Matching Headings: A Step-by-Step Approach
Stop Getting Confused by Similar Headings
Matching headings questions ask you to match a heading (a short summary) to each paragraph. Test-takers often find this question type frustrating because several headings seem possible. This method will help you choose the right one.
Understanding Headings Questions
You get a list of headings (usually 8-10) and need to match them to paragraphs (usually 5-7). There are always extra headings that don't match any paragraph.
The heading summarizes the main idea of the whole paragraph, not just one detail.
The 5-Step Method
Step 1: Read All Headings First
Before reading the passage, read through all the headings. Notice which ones are similar to each other. These similar headings are where you'll need to be most careful.
For example, you might see:
- Heading A: The benefits of solar energy
- Heading B: The limitations of solar energy
- Heading C: The future of solar energy
All three mention solar energy, but each focuses on a different aspect.
Step 2: Read the First Sentence and Last Sentence
For each paragraph, read the first and last sentences carefully. These often contain the main idea.
Don't read the whole paragraph yet. You're looking for the general topic first.
Step 3: Eliminate Obviously Wrong Headings
Based on those two sentences, cross out headings that definitely don't match. This narrows your options.
If the paragraph is about problems with solar panels, you can eliminate any heading about benefits or history.
Step 4: Skim the Rest of the Paragraph
Now skim the middle sentences. What does the paragraph spend most of its time discussing?
Ask yourself: If I had to tell someone what this paragraph is about in one sentence, what would I say?
Step 5: Check for Traps
Before finalizing your answer, check these common traps:
Trap 1: Detail Instead of Main Idea
A heading might mention something from the paragraph, but it's only a detail, not the main point. The main idea is what most of the paragraph discusses.
Trap 2: Similar Words but Different Meaning
Just because a heading uses the same words as the paragraph doesn't make it correct. Read for meaning, not just matching words.
Trap 3: Confusing Cause and Effect
Some headings are similar but reversed. "How X affects Y" is different from "How Y affects X."
Example Walkthrough
Let's say paragraph D starts with: "Despite their growing popularity, electric vehicles face several obstacles." It ends with: "Until these issues are resolved, widespread adoption remains unlikely."
You're choosing between:
- The advantages of electric vehicles
- Barriers to electric vehicle adoption
- The history of electric vehicles
The answer is the second heading. The paragraph discusses "obstacles" and "issues" preventing "widespread adoption." The first sentence and last sentence both point to this.
Time-Saving Tips
Do These Questions First
Answer heading questions before detail questions. Understanding the main idea of each paragraph helps you locate answers faster for other questions.
Process of Elimination
If you're stuck between two headings, ask: "Which topic takes up more space in the paragraph?" That's your answer.
Don't Overthink
Your first instinct after reading the first and last sentences is often correct. Don't change your answer unless you find clear evidence you were wrong.
Practice Tip
When practicing, write down the main idea of each paragraph in your own words before looking at the headings. Then find the heading that best matches your summary. This trains you to identify main ideas accurately.