Tip # 30 Reading (general) Tip for functional Reading Headings Match : Use Active Prediction + Keyword Synergy)

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Pre-Reading Tip (Active Prediction + Keyword Synergy)
Tip: For "Which paragraph (A-F)?" questions, combine headings analysis with targeted hypothesis testing for maximum efficiency:

1. Analyze Headings First (5 seconds)
   • Quickly read only the headings (A-F) to grasp the document’s structure.
   • Example: Seeing "Refund Policy" (A) and "Delivery Options" (B) tells you:
     • A = Returns, B = Shipping → Lets you predict where answers might live.
2. For Each Statement, Form a Hypothesis
   • Before scanning the text, ask:
     • "Based on the headings, which paragraph(s) logically should contain this?"
   • Example:
     • Statement: "How to get a replacement for a lost voucher."
     • Hypothesis: Likely under "Gift Cards" (E) or "Refund Policy" (A).
3. Target Scan with Keywords
   • Only read the predicted paragraph(s) for:
     • Exact keywords (e.g., "voucher")
     • Synonyms (e.g., "lost" → "replaced if lost" in E)
4. Confirm or Adjust
   • If the hypothesis is wrong (e.g., "voucher" isn’t in A), check the next most likely heading.
5. Keyword Fallback
   • If stuck, use classic keyword scanning, but prioritize paragraphs from your hypothesis.

Why This Works Better

• Saves Time: You avoid reading all 6 paragraphs for every question.
• Reduces Errors: Headings help avoid distractor traps (e.g., "documentation" appears in both B and D, but B’s heading signals it’s for shipping).
• Sharpens Focus: You engage active reading (predicting) instead of passive scanning.

A. Refund Policy
Customers may request refunds within 30 days of purchase. Items must be unused and returned in original packaging. Refunds are processed within 5 business days and issued to the original payment method.
B. Delivery Options
Standard shipping (3–5 business days) is free for orders over 50.Expressdelivery(1–2days)costs50.Expressdelivery(1–2days)costs10. International orders require additional fees and customs documentation.
C. Loyalty Program
Members earn 1 point per $1 spent. Points can be redeemed for discounts or free products. Gold members (100+ points/year) get free express shipping and early access to sales.
D. Product Warranty
All electronics come with a 1-year manufacturer’s warranty. Warranty claims must include proof of purchase and a description of the defect. Repairs take 7–10 business days.
E. Gift Cards
Gift cards never expire and can be used online or in-store. They are non-refundable but can be replaced if lost, provided the original receipt is shown.
F. Price Match Guarantee
If you find a lower price at a competitor within 14 days of purchase, we’ll match it. The item must be identical and in stock. Online price matches require a screenshot.
Questions
Write the correct letter, A-F, for which paragraph contains the following information?

1. How to get a replacement for a lost voucher.
2. The time frame for returning an unwanted item.
3. Benefits for customers who spend frequently.
4. Conditions for getting a faster delivery service.
5. What to do if you find a cheaper product elsewhere.
6. How long a repair typically takes under guarantee.
7. Documentation needed for overseas shipments.

Answers:
8. E
9. A
10. C
11. B
12. F
13. D
14. B

Post-Reading Application
Example: Question 8
"How to get a replacement for a lost voucher."

1. Hypothesis: "Voucher" ≈ "gift card" → Likely E ("Gift Cards").
2. Scan E: "can be replaced if lost" → Confirmed (E).
3. Time Spent: 5 seconds (vs. 20+ sec reading all paragraphs).

Example: Question 14
"Documentation needed for overseas shipments."

1. Hypothesis: "Overseas shipments" → B ("Delivery Options").
2. Scan B: "International orders require... customs documentation" → Confirmed (B).
3. Avoided Distractor: "Documentation" also in D (warranty claims), but heading made B the clear choice.

Common Pitfalls & Fixes
Mistake                                           Solution
Skipping heading analysis              Spend 5 sec to map headings first.
Over-relying on keywords               Use them only after hypothesizing.
Ignoring logic                                    Ask: "Where would this info live?" before scanning.

Key Takeaway:
Treat this question type like a library search—use the headings (A-F) as your index to locate answers strategically, not randomly.

Bonus: Time-Saving Drill
Practice with only headings + first sentences of paragraphs to train your hypothesis muscle. This mirrors the IELTS speed requirement!

Example:

• Heading: "Loyalty Program"
• First sentence: "Members earn points for every dollar spent."
• Hypothesis: Questions about rewards/discounts will be here.

This method cuts 50% of reading time while improving accuracy—a game-changer for General Training candidates.

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