Hello, I’m Chen Wei, and in this lesson we’ll explore Short-Answer Questions in the IELTS General Training Reading test.
This task type often appears in letters, public notices, or short factual texts. You’ll need to find exact answers — typically names, numbers, times, or places — from everyday materials. Success comes from quick scanning, accurate copying, and logical elimination. Let’s look at how to achieve that.
You’ll see questions that ask for specific facts or details, followed by instructions such as NO MORE THAN TWO WORDS AND/OR A NUMBER.
Example:
Answer the question using NO MORE THAN TWO WORDS.
Where should completed forms be submitted?
✅ Answer: Reception desk
The question tests practical reading ability — locating details and transferring them correctly.
It mirrors how you read real-world information such as leaflets, schedules, or instructions.
1️⃣ Read the Instructions Carefully
Underline the word limit. “NO MORE THAN THREE WORDS AND/OR A NUMBER” means exactly that — four words = zero marks.
2️⃣ Read All Questions Before the Text
This gives you a clear purpose.
Example:
3️⃣ Identify Keywords
Underline important words like where, when, who, how many.
Predict the type of information: location, time, name, or number.
4️⃣ Scan the Passage for Paraphrases
Look for matching ideas, not identical words.
5️⃣ Confirm the Exact Wording
The answer must fit grammatically and logically into the question, and it must be copied exactly from the passage — correct spelling, plural form, and word order.
Text:
“The community centre is open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday to Saturday, and from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sundays.”
Question:
What time does the community centre close on Sundays?
✅ Answer: 4 p.m.
Check | Example | Purpose |
Word limit | “NO MORE THAN TWO WORDS” → city hall ✅ | Prevents disqualification |
Grammar fit | “Where is the meeting held?” → Room 3 ✅ | Ensures logical meaning |
Logical focus | “When does the shop open?” → 9 a.m. ✅ | Matches question target |
Spelling | centre (UK) not center | British English standard |
Mistake | Why It Happens | Fix |
Guessing from memory | Not verifying in text | Always find text evidence |
Writing too many words | Ignoring limit | Count before final check |
Using synonyms | Copying wrong form | Copy exactly from passage |
Misreading negatives | Overlooking “not” or “except” | Read carefully around keywords |
Technique | Description | Benefit |
Prediction | Decide what type of information is missing | Improves scanning focus |
Keyword anchoring | Circle unique names, dates, or figures | Quick location |
Sequential scanning | Work through passage in order | Saves rereading |
Verification check | Read your answer aloud in question | Tests grammar fit |
Text:
“Applications must be submitted online by 15 August. Late entries will not be accepted.”
Question:
What is the last date to submit applications?
✅ Answer: 15 August
Spend 30–40 seconds per question.
If stuck, skip and move forward — the next question often leads you back to the same section of text.
Band 8–9 readers treat Short-Answer Questions like factual puzzles. They identify exact details quickly, never guess without textual support, and always check spelling and limits. It’s about accuracy, not creativity.
Short-Answer Questions in IELTS GT Reading measure your ability to locate facts quickly in practical texts. Focus on meaning, respect the word limit, and copy precisely.
Next, continue with True / False / Not Given to learn how to assess factual accuracy in everyday information.
Or revisit the IELTS Reading Skills & Exam Strategy page for your complete foundation.
For authentic materials, explore the British Council IELTS Reading Practice Tests resource.
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