The reading test is one of the most challenging parts of IELTS, and different techniques have been described for it. In this exam, your understanding is fundamental. One of these techniques is scanning and skimming. Many examiners and language experts consider this technique necessary and believe it increases the score. But what are scanning and skimming, and how should they be used? In the following, we will first explain each one in detail and tell you how you should use them. So stay with us.
Skimming
Knowing this skill will help you a lot in getting the desired score. Skimming is the same as fast reading or superficial reading. You need this skill in reading a lot. Because your time is limited, and if you want to read the entire text slowly, your time will be wasted, and you will not be able to answer all the questions. In this skill, you have to read texts quickly. Try not to consider prepositions and unnecessary words and quickly look at the text.
Ways to skimming
1. Try to read the titles superficially first
2. Then start reading the first and last sentences of the paragraphs
3. Read and find keywords such as numbers and names
Scanning
Scanning, like skimming, dramatically helps your reading test speed. But in this skill, unlike skimming, you should not read the text superficially. In this method, you have to read the text quickly, but you have to look for specific words. In this method, you should read the text quickly according to the questions, find any words related to them, and underline them. This skill is used to find keywords and the main topic of the paragraph.
Ways to scanning
1. First, start reading the questions carefully and also quickly
2. While reading the questions, find the keywords and underline them
3. Then start reading the paragraphs and identify their keywords
4. In the last step, find the answers to the questions according to these words and enter them in the answer sheet
last word
We talked to you about scanning and skimming and explained them in detail. What method you feel comfortable with and are closer to success is up to you. According to your mood, you can choose one or both methods and use them in the reading test. But be sure to practice before the exam. Because without practice, you cannot become a professional in this skill, and you may not get good results. You can use books that are available for this or scan and skim different texts yourself.