"Today" IELTS Reading Passage: Practice Questions & Tips

Did You Know The IELTS exam is accepted by over 11,500 educational institutions in more than 140 countries, making it one of the most widely recognized English proficiency tests globally.

Over 140 countries recognize IELTS (International English Language Testing System) scores for university admissions and professional registration, making it one of the most widely accepted English proficiency tests globally. Among the four sections, the IELTS Reading section poses one of the toughest challenges, with candidates tackling 40 questions across three complex passages within 60 minutes.

On average, the global band score for IELTS Academic Reading is 6.26, while IELTS General Training Reading stands at 5.74, highlighting the varying difficulty levels within different IELTS exam. 

To excel in this section, it's crucial to practice with diverse passages, such as those from "Today," which cover the full range of question types, from matching headings to True/False/Not Given, and summary responses. These question types closely mimic the range and complexity found in the actual exam.

Familiarity with the Today IELTS reading passage is key to achieving the competitive IELTS band scores (6.5 to 7) required by top institutions and organizations.

Today IELTS Reading Passage: A Comprehensive Overview

The IELTS Reading section awards up to 40 raw marks, each corresponding to a single question, and these are directly converted into the final band score; that is, 30 correct answers typically equate to a band 7. 

Each passage in the IELTS exam contains between 700 and 950 words, challenging candidates with dense academic language and complex argumentation. The "Today" passage is a typical example, designed to test a range of reading skills such as skimming, scanning, inference, and understanding logical arguments.

Below is an overview of specific types of "Today" IELTS reading passage questions. 

Question Type	Significance	Description
Multiple Choice	Tests comprehension and ability to identify specific details	Choose the correct answer from the options based on passage details.
Matching Headings	Assesses understanding of main ideas and paragraph structure	Match headings to sections/paragraphs reflecting main themes.
True/False/Not Given / Yes/No/Not Given	Evaluates the ability to distinguish between factual information and opinions	Decide if statements agree with the passage, contradict, or are not stated.
Matching Information	Checks skill in locating specific information within the text	Match statements to sections where information is found.
Sentence/Note/Table/Flow-chart Completion	Measures the ability to summarize and extract key information	Complete sentences with words from the passage.
Short Answer Questions	Tests the ability to provide concise, accurate responses from the passage	Answer questions briefly using information from the passage.

Preparing for the IELTS academic reading test? Increase your test score today by improving your reading skills with free practice papers. Start practicing now to see real results!

Next, let's have a look at sample passages to see exactly what test-takers encounter on exam day.

"Today" IELTS Reading Passage: Sample Passage

In the IELTS Reading test, you'll face three passages and 40 questions in just 60 minutes, each answer worth one mark. To maximize your IELTS reading band score, remember these key points:

• Read the questions before the passage to focus your attention on relevant information.
• Skim the passage to get the general idea, then scan for keywords when answering questions.
• Pay close attention to instructions, especially word limits and answer formats.
• Don't spend too long on any single question; if unsure, move on and return later if time allows.
• Write answers directly on the answer sheet and use all capital letters for clarity.
• Focus on finding answers, not understanding every word, and use context clues for unfamiliar vocabulary.
• Check your answers if time permits to catch any avoidable mistakes.

Now, let’s explore a sample "Today" IELTS reading passage that reflects the IELTS test format, its style, length, and complexity:

