FCE flashcards

32 cards. Read the term and the definition here. The deck at the top of this page is optional.

FCE Reading Part 1

Eight four-option multiple-choice questions on one long text; test global and detailed comprehension, opinion, and attitude. Read the text first, then eliminate options that contradict or overstate it.

Gapped-sentence cohesion cues

In Reading Part 6, link the missing sentence using pronouns (this, they), articles (the, a), and connectors (however, therefore); grammatical fit and logical flow narrow the seven options to one.

Multiple-matching distribution

In Reading Part 7, answers may not be evenly spread across the four to six short texts; one text can supply several answers and another none. Do not force one match per text.

Paraphrase trap

A distractor that repeats exact words from the text but changes meaning, e.g., 'all students' when the text says 'most students'. Compare meaning, not matching vocabulary.

Reading timing budget

Paper 1 allows 75 minutes for Reading and Use of English. Allocate roughly 15-20 minutes per Reading part and never more than two minutes to one question.

Use of English Part 1

Eight multiple-choice cloze items with four options each. They test vocabulary, collocation, and fixed phrases; read the whole sentence and the surrounding context before choosing.

Open cloze targets

Use of English Part 2 has eight gaps, usually one word each. Common answers are articles, prepositions, pronouns, auxiliary verbs, and linking words; grammar and collocation decide the word.

Word formation rules

Part 3 gives a base word in capitals; change it to the form the gap needs, often adding prefixes or suffixes (e.g., HAPPY to UNHAPPINESS). Check part of speech and spelling.

Key word transformation

Part 4 requires rewriting a sentence using a given word in two to five words without changing the given word or the meaning. Contractions count as two words.

Contraction word count

In Use of English Part 4, contractions such as don't or isn't count as two words (do not, is not). Exceeding the five-word limit scores zero for that item.

Part 4 grammar targets

Key word transformations frequently test passive voice, reported speech, conditionals, comparatives, and phrasal verbs. After transforming, check tense, subject-verb agreement, and word order.

Spelling penalty

In Use of English Parts 2-4, a misspelled answer is marked wrong even when the grammar is correct. Copy the spelling of the given word exactly and check suffixes.

FCE Writing Part 1

A compulsory essay of 140-190 words based on two short input texts and a question. Integrate ideas from both texts and add your own opinion; copying the texts verbatim is penalized.

Writing assessment criteria

Four criteria scored 0-5 each: Content (task achievement), Communicative Achievement (register and text-type conventions), Organisation (paragraphing and linking), and Language (range and accuracy).

Register by text type

Essays and reports use formal register; emails to friends are informal; reviews are semi-formal with evaluative language. Match tone and conventions to the task type to score Communicative Achievement.

Writing word limit

Part 1 and Part 2 tasks require 140-190 words. Under 140 loses Content marks; over 190 is not rewarded and raises error risk, so aim for about 170 words.

Writing time plan

Paper 2 lasts 80 minutes for two tasks. Spend 5-10 minutes planning, 55-60 minutes writing, and 5-10 minutes checking spelling, tenses, and word count.

Part 2 task choices

Writing Part 2 offers four options: article, email or letter, report, or review. Choose one and follow its conventions, such as headings in a report or a catchy title in an article.

Essay structure

A Part 1 essay typically has an introduction, one paragraph per input text with your reaction, and a conclusion with your opinion. Use linking words to connect ideas clearly.

FCE Listening format

Paper 3 Listening has four parts and 30 questions in about 40 minutes. Every recording is played twice, and five extra minutes are given at the end for transferring answers.

Listening Part 2 gap fill

Ten sentences with gaps on one monologue. Answers are usually one to three words and must be spelled correctly; write exactly what you hear, not a paraphrase.

Listening Part 3 matching

Five multiple-matching questions on one long conversation. Match speakers to options; an option may be used more than once or not at all, so read all options before listening.

Listening Part 4 order

Seven three-option multiple-choice questions on one interview or discussion. Questions follow the order of the recording, so answer as you listen and mark your place.

Mid-sentence correction

In Listening, speakers often correct themselves (e.g., 'Actually, it was Tuesday, not Monday'). Wait for the correction before writing the answer.

Listening Part 1 focus

Eight short unrelated recordings with three-option multiple choice. Identify the speaker's purpose, main point, or attitude rather than every detail.

FCE Speaking format

Paper 4 Speaking has four parts and lasts about 14 minutes per pair. Two examiners assess: one interlocutor manages the interaction, and one assessor scores performance.

Speaking Part 2 long turn

Compare two photographs for about one minute and answer the question above them. The partner then answers a short follow-up question for about 30 seconds.

Speaking assessment criteria

Four criteria scored 0-5 each: Grammar and Vocabulary, Discourse Management, Pronunciation, and Interactive Communication. All four carry equal weight in the total score.

Collaborative task

Speaking Part 3 gives a spider diagram of options. Discuss them with your partner for about three minutes and reach a decision together, using questions and responses.

Interactive communication

A Speaking criterion rewarding turn-taking, responding to your partner, and initiating discussion. Ask questions, react to ideas, and avoid long monologues that exclude your partner.

Long-turn structure

In Speaking Part 2, briefly compare the photos, answer the printed question directly, and add a personal reaction. Avoid listing every visual detail; aim for fluent, connected speech.

Speaking Part 1 interview

About two minutes of personal questions on daily life, interests, and plans. Answer with two or three sentences and a reason or example, not a single word.