How the Other Half Thinks Reading Answers: IELTS Reading Practice Test with Answers

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Updated on Mar 18, 2025, 08:39

In the IELTS Reading section, your reading comprehension skills are rigorously tested. Lasting for 60 minutes, this segment comprises three passages, each accompanied by a series of questions in various formats like multiple choice, matching headings, and True/False/Not Given. Success in this section hinges on your ability to grasp key information, discern main ideas, and infer meaning from context.
 

To ace the IELTS Reading section, adopt effective reading strategies such as skimming for main ideas and scanning for specific details. Regular practice with sample questions and exposure to different question types will sharpen your skills for test day.
 

Prepare for an enlightening exploration of "How the Other Half Thinks Reading Answers," an insightful look into the ways mathematical minds approach problems and solutions. Through engaging passages and accompanying questions, delve into the intriguing mechanisms, challenges, and strategies that mathematicians employ, enriching your understanding of the mathematical mindset and how it influences problem-solving and reasoning.

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1. How the Other Half Thinks Reading Answers Passage

You should spend approximately 20 minutes answering Questions 1 - 13 based on the How the Other Half Thinks Reading Answers Passage below. 

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2. How The Other Half Thinks Reading Answers with Sample Questions

Have you read the passage? Now, take the test and find the Preface To How The Other Half Thinks Reading answers!

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3. Check Out Top 20+ IELTS Reading Practice Test Questions with Answers

Below are some top free IELTS Reading Practice test online questions with detailed answers to enhance your IELTS preparation online. 

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1.

How the Other Half Thinks Reading Answers Passage

General Information

  • Read Instructions: Understand each question before answering.
  • Manage Time: Spend about 20 minutes per passage.
  • Skim and Scan: Quickly get the main idea and find specific information.
  • Highlight Key Info: Underline essential words or phrases.
  • Answer All Questions: Attempt every question; no penalty for wrong answers.
  • Stay Focused: Avoid distractions and keep your attention on the task.
  • Check Spelling: Ensure correct spelling and grammar.
  • Transfer Answers Clearly: Write answers neatly on the answer sheet.
  • Don’t Dwell: Move on if stuck and return later.
  • Review: If time allows, review your answers.

 

 

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How the Other Half Thinks Reading Answers Passage 

 

Paragraph A: Beautiful, beginner-friendly passages can sometimes be found in otherwise challenging musical compositions, even in maths. Some discoveries in higher mathematics do not require familiarity with any specific branch of mathematics, not even the more common ones like algebra, geometry, and trigonometry. Instead, they may only necessitate some basic math (such as "the sum of two odd numbers is even") and logic. All eight chapters herein serve to demonstrate this phenomenon. The reasoning can be followed by any layperson.

Each chapter's reasoning makes use of no more than elementary mathematics. This way, every reader will have the opportunity to take part in a mathematical experience, enjoy mathematics for its aesthetic value, and become accustomed to the rational yet creative approach taken by mathematicians.

 

Paragraph B: One reason I wrote this book was to help those who might not have been exposed to real mathematics before developing an appreciation for mathematical thought. Not only do I wish to share some of the remarkable findings but also the logic that led to them. This book deviates from the norm of popular mathematics texts in that regard. There are even biographies of eccentric mathematicians. A number of other authors discuss significant mathematical applications. The reader is assumed to be familiar with algebra in works that delve into mathematical techniques.

 

Paragraph C: It is my sincere wish that this book will serve as a means toward healing the chasm that exists between the arts and the sciences, or, perhaps more accurately, involving the left (analytical, numerical) and right (intuitive) brain. It will become clear from the chapters that mathematics includes more than just analysis and computation; intuition or intuitive thinking also plays a crucial role. Because we rarely make use of either hemisphere's full potential, the purported gap can be reduced or eliminated in every individual. I use the examples of an artist structural engineer, a mathematician short story writer, an opera singer who published mathematical studies, and a mathematician who published short stories to demonstrate the breadth of human potential.

 

Paragraph D: Even though mathematics forms the backbone of other scientists' theories, they often leave it out of texts designed to explain their areas to the general public. Since mathematics is the ideal language for presenting the details in most science, the reader is left a tantalized observer rather than an active participant. This is true whether the topic at hand is the expanding universe, subatomic particles, or chromosomes. When a piece of the physical universe is ultimately grasped, its description often seems like a page in a mathematical manual, even though the broad. An outline of a scientific theory can be sketched intuitively.

