Hello, I’m Chen Wei. In this lesson, we’ll explore one of the most direct yet deceptively tricky IELTS Reading question types — Short-Answer Questions.
This task tests whether you can locate specific factual information in the passage and express it concisely within a strict word limit. It’s not about writing ability but precision, scanning skill, and logic. Let’s break down exactly how to approach it for consistent Band 7 and above.
You’ll be asked to read a question and write a brief answer, usually one to three words and/or a number, taken directly from the passage.
Example:
Answer the question using NO MORE THAN TWO WORDS.
What material was used to build the bridge?
✅ Answer: steel cables
The questions always follow the order of the text, which helps you locate answers faster.
It’s about efficiency + accuracy, not long reading or guessing.
1️⃣ Read the Instructions Carefully
Underline the word limit (“NO MORE THAN TWO WORDS AND/OR A NUMBER”).
Exceeding the limit makes your answer automatically wrong.
2️⃣ Identify Keywords in the Question
Underline the main nouns and verbs. These are your scanning targets.
Example: When did the project begin? → keywords: when, project, begin → look for a date or year.
3️⃣ Predict the Answer Type
Is the question asking for a time, reason, person, or place?
Predicting before scanning narrows your focus.
4️⃣ Scan the Passage in Order
Short-Answer questions follow the passage order. Start from the first keyword and move forward. Look for synonyms:
Question Word | Likely Paraphrase in Text |
“begin” | “start,” “launch,” “initiate” |
“cause” | “lead to,” “result in,” “due to” |
“advantage” | “benefit,” “positive effect” |
5️⃣ Choose and Check
When you find the matching idea, confirm that:
Copy the exact words from the passage with correct spelling.
Question:
When was the first solar panel developed?
Passage Extract:
“The earliest model of a solar panel was constructed in 1954 at Bell Laboratories.”
✅ Answer: 1954
Check | Example | Purpose |
Grammatical fit | “built in ____” → expects a year or place | Avoids word-type errors |
Word limit | “NO MORE THAN THREE WORDS” | Prevents automatic deduction |
Logical fit | “Who invented…” → needs a person’s name | Ensures correct information |
Spelling accuracy | “colour” vs “color” | Must match British English style |
Mistake | Reason | Solution |
Writing full sentences | Misunderstanding task type | Write keywords only |
Exceeding word limit | Adding articles or prepositions | Use essential words only |
Using synonyms instead of copying | Breaking IELTS rule | Copy directly from text |
Ignoring plural/singular forms | Careless spelling | Match exact form |
Technique | Description | Benefit |
Pre-reading questions | Read all before passage to set purpose | Improves focus |
Keyword anchors | Highlight names and numbers | Locates answers faster |
Group by topic | Handle 2–3 questions in same area | Saves time |
Elimination check | Cross out used answers | Keeps tracking clear |
Text:
“The conference took place in Geneva in 2018 and was attended by over 500 delegates.”
Question:
Where was the conference held?
✅ Answer: Geneva
Spend 1 minute per question. If you can’t find the answer after two scans, move on — the next question follows in order and can help you locate it later.
Band 8–9 candidates treat this task like data extraction — no guessing, no paraphrasing. They read the question, scan the text precisely, and copy the exact phrase that fits grammatically. Accuracy beats speed.
Short-Answer Questions test your ability to find and report factual information under pressure. Always respect the word limit, copy exactly, and verify grammar.
Next, continue with Choosing a Title / Main Idea to learn how to identify the central focus of a passage.
Or revisit the IELTS Reading Skills & Exam Strategy page for the complete foundation.
For official examples, visit the British Council IELTS Reading Practice Tests section.
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