IELTS Reading Matching Headings Strategy
Matching headings questions test paragraph purpose. The correct heading usually summarizes the whole paragraph, not one attractive keyword.
Practice IELTS Reading onlineRead for Purpose
After reading a paragraph, ask what job it performs. Does it define a problem, explain a cause, describe a change, or compare two ideas?
The heading should match that job.
Ignore Keyword Traps
A heading may use the same word as the paragraph but still be wrong. IELTS-style reading often tests whether you follow meaning beyond repeated words.
Choose the heading that covers the whole paragraph.
Use Elimination
Cross out headings that are too narrow, too broad, or contradicted by the paragraph.
If two headings seem possible, compare their scope.
Frequently asked questions
Should I read headings first?
Skim the headings first, then read each paragraph for its main purpose.
Can one heading be used twice?
Usually no, unless the instructions clearly say otherwise.
Why do keyword matches fail?
Because the question is about paragraph meaning, not isolated vocabulary.