The reading module of the IELTS exam tests your comprehension skills on a variety of question types in a short period. Among the many types of questions, the True/False/Not Given is considered one of the toughest since it can sometimes make even the subtle difference between word and meaning look so slight. In this article, we will learn how to answer these questions confidently by giving you essential strategies and tips to boost your performance in the IELTS Reading section.


True/False/Not Given questions in the IELTS reading test your ability to find and understand the exact information. These questions test not only your comprehension but also your critical reading skills because you need to identify whether the information is stated directly, contradicted, or absent altogether. Among all the tricky question types in the reading module, the practice of an effective approach can make a difference to your IELTS score.

Let’s explore these questions, pitfalls, and helpful techniques for managing True/False/Not Given questions successfully without a hassle.

True/False/Not Given questions are the most common types of questions that appear in IELTS reading passages and are frequently based on factual statements. Let’s take a closer look at the definitions:

True: The information in the statement is exactly as stated in the passage. There’s no need for interpretation; it must be an exact match.

False: It denies information from the text. If it’s a very apparent contradiction or difference in meaning, then True.

Not given: None of the above affirms or denies the statement in the passage. No relevant data appears in the passage to the statement.

This is about reading each statement closely concerning the passage, not assuming one knows something or relying on personal knowledge.

Common pitfalls cause problems for IELTS candidates with True/False/Not Given questions. Being aware of these can help you avoid the common mistakes:

Adding assumptions: Most test-takers get themselves into trouble because they add their own assumptions to the information. Remember, if it’s not in the passage, it doesn’t count.

Getting swept away by similar words: Words that seem to have the same meaning as the keywords of the statement may mislead. Avoid getting carried away with an answer that appears superficially like what you want.

Misunderstanding “Not Given”: A candidate might be convinced that something is “implied,” when it is “Not Given.” Only accept information from the text itself.

Study the Statement with Care

Read the question carefully. Pay attention to key words and phrases and especially to specific details. Be sure to use words like “always,” “some,” or “only.” Your answer might depend on whether you use any of these words. Check out this example:

Statement: “All employees at the company receive an annual bonus.”

If the statement says that “some employees” or “only a few employees” get bonuses, then the statement is False.

If nothing at all has been mentioned regarding the bonuses, then the answer is Not Given.

Scan for relevant information

Now that you understand the statement, skim the passage to locate the appropriate section. Remember, you are scanning for keywords within the passage such as dates, names, and other terms specific to the question. Here are some quick skimming tips:

Use synonyms: Keywords may not be repeated directly in the passage; look for synonyms or paraphrased terms.
Listen for locative words: Underline the spaces that contain the locative words such as “on Tuesday” or “in the office” since those will help you mark exactly what you really need.

To know whether a statement is True or False requires an exact match or direct contradiction. For example:

Statement: “The company provides paid holidays.”
If the sentence says, “The company gives unpaid leave during holidays, then this goes against what has been stated; therefore it is False. If it is paid leave for all holidays, then it is True.
If you cannot see something specific or if it doesn’t confirm or negate a statement, the response is Not Given. 

Look at this example:

Statement: “The museum free admits on weekends.”
Unless and until there is an account of weekend admission and possibly no entry fee at all, mark the response as Not Given. Do not infer anything; mark it Not Given if the text fails to provide the necessary details.

Time management is essential for the success of an IELTS reading paper, especially when handling questions that require True/False/Not Given, since they may take too long if over-analyzed. Here are some time management techniques:

Limit yourself to two minutes per question: If you can’t find the answer within that time, move on and return later if possible.

Practice pacing: The timed practice tests help in building speed and confidence.

Skip hard questions and revisit: Do the easy ones first and then come back to the harder ones. This maintains your flow.

Use Mock Tests and Past Papers

Mock tests and past papers are the best practice for True/False/Not Given questions. They familiarize you with the wording of questions and the structure of passages. Here are some practice tips:

• Take full-length practice tests: It helps improve endurance and speed in simulating exam conditions.
• Common Phrases and Traps: Bring up past mistakes from which the test will likely try to mislead you.

Self-Assessment and Reflective Analysis

After the mock tests, review each answer meticulously. Think about any error you made and why so that you understand why you made each of these mistakes. This analysis should bring out patterns for improvement in your approach to answering True/False/Not Given questions.

Do not include unnecessary information

Probably the most common mistake is the introduction of knowledge or assumptions. If you know about a topic outside of what is given in the text, DO NOT allow that to creep into your answer. Stick strictly to the information contained in the passage.

Be Careful with Exact Wording

Often the IELTS reading exam includes synonyms and paraphrasing; hence, try to get to the meaning rather than to use the same word. For instance, in a given text that reads “teaching staff,” the statement would probably read “teachers” or “educators.”

Don’t Overthink Stay Calm

If you don’t know the answer to a question, trust your instinct and move on. Overthinking tends to lead to second-guessing; it usually turns into unnecessary mistakes. Make your answer based on your understanding, and then go back to the question later if you have time.

The coaching centers provide real-time feedback and expert advice for improvement. Coaches find the weaknesses in the students’ line of answers. They help the students refine question-solving strategies and approach every question with confidence. Their practice materials and mock tests cover most of the actual test questions.

Choosing IELTS Coaching in Kochi

Enrolling in IELTS coaching centers in Kerala, especially in cities such as Kochi, would organize and provide a well-structured environment for learning for the IELTS Exam targeting the True/False/Not Given questions. The experienced instructors can provide individualized assistance and focused practice to even complex question types.

True/False/Not Given questions in the IELTS reading module look quite easy, but are in fact very tough if you don’t apply the proper strategies and do not have proper practice. Every small thing adds to your success while dealing with such questions. You may seek professional coaching for further help. Preparation will not go in vain if you discipline yourself into better preparation.