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Top Strategies for OET Reading Part A: Skim & Scan Your Way to Success

Skimming and scanning
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One of the biggest challenges in OET Reading A is the time pressure. You need to answer 20 questions in just 15 minutes!

This can feel overwhelming, but with the right techniques—namely skimming and scanning—you can tackle the section more efficiently. 

Why is OET Reading A difficult?

  • Limited Time: Just 15 minutes for 20 questions.
  • Fast Understanding: You need to read and grasp questions rapidly.
  • Deciding Where to Look: Quickly locating the relevant part of the text.
  • Finding Answers Fast: Hunting down key information amidst lots of details.

Core Strategies for Reading A

Step 1: Skimming

  • Purpose: To get an overall sense of the text’s structure and main ideas without reading every word.
  • How: Look at titles, subheadings, and keywords. Notice whether the text focuses on actions (verbs), objects/things (nouns), or descriptions (adjectives).

Step 2: Scanning

  • Purpose: To find specific pieces of information, such as names, numbers, or specific terms.
  • How: Move your eyes quickly over the text, looking for the keyword(s) you need. Once you spot the keyword, stop and read more carefully around it.

Watch the video below and try the interactive activities designed to help you refine your skimming and scanning skills.

Free Handout!

Don’t forget to download our free handout—it includes extra tips, practice exercises, and a quick-reference guide to skimming and scanning.

Equip yourself with the strategies you need to succeed in OET Reading A!

Want to pass the OET exam? We want to help!

SLC was the OET-accredited Premium Preparation Provider in Europe and is the leading provider of OET preparation services to the UK National Health Service.

SLC offers a wide range of OET preparation services, including self-study, tutoring, practice tests, and writing correction.

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