General Training reading
IELTS General Training Reading: notices, adverts, workplace documents and one longer text — strategies for each section.
In this lesson you will
- Understand the three General Training sections
- Read everyday and workplace texts efficiently
- Manage time across different text types
Learn
Section 1: several short everyday texts (adverts, notices, timetables). Section 2: workplace texts (job descriptions, policies, training information). Section 3: one longer general-interest text.
Sections 1–2: texts are short but questions test details and conditions: Who can apply? When must forms be returned? What is not included? Scan headings, bullet points and small print.
Conditions language: unless, provided that, only if, must, are required to, are not permitted, at no extra cost, excluding, subject to availability.
Time: move quickly through Sections 1–2 (they’re usually easier) to leave around 25 minutes for Section 3.
Examples
- “Refunds are available only if tickets are returned 48 hours before the event.”
- “Staff are required to complete safety training within their first week.”
- “Bikes may be hired at no extra cost, subject to availability.”
Vocabulary
notice
a written announcement
small print
important details in small text
subject to availability
only if there are some left
excluding
not including
be required to
must
In real life
Read the notice from a sports centre.
Riverside Sports Centre — Summer Membership
Summer membership runs from 1 June to 31 August and costs £90 (£60 for students with valid ID).
Members may use the gym and pool at any time during opening hours. Fitness classes are included, excluding yoga, which costs £4 per session.
Guests may be brought at weekends only, for a fee of £5 per visit. Members are required to show their card at reception on every visit.
Refunds are available only within 14 days of purchase, provided the membership has not been used.
Practice
Students pay £60 for summer membership.
Lesson quiz
General Training Section 2 focuses on…
Review
Key points
- S1 everyday; S2 workplace; S3 longer text.
- Focus on details and conditions.
- Conditions language.
- Save time for Section 3.
What you learned
- ✓ I understand General Training Reading.
- ✓ I read notices and workplace texts accurately.
- ✓ I manage my time.