IELTS: useful reading resources

We often hear that IELTS is such a tough exam, and it is indeed. However, as an experienced IELTS examiner and teacher, I have come to realise one of the main reasons why it is so hard is simply because candidates do not prepare smartly. Sure, practising mock tests is a great way to get familiar with the structure of the exam and develop the right technics, but if we want to demonstrate we are able to communicate in English almost as well as native speakers, we must pick up the habits of those native speakers we are trying to emulate. University students in the UK read a wide variety of texts on a daily basis, so it only makes sense that we do the same, doesn’t it? 

With that in mind, here’s a list of our top reading resources and ideas for you to tackle the IELTS Reading paper like a pro. 

1. Cambridge University Press - IELTS course books 

These contain excellent quality texts with activities for you to practise. Remember that these exams are written and structured in a very specific way, so this should be your number one resource. It is also worth noting that the latest versions are obviously more useful than older editions. You can get these books online or access free practice tests on official websites such as Cambridge University and the British Council.  

2. Online Magazines  

New Scientists Homepage, Live Science, National Geographic, Business Insider, The Economist… they offer great articles that serve as inspiration for the creators of the IELTS exam, so please give this a chance! You are very likely to face a scientific article in the test, especially if you are taking Academic IELTS.  

3. BBC 

Newspaper articles are also usually adapted by editors to serve the purposes of IELTS. Do not focus on one type of story though, it is always better to explore different sections such as politics, economics, current affairs, science, environment, etc. Also, the more topics you explore, the more varied the vocabulary you will acquire. 

4. Encyclopedias  

I have found a few IELTS Reading passages taken from online encyclopaedias myself, so I would suggest reading texts from here too. History, art, archaeology are just some of the areas worth taking a look at.  

5. Graded Readers 

Ok, you are not likely to be assessed with a story in your IELTS exam, but reading for pleasure is also a great way to familiarise yourself with written language. Reading short stories and novels will help you improve your vocabulary, grammar, spelling and cohesion, areas you will also be assessed on in other parts of the exam.  

I know it’s hard, but remember you shouldn’t concentrate on just one type of text, you must take advantage of the wide variety of resources at hand in order to succeed in your IELTS exam.  

Good luck and start reading!