UPDATE: We have a new, updated article which includes more tips and advice as well as a FREE FCE Practice Test: FCE Practice Test: Try Out FCE Reading Paper 7
The last one of the FCE Reading papers! One of the most important things to remember when doing this multiple matching part is that the questions and the text are not necessarily in the same order. You should also be aware that important information may come in different parts of the same sentence.
Following this simple 6-step plan should give you a good starting strategy for tackling
Part 3:
1. There is no need to read through the text first.
2. Skim quickly through all the questions just to get a feel for the topic.
3. Note the key words for question you want to start with.
4. Scan through the text until you come to a part where you find key words or phrases
which match your question key words and stop reading.
5. Read the relevant part of the text carefully to make sure that you are correct.
6. Continue like this until you have answered all questions.
Here are some more Top Tips:
Read the Instructions
Make sure you know what to do – always start by reading the instructions first!
Don’t Get Bogged Down
If you are struggling to find an answer, move on to the next question and go back to the question later.
As they may not come in the same order in the text and questions, there is no need to do the questions in chronological order. Start with the questions that you find the easiest and leave the more difficult ones till last.
Word Spotting
Avoid “word spotting” – finding the same word in the question and text doesn’t necessarily mean the answer is correct. Instead, try looking for synonyms or paraphrases.
Keep an Eye on the Clock
Don’t run out of time! If you have developed your final FCE exam strategy, you will know how much time you have allocated to this part of the test. Stick to your timetable. Remember, each part of the FCE Reading Paper carry approximately the same amount of marks. If you do one of the other two parts quicker, you can always go back and finish this part – it is all about maximising your chances to pass your FCE exam!
This concludes this FCE Reading series. We hope you have enjoyed the series and have found it useful. Avoid missing any of our tips and advice on how to pass the FCE exam and subscribe to our free email notification service.
