Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 30 October 2026
Rules by matching task
From ielts.org's Academic Reading and General Training Reading format pages.
| Task | Can an option repeat? | Other rules |
|---|---|---|
| Matching headings | No, never | More headings than paragraphs; some paragraphs may be left out or given as an example |
| Matching information | Sometimes; the instructions will say | Not every paragraph may be used |
| Matching features | Sometimes; the instructions will say | Some options may not be used |
| Matching sentence endings | Not stated | More endings than beginnings, so some are not used |
The instruction wording to look for
ielts.org gives the exact sentences: 'You may choose any paragraph (or section) more than once' on the Academic page, 'You may use any letter more than once' on the General Training page for matching information, and 'You may use any option more than once' for matching features. If the line is not there, assume each option is used once at most.
An IDP expert's first tip for matching features is the same: read the instructions and check whether options can be used more than once (IDP Community).
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Why it matters for your score
Each correct answer is worth one mark (ielts.org). In matching headings, using one heading twice guarantees at least one wrong answer, so if two paragraphs seem to fit the same heading, one of them needs a different heading.
Frequently asked questions
Can you use a heading twice in IELTS matching headings?+
No. ielts.org says no heading may be used more than once.
Will all headings be used?+
No. ielts.org says there are always more headings than paragraphs.
Can a paragraph letter be the answer twice in matching information?+
Yes, when the instructions say you may use any letter or paragraph more than once.
Do I have to use every option in matching features?+
No. ielts.org says some options may not be used.
Keep reading
Related
- Matching headings question type
- Matching information question type
- Matching features practice
- Are IELTS Reading answers in order?
- All 3112 guides
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