Cambridge B1 Preliminary (PET) Test — Questions and Answers

Question 1: Why is note-taking an effective listening strategy?

To write down every single word
To retain key points and improve comprehension (Correct answer)
To distract from listening
To replace active engagement

Correct answer: To retain key points and improve comprehension

Note-taking is an effective listening strategy because it helps listeners actively process and summarize information, which in turn improves comprehension and retention of key points. By jotting down main ideas and important details, listeners engage more deeply with the content rather than passively receiving it. This also provides a valuable record for later review and recall, reinforcing learning.

Question 2: What is the function of transition words in a passage?

To increase the word count
To connect ideas and improve flow (Correct answer)
To replace punctuation
To make sentences longer

Correct answer: To connect ideas and improve flow

Transition words and phrases (e.g., 'however,' 'therefore,' 'in addition') act as bridges between sentences and paragraphs. They signal relationships between ideas, such as cause and effect, comparison, contrast, or sequence. By guiding the reader smoothly from one thought to the next, transitions enhance the coherence and readability of a passage.

Question 3: He ___ his bad mood by snapping at his colleagues all day.

took out (Correct answer)
took over
took off
took up

Correct answer: took out

'Take out' (frustration on someone) means to direct negative feelings at another person.

Question 4: You bump into a neighbor while carrying groceries. They ask, 'Need a hand?' What does this mean?

They want to examine your hand.
They want to shake hands.
They are asking if you need help. (Correct answer)
They are offering a glove.

Correct answer: They are asking if you need help.

'Need a hand?' is an idiomatic expression meaning 'Do you need help?'

Question 5: Which sentence correctly uses a relative clause?

The book which I borrowed it was excellent.
The book which was excellent I borrowed.
The book, which I borrowed, was excellent. (Correct answer)
The book that I borrowed it was excellent.

Correct answer: The book, which I borrowed, was excellent.

A relative clause with 'which' does not need an extra pronoun like 'it' after the clause.

Question 6: Which sentence is in the passive voice?

The meal was prepared by the chef. (Correct answer)
Someone prepared the meal.
The chef prepared the meal.
The chef had prepared the meal.

Correct answer: The meal was prepared by the chef.

Passive voice uses 'was/were + past participle' and may include a 'by' phrase.

Question 7: In the PET exam, which text type is most likely to include a subject line and a greeting such as 'Dear Sir or Madam'?

A short story
A notice
A diary entry
A formal email or letter (Correct answer)

Correct answer: A formal email or letter

Formal emails and letters in PET typically include a subject line and a formal greeting.

Question 8: A PET task instructs: 'Write your answer in 35-45 words.' You write 30 words. What is the likely penalty?

Loss of marks for not completing the task fully (Correct answer)
Automatic disqualification from the exam
No penalty if the content is accurate
Bonus marks for being concise

Correct answer: Loss of marks for not completing the task fully

Falling below the word limit suggests incomplete task fulfilment, which costs marks in PET writing.

Question 9: Read the menu item: 'Chef's Special — Grilled salmon with seasonal vegetables and lemon butter sauce. (Contains fish, dairy. Gluten-free.)' A customer who is lactose intolerant wants this dish. What should they know?

The menu does not provide allergy information.
The dish is safe for them because it is gluten-free.
The dish can be made dairy-free on request.
The dish contains dairy, which may not be suitable for them. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: The dish contains dairy, which may not be suitable for them.

The menu clearly states the dish contains dairy, so a lactose-intolerant customer should be aware it may cause problems.

Question 10: Identify the error: 'Neither the manager nor the employees was informed about the change.'

Neither the manager
nor the employees
about the change
was informed (Correct answer)

Correct answer: was informed

With 'neither…nor', the verb agrees with the nearest subject ('employees'), so it should be 'were informed'.

Question 11: What does 'get the ball rolling' mean?

To start a process or activity (Correct answer)
To slow something down
To finish a project
To play a sport

Correct answer: To start a process or activity

'Get the ball rolling' means to start something or begin a process.

Question 12: You are completing PET Part 1 sentence transformation: 'Maria started learning piano three years ago.' Using 'for': 'Maria ______.'

has been learning piano for three years. (Correct answer)
is learning piano for three years.
had learned piano for three years.
learned piano for three years ago.

Correct answer: has been learning piano for three years.