Today- The Paradox of Choice in Modern Life

Today, more than ever before, individuals are confronted with an unprecedented array of choices in nearly every aspect of life. Whether it’s the brands of breakfast cereal lining supermarket shelves or the multitude of career paths available to graduates, the sheer volume of options can be both liberating and overwhelming. In fact, the modern world is characterized by an abundance of alternatives, a phenomenon that has become a defining feature of contemporary society. This explosion of choice is often regarded as a symbol of progress and personal freedom. Supermarkets, for instance, now carry hundreds of varieties of products, from organic and gluten-free to international and gourmet options. At the same time, the digital revolution has multiplied choices exponentially. Online shopping platforms present consumers with thousands of items at the click of a button, while streaming services offer endless libraries of movies, music, and television shows. The workplace, too, has evolved: employees are encouraged to take initiative, pursue projects that align with their interests, and even work remotely from locations around the globe. However, psychologists have coined the term “choice overload” to describe the stress and indecision that can result from having too many alternatives. Research conducted at a leading university found that participants presented with 24 varieties of jam were significantly less likely to make a purchase than those offered only six, suggesting that more options do not always lead to greater satisfaction. This counterintuitive finding has been replicated across various domains, including retirement plans, healthcare, and even dating apps, where an abundance of options can lead to second-guessing and regret. The phenomenon is not limited to consumer goods or digital content. In the workplace, the expectation that employees will chart their own course and select projects that best suit their skills and interests can be both empowering and anxiety-inducing. While autonomy can promote creativity and motivation, it may also lead to uncertainty as workers struggle to identify the “right” path among many. Some employees report feeling overwhelmed by the sheer number of possibilities, leading to decision fatigue and, in some cases, burnout. Similarly, students choosing university courses frequently report feeling pressure to make decisions that will shape their futures, sometimes without adequate guidance or information. The fear of making the “wrong” choice can be paralyzing, resulting in procrastination or chronic dissatisfaction. Despite these challenges, advocates of abundant choice argue that it is fundamental to personal freedom and self-expression. They contend that the ability to tailor one’s experiences, to select products, careers, and lifestyles that reflect individual values and preferences, is a hallmark of modern society. The proliferation of choices enables people to pursue unique paths, discover new interests, and adapt to changing circumstances. For example, the rise of online education platforms allows learners to access courses from top universities worldwide, empowering them to acquire new skills and pivot careers as needed. Similarly, the gig economy offers flexible work arrangements, enabling individuals to balance personal and professional priorities in ways that were previously unimaginable. Critics, however, warn that excessive choice can lead to decision fatigue, regret, and even paralysis, ultimately diminishing well-being. Studies have shown that when faced with too many options, people are more likely to experience anxiety, second-guess their decisions, and feel less satisfied with their choices. In some cases, the pressure to optimize every decision can lead to chronic stress and a sense of inadequacy. This is particularly evident in the realm of social media, where individuals are constantly exposed to curated images of others’ seemingly perfect lives, fueling a fear of missing out and a desire to keep options open at all costs. Moreover, the impact of abundant choice is not evenly distributed across society. Those with greater resources, education, and support systems are often better equipped to navigate complex decisions, while others may feel overwhelmed or excluded. For example, exploring healthcare options can be especially daunting for individuals with limited literacy or financial means, leading to disparities in access and outcomes. Similarly, the pressure to choose the “best” school, career, or investment can exacerbate social inequalities, as not everyone has the same information or opportunities. As society continues to evolve and technology expands the range of available options, the debate over the benefits and drawbacks of choice is likely to intensify. Some experts advocate for “choice architecture,” the deliberate design of environments that simplify decision-making and guide people toward beneficial outcomes. For instance, automatically enrolling employees in retirement savings plans, while allowing them to opt out, has been shown to increase participation rates without restricting freedom. Others suggest that cultivating decision-making skills, such as setting clear priorities and learning to accept “good enough” outcomes, can help individuals cope with the pressures of modern life. What remains clear is that navigating the landscape of possibilities is a defining feature of life today. The challenge lies not in eliminating choice, but in learning how to manage it effectively. By developing strategies to cope with choice overload, individuals can harness the benefits of abundance while minimizing its potential pitfalls. Whether in the supermarket, the workplace, or the broader context of life decisions, the ability to make informed, confident choices is more important than ever in our complex and rapidly changing world.

Start your IELTS exam preparation! Follow a structured plan with proven techniques and expert guidance.