 

Paragraph E: Even so, even a reader with little background in mathematics can grasp the essentials of mathematical reasoning. In-depth analysis, experimentation, and ideas that are characteristic of the mathematical mode of thought are presented here. These pages will be turned at a far more leisurely pace than a novel or newspaper. Having a pencil and paper handy might be useful for verifying statements and conducting experiments.

 

Paragraph F: I designed this book with two audiences in mind: people who liked math up until a bad experience, generally in fifth grade, put them off, and math nerds who will find a lot of fresh material to like. Readers who merely wish to hone their analytical abilities may also find value in this work. Profound, exact analysis is essential in many fields, including law and medicine. Each chapter provides opportunities to follow a well-developed path of reasoning. These two testimonies demonstrate the potential of mathematics to foster this skill:

 

Paragraph G: A doctor once wrote that his background in mathematics and its emphasis on analytical thought processes had prepared him well for his studies in medicine. To find a remedy to an issue in medicine, one must first conduct extensive research. Essentially, it's the same as solving a math problem.

A similar statement was made by a successful lawyer, who said, "Despite having no experience in law - not even one political science course - I did well at one of the greatest law schools." Much of my accomplishments there may be attributed to the analytical skills I honed while studying mathematics and, more specifically, theorems. In contrast to their peers, lawyers with a mathematical background are better able to understand and apply the law.

I'm hoping you'll take as much pleasure as I do in seeing seemingly straightforward inquiries yield unexpectedly ingenious answers and seemingly theoretical findings find unexpectedly practical uses.

2.

How The Other Half Thinks Reading Answers with Sample Questions

Have you read the passage? Now, take the test and find the Preface To How The Other Half Thinks Reading answers! Try to answer these questions by yourself before you sneak a peek at the answers given below.

Questions and Answers 1-6
  • The Reading Passage has seven sections, A-G.
  • Which section contains the following information?
  • Write the correct letter, A-G, for the questions 1-6 on your answer sheet.
Note: You may use any letter more than once.

 

1. examples of individuals whose abilities appeared mismatched

2. discussion of the varied mathematical book topics

3. books that assume no prior mathematics experience

4. personal examples of how mathematics has assisted

5. an assertion that the entire book can be read by anybody

6. the manner in which this is not a standard mathematics book

 

How the Other Half Thinks Reading Answers with Explanations (1-6)

 

Type of question: Locating Information

 

In this task, you are required to find specific details, facts, or information within the passage. These questions typically ask you to identify where particular information is located in the text.
 

How to best answer: 

 

  • Understand what specific information you need to find (e.g., a word, phrase, or detail).
  • Quickly skim through the relevant paragraph or section to locate keywords related to the question.
  • Ensure the answer fits grammatically and contextually into the sentence or passage.
  • Check for synonyms or keywords to locate the information
  • Finalise your answers.

 

1. C

 

Reference: From Paragraph C:I use the examples of an artist, structural engineer, a mathematician, short story writer, an opera singer who published mathematical studies, and a mathematician who published short stories to demonstrate the breadth of human potential.”
 

Explanation: This line highlights individuals whose careers combine seemingly unrelated skills, such as a mathematician who writes short stories. This demonstrates that mathematical ability can coexist with artistic or literary talent, making "examples of individuals whose abilities appeared mismatched" the correct answer.
 

2. B

 

Reference: From Paragraph B: This book deviates from the norm of popular mathematics texts in that regard. There are even biographies of eccentric mathematicians. A number of other authors discuss significant mathematical applications. The reader is assumed to be familiar with algebra in works that delve into mathematical techniques”
 

Explanation: This line indicates that the book covers a range of mathematical topics, including biographies and applications. It suggests that mathematical books can focus on different themes, making "discussion of the varied mathematical book topics" the correct answer.
 

3. D

 

Reference: From Paragraph D:Even though mathematics forms the backbone of other scientists' theories, they often leave it out of texts designed to explain their areas to the general public.”

 

Explanation: This line suggests that some scientific books avoid using mathematics when explaining complex topics. It implies that such books assume no prior mathematical experience, making "books that assume no prior mathematics experience" the correct answer.
 

4. G

 

Reference: From Paragraph G: “A doctor once wrote that his background in mathematics and its emphasis on analytical thought processes had prepared him well for his studies in medicine... A similar statement was made by a successful lawyer…In contrast to their peers, lawyers with a mathematical background are better able to understand and apply the law.”
 

Explanation: This passage provides firsthand accounts of professionals who found mathematics beneficial in their careers. It demonstrates how analytical skills gained through mathematics can be applied to other fields, making "personal examples of how mathematics has assisted" the correct answer.
 

