Aptis General key terms

The main overall meaning or general idea of a text or recording, rather than its small details. Readers and listeners often identify the gist before answering specific questions.

The most important point that a paragraph, passage or talk is trying to communicate. It is usually broader than a single supporting fact or example.

Reading something quickly to get a general impression of its content and structure. You look at headings, first sentences and key words instead of reading every word.

Moving your eyes quickly over a text to find one specific piece of information, such as a name, date or number, without reading everything.

A question that asks about one small, specific fact stated in a text. The answer is usually found by locating the exact words or a paraphrase of them.

A conclusion you draw from clues in a text that are not stated directly. The writer implies something and the reader works out the meaning.

To suggest something without saying it openly. A writer may imply an attitude or fact, and the reader must infer it from the wording or context.

To express the same meaning using different words. Test questions often paraphrase part of a text, so candidates must recognise the idea rather than the exact wording.

A word that has a similar meaning to another word, such as 'begin' and 'start'. Recognising synonyms helps you match questions to the correct part of a text.

A word that means the opposite of another word, such as 'cheap' and 'expensive'. Antonyms are sometimes used in questions to test careful reading.

A sentence, usually near the start of a paragraph, that states the paragraph's main point. The other sentences develop or support it.

A group of sentences about one idea, separated from other groups by a line break or indentation. Paragraphs help organise a text and guide the reader.

The way sentences and paragraphs are linked so a text reads smoothly as a whole. Linking words, pronouns and repeated ideas all create cohesion.

The quality of a text when its ideas are organised logically and are easy to follow. A coherent text has a clear order and purpose.

A word or phrase such as 'however', 'because' or 'in addition' that connects ideas and shows the relationship between them.

Another name for a linking word or phrase that joins clauses, sentences or paragraphs and signals meaning such as contrast, cause or addition.

A short title above a section of text that tells the reader what the section is about. Matching headings to paragraphs is a common reading task.

The level of formality in language, ranging from very informal to very formal. Choosing the right register matters when writing emails, letters or reports.

Language that follows polite, standard conventions and avoids slang, contractions or very personal expressions. It is typical of official letters, reports and applications.

Relaxed language used with friends or people you know well, often including contractions and everyday expressions. It is less suitable for official writing.

Dividing a piece of writing into paragraphs, each with one clear focus. Good paragraphing makes a text easier to read and shows how ideas are organised.

The number of words in a piece of writing. Exam tasks often set a minimum or maximum word count, and going far outside it can lose marks.

How fully and appropriately a piece of writing answers the question it was given. It covers relevance, development of ideas and addressing every part of the task.

The first sentence of a letter, email or message, which often states the reason for writing. A clear opening line sets the tone for the whole text.

The final sentence or phrase of a letter or email, such as a sign-off and polite remark. It should match the formality of the rest of the message.

The person or people a piece of writing or speech is intended for. Knowing your audience helps you choose the right tone, vocabulary and amount of detail.

The reason for writing or speaking, such as to inform, persuade, apologise or invite. A clear purpose shapes the content and structure of the message.

An answer option or piece of information that seems correct but is wrong. Distractors are designed to catch candidates who listen or read too quickly.

The most important word in a question or sentence that carries the main meaning. Identifying key words helps you focus while listening or reading.

How a speaker feels about what they are saying, such as being pleased, doubtful or annoyed. It is often shown through tone of voice and choice of words.

The feeling or attitude expressed by a speaker or writer, for example friendly, critical or neutral. Tone can change the meaning of the same words.

The rise and fall of a speaker's voice across a sentence. It can show whether someone is asking, stating, doubting or emphasising something.

The extra force given to a particular syllable or word when speaking. Stress helps listeners notice the most important information in a sentence.

Writing down short key points while listening so you can answer questions later. Effective notes use abbreviations and focus on facts, names and numbers.

The ability to speak smoothly and at a reasonable speed without too many long pauses or hesitations. It is an important part of spoken performance.

The way words are spoken, including individual sounds, stress and intonation. Clear pronunciation helps a listener understand what you say.

The way people in a conversation take turns to speak, avoiding talking over each other. Good turn-taking keeps a discussion natural and polite.

The exchange between two or more speakers as they respond to each other. In speaking tests it includes answering questions, reacting and developing ideas.

A question, instruction or short text that tells a candidate what to talk or write about. Reading the prompt carefully helps you stay on topic.