Rules library / Listening
Listening multiple choice
Answer the meaning the speaker gave, not the words you recognised.
The rule
- 1Read the options during the countdown so you know what to listen for.
- 2Note the speaker's attitude words: unfortunately, surprisingly, clearly.
- 3Options that repeat the exact words you heard are often traps; correct options paraphrase.
- 4Decide immediately after the audio while the meaning is fresh.
Worked example
Speaker: 'The trial was promising, though the sample was small.'
- Attitude: cautious
- Reject 'the trial proved the treatment works'
- Choose the cautious paraphrase
Answer: Early results were positive but limited
Three drills
Drill 1. An option repeats the speaker's exact words. That means…
Drill 2. When should you read the options?
Drill 3. What should you note while listening?