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Moderate · Strategy guide

Sentence Completion

Sentence Completion requires you to find words directly from the passage to complete sentences. The sentence paraphrases the passage — your job is to recognise the paraphrase and find the exact words.

Step-by-Step Approach

  1. 1

    Note the word limit (usually NO MORE THAN TWO/THREE WORDS).

  2. 2

    Read the incomplete sentence — understand what type of word is needed (noun, adjective, process, etc.).

  3. 3

    Find the relevant passage section using the surrounding context.

  4. 4

    Extract the exact word(s) from the passage — do not paraphrase or change the form.

  5. 5

    Check your answer fits grammatically in the sentence.

Common Traps to Avoid

Word Limit Violation

Answers exceeding the word limit receive zero marks, even if correct.

If "calcium carbonate" is the answer, "a type of calcium carbonate" exceeds the limit.

Paraphrasing the Answer

The answer must be the EXACT word(s) from the passage.

"rapid growth" ≠ "fast growth" — use the passage's exact phrasing.

Band 8–9 Strategies

  • Sentences appear in passage order — locate each answer as you move through the text.

  • The answer is always a word or short phrase directly from the passage — never invented.

  • Singular vs plural matters. Check the sentence structure to determine the correct form.

Time Strategy

7 minutes. 1 minute per blank.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to approach IELTS Sentence Completion?

Sentence Completion requires you to find words directly from the passage to complete sentences. The sentence paraphrases the passage — your job is to recognise the paraphrase and find the exact words.

What is the most common trap in IELTS Sentence Completion?

Word Limit Violation: Answers exceeding the word limit receive zero marks, even if correct. For example, If "calcium carbonate" is the answer, "a type of calcium carbonate" exceeds the limit.

How much time should I spend on IELTS Sentence Completion questions?

7 minutes. 1 minute per blank.

Practice Sentence Fill NowAll Tips

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