Reading · 7 min read
TRUE, FALSE, NOT GIVEN: A Better Reading Strategy
This question type tests the relationship between a statement and the passage. The most common mistake is choosing FALSE when the passage simply does not give enough information.
By IELTSpeak Editorial TeamUpdated October 16, 2026
Define the three outcomes precisely
TRUE means the passage supports the statement. FALSE means the passage gives information that contradicts it. NOT GIVEN means the passage does not confirm or contradict the exact claim.
The answer must come from the passage, not from common knowledge or what seems likely in real life.
Compare the complete claim
Do not stop when you find one matching noun. Check quantity words (all, most, some, only), time references, comparisons, and cause-and-effect language. Because every question is worth one mark on the Academic Reading band calculator, missing two or three qualifier words can cost half a band.
If the passage discusses the general topic but misses one important part of the statement, that missing part matters.
Keep evidence beside your answer
In practice, underline or note the line that supports your decision. If you cannot point to evidence for TRUE or FALSE after 90 seconds, protect your 60-minute Reading time plan and consider whether NOT GIVEN is the stronger choice.
Review mistakes by asking whether you misread a paraphrase, overlooked a limiting word, or supplied information from outside the text. The full review method is in how to review IELTS Reading mistakes.
Key takeaway
TRUE supports, FALSE contradicts, NOT GIVEN lacks proof. Match the whole claim — not one word.
FAQ
Questions about this guide.
What is the difference between FALSE and NOT GIVEN in IELTS Reading?
FALSE means the passage directly contradicts the statement and proves the opposite claim. NOT GIVEN means the passage mentions the topic, but does not give enough information to confirm or deny the exact statement.
Do TRUE, FALSE, NOT GIVEN answers appear in passage order?
Yes. TRUE/FALSE/NOT GIVEN (and YES/NO/NOT GIVEN) statements follow the order of the text, so the evidence for question 3 appears between the evidence for questions 2 and 4.
What is the difference between TRUE/FALSE/NOT GIVEN and YES/NO/NOT GIVEN?
TRUE/FALSE/NOT GIVEN tests factual statements against information in the passage, whereas YES/NO/NOT GIVEN tests whether statements agree with the writer's views or claims. Always write the exact format requested in the instructions.
Practise the skill
Put this Reading strategy into practice
Try a timed Academic Reading mini-set and review every answer by skill.
Tools
Use this with a practice tool.
Related
Keep going in reading.
11 min read
Common IELTS Reading Mistakes: How to Review Them
The common IELTS Reading mistakes are paraphrase traps, FALSE vs NOT GIVEN mix-ups, heading-as-detail errors, and timing. See how 6 or 8 mistakes affect your score and how to review by cause.
Read guide6 min read
Matching Headings: How to Find the Main Idea of a Paragraph
Use paragraph purpose, five-word summaries, and elimination to solve IELTS Reading Matching Headings questions without falling for detail traps.
Read guide8 min read
IELTS Academic Reading Time Management: A 60-Minute Plan
The Academic Reading time limit is 60 minutes. Use a passage-by-passage plan, skip hard questions, and protect a few minutes to check your answers.
Read guide