Information Retrieval questions ask you to find a detail that is explicitly stated in the passage. These can be numbers, names, places, sequences, or comparisons.

• While these seem simple, they are often made harder by:

• Paraphrasing (e.g. “the early 1900s” vs “the first decade of the 20th century”)

• Dispersion (relevant info spread across several paragraphs)

• Trap answers that sound right but slightly change what the passage actually said

You’ll face 44 questions in 22 minutes across the Verbal Reasoning section, so roughly 2 minutes per 4-question set.

• Read the whole passage before starting the questions. This gives you a mental map of where to look.

• Underline or mentally note names, numbers, and unique terms during the first read.

• When answering questions, identify the keywords, then refer back to the relevant section of the passage.

• Don’t rely on word-matching. The UCAT often paraphrases facts using synonyms or different phrasing.

• Read all four answer options carefully — more than one might sound plausible, but only one is fully supported.

Filmed by our English department, this video walks information retrieval.

Passage – The Development of Public Libraries

The rise of public libraries was closely tied to the spread of literacy in the 19th century. As more people learned to read, the demand for accessible reading materials grew rapidly. Early public libraries often relied on philanthropic donations or were funded by local taxes, particularly in industrial cities such as Manchester and Birmingham. Many were small, with limited collections, but they were seen as vital tools for public education.

One of the earliest large-scale library projects was the Free Public Libraries Act of 1850 in the UK, which allowed local boroughs to establish libraries supported by public funds. Although initially controversial—some argued it was a misuse of taxpayers’ money—it paved the way for a nationwide network of libraries.

By the early 20th century, public libraries were seen not just as educational spaces but also as centres of community life. They hosted lectures, reading clubs, and even job listings. Women in particular found them to be socially acceptable public places where they could spend time alone.

With time, new technologies such as microfilm and public access catalogues transformed how users found and interacted with information. However, the role of librarians remained essential, especially in helping visitors navigate vast collections or find niche topics.

Today, while digital resources have reduced reliance on physical libraries, they remain an important part of community infrastructure. Many now offer free Wi-Fi, computer access, language learning, and support for job seekers. The mission has shifted slightly, but the principle of free, accessible knowledge remains central.