People often ask me whether reading the first sentence of each paragraph is a useful "trick". Is it a good idea to read the first sentence of each paragraph before you attempt any questions? Does this "trick" work for 'paragraph headings' exercises?
My simple answer is no*
I'm not a fan of "tricks" like skimming, scanning or reading first or last sentences of paragraphs. My approach is simple: read the question, underline words that you think you need to find, then read at normal speed until you find the relevant part of the passage. I have some different tips for paragraph matching questions, but my advice does not include reading the first sentence of each paragraph - that strategy is risky because it may lead you to the wrong answer.
*The only time that I would recommend reading the first sentence of each paragraph is if you're rushing to finish a 'paragraph headings' exercise in the last few minutes of your exam. It is sometimes possible to get the answer from the first sentence, so save this trick for an emergency (when time is running out).
In many countries women no longer feel the need to get married. Some people believe that this is because women are able to earn their own income and therefore do not require the financial security that marriage can bring. To what extent do you agree or disagree? How can we tackle this essay sir? As they have already given one of the solid reasons, if we introduce another reason will it be a deviation from the topic? If I wish to agree to a greater extent what all topic points i can bring..too confused with this question. No trainer could help me.
Posted by: Dona | May 01, 2017 at 16:54
Dona
I see this a lot - I'm not sure that this is a 'real' IELTS question because it is not worded in the way that real questions are usually presented in the test. Questions like this almost always contain an expression like 'the main reason' and you can agree or disagree based on that.
Nevertheless, if this was a real question, say something like 'While I agree that this is a motivation, I believe there are other, equally important, causes of this trend', and then spend one paragraph about why you agree and then in the second body introduce one or two other reasons.
If you don't fully agree (like I mentioned) then of course you are going to introduce other reasons. Examiners would be expecting other reasons here.
Posted by: sjm | May 02, 2017 at 01:13
Dear Simon,
I am new to this blog. I have a ielts test in june 17th. And starting to prepare. Dont know what would be the best way to practice. Is it good to study separately reading, writing, listening and speaking or is it important to study all the topics together everyday. If you give me suggestions on planning my study, that will be fantastic.
Thank you
Posted by: Gerel | May 02, 2017 at 06:11
I couldn't do well in my last exam due to me not being able to complete the Reading test on time, especially the paragraph Headings which were very long. What would you recommend for finishing a reading exam by answering all questions within the stipulated time? Any tips would be appreciated Simon.
I practiced close to 8 full tests. How often should one take a full reading practice test?
Thanks in advance
Posted by: Yasha | May 02, 2017 at 12:26