Information Retrieval
Finding and extracting facts stated directly in the passage. Usually worth one or two marks per point.
What is Information Retrieval?
Information retrieval questions ask you to find facts that are stated directly in the passage. The answer is right there in the text – you just need to locate it.
These are often the most straightforward comprehension questions, but you still need to be precise. Read the question carefully, scan the text for the relevant section, and make sure your answer fully addresses what is being asked.
Step-by-Step Method
Read the question carefully
Identify exactly what information you need to find. Underline key words in the question.
Scan the passage for key words
Look for the same words or phrases from the question. The answer will usually be nearby.
Read the surrounding sentences
Once you find the right area, read the full sentence and the sentences around it to get the complete answer.
Answer in full sentences
Unless told otherwise, write your answer as a complete sentence. Do not just copy a single word.
Check you have enough points
If the question is worth 2 marks, make sure you have given 2 points or pieces of evidence.
Worked Examples
The passage states: “The lighthouse was built in 1847 by engineer James Walker.” Question: When was the lighthouse built?
Working
- Scan for “lighthouse” and “built” in the passage.
- The sentence tells us directly: “built in 1847”.
The passage describes a character who “wore a long grey coat and carried a battered leather suitcase.” Question: Describe two things the character was carrying or wearing. (2 marks)
Working
- The question asks for TWO things (2 marks = 2 points).
- Point 1: a long grey coat.
- Point 2: a battered leather suitcase.
Question: According to the text, why did the family move house? The passage says: “They moved because the old house had become too small for the growing family.”
Working
- The question asks WHY – look for a reason.
- The word “because” signals the reason.
Common Mistakes
Copying too much text from the passage instead of selecting the relevant part.
Only include the information that directly answers the question. Be selective.
Missing key details because you stopped reading too soon.
Read the whole sentence and the next sentence too – the full answer may span more than one sentence.
Not giving enough points for a multi-mark question.
Check the marks available. 2 marks usually means 2 separate points are needed.
Top Tips
- The number of marks usually tells you how many points to make.
- Use key words from the question to scan the text quickly.
- Retrieval answers are IN the text – you should be able to point to where the answer comes from.
- Write in full sentences unless the question specifically asks for a single word.
Ready to practise?
Put these techniques into action with our free practice papers.
Practise English Questions