An action that started in the past and continues now uses the present perfect continuous with 'for.'

Question 13: In PET writing, what does 'cohesion' mean?

Repeating key words in every paragraph
Using only simple vocabulary throughout
Writing very long sentences with many clauses
Using linking words so sentences flow logically together (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Using linking words so sentences flow logically together

Cohesion refers to how well ideas connect using linking words like 'however,' 'therefore,' and 'in addition.'

Question 14: Which of the following best describes a 'topic sentence' in a paragraph?

The last sentence that summarizes the whole essay.
The first sentence that introduces the main idea of the paragraph. (Correct answer)
A sentence written in the passive voice.
A sentence that contains the most difficult vocabulary.

Correct answer: The first sentence that introduces the main idea of the paragraph.

A topic sentence opens a paragraph and states its main point, guiding everything that follows.

Question 15: Choose the sentence with the correct use of 'despite':

Despite the rain, we enjoyed the picnic. (Correct answer)
Despite of the rain, we enjoyed the picnic.
Despite that it rained, we enjoyed the picnic.
Despite it rained, we enjoyed the picnic.

Correct answer: Despite the rain, we enjoyed the picnic.

'Despite' is followed directly by a noun or noun phrase, not 'of' or a clause with a verb.

Question 16: What is the importance of staying current with trends in Idioms & Phrasal Verbs for Preliminary English Test?

It is only required for new professionals
Trends do not affect professional practice
It is not necessary once certified
It ensures practices remain effective and relevant (Correct answer)

Correct answer: It ensures practices remain effective and relevant

Staying current with industry trends ensures that professional practices remain effective, relevant, and aligned with evolving standards.

Question 17: You don't understand the examiner's question. What is the best response?

Guess an answer and speak confidently
Remain silent for ten seconds
Say 'I don't know' and stop speaking
Say 'I'm sorry, could you repeat that, please?' (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Say 'I'm sorry, could you repeat that, please?'

Politely asking for repetition is a natural communicative strategy and does not penalize your score.

Question 18: Which feature is typical of an informal email in PET writing tasks?

Official company letterhead
Numbered paragraphs and bullet points
Formal salutation such as 'To Whom It May Concern'
Use of contractions and friendly language (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Use of contractions and friendly language

Informal emails use contractions, casual greetings, and friendly language suitable for writing to friends.

Question 19: You receive a note asking: 'Can you explain why you were absent and suggest how you will catch up?' Which response best addresses both questions?

I had a bad cold last week. I plan to borrow notes from a classmate and finish the assignment by Friday. (Correct answer)
Being absent is something that happened. Catching up is my plan.
I was ill. Thank you.
I was absent because I was absent. I will catch up.

Correct answer: I had a bad cold last week. I plan to borrow notes from a classmate and finish the assignment by Friday.

This answer clearly states the reason and gives a concrete, realistic plan to catch up.

Question 20: Choose the correct word to complete the sentence: 'She looked _______ the window and saw it was raining.'

into
through (Correct answer)
at
by

Correct answer: through

'Looked through the window' is the natural collocation meaning she saw outside by looking via the glass.

Question 21: Find the error: 'If I was you, I would apologize immediately.'

If I was you (Correct answer)
No error
immediately
I would apologize

Correct answer: If I was you

In formal/standard English, the subjunctive 'were' is used in hypothetical conditions: 'If I were you'.

Question 22: You read: 'The manager apologised for the delay and offered a full refund.' What does this tell you about the situation?

The manager was angry with the customer
The customer was happy with the service
Something went wrong and the company is trying to make amends (Correct answer)
A refund was not necessary in this case

Correct answer: Something went wrong and the company is trying to make amends

An apology and refund indicate a problem occurred and the company is taking responsibility to resolve it.

Question 23: Identify the error: 'My brother, who he lives in London, is a doctor.'

in London
who he lives (Correct answer)
My brother
is a doctor

Correct answer: who he lives

The relative pronoun 'who' already acts as the subject, so the extra 'he' is redundant: 'who lives'.

Question 24: Which linking phrase is best used to add a further point that supports the same idea?

In contrast
Furthermore (Correct answer)
On the other hand
Nevertheless

Correct answer: Furthermore

'Furthermore' adds an additional supporting point, reinforcing the same argument.

Question 25: What is the purpose of an introductory paragraph in an essay?

