OET Reading Part A: Tips for Speed and Accuracy

OET Reading Part A is a test of speed, search efficiency, and accuracy. You are given four short texts (labeled A, B, C, and D) and 20 questions, with a strict time limit of 15 minutes. This means you have less than 45 seconds per question, including the time needed to locate the information.

Many candidates fail this module not because their English is weak, but because they use the wrong reading strategy. This guide outlines how to build a high-scoring strategy for Part A. To build the speed needed for these sections, you can sign up for our 21-Day OET Reading Challenge.

The 60-Second Skim (Do This First)

When the test begins, do not start reading Text A line-by-line. Instead, spend exactly 60 seconds looking at the layout of the texts:

• Read the titles: What is the overall topic? (e.g., Asthma Management).
• Identify the purpose of each text:
  • Text A: Usually contains definitions, classifications, or diagnostic criteria.
  • Text B: Typically covers treatment guidelines, drug dosages, or clinical pathways.
  • Text C: Often presents procedural steps or monitoring flowcharts.
  • Text D: Frequently details contraindications, side effects, or safety advice.

Once you know the “map” of the texts, you will know exactly where to look for each question type.

Strategy by Question Type

Part A contains three distinct question sections:

1. Matching Questions (1-7)

You must decide which text (A, B, C, or D) contains specific information.

• Strategy: Use your 60-second map. If the question asks about “dosages of drug X,” you immediately know to look in the treatment text (usually Text B). Do not waste time reading the other texts.

2. Sentence Completion (8-14) & Short Answer (15-20)

You must write words or numbers directly from the texts to fill in a blank or answer a question.

• Strategy: Identify the keyword in the question stem (e.g., look for drug names, percentages, or specific anatomical terms). Scan the target text for that keyword, and copy the exact spelling from the text.
• Warning: Grammatical changes or spelling changes are marked incorrect. Copy the words exactly as they are written.

Crucial Time Management Rules

To ensure you complete all 20 questions:

1. Keep moving: If you cannot find an answer in 45 seconds, write a guess on your answer sheet and move to the next question. Do not leave blanks.
2. No backtracking: Do not spend time review-checking answers unless you have completed all 20 questions and have time left.
3. Watch the clock: At the 7-minute mark, you should be at least halfway through the questions (Question 10).

By training yourself to scan rather than read, you will master the speed required to pass OET Reading Part A.