Mastering Skimming and Scanning for the IELTS Reading Test

By Teacher Isaac, Englishwithisaac

When preparing for the IELTS reading test, two essential techniques can significantly enhance your time management and comprehension: skimming and scanning. Both techniques allow you to quickly locate information and grasp the larger context of a passage, making them invaluable tools during the exam. In this guide, we will explore what skimming and scanning are, and how to effectively employ these strategies when tackling the reading section of the IELTS.

What is Skimming?

Skimming involves quickly reading through a text to gain a general understanding of its content and main ideas. It is not about understanding every word but rather getting a sense of the text's overarching themes and structure. This technique is particularly useful for identifying the main points and moods conveyed in the reading passages.

Steps for Skimming:

1. Read the Title and Subtitles: Titles often provide insights into the main topic. Subtitles can help you understand the organization of the passage.
2. Look for Keywords: Focus on the first and last sentences of each paragraph, as they usually contain the topic sentence or concluding remarks.
3. Identify the Structure: Quickly glance through the introduction, conclusion, and any highlighted or bold text.
4. Read Fast: Train your eyes to move quickly across lines—don't get bogged down by unfamiliar words.

What is Scanning?

Scanning is a more focused technique used to locate specific information within a text. When you scan, your goal is to find particular words, phrases, or data without reading every word. This technique is particularly helpful when answering questions that require precise details.

Steps for Scanning:

1. Understand the Questions: Before scanning, read the questions carefully and underline keywords or phrases that will guide your search.
2. Look for Keywords in the Passage: Once you know what to look for, move your eyes quickly over the text, searching for the identified keywords.
3. Ignore Unrelated Text: Don't read everything. Focus only on the parts of the text where you suspect the answers may lie.
4. Use Contextual Clues: Sometimes, answers can be found by recognizing synonyms or paraphrases of the keywords you noted in the questions.

A Practical Approach in the IELTS Reading Section

Here’s how you can combine skimming and scanning during your IELTS reading test:

1. Initial Skim: Begin by skimming the entire passage. Get a general feel for the topic and structure. This will help you anticipate where answers may be found.
2. Read the Questions: After the skim, read all the questions in the section to identify what information you need to find.
3. Use Scanning for Answers: With the questions in mind, return to the text and start scanning for the specific keywords. When you find a keyword, read the surrounding sentences for context to ensure you've got the correct information.
4. Manage Your Time: Keep an eye on the clock. Don’t spend too long on any one question. If you’re stuck, move on and return if time permits.
5. Practice Regularly: Like any skill, skimming and scanning get easier with practice. Use practice passages in IELTS preparation materials to develop your speed and efficiency.

Conclusion

By mastering skimming and scanning, you can navigate the IELTS reading section more quickly and efficiently. These techniques will not only streamline your reading process but also enhance your comprehension, allowing you to extract the necessary information to answer questions correctly. Remember, practice is key. Use these strategies during your study sessions, and you will find yourself more prepared and confident on exam day.

Good luck with your IELTS preparation!