Question order — easy types first vs follow paper sequence

The question

Paper presents questions 1-13 in fixed order. Sequential vs strategic:

Sequential: answer 1, 2, 3... in order.

Strategic: answer easiest types first (TFNG, short answer), hardest last (match heading, inference).

Pros/cons

Sequential approach

Pros:

• No back-and-forth
• Less cognitive load
• Questions often grouped by text section → natural flow

Cons:

• If stuck on Q3, may lose time before reaching easier Q8
• Hard questions early can drain confidence/time

Strategic approach

Pros:

• Quick wins boost confidence
• Banks easy points first
• Save hard questions for end (revisit if time)

Cons:

• Constant flipping between question sections
• Risk forgetting answers/repeating work
• Map of where you are gets confusing

IELTS reality

IELTS questions ARE grouped by text section:

• Questions 1-4: related to paragraphs 1-3
• Questions 5-8: related to paragraphs 4-6
• Questions 9-13: related to paragraphs 7-end

This grouping suggests SEQUENTIAL approach because:

• You're already reading those paragraphs
• Strategic flipping = re-reading

Recommended hybrid approach

Step 1: Quick skim of all questions (1 min)

Identify:

• Easy types: TFNG, sentence completion, short answer
• Medium types: MCQ, summary completion
• Hard types: match heading, match features, inference

Step 2: Answer SEQUENTIALLY in paper order

Most questions tied to specific paragraphs. Following order = natural progression.

Step 3: SKIP if stuck (mark with star)

If any question takes > 90 seconds:

• Mark with star
• Move to next question
• Return ONLY after finishing all easier questions

Step 4: Return to starred questions

With easy points banked, attempt hard ones in remaining time.

Time discipline

For 13 questions in 18-20 min:

• Avg 90 sec per question
• Easy ones (TFNG): 30-60 sec
• Hard ones (match heading): 2-3 min