5. A

 

Reference: From Paragraph A: "Some discoveries in higher mathematics do not require familiarity with any specific branch of mathematics, not even the more common ones like algebra, geometry, and trigonometry. Instead, they may only necessitate some basic math (such as "the sum of two odd numbers is even") and logic. All eight chapters herein serve to demonstrate this phenomenon.”
 

Explanation: This line states that the book does not require advanced mathematical knowledge and can be understood by any reader. It emphasises the accessibility of the content, making "an assertion that the entire book can be read by anybody" the correct answer.

 

6. B

 

Reference: From Paragraph B: One reason I wrote this book was to help those who might not have been exposed to real mathematics before developing an appreciation for mathematical thought. This book deviates from the norm of popular mathematics texts in that regard.”
 

Explanation: This passage explains how the book is different from conventional mathematics books. It focuses on logical reasoning rather than technical details, making "the manner in which this is not a standard mathematics book" the correct answer.

Questions and Answers 7-11
  • Complete the sentences below.
  • Choose ONE WORD ONLY from the passage for each answer.
  • Write your answers for the questions 7-11 on your answer sheet.

 

7. The author maintains that mathematical analysis necessitates ____________ thinking as well as analytical skills.

8. Aside from reading, the author suggests that non-mathematical readers should perform ___________.

9. A person with a _____________ would excel in certain musical and mathematical genres.

10. To keep their publications from being too dense, some ___________ had to gloss over the mathematics at the heart of their theories.

11. It was discovered by a lawyer that studying ___________ help with law studies much more than other branches of mathematics.
 

How the Other Half Thinks Reading Answers with Explanations (7-11)

 

Type of question: Sentence Completion

 

To answer sentence completion questions accurately, read the given sentence carefully and identify the missing word or phrase. Then, consider the context to determine the most suitable answer option that completes the sentence appropriately. Choosing the option that best fits the context will help you answer sentence completion questions accurately.

 

How to best answer the question

 

  • Carefully read the incomplete sentence and try to understand what information is missing.
  • Pay attention to the context and any clues provided in the sentence or the surrounding text.
  • Choose the option that best completes the sentence based on the information from the reading passage.
     
7. Intuitive

 

Reference: From Paragraph C: “It will become clear from the chapters that mathematics includes more than just analysis and computation; intuition or intuitive thinking also plays a crucial role.”


Explanation: This line highlights that mathematics is not only about analysis and computation but also involves intuitive thinking. Since intuition is mentioned as playing a crucial role, "intuitive" is the correct answer.
 

8. Experiments

 

Reference: From Paragraph E: “In-depth analysis, experimentation, and ideas that are characteristic of the mathematical mode of thought are presented here. Having a pencil and paper handy might be useful for verifying statements and conducting experiments.”

 

Explanation: This line suggests that non-mathematical readers should perform experiments to better understand mathematical reasoning. Hence, “experiment” is the correct answer.
 

9. Beginner

 

Reference: From Paragraph A: “Beautiful, beginner-friendly passages can sometimes be found in otherwise challenging musical compositions.”


Explanation: This line indicates that a beginner would excel in certain musical and mathematical genres due to the beginner-friendly passages. Hence, “beginner” is the correct answer.
 

10. Scientists

 

Reference: From Paragraph D: “Even though mathematics forms the backbone of other scientists' theories, they often leave it out of texts designed to explain their areas to the general public.”


Explanation: This line shows that some scientists had to gloss over the mathematics at the heart of their theories to make their publications more accessible. Hence, “scientists” is the correct answer.
 

11. Theorems

 

Reference: From Paragraph G: “A similar statement was made by a successful lawyer, who said, "Despite having no experience in law - not even one political science course - I did well at one of the greatest law schools." Much of my accomplishments there may be attributed to the analytical skills I honed while studying mathematics, and more specifically, theorems.”

 

Explanation: This line reveals that a lawyer found that studying theorems helped with law studies more than other branches of mathematics. Hence, “theorems” is the correct answer.

Read more about IELTS Academic Reading 2025: Reading Material & Practice Test

Questions and Answers 12-13
  • Choose the correct letter, A, B, C, or D.

 

12. Where in the brain can one find the ability to think analytically?

A. Upper side

B. Right side

C. Left side

D. Lower side

 

13. What kind of a research must be performed to find a treatment for a medical problem?

A. Limited

B. Field

C. Applied

D. Comprehensive 

 

How the Other Half Thinks Reading Answers with Explanations (12-13)

 

Question Type: Multiple Choice 

 

Multiple Choice questions in the IELTS reading test present you with a question followed by a set of options from which you must choose the correct answer. Typically, there are three or four options to choose from. You must carefully read the question and each option before selecting the correct answer.
 

