Reading questions are about your habits and taste. Even if you do not read much, you can answer well: say honestly what, when and why you read, or why you do not.
What the examiner asks on this topic
Do you like reading?
What kind of books do you read?
Do you prefer paper books or e-books?
Did you read a lot when you were a child?
Where do you usually read?
Has the way you read changed in recent years?
Model answers (aimed at band 7+)
Do you like reading?
I do, although I don't read as much as I used to. These days it's mostly in the evenings before bed, when I try to swap my phone for a book for at least twenty minutes.
What kind of books do you read?
Mainly non-fiction, especially books about psychology and history. Every now and then I'll pick up a detective novel, though, because sometimes I just want something light that I don't have to think about too hard.
Do you prefer paper books or e-books?
Paper books, without a doubt. I find I remember more when I can physically turn the pages, and I like seeing how far I've got. E-books are handy for travelling, but they're too easy to abandon halfway.
Has the way you read changed in recent years?
Yes, I'd say I read in shorter bursts now. I used to spend whole afternoons with a book, but now I read a chapter here and there, often on the metro. My attention span isn't what it used to be.
Useful words and phrases
| Phrase | Meaning |
|---|---|
| swap A for B | swap A for B |
| every now and then | every now and then |
| something light | something light |
| handy | handy |
| abandon halfway | abandon halfway |
| in shorter bursts | in shorter bursts |
| attention span | attention span |
| isn't what it used to be | isn't what it used to be |
How to answer
- If you do not read much, give the reason: "I don't read as much as I'd like, mainly because...".
- Genres: "non-fiction", "novels", "detective stories", "biographies", "self-help books".
- For comparison questions (paper or e-book), give both sides, then your choice.
- Link past and present with "used to".
Practise this topic now
The AI examiner asks you these questions, listens to your answers and shows your mistakes.
Everything about Part 1: the Part 1 guide. More topics: all articles.
Practise this topic now
The AI examiner asks you these questions, listens to your answers and shows your mistakes.