To include only personal opinions
To introduce the main idea and provide background (Correct answer)
To list all the points in detail
To summarize the entire essay

Correct answer: To introduce the main idea and provide background

An introductory paragraph serves to hook the reader's attention, provide necessary background information on the topic, and clearly state the essay's main argument or thesis statement. It sets the stage for the discussion that follows, outlining what the essay will cover. A strong introduction is crucial for establishing the essay's purpose and direction.

Question 26: Which sentence uses a full stop (period) correctly?

The meeting ended at noon. Everyone left quickly. (Correct answer)
She asked if I was. ready.
They arrived. early for the show
He finished his homework. and went to bed.

Correct answer: The meeting ended at noon. Everyone left quickly.

A full stop correctly ends a complete sentence, and the next sentence begins with a capital letter.

Question 27: The suffix '-tion' turns a verb into a ________.

adjective
verb
adverb
noun (Correct answer)

Correct answer: noun

The suffix '-tion' converts verbs like 'educate' into nouns like 'education'.

Question 28: Which skill is most important for success in Grammar & Sentence Structure within Preliminary English Test?

Working without any training
Resisting change
Avoiding feedback
Continuous learning and adaptation (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Continuous learning and adaptation

Continuous learning ensures professionals stay current with evolving practices in Grammar & Sentence Structure.

Question 29: Choose the word that best completes the sentence: 'The instructions were so _______ that even a child could follow them.'

lengthy
clear (Correct answer)
complicated
vague

Correct answer: clear

If a child could easily follow instructions, they must be 'clear,' not complicated or vague.

Question 30: Which sentence uses the correct conditional form? 'If I more time, I visit you.'

had / would (Correct answer)
would have / will
had had / would have
have / will

Correct answer: had / would

The second conditional uses 'If + past simple, would + infinitive' for hypothetical present/future situations.

Question 31: An email says: 'I am writing to complain about the service I received at your store last Saturday.' What is the main purpose of this email?

To express dissatisfaction and seek a resolution (Correct answer)
To ask for information about store hours
To request a job application form
To thank staff for excellent service

Correct answer: To express dissatisfaction and seek a resolution

The phrase 'writing to complain' clearly signals the email's purpose is to express dissatisfaction.

Question 32: What is the role of documentation in Writing Skills & Composition for Preliminary English Test?

It should only be done monthly
It provides an accurate record for accountability and reference (Correct answer)
It is unnecessary paperwork
It is only for management review

Correct answer: It provides an accurate record for accountability and reference

Proper documentation in Writing Skills & Composition ensures accountability, traceability, and serves as a reference for future decisions.

Question 33: Which of the following is a key characteristic of a well-structured paragraph?

Topic sentence, supporting details, and conclusion (Correct answer)
A single long sentence
Only a list of ideas
Multiple unrelated ideas

Correct answer: Topic sentence, supporting details, and conclusion

A well-structured paragraph typically begins with a topic sentence that states its main idea. This is followed by several supporting details, examples, or explanations that elaborate on and provide evidence for the topic sentence. Finally, a concluding sentence often summarizes the paragraph's main point or transitions to the next paragraph, ensuring unity and coherence.

Question 34: A notice reads: 'Passengers must present a valid ticket before boarding. No exceptions will be made.' What is the purpose of this notice?

To describe the train schedule
To explain how to buy a ticket
To instruct passengers on a requirement (Correct answer)
To advertise discounted travel

Correct answer: To instruct passengers on a requirement

The notice gives a clear instruction (must present a ticket) and states it applies to everyone, making its purpose instructional.

Question 35: Which sentence has a word-order error?

I have just finished my homework.
He always is late for meetings. (Correct answer)
She rarely goes out on weeknights.
They have never visited Paris.

Correct answer: He always is late for meetings.

Frequency adverbs go after the auxiliary verb 'is': 'He is always late'.

Question 36: Which approach best supports quality outcomes in Idioms & Phrasal Verbs for Preliminary English Test?

Rushing through tasks
Avoiding quality checks
Relying solely on intuition
Systematic application of evidence-based methods (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Systematic application of evidence-based methods

Evidence-based methods provide a reliable foundation for achieving consistent, high-quality outcomes.

Question 37: What does 'reading between the lines' mean in reading comprehension?