Now that you have explored the "today" IELTS reading passage, it's time to put your comprehension skills to the test.

IELTS Reading Passage Answers for "Today": Practice Questions and Answers

To achieve a good IELTS band score in the Reading module, you must practice various question types, such as multiple choice questions, fill-in-the-blanks, summary completion, and matching headings. 

Here are some sample practice questions mirroring the 13-question layout commonly found in IELTS reading passage answers for "Today". 

Question 1-5 Type of question: Multiple-Choice Questions

In the IELTS Reading section, MCQs often focus on main ideas, specific details, and the author's intent. To answer effectively, you should quickly identify keywords in both the question and the passage, then eliminate distractors that do not directly address what is being asked. 

Let's have a look at some sample MCQs: 

Q1. What is the main idea conveyed in the opening paragraph of the passage?

A) People today have fewer choices than in the past

B) Having many options is always beneficial

C) The abundance of choices is both liberating and overwhelming

D) Career choices are more important than consumer choices

Focus: Identify the author's tone and main point in the introduction.

Strategy: Skim the first paragraph for contrasting words like "liberating" and "overwhelming."

Impact: Recognizing the main idea early helps you frame the rest of the passage and answer global questions accurately.

Answer: C) The abundance of choices is both liberating and overwhelming Explanation: The opening paragraph highlights that individuals face an unprecedented array of choices in nearly every aspect of life, describing this as both liberating and overwhelming.

Q2. According to the passage, what did the jam experiment reveal about consumer behavior?

A) More choices always lead to higher satisfaction

B) Fewer choices can encourage decision-making

C) People dislike jam

D) Choices do not affect consumer decisions

Focus: Look for experimental evidence and its interpretation.

Strategy: Find the section mentioning research and focus on the outcome.

Impact: Understanding the role of examples helps in answering application-based questions.

Answer: B) Fewer choices can encourage decision-making Explanation: The passage states that participants offered 24 varieties of jam were less likely to make a purchase than those offered only six, suggesting that fewer options can facilitate decisions.

Q3. What is one negative effect of excessive choice in the workplace, as discussed in the passage?

A) Increased salaries

B) Improved teamwork

C) Anxiety and decision fatigue

D) Reduced job opportunities

Focus: Pinpoint the workplace context and associated consequences.

Strategy: Match keywords such as “anxiety,” “decision fatigue,” and “burnout” to the correct answer.

Impact: Matching context-specific vocabulary helps narrow down the best answer.

Answer: C) Anxiety and decision fatigue Explanation: The passage notes that too many choices can lead to anxiety, decision fatigue, and even burnout among employees.

Q4. How do critics of abundant choice view its impact on well-being?

A) It increases happiness for everyone

B) It leads to regret, anxiety, and even paralysis

C) It has no significant impact

D) It helps people make better decisions

Focus: Distinguish between the viewpoints of advocates and critics.

Strategy: Identify the section discussing critics’ concerns and note the negative language.

Impact: Understanding opposing perspectives is crucial for inference questions.

Answer: B) It leads to regret, anxiety, and even paralysis Explanation: Critics warn that too much choice can cause decision fatigue, regret, and even paralysis, diminishing overall well-being.

Q5. What solution does the passage suggest for managing the challenges of abundant choice?

A) Eliminating all choices

B) Relying solely on technology

C) Developing decision-making skills and using choice architecture

D) Avoiding supermarkets and workplaces

Focus: Look for proposed solutions or recommendations in the concluding sections.

Strategy: Scan the final paragraphs for terms like “experts advocate” and “suggest.”

Impact: Recognizing solutions or recommendations helps answer questions about the author’s purpose or advice.

Answer: C) Developing decision-making skills and using choice architecture Explanation: The passage suggests strategies like “choice architecture” and cultivating decision-making skills as ways to cope with choice overload.

Now let's look at fill-in-the-blank questions in today IELTS reading passage. 

