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📚7-Day IELTS Band 7+ Challenge

📊 IELTS Band 7+ Challenge – Day 3: IELTS General Reading (Introduction & Strategy)

Welcome to Day 3 of the IELTS Band 7+ Challenge! By the end of this guide(Day 3), you won’t need to study anything else for IELTS General Reading — you’ll be fully equipped with advanced strategies, sample answers, planning tools, and vocabulary to perform at your peak. On Day 7, you’ll take a full mock exam to overcome panic and prove to yourself that you’re ready to achieve your target band score on test day!

This process may be a little tiring, but we will help you reach your IELTS 7+ goals for each section — and today’s focus is IELTS General Reading Task

IELTS Reading Section: Question Types & Strategy Guide

In the IELTS Reading test, you’ll face a variety of question types designed to test different reading skills. Below is a complete list of question types, what each task involves, and key skills you’ll use.

List of IELTS Reading Question Types

1. Multiple Choice

2. Identifying Information (True / False / Not Given)

3. Identifying the Writer’s Views (Yes / No / Not Given)

4. Matching Information

5. Matching Headings

6. Matching Features

7. Matching Sentence Endings

8. Sentence Completion

9. Summary Completion

10. Note / Table / Flow-Chart Completion

11. Diagram Label Completion

12. Short Answer Questions

Do Answers Appear Exactly in the Text? A Must-Know Strategy

If you are asked to fill in a blank using words from the passage, the answer will always be written exactly as it appears in the text

Do Answers Appear in Order? A Must-Know Strategy

One of the most helpful strategies in the IELTS Reading test is knowing which question types follow the order of the passage. This means the answers usually appear in sequence, from top to bottom.

! In simple terms: When you find the answer to Question 1, the answer to Question 2 will typically be somewhere below it in the passage — not above. This helps you avoid jumping around and saves valuable time.

Question Types Where Answers Usually Follow the Text Order

Question Type Answer Order
Multiple Choice Yes
True / False / Not Given Yes
Yes / No / Not Given Yes
Sentence Completion Yes
Summary Completion (without box) Yes
Note / Table / Flow-Chart Completion Yes
Short Answer Questions Yes

Question Types Where Answers Do Not Follow the Order

Question Type Answer Order
Matching Headings No
Matching Information to Paragraphs No
Matching Features No
Matching Sentence Endings No
Summary Completion (with word box) No
Diagram Label Completion No

Core IELTS Reading Strategy That Works Across Question Types

We offer one core, powerful strategy that works for many IELTS question types. While some tutors give a separate method for every question type, we believe this can confuse students on test day. Instead, we focus on one simple yet effective approach, with a few additions for special question types.

The Core Strategy Steps

Which Question Types This Works Well For

These types follow the order of the text and involve factual information, so this method works effectively:

Question Type Works Well With This Strategy?
Multiple Choice Yes
True / False / Not Given Yes
Yes / No / Not Given Yes
Sentence Completion Yes
Summary Completion (no box) Yes
Note / Table / Flow-Chart Yes
Short Answer Questions Yes

Matching Headings Strategy: For Matching Headings questions, focus on reading the first one or two sentences and the last sentence of each paragraph.

For These, Some Extra Strategy May Be Needed

Question Type What to Do
Matching Information to Paragraphs Scan all paragraphs for key words and details
Matching Features Match people or things with their related information
Matching Sentence Endings Use grammar and logic to connect ideas correctly
Diagram Label Completion Link diagram parts to text descriptions
Summary Completion (with box) Eliminate wrong options and match vocabulary meaning

After completing the 7-day prep, we highly recommend taking the exam on our Exam Simulation and Feedback page. IELTS General Training Reading Exam Simulation It will help you experience the real exam environment, improve your focus, and practice more effectively.

📘 Part 1 – Introduction to IELTS General Reading + Band 7+ Strategy

The IELTS General Training Reading test is designed to assess how well candidates can understand the kind of reading material they will likely encounter on a daily basis in an English-speaking environment. The test is made up of three sections with a total of 40 questions, and you are given 60 minutes to complete it. Achieving a Band 7+ score requires more than just fluent English – it requires focused strategies and reading efficiency.

