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Mastering OET Reading Part A: Answering Questions Effectively
This blog post aims to address some common queries and misconceptions surrounding the OET Reading Part A, helping you optimise your performance and achieve a higher score.
Can I repeat words from the question in my answer?
No, you should avoid repeating words directly from the question. Doing so is likely to result in zero marks. For instance, if a question asks, “Children may be given up to _____ mg of codeine per kilo of weight,” your answer should not include “mg per kilo.” It should only include the exact number without the units.
What if the question itself includes a key term?
If the question begins with a term like “Which type of factor has caused the biggest increase in childhood asthma?” and the correct answer is “environmental factor,” simply providing “factor” will not suffice. The answer should be concise and precise, focusing solely on the necessary information—in this case, “environmental.” This reflects the real-world demands of healthcare settings, where conciseness is highly valued.
Can I provide the number without the unit of measurement?
No. If a question requires both the number and the unit of measurement, both must be included for a correct answer. For example, if the question asks, “What is the lowest dose of ibuprofen per kilo recommended to children?” the answer must include the unit, such as “2.5 mg.” Omitting the unit will render the answer meaningless.
How can I improve my reading speed and accuracy?
Begin by allocating more than 15 minutes for each reading passage to prioritise accuracy. As your skimming and scanning skills improve, gradually reduce the time frame to simulate exam conditions. This approach builds confidence and minimises the risk of errors under pressure.
Can I paraphrase the text instead of using the exact words?
No, precise word usage is crucial in OET Reading Part A. Your answers must mirror the exact wording or short phrases found in the text.
Can I use abbreviations in my answers?
Avoid using abbreviations or acronyms unless they are explicitly present in the text. Modifying the answer format may hinder your ability to identify and extract the required information accurately.
Does spelling accuracy matter?
Yes, correct spelling is essential for scoring points. Incorrectly spelt answers will not be awarded any marks in OET Reading Part A.
Can I use American English spelling if the text uses British English?
While the OET Reading Part A texts adhere to British English, American English spelling will generally be accepted.
Does punctuation matter for numerical answers?
Yes. In English-speaking healthcare settings, decimal points (.) are used to separate numerical values, not commas (,). Ensure your answers accurately reflect this convention. For example, write “2.5 mg,” not “2,5 mg” or “2.5”. This ensures your answers are clear, accurate, and professional.
Are partial marks awarded?
No, there are no partial marks in any OET sub-test. Each question is scored either 1 mark (correct) or 0 marks (incorrect). There are no negative marks.
What if my answer exceeds the provided space?
Ensure your answer fits within the designated space on the answer line. If necessary, continue writing below the line, but avoid extending your answer to another page—practice using official sample tests to adjust your writing size if needed.
Should I include the text letter (A, B, C, D) with my answer for the short answer questions?
In OET Reading Part A, there might be a tendency to indicate the text’s alphabet to convey where the answer was taken from. Including the text letter (e.g., “Naproxen 250 mg (Text B)”) is unnecessary and may be considered ambiguous. This will result in zero marks for that answer.
By carefully considering these points and practising effectively, you can significantly enhance your performance in OET Reading Part A and increase your chances of achieving a successful outcome.
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