Original BandLadder material
It teaches a 4-step method: split, check, park and return. Along the way you get worked examples with the key words marked, before-and-after fixes that show why the first version loses marks, a model answer with its key moves highlighted, a one-page visual summary, a quick check to test yourself and a recap of the rules to remember. Each card holds one idea, so you can read it on a phone between practice sessions.
With a free BandLadder account you can read the first three cards online in our study reader, on the web and in the app. The other 7 cards and the PDF download come with any plan.
The first 2 of 10 cards
the trap that costs the most marks
One stubborn question can swallow six minutes while easier ones wait. Each is worth the same one mark.
Minute 14: still on question 9.stuck The section is nearly out of time, and the last questions are unread.lost marks
Every question is worth 1 mark. Park the stubborn one.
the official facts
| Reading paper | The official line |
|---|---|
| Time | 60 minutes in all |
| Sections | 3 |
| Questions | 40, one mark each |
| Academic | 2150–2750 words in all |
| GT | 2150–2375 words in all |
| GT levels | Each section harder |
Source: ielts.org. Transfer time is included.
Card 3 of 10 onwards
Card 3 is free too
Create a free account for card 3; the other 7 come with any plan.
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Start The 60-minute Reading plan free
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Questions
The first three cards are free to read online with a free BandLadder account. The full lesson opens with any plan.
The PDF download comes with any BandLadder plan. Free accounts read the lesson online in the study reader, on the web and in the app.
The BandLadder team wrote and checked it. It is original BandLadder material, not copied from books or other websites, and its exam facts are checked against the official IELTS and PTE pages.
Both versions of the test: it covers what they share and says where they differ.
IELTS is a registered trademark of the University of Cambridge, the British Council and IDP Education Australia. PTE is a trademark of Pearson. BandLadder is not affiliated with either.
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