Guide
Skimming, Scanning & Time Management
60 minutes, 40 questions, three passages. A plan that actually works.
Skimming vs scanning
- Skimming = reading quickly for the general idea. Read titles, first sentences and last sentences. 2–3 minutes per passage.
- Scanning = searching for one thing: a name, a date, a number, a key word. Move your eyes fast; don't read every word.
A 60-minute plan
| Passage | Time | Why |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 17 minutes | Easiest — build confidence |
| 2 | 20 minutes | Medium |
| 3 | 23 minutes | Hardest, longest questions |
Rules to follow
- Never leave a blank. There is no penalty for wrong answers.
- Don't get stuck. If a question takes more than 90 seconds, guess, mark it and come back.
- Paraphrases are everywhere. The passage rarely uses the same words as the question. Learn to spot synonyms: buy → purchase, old → ancient, help → assist.
- Write answers as you go (on paper) — there is no extra transfer time in Reading.