True False Not Given is a common question type in the Reading section of the IELTS exam.
Candidates read statements and decide whether each statement:
- True – matches the information in the passage
- False – contradicts the information in the passage
- Not Given – the passage does not clearly say
This question type tests careful reading and evidence-based decision-making.
Where It Appears
True False Not Given questions usually appear in:
- IELTS Academic Reading
- IELTS General Training Reading
What It Tests
This task checks your ability to:
- Understand exact meaning
- Recognize paraphrasing
- Compare statements with text
- Distinguish contradiction from missing information
- Avoid using personal knowledge
Meaning of Each Answer
True
The statement agrees with the passage.
Example
Passage: The museum opens at 9 a.m.
Statement: The museum opens at 9 a.m.
Answer: True
False
The statement contradicts the passage.
Example
Passage: The museum opens at 9 a.m.
Statement: The museum opens at 10 a.m.
Answer: False
Not Given
The statement information is not stated clearly in the passage.
Example
Passage: The museum opens at 9 a.m.
Statement: The museum is popular with tourists.
Answer: Not Given
(No information about popularity.)
Why It Is Difficult
Many candidates confuse:
- False = opposite information is stated
- Not Given = no clear information stated
This is the biggest challenge.
Common Clues
Statements often use paraphrasing, not identical wording.
Example:
Passage: increased rapidly
Statement: grew quickly
Same meaning.
High-Scoring Strategy
Read the Statement Carefully
Identify key words.
Find Relevant Text
Locate matching part of passage.
Compare Meaning
Do not match words only.
Decide by Evidence
Use text only.
If No Clear Evidence
Choose Not Given.
Common Mistakes Candidates Make
Using Outside Knowledge
Only the passage matters.
Guessing From Logic
Reasonable assumptions may still be wrong.
Confusing False and Not Given
Check whether opposite information is actually written.
Reading Too Fast
Small words like some, all, never, often matter.
Example Mini Practice
Passage
Many students prefer studying in the morning because they feel more focused.
Statement 1
Some students like studying in the morning.
Answer: True
Statement 2
Most students study at night.
Answer: False
Statement 3
Morning study improves exam results.
Answer: Not Given
Useful Language Signals
Watch for:
- all / some
- always / sometimes
- more / less
- only / mainly
- before / after
These can change meaning.
Quick Tips
- True = same meaning
- False = opposite meaning
- Not Given = missing information
- Never rely on opinion
Why Strong Candidates Perform Well
Top scorers compare ideas precisely and stay disciplined by using only written evidence from the passage.
