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The Duolingo English Test (DET) is a computer-based English proficiency test that measures an individual's ability in four language skills: reading, writing, listening, and speaking. It is designed to assess the English language proficiency of non-native English speakers, primarily for academic or professional purposes.

The test is computer-adaptive, meaning the questions are chosen based on the test taker's previous answers. It allows the test to accurately measure the test taker's proficiency level in less time than traditional standardized tests.

The Duolingo English Test is accepted by many universities, colleges, and institutions as proof of English language proficiency for academic or employment purposes. The test can be taken from any computer with a webcam and an internet connection, and results are available within 48 hours.

Test Format of the Duolingo Exam

The Duolingo English Test is computer-adaptive, meaning that the difficulty level of the questions will adapt to the test taker's responses. The test is divided into two sections:

• The first section assesses the test taker's reading and listening skills. This section consists of multiple-choice questions and lasts approximately 45 minutes.

• The second section assesses the test taker's writing and speaking skills. This section requires the test taker to complete writing prompts and record spoken responses to prompts. The writing prompts may include short answer questions or more extended essays, and the speaking prompts may require the test taker to give a speech or answer a question. This section lasts approximately 30 minutes.

The entire test is online and requires the test taker to use a computer with a webcam, microphone, and reliable internet connection. The test is designed to be taken in one sitting, but it is possible to pause and resume it later if necessary.

The question types in the Duolingo English test

The Duolingo English Test consists of various questions to assess the test taker's proficiency in English. Here are some examples of question types that may be included in the test:

• Multiple choice: The test taker is asked to choose the correct answer from a list of options.

• Fill in the blank: The test taker is asked to complete a sentence or phrase by filling in the missing word.

• Matching: The test taker is asked to match items or phrases to their corresponding descriptions or definitions.

• Short answer: The test taker is asked to respond to a question briefly.

• Essay: The test taker is asked to write a short essay responding to a prompt.

• Speaking: The test taker is asked to record their spoken response to a prompt or question.

• Reading comprehension: The test taker is asked to read a passage and answer questions about its content.

• Listening comprehension: The test taker is asked to listen to a passage or dialogue and answer questions about its content.

The specific question types used in the test will vary depending on the test taker's level of proficiency and the skills being assessed.

Upcoming question types in the test

New Interactive Listening question type

Beginning May 1, 2023, Interactive Listening questions will be part of the Duolingo English Test.

Interactive Listening is a communication technique involving active and engaged listening to comprehend what the speaker is saying and responding appropriately. Interactive Listening questions are open-ended questions that require speakers to elaborate their opinions and thoughts extensively. These questions help listeners show interest, reinforce attentiveness, and clarify doubts by asking probing questions, summarizing what they heard, and providing feedback. Examples of such questions include: Can you tell me more about that? How did that make you feel? What was your main takeaway from that? So, if you want any coaching and information regarding the Duolingo test, please visit Western Overseas.