The Sentence Completion Task is a question type in the IELTS exam where you complete incomplete sentences using information from the reading passage or listening recording.
You must fill in the missing word(s), number(s), or phrase(s) according to the instructions.
Where It Appears
The Sentence Completion Task can appear in:
- Listening test
- Reading test
It is used in both IELTS Academic and IELTS General Training.
What It Tests
This task checks your ability to:
- Understand specific details
- Identify key information
- Recognize paraphrasing
- Follow grammar patterns
- Use correct spelling
- Apply word-limit instructions
Typical Instructions
You may see instructions such as:
- Write ONE WORD ONLY
- Write NO MORE THAN TWO WORDS
- Write NO MORE THAN THREE WORDS AND/OR A NUMBER
You must follow the word limit exactly.
Example (Reading)
Question:
The hotel was built in the year ________.
Passage:
The building was completed in 1892 and later became a hotel.
Correct Answer:
1892
Example (Listening)
Question:
Students must bring their ________ to the laboratory.
Recording:
Please remember to bring your passport to the laboratory.
Correct Answer:
passport
Why It Matters
Sentence Completion Tasks can provide valuable marks because answers are usually direct and factual.
They reward candidates who can:
- Find exact information quickly
- Understand sentence meaning
- Notice grammar clues
- Write accurate answers
Common Mistakes Candidates Make
Ignoring Word Limit
If the rule says one word, two words are incorrect.
Wrong Grammar Form
The completed sentence must be grammatically correct.
Spelling Errors
Correct meaning with incorrect spelling may lose marks.
Missing Synonyms
The source may use different words than the question.
Adding Extra Words
Only write what is required.
High-Scoring Strategies
Read the Whole Sentence First
Understand the meaning before searching for the answer.
Predict the Missing Word Type
Decide if the blank needs:
- Noun
- Verb
- Adjective
- Number
- Date
Use Grammar Clues
Example:
- “an ________” likely begins with a vowel sound
- “many ________” likely needs a plural noun
Find Keywords
Locate matching ideas in the passage or recording.
Check Final Accuracy
Ensure spelling and grammar fit the sentence.
Listening Tips
- Answers usually come in order.
- Listen for numbers, names, places, and corrections.
- Be ready for paraphrased wording.
Example: “Bring identification” may mean “passport.”
Reading Tips
- Scan for keywords quickly.
- Match meaning, not only exact words.
- Read surrounding sentences for confirmation.
Example Word Limit Rules
Instruction:
NO MORE THAN TWO WORDS
Correct:
- train ticket
- safety helmet
Wrong:
- a train ticket
- the safety helmet today
Quick Tips
- Complete the sentence naturally.
- Follow the word limit exactly.
- Use words from the source text or recording.
- Grammar matters as much as meaning.
