EF SET cheat sheet

The EF SET Reading section has two parts: a 15-minute section with 20 questions and a 25-minute section with 25 questions.

Reading tasks include sentence completion, text comprehension, and matching headings to paragraphs.

For sentence completion, read the entire sentence to determine the grammatical form and meaning needed before checking options.

Inference questions require choosing the answer most directly supported by the text, not one that is merely plausible.

Skimming for the main idea means reading the first and last sentences of paragraphs; scanning for details means locating specific keywords.

A correct answer must be supported by the text; an answer that is true in real life but not stated in the passage is incorrect.

Vocabulary in context questions test the meaning of a word as used in the passage, not its most common dictionary definition.

Time management rule: spend no more than 60 seconds per question in the 25-minute section to finish all 25 items.

The EF SET Writing section has two tasks: a 5-minute task with 5 sentence-completion items and a 20-minute task with 2 writing prompts.

Sentence-completion items require producing a grammatically correct sentence that fits the given context; spelling and punctuation count.

The two writing prompts are scored on task relevance, coherence, vocabulary range, and grammatical accuracy.

A complete sentence must contain a subject and a finite verb; fragments and run-ons reduce the score.

Coherence is achieved through linking words (however, therefore, in addition) and clear paragraph structure.

For the 20-minute task, plan for 2–3 minutes, write for 14–15 minutes, and reserve 2–3 minutes for review.

Word count guidance: aim for 150–200 words per prompt to demonstrate sufficient development without running out of time.

Common grammar errors to avoid: subject-verb agreement, tense consistency, article usage, and preposition choice.

The EF SET Listening section has two parts: a 10-minute section with 10 questions and a 20-minute section with 20 questions.

Listening tasks include choosing the best response to a spoken statement and answering comprehension questions about short talks.

Each audio clip is played once; there is no replay option, so preview the answer choices during any pause.

Distractors often repeat words from the audio but change the meaning; focus on the overall message, not isolated words.

For response-choice items, identify the function of the statement (request, apology, suggestion) to select a logical reply.

Note-taking is allowed; jot down keywords, numbers, and names while listening to longer passages.

Pay attention to intonation and stress, which can signal negation, uncertainty, or emphasis.

Time management rule: answer immediately after each clip; do not linger, as the next audio begins automatically.

The EF SET Speaking section has two tasks: a 5-minute task with 5 read-aloud items and a 15-minute task with 2 speaking prompts.

Read-aloud items assess pronunciation, intonation, and fluency; read at a natural pace with clear articulation.

The two speaking prompts are scored on relevance, coherence, vocabulary range, grammatical accuracy, and fluency.

Fluency is measured by smooth delivery with minimal hesitation; it is better to speak continuously with minor errors than to pause frequently.

Use a clear structure: state your main idea, provide one or two supporting reasons or examples, and conclude.

For the 15-minute task, aim to speak for 45–60 seconds per prompt to demonstrate sufficient language.

Coherence is supported by discourse markers such as first, moreover, and in conclusion.

Pronunciation scoring focuses on intelligibility, not accent elimination; clear consonants and correct stress matter most.