It is almost always time. The IELTS Reading test gives 60 minutes for 40 questions. Most band 6 candidates read too slowly and run out of time, leaving 10–15 questions unanswered.
Skim for structure first
Take 90 seconds to read the title, headings and first sentence of each paragraph. You will know where information is before you look for it.
Read questions before the passage
Questions tell you exactly what information matters. Reading without knowing the questions is reading without a purpose.
Answers are always paraphrased
The passage and questions never use the same words. Look for synonyms and paraphrases of question keywords, not the keywords themselves.
Time yourself strictly
Allocate exactly 20 minutes per passage. If you have not answered a question after 90 seconds, skip it and come back.
Never True/False/Not Given
Not Given means the passage does not say either way — not that the statement is false. This distinction catches many candidates.
Do not get stuck
One question is worth 2.5% of the section mark. Spending three minutes on one question is almost never worth it.
Consistent improvement requires regular timed practice with authentic Cambridge IELTS materials, combined with analysis of every wrong answer. See our IELTS preparation page.