Skipping lines to read faster
Understanding information that is suggested but not directly stated (Correct answer)
Reading the footnotes at the bottom of the page
Focusing only on the main idea sentences

Correct answer: Understanding information that is suggested but not directly stated

Reading between the lines means making inferences about what the author implies but does not explicitly say.

Question 38: Read the text: 'Our new café offers a range of hot and cold beverages, freshly made sandwiches, and daily specials. Vegetarian options available.' A vegetarian customer wants a warm drink and food. What can they find there?

Hot food only, no cold options
Hot drinks and vegetarian food options (Correct answer)
Only cold drinks and no food for vegetarians
No information is given about vegetarian drinks

Correct answer: Hot drinks and vegetarian food options

The café offers hot beverages and has vegetarian options available, satisfying both of the customer's needs.

Question 39: In PET Part 1, you rewrite a sentence so it means the same. Choose the correct rewrite: 'It's a long time since I saw him.'

I don't see him for a long time.
I haven't saw him for a long time.
I didn't see him since a long time.
I haven't seen him for a long time. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: I haven't seen him for a long time.

'It's a long time since' is rewritten using the present perfect with 'for' to express the same duration.

Question 40: You hear: 'The next bus to the city centre leaves from platform three at twenty to four.' What is the departure time?

4:40
4:20
3:40 (Correct answer)
3:20

Correct answer: 3:40

Twenty to four means 20 minutes before 4:00, which is 3:40.

Question 41: Find the error: 'The teacher, along with her students, are planning a field trip.'

The teacher
along with her students
a field trip
are planning (Correct answer)

Correct answer: are planning

Phrases beginning with 'along with' do not change the number of the main subject; it should be 'is planning'.

Question 42: Which approach best supports quality outcomes in Error Identification & Correction for Preliminary English Test?

Relying solely on intuition
Systematic application of evidence-based methods (Correct answer)
Avoiding quality checks
Rushing through tasks

Correct answer: Systematic application of evidence-based methods

Evidence-based methods provide a reliable foundation for achieving consistent, high-quality outcomes.

Question 43: He had to ___ his old habits to succeed in his new job.

give in
give out
give off
give up (Correct answer)

Correct answer: give up

'Give up' means to stop doing or having something, especially a habit.

Question 44: A text says: 'The museum opens at 9 a.m. and closes at 6 p.m., except on Mondays when it is closed all day.' If you arrive at 10 a.m. on a Monday, what will you find?

The museum open and busy
The museum opening in one hour
The museum closing soon
The museum closed (Correct answer)

Correct answer: The museum closed

The text states the museum is closed all day on Mondays, so a 10 a.m. Monday visit means it is shut.

Question 45: A text uses the phrase 'on the other hand.' What does this signal?

A contrasting or opposing viewpoint is about to be given (Correct answer)
A conclusion is being drawn
An example is about to be introduced
An additional point that supports the previous idea

Correct answer: A contrasting or opposing viewpoint is about to be given

'On the other hand' is a contrast linker that introduces an opposing or alternative perspective.

Question 46: A product review says: 'The camera takes sharp photos, but the battery life is disappointing.' What is the overall tone of the review?

Mixed — praising one feature and criticising another (Correct answer)
Entirely positive
Entirely negative
Neutral and factual only

Correct answer: Mixed — praising one feature and criticising another

The review expresses both praise (sharp photos) and criticism (poor battery), making the tone mixed.

Question 47: In a PET Part 1 picture task, you hear: 'The bag is on the chair, next to the table.' Which image matches this description?

A bag under the table
A bag hanging from the door
A bag on the chair next to the table (Correct answer)
A bag on the floor beside the chair

Correct answer: A bag on the chair next to the table

The speaker clearly states the bag is on the chair and next to the table.

Question 48: Which approach best supports quality outcomes in Reading Comprehension Strategies for Preliminary English Test?

Relying solely on intuition
Avoiding quality checks
Rushing through tasks
Systematic application of evidence-based methods (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Systematic application of evidence-based methods

Evidence-based methods provide a reliable foundation for achieving consistent, high-quality outcomes.

Question 49: Which prefix makes the word 'possible' mean the opposite?

in-
un-
dis-
im- (Correct answer)

Correct answer: im-

'Impossible' is the correct opposite, formed with the prefix 'im-' before 'p'.

Question 50: What is the purpose of using intonation in speaking?

