CAE CAE Exam Strategies

Question 1

In the CAE Reading and Use of English paper, how should a candidate approach Part 5 (multiple choice) most effectively?

Accepted Answer

Read the text carefully, then locate the answer area for each question before choosing

Answer

Reading the text and then locating the relevant paragraph for each question prevents distraction and ensures answers are evidence-based rather than guessed.

Question 2

What is the best strategy for CAE Reading Part 7 (gapped paragraphs)?

Accepted Answer

Use text cohesion clues (pronouns, lexical chains, time references) to identify logical fit

Answer

Cohesion clues — such as pronouns referring back, topic words linking forward, and logical sequencing — are the most reliable tools for matching gapped paragraphs.

Question 3

During the CAE exam, a candidate is running out of time in the Reading paper. What is the best approach?

Accepted Answer

Guess the remaining answers rather than leaving them blank

Answer

Since there is no negative marking in CAE, guessing remaining answers is better than leaving blanks — a guess always has a chance of being correct.

Question 4

How should candidates manage their time in the CAE Writing paper?

Accepted Answer

Divide time equally: plan, write, and check for each task

Answer

Planning (5 min), writing (30–35 min), and checking (5 min) for each task ensures structured responses and time to catch errors.

Question 5

In CAE Use of English Part 4 (key word transformations), what is the maximum number of words allowed?

Accepted Answer

Six words

Answer

Part 4 key word transformations allow between two and six words (including the key word) to complete the transformation; contractions count as two words.

CAE - Cambridge English Advanced Practice Test

CAE - Cambridge English Advanced Practice Test

CAE CAE Exam Strategies