About the A2 Key Exam

Part 1 · Picture Multiple Choice

Choose the picture that matches what you hear.

Tests: Identifying key detail (which one, how many, what time) in short exchanges.

• Look at all three pictures before listening — spot the one key difference between them.
• The correct answer is often mentioned last or corrected mid-conversation.
• Don't choose a picture just because you hear a matching word — listen for the full meaning.

Part 2 · Note/Gap Completion

Write the missing word, number, time or price in each gap.

Tests: Listening for specific factual information.

• Read the notes before listening and predict what type of answer fits each gap.
• Write exactly what you hear — numbers, times and prices must be accurate.
• Check spelling of any words you write during the second listening.

Part 3 · Longer Dialogue — Multiple Choice

Choose the correct answer (A/B/C) for each question.

Tests: Following a longer exchange for detail and overall meaning.

• Read all 5 questions before listening so you know what's coming next.
• Answers follow the order of the conversation.
• Use the second listening to confirm or change first-listen guesses.

Part 4 · Short Extracts — Multiple Choice

Choose the answer that matches gist, opinion or feeling.

Tests: Understanding attitude, opinion and general meaning from short unrelated extracts.

• Each item is a separate topic — reset your attention between extracts.
• Listen for tone of voice as much as the words used.
• Don't pick an option just because you hear its exact words — focus on overall meaning.

Part 5 · Matching

Match each speaker/situation to the correct option; 3 options are not used.

Tests: Extracting specific information and rejecting distractors.

• Read all 8 options before listening and note key differences between similar ones.
• Cross off options as you use them — remember 3 will be left over.
• Confirm uncertain matches on the second listening.