IELTS ACADEMIC READING
IELTS Reading matching headings: how to answer, with practice questions
Matching headings asks you to choose the heading that sums up the main idea of each paragraph or section. There are more headings than paragraphs, so some will not be used.
Choose the heading that sums up the main idea of each paragraph. Read for the paragraph's overall point, not a single matching word; there are more headings than paragraphs.
88 practice questions of this type in the full bank.
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How to answer
- Read the list of headings first and note how they differ from each other.
- Read each paragraph for its overall point: the first and last sentences often state it, but check the whole paragraph.
- Choose the heading that covers the whole paragraph, not just one example or detail inside it.
- Do the easiest paragraphs first, then cross off headings you have used to narrow the choice for the rest.
Common mistakes
- Picking a heading because it repeats a word from the paragraph. Correct headings usually paraphrase.
- Choosing a heading that fits only one sentence or example rather than the main idea.
- Spending too long on one paragraph; come back to it once fewer headings are left.
One practice question with the answer
Read the passage, decide your answer, then open the explanation. Each question is from the examplat bank, written in the same format as the test.
That's the free sample. The rest of the questions are available with a paid plan.
That's the free sample. The rest is available with a plan.
See plansFAQ
Can I use a heading more than once?
No. In matching headings each heading is used once at most, and there are more headings than paragraphs.
Should I do matching headings first?
Many candidates do, because finding each paragraph's main idea also helps them locate answers for the other questions on the same passage.
IELTS is a registered trademark of the British Council, IELTS Australia and Cambridge University Press & Assessment. examplat is an unofficial question bank written by Sakakikaen Co., Ltd. and is not affiliated with or endorsed by them. Back to IELTS Reading practice.