IELTS Reading > 09. Summary/note/table/flow-chart completion
The IELTS Reading test evaluates a wide array of skills, and the summary, note, table, or flow-chart completion question type is a common feature that assesses your ability to understand and extract specific details from a text. This task type requires precision, attention to detail, and adherence to the instructions provided. Below, we'll break down what's involved, the strategies for success, and the skills being tested.
Understanding the Question Type
This task type involves completing a summary, set of notes, table, or flow-chart using information from the given text. The format of the question may vary:
1. Summary Completion: You will see a condensed version of a part of the text, with certain words or phrases missing.
2. Note Completion: A structured set of notes that correspond to a specific section of the text will require filling in the blanks.
3. Table Completion: Information organized into rows and columns, often comparing or categorizing data, will have gaps to be filled.
4. Flow-Chart Completion: A diagrammatic representation of a process or sequence of events will include missing steps or details.
The answers are typically extracted from one part of the text rather than scattered throughout. However, the sequence of the answers may not follow the same order as the text, so careful scanning and understanding are crucial.
Variations in the Task
There are two main variations in this task type:
1. Selecting Words Directly from the Text: You are required to find the correct words or numbers directly from the passage to fill in the gaps. The instructions will specify the word limit, such as "NO MORE THAN TWO WORDS AND/OR A NUMBER." Exceeding the limit results in an incorrect answer.
2. Choosing from a List of Options: Here, a list of possible answers is provided, each identified by a letter (A, B, C, etc.). You need to select the correct option and write the corresponding letter on your answer sheet.
It's essential to read the instructions carefully to avoid mistakes. Contracted forms like "they're" are excluded, while hyphenated words such as "check-in" are counted as single words.
Skills Being Tested
This question type assesses multiple reading skills, including:
Skimming and Scanning: The ability to quickly locate relevant sections in the text.
Comprehension: Understanding key points, details, and processes described in the passage.
Paraphrasing Recognition: Recognizing synonyms or rephrased content that matches the information in the summary, notes, table, or flow-chart.
Time Management: Efficiently finding the answers without spending too much time on one question.
Tips for Tackling the Task
1. Read the Instructions Carefully: Pay close attention to the word or number limit. Misreading the instructions can lead to losing marks unnecessarily.
2. Identify Keywords: Highlight or underline keywords in the summary, notes, table, or flow-chart and look for synonyms or related ideas in the text.
3. Locate the Relevant Section: Use skimming and scanning techniques to find the part of the text that corresponds to the information you need. Focus on one section at a time, as the answers are usually confined to a specific part.
4. Stay Within the Word Limit: If the instruction says "ONE WORD ONLY," avoid adding extra words, even if they seem to fit contextually.
5. Use Context for Accuracy: Ensure the words you choose fit grammatically and logically into the blanks. Double-check the flow and coherence of the completed sentence or structure.
6. Practice with Varied Formats: Familiarize yourself with all formats of this question type by practicing summaries, notes, tables, and flow-charts.
Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them
One of the biggest challenges in this task type is dealing with paraphrased content. The words in the summary, notes, table, or flow-chart often differ from the wording in the passage. Improving your paraphrasing recognition skills through regular practice can help overcome this hurdle. Additionally, time pressure can lead to errors, so managing your time effectively during the test is crucial.
Why Practice Matters
Like all aspects of the IELTS Reading test, consistent practice with real test materials is key to success. Websites like ieltspro.uk offer valuable resources and practice tests that can help you refine your techniques and become familiar with various question types. Taking timed practice tests will not only improve your speed but also enhance your confidence in tackling this challenging question type.
Final Thoughts
Summary, note, table, and flow-chart completion tasks are an integral part of the IELTS Reading test, requiring a strategic approach to extract precise information efficiently. By honing your skimming, scanning, and comprehension skills, and adhering to the task's specific requirements, you can maximize your score. Remember, preparation is the key, and utilizing expert resources will give you an edge in achieving your desired IELTS band score.