Home > Learn > DET General Information

How to Deal With “Your speaking response appears to be rehearsed or written out in advance” in Duolingo English Test?

In the Duolingo English Test, one reason for the speaking section not being certified is that it may appear rehearsed or pre-written. In today's blog post, we will specifically address this issue: 'Your speaking response appears to be rehearsed or written out in advance.'

Three Common Errors Identified as Signs of Prepared Speaking Responses in the Duolingo English Test

❎ Fluctuations in Speaking Speed
Many candidates worry about not being able to fill the three-minute response time during their speaking sample. They often start off slowly and then suddenly speed up when they realize they’re running out of time. This noticeable shift in pace can easily give the impression that their answers are pre-prepared. To avoid this, candidates should practice controlling their speaking speed multiple times within a set timeframe, which will help them respond more naturally and fluidly.

❎ Overreliance on Template Sentences
In the Duolingo exam, candidates cannot simply copy model answers, as the system has data storage capabilities. While it’s fine to use template sentences to some extent, it’s crucial not to reproduce them verbatim. Candidates should grasp the essence of the templates and adapt them with their own expressions.

❎ Pacing and Intonation
There’s a clear difference in pacing between memorized responses and spontaneous answers. When responding to simple or familiar questions, candidates often unconsciously speed up, displaying confidence. However, when faced with unfamiliar or slightly complex topics, they may experience pauses, hesitations, or repetitions, creating a noticeable contrast in speaking speed that can reveal memorization. This is especially true for longer sentences. Additionally, a monotonous tone can come off as robotic. People naturally quicken their pace and vary their pitch when excited, so a complete spoken response should include appropriate pauses and varied intonation to make the delivery more engaging and natural.

If you accidentally violate the rules, you can watch the video below to learn what to do.

Tips for Avoiding Speaking Issues That Could Result in Lack of Certification in DET

ü Familiarize Yourself with Common Topics

Candidates should familiarize themselves with common questions in the Duolingo English Test. Reviewing frequently asked questions and preparing key points instead of memorizing full answers allows for greater flexibility. Utilizing resources like the DETPractice website can help candidates become comfortable with the exam format.

ü Focus on Structure

When answering questions, candidates must focus on the structure of their responses. A well-organized answer typically includes an introduction, key points, and a conclusion, helping to clarify thoughts and make reasoning easier to follow.

ü Incorporate Real Examples

Enhancing answers with personal experiences makes responses unique and authentic. Candidates should consider using rhetorical questions to create a conversational tone.

ü Stay Calm and Confident

Taking a moment to organize thoughts before answering can reduce anxiety and improve natural expression. Clear communication and logical reasoning are essential for success.

ü Record and Review Your Responses

Recording practice responses and reviewing them is beneficial for self-assessment. This approach helps identify areas for improvement, enhancing speaking skills and increasing confidence during the exam.