any English-speaking country can read the complete article to improve their overall IELTS reading band score .IELTS Reading Structure
Here’s a detailed description of IELTS reading module:| IELTS Reading Structure | |
|---|---|
| Aspect | Details |
| Number of Passages | 3 long texts |
| Total Questions | 40 questions |
| Time Limit | 60 minutes |
| Question Types | Multiple choice, matching headings, true/false/not given, summary completion, sentence completion, diagram labeling, etc. |
| Time Management | Approximately 20 minutes per passage |
| Text Sources | Books, journals, magazines, newspapers, research articles |
| Scoring | Band score (0–9 scale, based on correct answers). |
IELTS Reading Test Format
The IELTS reading test format consists of a total of 40 questions for both Academic and General Training. The IELTS question types and patterns in different for Academic and General Training modules, however, the total test duration is 60 minutes for both modules.IELTS Academic Reading
The IELTS reading for Academic focuses mainly on academic topics. The test questions are extracted from various books, journals, magazines, newspapers, research articles, and more. Students applying for higher education or professional purposes should get a good IELTS reading score Academic to crack the test.IELTS General Reading
The IELTS reading test for General Training emphasizes mainly advertisements, employee handbooks, and magazine articles. This test module is ideal for individuals aiming to migrate, work, or train in an English-speaking country.Read More: Free IELTS Practice Tests PDF
IELTS Reading Test: Academic vs General Training
IELTS reading test is an essential part of both Academic and General Training. Although, the test pattern is the same for both tests, however, a few changes are visible in terms of test purpose, topics, and resources. Here, we have offered a comparative analysis of IELTS Reading Academic and General Training for IELTS 2024-2025.| IELTS Reading Test: Academic vs General Training | ||
|---|---|---|
| Feature | IELTS Academic Reading | IELTS General Training Reading |
| Purpose | Tests understanding of academic and research-based texts. | Focuses on practical, every day, and workplace-related reading skills. |
| Passages | 3 long passages from books, journals, newspapers, and research articles. | 3 sections: 1. Short texts 2. Work-related texts 3. A long, detailed passage. |
| Text Complexity | Higher complexity with academic language and concepts. | Simpler language and practical topics for everyday use. |
| Topics | Subjects like science, history, education, and social studies. | Workplace scenarios, instructions, general interest topics. |
| Question Types | - Multiple choice - Matching headings - True/False/Not Given - Sentence/summary completion - Diagram labeling | Similar types but adapted to practical reading tasks and informal texts. |
| Scoring Difficulty | Scoring requires higher accuracy due to complex texts. | Slightly more lenient scoring, accommodating simpler language. |
| Target Audience | For candidates aiming to study in academic environments. | For candidates focusing on migration or work-related goals. |
IELTS Reading Question Types
IDP IELTS has no specific syllabus for the IELTS reading test. The test includes a variety of question types designed to assess different reading skills. These IELTS reading question types are consistent across the Academic and General Training.| IELTS Reading Question Types | |
|---|---|
| Question Type | Description |
| 1. Multiple Choice | Choose the correct answer from 3–4 options or more than one correct answer. |
| 2. True/False/Not Given | Determine if statements match, contradict, or are not mentioned in the text. |
| 3. Yes/No/Not Given | Decide if the writer's opinion matches the statements or not mentioned. |
| 4. Matching Headings | Match headings to paragraphs or sections in the text. |
| 5. Matching Information | Match specific details or examples to the correct paragraphs in the text. |
| 6. Matching Features | Match features to corresponding options. |
| 7. Sentence Completion | Fill in the blanks using words from the text or within a word limit. |
| 8. Summary Completion | Complete a summary with words from the text or options provided. |
| 9. Table Completion | Fill in the missing details in a table using information from the text. |
| 10. Flowchart Completion | Fill in the blanks in a sequence of events or processes. |
| 11. Diagram Labeling | Label parts of a diagram based on descriptions in the text. |
| 12. Short Answer | Answer specific questions within a word limit. |
IELTS Reading Passage Type
The IELTS Reading passages differ for Academic or General Training modules. Here are the details of different types of passages in IELTS reading test.1. Academic Reading Passage Types
These passages are more complex and focus on topics suitable for higher education and professional contexts.| Academic Reading Passage Types | |
|---|---|
| Passage Type | Description |
| Descriptive/Explanatory | Provides factual information on a topic, often scientific or historical. |
| Argumentative | Presents opinions, arguments, and counterarguments, requiring critical analysis. |
| Narrative | Tells a story or outlines a sequence of events, often in history or research. |
| Thematic/Analytical | Discusses concepts or theories in detail, analyzing their applications or implications. |
2. General Training Reading Passage Types
These passages are simpler and focus on everyday, practical content related to work, life, or social settings.| General Training Reading Passage Types | |
|---|---|
| Section | Passage Type |
| Section 1: Social Survival | Short texts like advertisements, notices, or timetables. |
| Section 2: Work-Related | Texts about workplace scenarios, such as job descriptions, policies, or training manuals. |
| Section 3: General Interest | A single long passage on a general topic, often informative or descriptive. |
IELTS Reading Band Descriptor