How to best answer this question:

 

  • You must comprehend the passage to select the most accurate option.
  • Efficient skimming and scanning help locate relevant information quickly.
  • Some options may be designed to mislead you, so it's crucial to base your choice on evidence from the passage.
  • Multiple-choice questions can be time-consuming if you dwell on each option too long. Manage your time wisely to ensure you can attempt all questions.
     
12. C - Left side

 

Reference: From Paragraph C: “It is my sincere wish that this book will serve as a means toward healing the chasm that exists between the arts and the sciences, or, perhaps more accurately, involving the left (analytical, numerical) and right (intuitive) brain.”
 

Explanation: The paragraph mentions the involvement of the left side of the brain in analytical thinking, which justifies choosing option C.
 

13. D - Comprehensive

 

Reference: From Paragraph G: “To find a remedy to an issue in medicine, one must first conduct extensive research.”

 

Explanation: The paragraph suggests that to find a treatment for a medical problem, one must conduct extensive research, which aligns with the meaning of "comprehensive." Hence, option D is correct.

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FAQs

Q. What are common keywords in the Preface To How The Other Half Thinks reading passage?

Ans. Common keywords in this passage include "mathematical thinking," "intuition," "patterns," "logical reasoning," and "problem-solving." These words help identify key ideas and concepts discussed in the text. Looking for synonyms and paraphrased versions of these terms can assist in locating relevant information quickly.

Q. How to answer matching headings questions in the Preface To How The Other Half Thinks reading passage?

Ans. Read the headings first to understand the main themes, then scan each paragraph for topic sentences and key ideas. Identify synonyms and paraphrased words to match headings accurately. Avoid choosing headings based on a single word match; instead, ensure they reflect the overall meaning of the paragraph.

Q. What is a challenging aspect of the Preface To How The Other Half Thinks reading passage?

Ans. One challenge is understanding abstract mathematical concepts and how they relate to real-world thinking. The passage may contain technical terms and logical explanations that require careful reading. Additionally, some sentences might be complex, making it essential to break them down for better comprehension.

Q. Are Preface To How The Other Half Thinks passages part of the IELTS Academic or General Reading?

Ans. This passage is typically found in the IELTS Academic Reading test. It focuses on complex ideas and intellectual discussions, which are more suitable for university-level studies rather than general reading purposes.

Q. How long is the IELTS Reading test?

Ans. The IELTS Reading test lasts 60 minutes. It consists of three passages and 40 questions, with no extra time given to transfer answers to the answer sheet. Time management is crucial to ensure all questions are attempted within the given timeframe.

Q. Are the reading passages the same for the Academic and General Training versions?

Ans. No, the Academic and General Training Reading passages are different. The Academic test includes complex and formal texts from books, journals, and research papers, while the General Training test features simpler, everyday texts like advertisements, notices, and workplace documents.

Q. How are the IELTS Reading scores calculated?

Ans. IELTS Reading scores are based on the number of correct answers out of 40. Raw scores are then converted to a band score from 0 to 9. There is no penalty for incorrect answers, so it is advisable to attempt all questions.

Q. Can I write on the question paper during the test?

Ans. Yes, you can write on the question paper to underline key points, make notes, or mark answers. However, only answers written on the answer sheet are considered for scoring, so ensure you transfer them before the time runs out.

Q. Are spelling and grammar important in the IELTS Reading test?

Ans. Yes, spelling and grammar are important when writing answers. Incorrect spelling or grammatical errors can lead to lost marks, especially in gap-fill and short-answer questions. Always check your answers before submitting them.

Q. What types of texts can I expect in the Academic Reading test?

Ans. The Academic Reading test includes passages from books, journals, magazines, and newspapers. These texts are often descriptive, analytical, or argumentative, covering subjects like science, history, technology, and social issues.

Q. What types of questions are there in the IELTS Reading section?

Ans: The IELTS Reading section includes various question types such as multiple choice, True/False/Not Given, matching headings, matching information, sentence completion, summary completion, and note completion. Familiarise yourself with these formats to improve your test-taking strategies.

Q. Do I lose marks for incorrect answers in the IELTS Reading test?

Ans. No, there is no penalty for incorrect answers in the IELTS Reading test. This means it's beneficial to attempt all questions, even if you're unsure. You may still earn points for correct responses by making educated guesses, improving your overall score.