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Posted: 17 Mar 2011 12:42 AM PDT

The IELTS reading test assesses your skills on skimming and scanning. There are no short cuts to an excellent reading score. The only factor that will determine how well you utilized and sharpened these particular skills is through HARD WORK. Practice, practice and practice! There are no excuses with the reading test because practically you can practice reading whenever you want and wherever you are. Here are few tips to make a good score on your IELTS reading test.

Find out which strategy works for you. There are two ways on how to work faster with IELTS reading test. Others read the IELTS reading passage first while some go over with the questions initially. Most examinees I personally know, found it easier to skim through the questions first to have an idea of what to pay attention in the passage. However, it depends on a number of factors. Never mind what your IELTS coach or friends advise you, try both strategies and find out which works for you!
Read the instructions for each question very carefully. Some people try to save time by skipping this part. The written instructions give you the important data about the number of words required in each answer, the things that you have to do and etc. Never neglect reading the instruction part, even if you have done a hundred of practice tests already.
Follow the instructions all the time. If the question specifies that you must not use more than three words in your answer, stick to three words.
One technique in answering IELTS reading test: most of the questions follow the order of the information in the reading passage. This saves time in locating the correct answers.
Do not get stuck on one question. If you can’t get the answer, move on. You can always come back later.
Guess, guess, guess. If you cannot find an answer, make a guess.
Check your spelling. You will lose points for incorrectly spelled words. Take special care when copying words from text.
Transfer your answers as you go or at the end of each section. Keep in mind that there is no time allotted to transfer answers in IELTS reading test, thus, if you don't manage your time well you might end up no answers written on your answer sheet.
Make sure you do not answer True / False for a Yes / No question and vice versa. Such an answer will make you lose points and fetch no marks.
Read, read and read. Be a bookworm. Widen your vocabulary and don't limit yourself to one type of text and read articles with academic styles as much as possible.
Do not PANIC! Stay calm and if you don't know anything about the subject matter keep in mind that all the answers are just somewhere in the passage. Remember that elevated levels of anxiety narrows a person's perception and understanding on things. Thus, it will not help you achieve an excellent score.