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Planning to take an IELTS London exam? The first and most important question that would come to your mind: Should I take the Academic IELTS or the General IELTS? In order to attend the right IELTS classes in London and perform well in the examination, it is essential to have a clear idea about how these types are different and what all you need to focus on. In this blog, we will discuss how the reading sections in these two versions are different.
The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is used for two main purposes:
Since these two groups have different goals, the test content is slightly different—especially in the reading section. Let’s dive in!
Both Academic and General IELTS Reading have:
No extra time is given for transferring your answers, so manage your time carefully!
This is where things get interesting! The type of texts you’ll read depends on which IELTS version you’re taking.
Academic IELTS Reading:
General IELTS Reading:
Both tests include similar types of questions, but the difficulty level differs. Let’s look at some common ones:
You’ll have a question and 3 or 4 answer choices (A, B, C, or D).
Example (Academic IELTS)
What is the main reason climate change affects ocean currents?
A) Temperature increase
B) Pollution
C) Human migration
D) Tourism
Example (General IELTS)
“Where can you find the customer service desk?”
A) On the second floor
B) Next to the bakery
C) At the entrance
D) In the car park
Tip: Always read the full question carefully before choosing your answer!
This is a tricky one! You must decide if a statement is:
You can find the answer by checking if statements match the text exactly, contradict it, or if the information isn’t provided at all.
Example
Passage: “A recent survey showed that 70% of Londoners use public transport daily.”
Question: Most Londoners travel by car.
False! The passage says “70% use public transport,” so the statement is incorrect.
You match headings, sentences, or paragraph numbers.
Example (Academic IELTS)
Passage about “The Effects of Sleep on Brain Function”
Answer: B!
Example (General IELTS)
Passage about a hotel:
Question: Where can you find information about hotel breakfast?
Answer: C!
It depends!
Quick Test! Try reading:
Which one do you find easier? That’s your answer!
Get used to different text types by reading:
Don’t spend too long on one question—move on! Try reading a full IELTS passage in 20 minutes (this is how long you should spend on each section).
IELTS often uses different words for the same meaning. IELTS loves using different words to mean the same thing! Example: “Difficult” = “Challenging” = “Hard”
Quickly identify important keywords instead of reading everything word-by-word. Use skimming (reading quickly) and scanning (looking for specific words).
Start Your IELTS Journey with ES London!
Looking for the best IELTS preparation courses? Join our IELTS preparation class with expert teachers at ES London and be sure to have the support you need to improve your skills. Our school provides the perfect environment to boost your confidence and enhance your English proficiency. Plus, you’ll be part of a friendly community, where you can meet new people and practise English in a supportive atmosphere.
Enquire now to join the right English class in London!
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