Understanding the Flow-Chart Question Type in IELTS Reading: A Step-by-Step Approach

When taking the IELTS Reading test, you may encounter a variety of question types designed to assess your reading comprehension skills. One such question type is the Flow-Chart question. In this article, we will explore what a Flow-Chart question entails and provide a step-by-step approach to help you answer it effectively.

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What is a Flow-Chart Question?

A Flow-Chart question in the IELTS Reading test requires you to complete a flow chart or diagram by filling in the missing information. The flow chart typically represents a process, sequence of events, or steps in a particular order. Your task is to read the given passage and use the information provided to complete the flow chart accurately.

Approach to Answering Flow-Chart Questions:

Step 1: Read the Instructions Carefully

Start by reading the instructions for the Flow-Chart question. Note any specific guidelines or requirements mentioned, such as word limits or using specific vocabulary.

Step 2: Skim the Passage

Before diving into the details, quickly skim the passage to get an overall understanding of the topic and the context of the flow chart. Look for headings, subheadings, and any keywords or phrases that might provide clues to the missing information.

Step 3: Identify the Flow-Chart Structure

Examine the flow chart and familiarize yourself with its structure. Understand the sequence of events or steps represented by the chart. Pay attention to any arrows, symbols, or labels that indicate the flow of information or actions.

Step 4: Focus on the Missing Information

Carefully read the section of the passage related to the missing information in the flow chart. Identify the relevant details, such as names, dates, numbers, or descriptions, that will help you complete the chart accurately.

Step 5: Use Contextual Clues

Rely on contextual clues within the passage to fill in the missing information. Look for connecting words, transition phrases, or explicit statements that provide hints about the sequence or relationship between the different elements in the flow chart.

Step 6: Use Synonyms and Paraphrasing

Be prepared for the possibility that the wording in the passage may not match exactly with the flow chart. Look for synonyms or paraphrased versions of the missing information. Pay attention to similar meanings, rather than exact word matches, to complete the chart correctly.

Step 7: Check Grammar and Word Limit

As you fill in the missing information, ensure that your answers maintain grammatical correctness and adhere to any word limits specified in the instructions. Use grammatical structures and vocabulary appropriate to the task.

Step 8: Review and Verify

Once you have completed the flow chart, take a few moments to review your answers. Make sure that the information you have filled in aligns logically with the overall structure and flow of the chart. Verify that your answers accurately represent the information provided in the passage.

Example

Question: Read this passage below and then complete the flow chart using one word only from the text.

Passage: Studying abroad as an international student can be an enriching experience. If you have a good level of English, you will face the difficult decision of deciding which university you would like to apply to. Once you have chosen, you can contact the university directly in order to apply.

In order to successfully obtain a place at university, you will need to get a visa to study at the university of your choice. In order to obtain a visa, you will need proof of admission to the college. You will also need to show that you have enough funds for the first year of study. After you have done this, you can apply for a visa. Once you have received a visa, you can start to look for flights and also try to find somewhere to live. This is something that you don't need to worry about, as each university has an accommodation team to help you. Furthermore, preferential treatment is given for new students from abroad.

Applying to study at university in Australia (for international students)

Step 1 - Choose a university and enrol

Once you have chosen, you can apply 1 _____ to the university for a place.

Step 2 - Apply for a student visa

Once you have confirmation of 2 _____ and adequate 3 _____ for the first year, you can apply for your visa.

Step 3 - Book your flight and accommodation

You can book your flight online and each university has an accommodation team that can help you find a place, especially for 4 _____ students.

Answer:

Step 1 - Choose a university and enrol

Once you have chosen, you can apply 1 (directly) to the university for a place.

Step 2 - Apply for a student visa

Once you have confirmation of 2 (admission) and adequate 3 (funds) for the first year, you can apply for your visa.

Step 3 - Book your flight and accommodation

You can book your flight online and each university has an accommodation team that can help you find a place, especially for 4 (new) students.

By following this step-by-step approach, you can confidently tackle Flow-Chart questions in the IELTS Reading test and effectively complete the given diagrams or flow charts with the appropriate information.

Remember to practice with various examples and familiarize yourself with different types of flow charts to enhance your proficiency in this question type. Good luck with your IELTS preparation!