In the Pearson Test of English (PTE), time management and reading efficiency are essential skills. Among the most effective strategies to boost your reading performance are skimming and scanning. These two techniques help you process information quickly and accurately. Whether you’re aiming to improve your overall reading speed or target specific questions in the PTE Reading section, mastering these methods can make a significant difference in your score.
What is Skimming?
Skimming is the process of reading a text quickly to get a general idea of its content. Instead of focusing on every word or sentence, you glide over the material, picking up key ideas, tone, and structure. This technique is particularly useful for:
- Understanding the main theme of a passage
- Identifying the author’s purpose
- Try to understand the organization of the passage
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How to Skim Effectively:
- Read the title, subheadings, and any highlighted text
- Focus on those lines that give information according to the questions
- Look for keywords and repeated concepts
Using skimming at the start of a PTE reading task helps orient you within the passage, so you know where to return for more detailed reading if needed.
What is Scanning?
Skimming gives you a broad overview where whereas scanning is about precision. Scanning involves quickly searching for specific information, such as names, dates, numbers, or keywords related to a question. It’s a targeted technique that allows you to find answers without reading the entire passage.
How to Scan Efficiently:
- Know exactly what you’re looking for example, a specific name or statistic.
- Quickly go through the passage and look for visual cues like capital letters, digits, or unique words
- Once found, read the surrounding sentences for context or confirmation
This approach is beneficial for multiple-choice questions and fill-in-the-blanks, where the answer is embedded in the text but does not require deep comprehension of the whole passage.
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When to Use These Techniques in PTE
The PTE Reading section includes various task types, such as Reading & Writing: Fill-in-the-Blanks, Multiple-choice, Single Answer, and Re-order Paragraphs. Knowing when and how to apply skimming or scanning can save you valuable time.
- Skim the text for the overall idea about it.
- Then scan to locate precise answers as you approach each question.
- Combine both techniques when dealing with long or complex texts
Practice with Sumlingo to Master Skimming and Scanning
To truly excel in the PTE Reading section, consistent practice is essential. One of the most effective platforms to refine your skimming and scanning techniques is Sumlingo. It offers targeted exercises that simulate real PTE test conditions and help you:
- Interactive Practice for Real Test Scenarios: Sumlingo offers reading exercises designed to simulate actual PTE test conditions, helping you practice skimming and scanning in a realistic environment.
- Timed Exercises for Speed and Efficiency: Sumlingo’s timed drills enhance your ability to read quickly and identify key information, training you to perform efficiently under exam pressure.
- Detailed Feedback and Insights: You will receive instant performance feedback after each session, helping you track your progress and pinpoint areas for improvement.
- Different Practice Material: Test takers can practice with a variety of materials like PTE practice test, mock test and weightage wise test.