📋 What’s in the General Reading Test?

🔍 Why Many Candidates Stay at Band 6 or 6.5

🎯 What You Must Do to Reach Band 7+

📈 What Band 7+ Reading Looks Like

To reach Band 7+, you typically need:

⏱️ Suggested Timing Per Section

Use leftover time to revisit questions you marked as difficult.

Quick Question: Can a customer get a refund 35 days after purchasing, if they have a receipt?

Answer: No. The refund policy applies only within 30 days, regardless of having a receipt.

Functional reading questions like this are common in Section 1 of the General test. Accuracy in interpreting policy-style writing is crucial.

Now that you’ve understood the structure and expectations, let’s move on to Part 2: The General Reading Sections & Strategy where we break down each section with practical examples and reading logic.

📚 Part 2 – The IELTS General Reading Sections

The IELTS General Reading test is divided into three sections. Each section gradually increases in difficulty and complexity. To score Band 7+, you need to master not only reading speed but also your ability to spot paraphrasing, identify writer intentions, and handle different question types like headings, matching, and True/False/Not Given. Below, we break down each section with real-world strategies.

📦 Section 1: Social Survival Texts

This section includes texts such as:

Common Question Types: Matching information, short-answer questions, sentence completion.

Band 7+ Tip: Don’t read the entire passage. Skim each paragraph quickly and match keywords from the question. Words like “free,” “closed,” “available,” and numbers (e.g., hours, dates) are often the key.

📝 Example Strategy

Q: When is the swimming pool closed for maintenance?

Scan for words like “closed,” “maintenance,” and days/dates. Even if you don’t know the word “undergoing,” phrases like “closed for repairs” mean the same.

💼 Section 2: Workplace Contexts

This section covers workplace documents such as:

Common Question Types: Matching headings, True/False/Not Given, multiple-choice.

Band 7+ Tip: Always preview the questions first. Many test-takers read the full passage first, which wastes time. Instead, read 1–2 questions and go scanning for answers immediately.

📝 Example Strategy

Q: According to the safety policy, who is responsible for reporting hazards?

Look for the section that mentions “safety,” “report,” or “hazard.” Even if the wording is different (e.g., “dangers” instead of “hazards”), use logic and elimination to select the right section.

📖 Section 3: Long Informational Text

This is the most challenging part. It includes a long, academic-style passage but written for a general audience. Topics may include:

Common Question Types: Yes/No/Not Given, Matching headings, Sentence Completion, Summary Completion.

Band 7+ Tip: Identify the writer’s purpose, tone, and argument. Use paragraph topic sentences to quickly locate the right section, and learn to distinguish between "Not Given" and "False" (one is missing info; the other is contradicted).

📝 Example Strategy

Q: The article suggests that city life negatively impacts mental health. (Yes/No/Not Given)

If the text says “urban life has been associated with increased anxiety,” the answer is Yes. If it says “city life provides mental stimulation,” the answer is No. If there’s no mention of mental health at all, it’s Not Given.

Now that you know the structure and strategy for each section, we’ll dive into Part 3, where we present full-length samples for Section 1, 2, and 3 — complete with answers, tricks, and paraphrasing analysis.

IELTS General Training Reading Part 1 Sample + Band 7+ Strategy

📄 Text A – Community Fitness Centre – Membership Options

Opening Hours:
Monday–Friday: 6:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Saturday–Sunday: 8:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.

