IELTS Reading Tip: Understand the Logic Behind True/False/Not Given (TFNG) QuestionsOne of the most feared and misunderstood question types in the IELTS Reading test is the True/False/Not Given format. Many high-scoring candidates lose marks here not because of their English ability, but because they don’t fully understand how this question works.
Let’s break it down and train you to approach these questions with clarity and confidence.
1. What Are True/False/Not Given Questions?
In these tasks, you’re presented with a set of factual statements. Your job is to decide whether each one:
- True — The statement agrees with the information in the passage.
False — The statement contradicts the information in the passage.
Not Given — The statement is not mentioned or there’s not enough information to decide.
Key note: Your answer must be based only on what’s written in the passage — not your own knowledge or assumptions.
2. Why Is This Question Type Tricky?
These questions test your ability to detect small differences in wording and meaning. IELTS deliberately uses paraphrased sentences, and sometimes inserts subtle traps that make a statement look “kind of true.”
Without a strong understanding of logic, many students confuse False with Not Given or fall into the trap of overthinking.
3. How to Tackle TFNG Questions Strategically
Step 1: Read the Statement Carefully
Don’t rush. Understand exactly what the sentence is claiming. Identify key nouns, verbs, qualifiers (like “always”, “never”, “some”, “only”).
Example: “All researchers agree that climate change is caused by humans.”
This is a strong claim because of the word “all”.
Step 2: Locate the Relevant Section of the Passage
Use scanning strategy to find where the topic is discussed. Focus only on that section — don’t read the whole passage again.
Step 3: Compare Meanings — Not Just Words
Don’t look for exact word matches. Look for paraphrased ideas. Ask:
- Does the passage clearly support this?
- Does the passage disagree or say the opposite?
- Or is there no information about it at all?
Step 4: Decide Logically
| If the passage says the same idea clearly | True | | If the passage says the opposite | False | | If the passage says nothing about it | Not Given |
4. Common Confusions Explained
True vs Not Given
A sentence may seem “true” based on logic, but unless the passage clearly confirms it, it’s Not Given.
“It must be true!” =
Wrong mindset.
False vs Not Given
This is even trickier. If the passage clearly contradicts the statement, mark it False. But if you can’t find any reference at all, even if you suspect it’s false, mark Not Given.
5. Watch for Absolutes and Quantifiers
IELTS loves using words like:
- All, always, never, only, every, completely — strong absolutes.
- Some, often, might, usually — moderate qualifiers.
If a statement uses “All” and the passage says “Some”, that’s a contradiction 
False.
6. Practice Makes Perfect
Here’s a quick way to sharpen your TFNG logic:
- Take 10 TFNG questions.
- For each, write a justification: “It’s True because…” or “Not Given because the passage doesn’t mention…”
- Focus on logic more than vocabulary match.
Mini Example for Practice
Statement: Penguins can fly short distances during migration.
Passage: Penguins are flightless birds and do not migrate.
The statement says: Penguins can fly during migration. The passage says: Penguins do not fly and do not migrate. Answer: False
Quick Summary
True: Statement matches the passage. False: Statement is contradicted. Not Given: Not enough information. Tip: Always look for logic, not guesses.
Final Thought
Mastering TFNG questions is a test of your logic and discipline, not just your vocabulary. With enough practice, you’ll develop the skill to read between the lines and avoid the traps that confuse most test-takers.