Question 6-10 Type of question: Fill in the Blanks

In this section, you have to complete sentences with the most appropriate word or phrase from the options provided. Fill-in-the-blanks question type appears in nearly 30% of IELTS Reading tests and typically accounts for 5 out of the 40 total questions. This task tests your ability to identify key details, understand context, and ensure grammatical accuracy. 

Here are sample fill-in-the-blank questions: 

Q6. The term used by psychologists to describe the stress caused by too many alternatives is __________.

A) decision fatigue

B) choice overload

C) personal freedom

D) regret

Focus: Identify technical terms introduced in the text.

Strategy: Scan for direct definitions or phrases in quotation marks.

Impact: Recognizing key terminology ensures you select the most accurate answer.

Answer: B) choice overload Explanation: The passage states, "psychologists have coined the term 'choice overload' to describe the stress and indecision that can result from having too many alternatives."

Q7. According to research, when offered 24 varieties of jam, participants were __________ more likely to make a purchase than those offered only six.

A) equally

B) more

C) less

D) not

Focus: Compare outcomes in experimental scenarios.

Strategy: Look for comparative language such as "more" or "less" in the passage.

Impact: Understanding comparative results helps in accurately completing summary statements.

Answer: C) less Explanation: The passage explains that participants presented with 24 varieties were "significantly less likely to make a purchase."

Q8. In the workplace, too many choices can lead to employee __________.

A) autonomy

B) burnout

C) promotion

D) satisfaction

Focus: Locate the consequences of excessive choice in specific contexts.

Strategy: Match context clues (workplace, employees) with outcomes listed in the options.

Impact: Contextual matching helps avoid distractors and ensures relevance.

Answer: B) burnout Explanation: The text mentions that employees can feel overwhelmed, leading to "decision fatigue and, in some cases, burnout."

Q9. Critics argue that excessive choice can cause regret, anxiety, and even __________.

A) paralysis

B) happiness

C) motivation

D) creativity

Focus: Identify the sequence of negative outcomes as presented by critics.

Strategy: Scan for lists or series of effects in the text.

Impact: Recognizing patterns and lists aids in finding the correct blank filler.

Answer: A) paralysis Explanation: The passage states, "Critics, however, warn that excessive choice can lead to decision fatigue, regret, and even paralysis."

Q10. To help people manage choice overload, some experts recommend the use of __________.

A) technology

B) choice architecture

C) social media

D) financial incentives

Focus: Look for solutions or recommendations in the concluding sections.

Strategy: Scan for phrases like "experts advocate" or "recommend."

Impact: Identifying solutions is a common requirement in IELTS fill-in-the-blank questions.

Answer: B) choice architecture Explanation: The passage notes, "Some experts advocate for 'choice architecture', the deliberate design of environments that simplify decision-making."

Let’s now shift to another common IELTS reading passage answers for Today question type: TRUE or FALSE

Question 11-13 Type of question: TRUE or FALSE

In this type of question, you must decide if each statement matches the information in the passage (TRUE) or directly contradicts it (FALSE). This type of question appears in both Academic and General Training IELTS Reading tests and typically makes up about 20–25% of the total 40 questions.

Here are the samples of “today” IELTS reading passage questions to practice: 

Q11. The passage claims that having more choices always leads to greater satisfaction.

A. True

B. False

Focus: Identify absolute statements in the question and compare them to the nuanced findings in the text.

Strategy: Look for words like “always” or “never,” which are rarely supported in academic texts.

Impact: Spotting absolutes helps you quickly identify statements likely to be FALSE.

Answer: FALSE Explanation: The passage specifically states that more options do not always lead to greater satisfaction, citing the jam experiment as evidence.

Q12. Some employees experience burnout due to the overwhelming number of choices in the workplace.

A. True

B. False

Focus: Find direct references to workplace consequences.

Strategy: Match keywords like “burnout,” “overwhelmed,” and “workplace” to the statement.

