IELTS Reading: True/False/Not Given & Yes/No/Not Given
The True/False/Not Given (T/F/NG) and Yes/No/Not Given (Y/N/NG) question types are common in the IELTS Reading test. They require you to match statements with information in a text and determine if the statements are True, False, or Not Given (or Yes, No, or Not Given). The difference between these two question types is subtle. True/False/Not Given questions are based on factual information, while Yes/No/Not Given questions are based on the writer's opinions, claims, or views.

Distinguishing False from Not Given
This is the most challenging aspect of these question types. Here's a clear breakdown:

True/Yes: The statement directly agrees with the information in the text. The core meaning is the same, even if different words (synonyms, paraphrasing) are used.

False/No: The statement directly contradicts the information in the text. The text presents an opposing or conflicting fact or opinion. This is a common pitfall; a statement isn't false just because it's not explicitly mentioned. It must be demonstrably wrong based on the provided text.

Not Given: The statement cannot be verified using the information in the text. There is no information, either confirming or contradicting, to support the statement. You can't say it's true or false because the text simply doesn't address it.

Practical Tips for Answering Accurately
Here are some strategies to help you navigate these questions effectively:

Read the Statement First: Before you read the passage, read the statement you need to evaluate. This helps you identify the key information you need to find.

Scan for Keywords: Look for keywords in the statement (e.g., proper nouns, dates, specific names) and scan the text to find where this information is located.

Read and Understand the Context: Once you've located the keywords, read the sentence(s) surrounding them carefully. Understand the full meaning of the sentences in the passage and how they relate to the statement.

Analyze for Contradiction:

For True/Yes: Does the passage support the statement? Look for synonyms and paraphrased ideas.

For False/No: Is there any information that directly contradicts the statement? If you find a direct conflict, the answer is False/No.

For Not Given: Is the statement completely unmentioned? Is there an absence of information about the topic of the statement? If so, the answer is Not Given.

Be Wary of "Traps": IELTS writers often use similar-sounding words or concepts to confuse test-takers. Be careful not to assume a statement is true just because a few words match. The overall meaning must align. For instance, the passage may say "most students" while the statement says "all students." This difference makes the statement False.

Don't Use Outside Knowledge: Your answer must be based only on the text provided. Do not use any prior knowledge or assumptions. If the information isn't in the passage, it's Not Given.