The IELTS Reading band score is determined by the number of correct answers on a scale of 0-9 bands. The IELTS band 9 shows the level expert and band 0 means that the candidate did not attempt the test. Below is the list of IELTS Reading Band Descriptors for 2025.| IELTS Reading Band Descriptor | |
|---|---|
| Band Score | Descriptor |
| 9.0 | Expert User |
| 8.0 | Very Good User |
| 7.0 | Good User |
| 6.0 | Competent User |
| 5.0 | Modest User |
| 4.0 | Limited User |
| 3.0 | Extremely Limited User |
| 2.0 | Intermittent User |
| 1.0 | Non-User |
| 0.0 | Did Not Attempt the Test |
IELTS Reading Practice Test
The IDP IELTS reading samples are created to assist candidates in their test preparation. These samples are developed by analyzing questions from previous IELTS exams. Below, you can find IELTS reading samples for both the Academic and General Training modules.Cambridge IELTS Reading Practice Tests PDFs
Here’s a list of Cambridge 1 Reading Practice Tests PDFs for IELTS preparation| Cambridge 1 Reading Practice Tests PDFs for IELTS | |
|---|---|
| IELTS Reading Practice Test 1 | Download Now |
| IELTS Reading Practice Test 2 | Download Now |
| IELTS Reading Practice Test 3 | Download Now |
| IELTS Reading Practice Test 4 | Download Now |
Click Here to Explore more IELTS Reading Practice Tests by Cambridge
IELTS Reading Passages Practice
Find below the IELTS Reading Passage solutions with questions of the given topics:| 1. Classifying Societies IELTS Reading Answers |
| 2. History of Refrigeration IELTS Reading Answers |
| 3. The Lost City IELTS Reading Answers |
| 4. Bring Back the Big Cats IELTS Reading Answers |
| 5. The Persuaders IELTS Reading Answers |
| 6. Why Are Finland’s Schools Successful? IELTS Reading Answers |
| 7. The Thylacine IELTS Reading Academic Answers |
| 8. Classifying Societies Reading Answers |
| 9. Tea And The Industrial Revolution IELTS Reading Answers |
| 10. The History Of The Tortoise IELTS Reading Answers |
| 11. Serendipity The Accidental Scientists IELTS Reading Answers |
| 12. Jargon IELTS Reading Answers |
| 13. Otters IELTS Reading Answers |
| 14. The Innovation of Grocery Stores IELTS Reading Answers |
| 15. Food For Thoughts IELTS Reading Answers |
| 16. The Awesome Banana IELTS Reading Answers |
| 17. Glaciers IELTS Reading Answers |
| 18. Clutter Bugs Beware IELTS Reading Answers |
| 19. Lie Detector IELTS Reading Answer |
| 20. Thomas Young The Last True Know it au IELTS Reading Answers |
| 21. Storytelling IELTS Reading Answers |
| 22. The Context Meaning And Scope Of Tourism IELTS Reading Answers |
| 23. Wealth In A Cold Climate Reading Answers |
IELTS Reading Tips
Here are some effective reading tips for IELTS to help you enhance your performance:- Skim and Scan
- Time Management
- Understand the Question Types
- Practice Regularly
- Expand Your Vocabulary
Read More: How to Manage Time in IELTS Reading
Guidance of PW IELTS
Physics Wallah offers a few popular online IELTS courses for all students. Our courses offer significant insights into the IELTS 2024-2025 for the Academic and General Training versions.| IELTS Exam Other Related Links | |
|---|---|
| IELTS Registration | IELTS Eligibility Criteria |
| IELTS Exam Pattern | IELTS Syllabus |
| IELTS Exam Dates | IDP IELTS Test Centers |
IELTS Reading FAQs
How can I get 8.5 in IELTS reading?
To get an 8.5 in IELTS reading, practice daily with authentic materials, improve your skimming skills, be aware of the latest test patterns, and manage time effectively.
How do I practice IELTS reading?
To practice IELTS reading, use various books such as The Official Cambridge Guide to IELTS, Cambridge IELTS Books (1-17), etc, follow IDP IELTS official website regularly, learn from online platforms to supplement your knowledge.
How to get 9.0 in IELTS reading?
To get 9.0 in IELTS reading candidates must master the IELTS test pattern, practice consistently, review their mistakes, and seek feedback from guides.
Is IELTS 8.0 easy?
No, achieving IELTS 8.0 is not easy. To get an IELTS score of 8, students require strong English proficiency and dedicated preparation.
Join 15 Million students on the app today!
Live & recorded classes available at easeDashboard for progress trackingMillions of practice questions at your fingertips
Free Learning Resources
PW Books
Notes (Class 10-12)
PW Study Materials
Notes (Class 6-9)
Ncert Solutions
Govt Exams
Class 6th to 12th Online Courses
Govt Job Exams Courses
UPSC Coaching
Defence Exam Coaching
Gate Exam Coaching
Other Exams
Know about Physics Wallah
Physics Wallah is an Indian edtech platform that provides accessible & comprehensive learning experiences to students from Class 6th to postgraduate level. We also provide extensive NCERT solutions, sample paper, NEET, JEE Mains, BITSAT previous year papers & more such resources to students. Physics Wallah also caters to over 3.5 million registered students and over 78 lakh+ Youtube subscribers with 4.8 rating on its app.
We Stand Out because
We provide students with intensive courses with India’s qualified & experienced faculties & mentors. PW strives to make the learning experience comprehensive and accessible for students of all sections of society. We believe in empowering every single student who couldn't dream of a good career in engineering and medical field earlier.
Our Key Focus Areas
Physics Wallah's main focus is to make the learning experience as economical as possible for all students. With our affordable courses like Lakshya, Udaan and Arjuna and many others, we have been able to provide a platform for lakhs of aspirants. From providing Chemistry, Maths, Physics formula to giving e-books of eminent authors like RD Sharma, RS Aggarwal and Lakhmir Singh, PW focuses on every single student's need for preparation.
What Makes Us Different
Physics Wallah strives to develop a comprehensive pedagogical structure for students, where they get a state-of-the-art learning experience with study material and resources. Apart from catering students preparing for JEE Mains and NEET, PW also provides study material for each state board like Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and others
Copyright © 2025 Physicswallah Limited All rights reserved.
