Aptis reading Test: General Tips and Strategies

Forget What You Know Already:
The APTIS Listening Test tests your ability to understand the 
information in the audio you are given. So don’t think about your previous knowledge on the topic, 
only focus on the script in front of you. 
There are often pauses in the recording between different sections.
Use these to prepare for 
the next set of questions: Sorry, but the pause between the parts is not the time for a break. During 
these pauses, you should be analysing the questions and deciding the information you need to 
complete them. 
Answer Every Question:
No points are deducted for wrong answers, and so there is no reason 
not to answer all the questions. With practice, students start to develop an instinct for English and 
it’s very possible that your guess will be a good one. 
Answer Listening questions are in the same order they appear on the screen.
Remember that 
they normally follow the order of the information in the recording. 
Concentrate to Avoid Skipping Audio:
A common mistake is to use too many or too few words 
to answer the question. Always read the instructions and circle the number of words that you need to 
answer the question. 
Read the question carefully before you select your answer:
Try to anticipate the type of answer 
you need. Is it a time or a place? Is it a number or a person? Plural or singular? 
Don't select answers too quickly:
If you are sure of the answer then make a note of it but don’t 
assume you are right. Always use the second listening to check or confirm your answer. 
Watch out for plurals in answers.
If the question requires a plural answer, a singular answer is 
incorrect. Also, if the answer is singular then the verb must be singular. You should also check for 
uncountable nouns which will not ‘agree’ with words like- many, are, have etc.