Hello, I’m Chen Wei, and in this lesson, I’ll guide you through one of the most overlooked yet crucial aspects of the IELTS Reading test — how to transfer answers correctly.
Every year, many candidates lose marks not because they didn’t understand the passage, but because of careless transfer errors. Whether you take the test on paper or computer, mastering this process can protect your score.
In the paper-based test, you receive:
You have 60 minutes total, including the transfer time. Unlike IELTS Listening, no extra 10 minutes is provided.
➡️ This means you must plan your final 8–10 minutes carefully.
How to Manage Transfer Time
1️⃣ Write short answers in the question booklet first — focus on accuracy, not handwriting.
2️⃣ After finishing all questions, transfer to the answer sheet in batches (e.g. after every 10 questions).
3️⃣ Use capital letters — it’s easier to read and avoids confusion.
4️⃣ Check spelling — even a minor error costs a mark.
5️⃣ Number correctly — mismatched numbering (e.g. writing Q12’s answer in Q13’s box) is a common mistake.
In the computer test, you type answers directly into boxes beside each question — no transfer time is needed.
However, precision is still essential.
Key Tips for On-Screen Answering
Use the navigation panel to review unanswered questions before submitting.
Error | Example | Solution |
Wrong numbering | Writing Q17’s answer in Q18 box | Double-check number alignment |
Spelling mistakes | “enviroment” instead of “environment” | Copy directly from passage |
Extra words | Writing “the government” when answer key is “government” | Follow “word limit” rule |
Omitted answers | Skipping a blank accidentally | Count answers before time ends |
Illegible handwriting | Examiner can’t read unclear letters | Use block capitals |
Step | Action | Time |
1️⃣ | Complete all 3 sections in 50–52 minutes | 50 min |
2️⃣ | Use last 8–10 minutes for answer transfer | 10 min |
3️⃣ | Double-check spelling, number order | – |
4️⃣ | Review unclear handwriting | – |
🕐 Timing formula:
Section 1 (15 min) + Section 2 (20 min) + Section 3 (25 min) = 60 min total (including transfer).
You don’t need to finish every question before starting to transfer. Some candidates transfer section by section — a safe method to prevent panic at the end.
Step | Action |
1️⃣ Use highlight tool for quick referencing | |
2️⃣ Keep answers concise — avoid typing unnecessary words | |
3️⃣ Use “Review” button to check flagged items | |
4️⃣ Check all spelling in final 3–4 minutes before submission |
💡 Pro Tip: The computer test automatically moves to the next section when time ends. Make sure you’ve clicked “Next” after confirming all answers.
Question Example (Paper Test):
Write NO MORE THAN TWO WORDS for each answer.
The city plans to reduce traffic by improving ________ transport.
✅ Answer (in question booklet): public
✅ Transfer (to answer sheet): PUBLIC TRANSPORT
💡 Why capital letters? They prevent the examiner from misreading handwriting and don’t affect marking.
In my experience as an IELTS Reading coach, Band 8–9 candidates always allocate time to verify every answer.
They understand that one spelling or numbering error can drop their band by 0.5. They also stay calm during the transfer stage — no rushing, no second-guessing.
✅ Use capital letters for all answers.
✅ Always write within word limits.
✅ Double-check numbering before submission.
✅ Leave 8–10 minutes for transfer (paper-based).
✅ Recheck spelling in final minute (computer-based).
Q: Can I erase answers on paper?
Yes, but use a clean eraser. Smudged answers may be misread.
Q: Are spelling and grammar checked?
Only spelling matters. Grammar is not tested in Reading answers.
Q: Should I transfer after each section?
It’s safe if you finish one section early — this prevents running out of time later.
How to Transfer Answers in IELTS Reading is about accuracy and awareness. Plan your timing, check numbering, and use consistent formatting. These simple habits can save valuable marks.
Next, continue with IELTS Reading Time Management Tips to learn how to balance speed and accuracy effectively.
Or revisit the IELTS Reading Skills & Exam Strategy page for your complete foundation.
For authentic tests, visit the British Council IELTS Practice Tests section.
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