To ignore sentence structure
To increase speaking speed
To speak in a monotone voice
To express emotions and emphasize meaning (Correct answer)

Correct answer: To express emotions and emphasize meaning

The purpose of using intonation in speaking is to express emotions, attitudes, and to emphasize meaning, making speech more dynamic and understandable. Intonation, the rise and fall of the voice, allows speakers to convey whether they are asking a question, making a statement, or highlighting specific words or phrases. This vocal variation is crucial for effective communication, adding depth and clarity to the spoken message.

Question 51: You are on a crowded bus and need to get off at the next stop. What do you say to someone blocking the door?

I'm getting off now.
Let me through!
Move, please.
Excuse me, I need to get off. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Excuse me, I need to get off.

'Excuse me, I need to get off' is polite and clearly communicates your need.

Question 52: Which approach best supports quality outcomes in Grammar & Sentence Structure for Preliminary English Test?

Relying solely on intuition
Rushing through tasks
Systematic application of evidence-based methods (Correct answer)
Avoiding quality checks

Correct answer: Systematic application of evidence-based methods

Evidence-based methods provide a reliable foundation for achieving consistent, high-quality outcomes.

Question 53: What does the term 'proficiency' mean in the context of Preliminary English Test?

Beginner level ability
Advanced competence and skill (Correct answer)
Temporary knowledge
Basic understanding

Correct answer: Advanced competence and skill

Proficiency indicates a high level of competence and expertise in a particular area.

Question 54: If you feel tired during the exam, you _____ take a short break.

should (Correct answer)
could
might
must

Correct answer: should

'Should' is used to give advice or a recommendation about the best course of action.

Question 55: A brochure says: 'Children under 5 enter free. Children aged 5–15 pay half price. Adults pay full price.' A family has two adults, one child aged 3, and one child aged 8. How many people pay full price?

Four
Two (Correct answer)
Three
One

Correct answer: Two

Only the two adults pay full price; the 3-year-old is free and the 8-year-old pays half price.

Question 56: Which sentence contains a mistake?

They are going to the park.
She doesn't like coffee.
We were watching TV.
He play football every day. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: He play football every day.

With third-person singular in simple present, the verb needs the -s ending: 'He plays'.

Question 57: In the PET speaking Part 1 personal interview, which topic is a candidate LEAST likely to be asked about?

Hobbies and free time
Technical details of international tax law (Correct answer)
Travel and future plans
Family and home

Correct answer: Technical details of international tax law

PET Part 1 focuses on familiar, everyday topics such as home, hobbies, work, and plans — not specialist professional topics.

Question 58: Read the notice: 'Library books must be returned within two weeks. A fine of 10 cents per day applies to overdue items.' A student borrowed a book on March 1st. What happens if they return it on March 20th?

They pay 60 cents because the book is 6 days overdue. (Correct answer)
They pay no fine because it is within the month.
They pay 20 cents because they kept it 20 days.
They pay nothing if they renew the book online.

Correct answer: They pay 60 cents because the book is 6 days overdue.

The book is due March 15th (two weeks), and returning it March 20th is 5 days late, but 6 days overdue at 10 cents each = 60 cents.

Question 59: Select the correct modal: You ___ see a doctor if the pain continues.

can
should (Correct answer)
would
might

Correct answer: should

'Should' expresses advice or recommendation.

Question 60: You are at a job interview and the interviewer asks: 'Do you have any questions for us?' You want to ask about working hours. What do you say?

No, I know everything already.
Do you finish early on Fridays?
What time do I finish?
Yes, I'd like to know what the typical working hours are. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Yes, I'd like to know what the typical working hours are.

Asking about 'typical working hours' is professional and appropriately phrased for a job interview.

Cambridge B1 Preliminary (PET) Test

The Cambridge B1 Preliminary (PET) exam certifies intermediate English language proficiency at CEFR level B1, assessing reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills through real-world tasks including comprehension, sentence completion, communication scenarios, and composition.

Questions

140 min

Time Limit

70%

To Pass

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Exam Rules

You can skip questions and return to them later
Flag questions for review before submitting
No feedback shown until you submit the entire exam
Unanswered questions count as wrong — answer everything
10 pretest questions are mixed in and don't affect your score
Timer auto-submits when time runs out
Your progress is auto-saved every 30 seconds