Introduction: The Importance of Skimming and Scanning
When it comes to the TOEFL iBT Reading section, time is of the essence. With a limited duration and lengthy passages, efficient reading becomes crucial. That’s where skimming and scanning techniques come into play. By mastering these strategies, you can quickly identify key information, grasp the main ideas, and answer questions accurately. So, let’s dive into the top 10 strategies!
1. Previewing the Passage
Before diving into the details, spend a few seconds previewing the passage. Read the title, headings, and any bold or italicized text. This gives you a general idea of the content and helps in creating a mental framework.
2. Identifying the Topic Sentences
Topic sentences act as signposts, indicating the main idea of a paragraph. By quickly identifying these sentences, you can grasp the overall structure and flow of the passage. Often, they’re found at the beginning or end of a paragraph.
3. Utilizing Headings and Subheadings
Headings and subheadings are like mini-summaries. They provide a snapshot of the content that follows. When scanning, pay attention to these sections as they often contain key information or main points.
4. Scanning for Keywords
Keywords are the backbone of efficient scanning. They’re the words or phrases that carry the most meaning. Circle or underline them as you go. This helps in quickly locating information during the question-answering phase.
5. Using Visual Cues
Visual cues, such as graphs, charts, or diagrams, are treasure troves of information. Don’t skip them! Spend a few extra seconds analyzing these visuals. They often convey complex ideas in a concise manner.
6. Not Getting Stuck on Difficult Words
In the TOEFL iBT Reading section, you don’t need to understand every single word. If you encounter a challenging vocabulary, don’t dwell on it. Instead, focus on the context and how it relates to the overall passage.
7. Paying Attention to Transition Words
Transition words, like ‘however’ or ‘moreover’, provide clues about the relationship between ideas. By noting these words, you can better understand the author’s argument or the passage’s structure.
8. Practicing Time Management
Efficient skimming and scanning go hand in hand with time management. During practice sessions, set a timer and challenge yourself to complete passages within the allocated time. This builds your speed and accuracy.
9. Reviewing Your Answers
Once you’ve answered all the questions, don’t rush to submit. Use the remaining time to review your answers. Look for any errors or areas where you can provide more precise answers.
10. Consistent Practice and Improvement
Like any skill, efficient reading requires practice. Set aside dedicated study sessions for skimming and scanning. With each practice, aim for improvement, both in terms of speed and accuracy.