Duolingo English Test Question Type Intro 4：Read and Complete
In the Duolingo English Test, the "Read and Complete" section challenges candidates to fill in missing words within three minutes to maintain the flow of the passage. This blog post offers a comprehensive overview of the "Read and Complete" question type, along with effective strategies for tackling these questions and recommended practice methods.
Understanding the "Read and Complete" Question Type
Read and Complete is a frequent aspect of the DET, typically appearing 3-7 times, with an average of 6 instances. Candidates are allotted three minutes for each question, which consists of a brief paragraph (generally under 100 words) with several omitted words. These passages cover a diverse array of topics, from general interest to more academic subjects like history, biology, or astronomy.
Six Strategies for Improvement
l Comprehensive Reading: Start by thoroughly reading the entire passage. This initial step is crucial as it provides a holistic understanding of the topic at hand and the vocabulary that will be relevant. Pay special attention to the introductory and concluding sentences, as they often contain key information that can frame your understanding of the rest of the text. A well-rounded comprehension will help you anticipate the type of words that fit into the blanks.
l Focus on American Spelling: It's important to note that the Read and Complete specifically requires American spelling. Unlike other sections of the DET that may accept both British and American variations, this part is strict. If you are more familiar with British English, take some time to study American spelling conventions. This preparation will help you avoid common pitfalls and ensure your answers align with the test’s requirements.
l Contextual and Grammatical Insight: Use the context of the passage along with your grammatical knowledge to inform your responses. Reflect on the overall subject and tone of the text, and pay attention to specific grammatical features such as tense and voice. Understanding how these elements interact can significantly narrow down your choices and increase your chances of selecting the correct word.
l Leverage the First Letters: Each missing word in the Read and Complete is accompanied by its initial letter(s). Make the most of this information, as it can serve as a powerful clue. Combine this with your understanding of the context and grammatical structure to deduce the most appropriate answers. This strategy can often lead you to the right word even if you're unsure at first glance.
l Effective Time Management: Time is of the essence in the Read and Complete, with a strict limit of three minutes per question. To maximize your efficiency, allocate about 30 seconds for an initial read of the passage. Use the remaining time strategically to fill in the blanks, ensuring you maintain a steady pace. This approach will help you avoid the stress of running out of time while also allowing for thoughtful consideration of your answers.
l Consistent Practice: Like any other skill, proficiency in Read and Completes improves with regular practice. Incorporate daily practice sessions into your study routine to enhance both speed and accuracy. The more familiar you become with the format and types of questions, the better equipped you will be to tackle the test confidently. Consider using varied materials to broaden your exposure to different topics and vocabulary.
In Det Practice, you can practice various question types from Duolingo English test candidates at your own pace to enhance your proficiency, including the "Read and Complete" activity.
