Cambridge English: Reading & Use of English Formats

The Cambridge English qualifications run from A2 Key (KET) up to C2 Proficiency (CPE). Across levels they reuse a recognizable set of Reading and Use of English question types — the answerable parts of each exam.

Format

Level-based exams (A2–C2); this guide covers the Reading & Use of English paper.

Sections

Reading & Use of English

Multiple-choice cloze, open cloze, word formation, key word transformations, multiple choice, gapped text, and multiple matching (plus cross-text multiple matching at C1/C2).

By level

A2 Key 7 parts/32 Q; B1 Preliminary 6 parts/32 Q; B2 First 7 parts/52 Q; C1 Advanced 8 parts/56 Q; C2 Proficiency 7 parts/53 Q.

Signature question types

Open cloze & multiple-choice cloze
Key word transformations
Word formation
Multiple matching (incl. cross-text at C1/C2)

New to these formats? See the question-type glossary for how each one works.

Is it adaptive?

Cambridge English exams are fixed and linear at each level.

Practice Cambridge English with AI Solve Quiz

AI Solve Quiz explains tricky Use of English items — like key word transformations and word formation — showing the grammar that produces the right answer.

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Frequently asked questions

What is a key word transformation? ▼

You rewrite a sentence so it means the same using a given key word, in a set number of words. It tests grammar and vocabulary control and is unique to Cambridge exams.

Related exams

TOEFL iBT The TOEFL iBT measures academic English for university admission. A major format update takes effect on 21 January 2026, making the test shorter and adaptive. This guide covers the Reading section — the part built from selectable, answerable question types. IELTS Academic IELTS Academic assesses English for higher education and is taken by millions each year. Its Reading paper uses 11 well-defined question types — the focus for practice with a study tool. TOEIC Reading The TOEIC Reading test measures everyday workplace English. It is entirely multiple choice — 100 questions across Parts 5 to 7 in 75 minutes. PTE Academic PTE Academic is a fully computer-scored English test known for integrated items that assess more than one skill at once. Its Reading section contains the selectable, answerable formats covered here.

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