Membership Plans:

Special Discounts:
Students and seniors (60+): 20% off all plans (must show ID)
Pay annually and get 1 free month added

Other Facilities (pay-per-use unless Premium Member):

📄 Text B – Message from Your Landlord

Dear Tenant,

Please note the following updates regarding your building:

Sincerely,
Management

🧩 Questions 1–7: Choose the correct answer (A, B, or C) – Based on Text A

  1. What time does the gym open on Sundays?
    A. 6:00 a.m. B. 8:00 a.m. C. 10:00 a.m.
  2. Which plan includes access to group classes?
    A. Basic Plan B. Standard Plan C. Premium Plan only
  3. How much would a senior pay for an annual Premium Plan?
    A. $480 B. $600 C. $540
  4. What benefit do you get if you pay for one year in advance?
    A. 10% discount B. 1 free month C. Free towel service
  5. Which of the following is included in the Premium Plan but not in the Standard Plan?
    A. Gym access B. Group classes C. Sauna and personal locker
  6. What is the cost of towel rental for someone on the Basic Plan who visits twice a week for a month?
    A. $16 B. $8 C. $20
  7. Who needs to show ID to receive a discount?
    A. Monthly members B. Students and seniors C. Premium plan holders

🔘 Questions 8–14: Complete the sentences below using NO MORE THAN TWO WORDS from Text B

  1. The water supply will be off for __________ hours on Saturday, 15 July.
  2. The recycling bins are now located in the __________.
  3. Paper and cardboard should be placed in the __________ bin.
  4. The blue bin is meant for __________.
  5. Tenants must sort their __________ carefully.
  6. For emergencies after regular hours, tenants can call a special __________.
  7. This message was sent by the building’s __________.

✅ Answers

Questions 1–7 (Text A – Multiple Choice):

Questions 8–14 (Text B – Sentence Completion):

✅ Detailed Answer Breakdown

📌 Band 7+ Takeaway Tips for General Reading Part 1

AreaTip
ScanningUse bullet points, prices, labels, and bold text to locate answers quickly.
Discounts/PricesPractice quick math — percent off and monthly vs annual comparisons.
Sentence CompletionWatch the 2-word limit; answer must be from the text.
FormattingMake sure your answer fits smoothly into the sentence.
SpeedSpend 12–15 minutes max on Part 1 to leave enough time for Parts 2 and 3.

IELTS General Training Reading Part 2 Sample + Band 7+ Strategy

📄 Text A – Staff Internet and Email Policy (Greystone Tech Co.)

All employees are expected to use company internet and email resources responsibly. The following guidelines apply:

For questions, contact the IT Support Desk or refer to the Employee Handbook.

📄 Text B – Notice: Mandatory Workplace Safety Training

To: All Staff – Distribution Center
Subject: Annual Safety Refresher Course

In accordance with our company safety regulations, all staff must complete a mandatory safety refresher by 30 September. This includes a 2-hour online course followed by a short assessment. The training must be completed during work hours and scheduled in advance with your team supervisor.

Failure to complete the training may result in temporary suspension of duties until the requirement is fulfilled. Completion certificates must be submitted to HR (Human Resources) before the deadline.

For access issues or technical help, please contact: trainingrandom@randomlogiworks.com

🧩 Questions 15–21: Complete the sentences below (NO MORE THAN TWO WORDS)

  1. Employees are only allowed __________ personal use of email or the internet.
  2. Staff should not expect any form of __________ while online at work.
  3. Company devices must be protected by __________ software.
  4. Sending inappropriate material can lead to __________ action.
  5. Questions about internet usage should be directed to the __________.
  6. All employees must take a __________ by 30 September.
  7. Certificates confirming course completion must be submitted to __________.

🔘 Questions 22–27: Choose the correct letter, A, B, or C

  1. What is the main purpose of the staff internet policy?
    A. To improve customer service
    B. To limit internet access
    C. To define acceptable digital behavior at work
  2. What will happen if an employee breaks the internet policy rules?
    A. They will have to do extra training
    B. They may lose their job
    C. Their email will be deleted
  3. Who is allowed to monitor employee internet and email use?
    A. Human Resources
    B. The IT staff
    C. Team Supervisors
  4. When must safety training be completed?
    A. Before the end of September
    B. After working hours
    C. On weekends only
  5. What happens if the training is not completed?
    A. The employee’s salary is reduced
    B. They must repeat the course the following year
    C. They may be suspended from duties
  6. How long does the safety course take?
    A. One hour
    B. Two hours
    C. Half a day

✅ PART 2: Correct Answers

✅ PART 3: Detailed Answer Breakdown

📌 Band 7+ Takeaway Tips

Focus AreaBand 7+ Tip
Workplace DocsHeadings, lists, and modals like "must" or "may" are key indicators.
Multiple ChoiceDon’t assume — find exact text match and eliminate logically.
Grammar CheckEnsure your completion answer fits grammatically into the sentence.
Time ManagementSpend 12–15 minutes max here to have time for the long passage in Part 3.