Impact: Matching specific details ensures accuracy in TRUE or FALSE questions.

Answer: TRUE Explanation: The passage notes that employees can feel overwhelmed by too many possibilities, which can lead to decision fatigue and, in some cases, burnout.

To make your IELTS preparation convenient and effective, online coaching is the ideal choice. Discover the best way to prepare for IELTS with online coaching, offering practical study tools that you can access from anywhere. Learn more about how to prepare for IELTS from home.

Before you tackle more questions or analyze your answers, it’s essential to build a strong vocabulary foundation, especially for the "Today" IELTS Reading Passage. 

Key Vocabulary for Today IELTS Reading Passage

A significant challenge for many IELTS candidates is encountering unfamiliar words or phrases, which can slow reading speed and impact accuracy. The average IELTS exam pattern for the reading passage contains over 800-950 words, up to 10% of which may be academic or less common terms.

Let’s look at a table of important vocabulary and how each is used in the context of the "Today" IELTS reading passage:

Vocabulary Term	Meaning	Contextual Usage
Unprecedented	Never done or known before; exceptional	"Individuals are confronted with an unprecedented array of choices…"
Liberating	Providing freedom and removing restrictions	"The sheer volume of options can be both liberating and overwhelming."
Choice overload	Stress or difficulty caused by too many options	"Psychologists have coined the term' choice overload'…"
Decision fatigue	Mental exhaustion from making too many decisions	"…leading to decision fatigue and, in some cases, burnout."
Autonomy	The right or condition of self-government; independence	"While this autonomy can foster creativity and motivation…"
Paralysis	Inability to act or make a decision	"…excessive choice can lead to decision fatigue, regret, and even paralysis."
Proliferation	Rapid increase in numbers	"The proliferation of choices enables people to pursue unique paths…"
Curated	Carefully selected and organized	"…exposed to curated images of others' seemingly perfect lives…"
Disparities	Differences, especially those causing inequality	"…leading to disparities in access and outcomes."
Choice architecture	The design of different ways in which choices can be presented to consumers	"Some experts advocate for ‘choice architecture'…"
Burnout	Physical or mental collapse caused by overwork or stress	“…leading to decision fatigue and, in some cases, burnout.”
Inequity	Lack of fairness or justice	“…can exacerbate social inequalities, as not everyone has the same information or opportunities.”

Wondering if Computer-based IELTS is easier? Find out now and learn how to download your IELTS score card easily. 

Let's also explore key collocations for IELTS and important phrases that are commonly used in the types of societies reading answers. 

Collocations and Phrases

Collocations are combinations of words that frequently appear together in English. Understanding collocations and set phrases is essential for IELTS success because they enhance your fluency and Lexical Resource score, a key criterion for achieving IELTS Band score 7 or higher.  

Here’s a list of some of the must-know collocations and top phrases for "Today" IELTS Reading Passage: 

Collocation / Phrase	Meaning
Make a decision	To decide; to choose among options
Meet the requirements/needs	To fulfill what is necessary or expected
Satisfy demands/needs	To provide what is wanted or needed
Face challenges	To encounter difficulties
Play a vital/crucial role	To be very important in a situation
Take initiative	To act independently and show leadership
Cause concern	To make people worried
Lead to (something)	To result in a particular outcome
Experience burnout	To feel exhausted due to overwork
Raise awareness	To increase knowledge or understanding of an issue
Bring about change	To cause something to change
Reach a consensus	To come to an agreement
Encounter difficulties	To face problems

Also Read: How to Improve IELTS Score from 6.5 to 7

Many high-scoring candidates still lose marks due to avoidable mistakes and time pressure, making it essential to understand common pitfalls and adopt proven strategies.

Common Mistakes and Useful Tips in Today IELTS Reading Passage

IELTS Reading is a challenging, time-pressured test; over 2.5 million candidates attempt it yearly, but only about 25% achieve Band 7 or above in Reading. The main challenges include strict timing (just 60 minutes for 40 questions), complex paraphrasing, and a wide range of question types.

