How do I tell False and Not Given apart?
Learn the difference between a contradiction and missing information, using a short text.
2 min read · Updated 9/8/2026
The key idea
True: the statement matches the text. False: the text says the opposite of the statement. Not Given: there is not enough information in the text to confirm or contradict the statement.
The question is not “is this statement true in real life?”. Choose the answer according to the text. Don't add facts you know yourself.
After each decision, say the reason in one sentence: “It matches, because…”, “It contradicts, because…” or “This detail is not mentioned”.
See an example
Passage: The museum opened in 2015. Entry is free for children under twelve.
- “The museum opened in 2015.” → True.
- “The museum opened in 2010.” → False; the date contradicts the text.
- “Adults pay ten pounds.” → Not Given; the price for adults is not stated.
A free ticket for children doesn't necessarily mean that adults have to pay.
Now you try
Passage: The library opens at nine on weekdays. It is closed on Sundays.
- The library is open on Sundays.
- The library closes at six on Fridays.
- The library opens at nine on Mondays.
Choose True, False or Not Given for each statement.
A personal draft. It is not saved when you leave or automatically graded.
Reveal the answer and explanation
Answer and explanation
- False — the text clearly says it is closed on Sundays.
- Not Given — no closing time is given.
- True — Monday is a weekday, so it falls within the stated opening time.
To choose Not Given, you do not have to prove the statement wrong. The text simply does not let you decide about that detail.
I found the keyword, so where is the answer?
Official sources for this topic
IELTS · Reading