🧠 Part 4 – Vocabulary, Paraphrasing & Tricky Synonyms in General Reading

One of the most critical skills in IELTS General Reading is recognizing how words and ideas are paraphrased in the passage and in the questions. The test is full of “synonym traps” and reworded expressions that confuse candidates who expect exact matches. To score Band 7+, you need to decode these traps quickly and confidently.

🔁 Why Paraphrasing Matters in IELTS Reading

🎯 Examples of Common Paraphrasing

In the Passage In the Question
Employees must wear protective clothing Staff are required to use safety gear
Complimentary lunch is provided Free food is offered
Goods can be returned within 30 days Items may be brought back in a month
Accessible via the southern entrance Can be reached from the south gate

📌 Common Paraphrasing Categories

⚠️ Tricky Synonym Traps

Some paraphrases change the meaning slightly and mislead test-takers. Here’s how to avoid them:

🔑 Vocabulary Themes You Must Know for General Reading

📖 Vocabulary Exercise

Find the synonym: In a passage, you read: “Staff may clock in late on Fridays.” Which word best matches the phrase “clock in”?

Correct Answer: C) Record attendance

🎯 Practice Tip

Every time you do a practice test, create a “paraphrase bank.” Write down question words and the passage phrase next to it. Over time, you’ll build your own personal thesaurus of IELTS traps and tricks.

Now that you know how to spot paraphrasing and handle tricky wording, you're ready for Part 5 – Task Timing and Execution Strategy, where we show you how to complete all three sections of the General Reading test efficiently and accurately under pressure.

⏱️ Part 5 – Task Timing and Execution Strategy for IELTS General Reading

Time is your most limited resource in the IELTS General Reading test. You have 60 minutes to answer 40 questions, spread across 3 sections. In this final part, we’ll show you how to allocate time wisely, avoid traps, and maintain maximum accuracy under pressure.

🕒 Ideal Time Allocation Per Section

💡 Tip: If you can finish Section 1 faster (in 10–12 minutes), you gain extra time for the more complex texts later on.

📶 Strategic Steps for Each Passage

  1. Preview the Questions First
    Before reading the passage, skim all the questions. Highlight or note down keywords so you know what to look for when you read.
  2. Skim the Text
    Read quickly to understand the main idea of each paragraph. Don’t get stuck on unknown words – get the gist.
  3. Scan for Details
    Go back and locate the parts of the text where your answers are likely to be found using your keyword list.
  4. Read Carefully When Matching
    For tasks like matching headings or sentence completion, read more carefully and compare full meanings – don’t match based on keywords only.
  5. Move On If Stuck
    Don’t spend more than 90 seconds on one question. Mark it, guess intelligently, and return if time permits.

✅ Self-Checklist Before You Start

Use this list to center yourself before the test begins:

📌 Common Mistakes to Avoid

🧪 Mini Practice Drill

Instruction: Read the following short notice and answer the True/False/Not Given question:

“Library visitors must return all borrowed materials within 21 days. A fine of $1 per day will apply for overdue items. Lost books must be reported immediately to avoid additional charges.”

Statement: Visitors can avoid all fines if they return books on time and do not lose them.

Answer: True – this is clearly supported by the policy.

🚀 Final Tip

Practice timed mini-tests (10–15 minutes) daily to build endurance and reduce panic. When you're confident in your speed and accuracy, you’re well-positioned for a Band 7+ result.

🎯 Now you're ready to test your General Reading skills with practice exams. Use our full-length mock tests to apply what you’ve learned and simulate real exam pressure.

⏱️ Now move to the next day. Stick to your plan !

DAY 4 of - 7 Day IELTS Academic Band 7+ Challenge or

DAY 4 of - 7 Day IELTS General Band 7+ Challenge

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