Below are some common IELTS mistakes and reading tips to fix them:  

1. Not Skimming and Scanning Effectively

• Many candidates try to read every word, which wastes valuable time.
• Tip: Skim the passage first for the main idea, then scan for keywords when answering questions. This approach helps you identify where answers are likely to be found.

2. Ignoring Instructions and Word Limits

• A frequent error is overlooking specific instructions, such as word limits or answer formats.
• Tip: Always read instructions carefully and stick to the required word count. For example, if the instruction says “NO MORE THAN TWO WORDS,” writing three words will result in a loss of mark.

3. Overlooking Keywords and Synonyms

• Relying solely on exact keyword matches can be misleading, as IELTS often uses synonyms and paraphrasing.
• Tip: Train yourself to recognize synonyms and paraphrased information. For instance, “choice overload” might be reworded as “stress from too many options” in a question.

4. Spending Too Much Time on One Question

• Getting stuck on a difficult question can cause you to run out of time for others.
• Tip: If you’re unsure, make your best guess and move on. Mark the question and return to it if time allows.

5. Misinterpreting True/False/Not Given Questions

• Many test-takers assume information or overlook negatives like “not” or "never.”
• Tip: Answer only based on what the passage states. Watch for negatives and don’t make assumptions beyond the text.

6. Leaving Answers Blank

• Some candidates skip questions they find difficult, but there’s no penalty for wrong answers.
• Tip: Attempt every question, even if you have to guess. A blank guarantees no marks, while a guess could be correct.

Also Read: IELTS Preparation Tips & Tricks

Explore more IELTS Reading samples with answers, including Eco Tourism, Dyslexia, The Meaning and Power of Smell, and Mental Gymnastics, practice now for better results!

The next step is to practice with high-quality materials that mirror the real exam.

Recommended Practice Resources for Today IELTS Reading Passage

Many candidates struggle to find authentic, up-to-date, and level-appropriate practice passages that genuinely reflect the complexity of the IELTS Reading section. Without reliable resources, wasting time on materials that don't match the exam's standards or question types is easy. 

This section highlights trusted official and expert-backed practice resources to ensure your practice is practical and efficient.

Resource	Focus Area	Why Use It?
Free IELTS Exam Preparation Material	Comprehensive IELTS skills	Downloadable practice materials covering listening, reading, writing, and speaking sections to build overall proficiency.
IELTS Online Coaching	Full exam preparation	Structured online coaching with expert guidance, mock tests, and personalized feedback.
IELTS Reading Test	Reading skills	Practice tests focused on improving the IELTS reading section's reading comprehension and time management.
IELTS Preparation Videos	Visual learning	Engaging video lessons that explain strategies, tips, and common pitfalls across all exam sections.

Find a complete breakdown of registration costs and optional services in upGrad's detailed cost guide for IELTS. Check out all fees, including registration and optional services.

Now that you have the right resources, the next step is to use expert guidance and structured support to maximize your IELTS Reading performance. That's where upGrad's specialized approach comes in.

How upGrad Supports Your Preparation for Today IELTS Reading Passage?

upGrad offers a targeted, data-driven IELTS preparation program designed to address the specific challenges of the Reading section, including complex passages like “Today.” 

With upGrad, you gain access to expertly curated practice materials that mirror the latest IELTS exam trends, detailed analytics to track your reading speed and accuracy, and adaptive quizzes that focus on your individual weak areas.

upGrad's live doubt-clearing sessions and interactive reading workshops are led by certified IELTS trainers who break down difficult passages, explain tricky vocabulary in context, and share proven skimming and scanning techniques.

Ready to experience a smarter, more personalized way to prepare? Schedule a free 1:1 counselling session with upGrad experts and increase your confidence and score.