Every option should be tested against the text. An option is right only if you can point to a line that supports all of it. A wrong option fails in one of four ways.
This lesson belongs to reading short texts. It builds on recognising paraphrase instead of identical words, because you need to match meaning before you can reject an option.
Why can an option be wrong?
An option may be wrong because it contradicts the text, because the text does not mention it, because it is true but answers a different question, or because it goes too far.
| Type | Meaning | Example idea |
|---|---|---|
| Contradicts | Says the opposite | “The pool is open all day” when it closes early |
| Not stated | Text never says it | “Students enjoy swimming” |
| Wrong question | True, but not asked | Right fact, wrong detail |
| Too strong | Uses “always” or “never” | “Everyone must swim” |
Worked example: two options that seem right
Text: “The swimming pool will close at 5 pm on Friday for cleaning. On Saturday it will open as usual, and lessons will continue. Students who want extra practice may book a lane in advance.”
Question: What is true about the pool on Saturday?
- A: “The pool is closed for cleaning.”
- B: “The pool opens as usual and lessons continue.”
- C: “Lessons stop until Monday.”
- D: “Lanes must be booked by everyone.”
Test each option against the text.
- A uses “cleaning” from the text, but the cleaning is on Friday. It contradicts “open as usual” on Saturday.
- B matches “open as usual” and “lessons will continue”.
- C contradicts “lessons will continue”.
- D is too strong: only students who want extra practice may book a lane.
The answer is B. Notice that A was tempting because it used a word from the text.
The mistake that costs marks
The common slip is to pick the option that sounds most reasonable. It feels right because it fits what you already know, not because the text says it.
| Step | Wrong | Right |
|---|---|---|
| Choice basis | “This sounds right” | “Sentence 2 says open as usual” |
| Result | Chooses A | Chooses B |
The fix is to write a short evidence note, such as “sentence 2”, beside the option you choose.
What if the text does not mention it?
If you cannot find any line that supports an option, reject it. Do not fill the gap with your own knowledge.
The text is the only source that counts in a short-text question.
Check yourself
Text: “The bus to the museum leaves at 8 am. Students should bring a packed lunch because the café will be closed.”
Question: Why should students bring lunch? (a) The bus is late. (b) The café will be closed. (c) The museum has no toilets.
Answer
(b). The text says “because the café will be closed”. Option (a) is not stated and option (c) is not mentioned, so both are unsupported.
What to study next
Try all four skills on the reading short texts practice set. The claim, evidence and revision desk can check your evidence notes. If you would like a teacher to read with you, see online one-to-one English tuition.