Think about these questions, or answer them aloud.
All three tasks test the same skill: using context to decide what is missing.
| Position of the gap | Word you need | Example |
|---|---|---|
| after a / the / their or an adjective | noun | the introduction of the new system |
| before a noun | adjective | a reliable supplier |
| after be / seem / become | adjective (usually) | The process is more efficient. |
| describing a verb or adjective | adverb | works effectively, highly experienced |
| after will / can / must / to | base verb | must submit the form |
| after has / have / had | past participle | has managed the team |
From 1 March, the City Library will open one hour later on weekdays ___(1)___ a reduction in staff. The new hours, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., ___(2)___ for at least six months.
___(3)___. Members who need to return books before 10 a.m. can use the drop box next to the main entrance. We are ___(4)___ grateful for your understanding.
Gap 1: because / because of / although / despite. The gap is followed by a noun phrase (a reduction in staff), not a clause. The idea is a reason. → because of
Gap 2: apply / will apply / applied / applying. The sentence describes the future (from 1 March, for at least six months). → will apply
Gap 3 (sentence choice): (A) The library was built in 1965. (B) Weekend opening hours will not change. (C) Please return the books you borrowed. (D) The new café is very popular. The text is about changes to opening hours, and the next sentence gives practical help for weekday users. Only (B) continues the topic of hours. → (B)
Gap 4: extreme / extremely / extremes / extremity. The gap describes the adjective grateful, so it must be an adverb. → extremely
Complete the Words example: “Most adults need se___ to nine hours of sleep.” A number before to nine, and three letters are missing → seven (type ven).
Choose the word or phrase that best completes each sentence.
To: All staff From: Facilities Team Subject: Car park closure, 14–16 April
Please be aware that the staff car park will be closed from Monday 14 April to Wednesday 16 April while the surface ___(1)___. During this period, employees who normally drive to work are encouraged to use public transport or the company shuttle bus, which ___(2)___ from Central Station every 20 minutes between 7:00 and 9:30 a.m. ___(3)___.
Limited parking will also be available at the Riverside Hotel opposite the office, ___(4)___ spaces must be reserved in advance through the facilities page on the intranet. We apologise for any inconvenience and thank you for your patience.
Read the email. Choose the best option for each gap.
Complete the missing letters in the paragraph. Type only the missing letters (typing the whole word is also accepted). In the real test, each missing letter has its own space, so you can see how many letters to type.
Write the correct form of the word in brackets.
Save words to review them later with flashcards.
“Please submit your report by Friday.”
“The new ordering system is more efficient.”
“The meeting was postponed until next week.”
“The report will be distributed to all shareholders.”
“Shareholders receive a report every quarter.”
“Parking spaces must be reserved in advance.”
“We apologise for any inconvenience.”
“Customers value the reliability of our products.”
“All applicants will be contacted within two weeks.”
“Birds rely on the sun and stars to find their way.”
