Prepare for Goethe and telc exams: practise the four skills
Reading, listening, writing and speaking need different kinds of practice. A clear routine turns “I need to study” into one concrete next task.
1. Get to know your exam format
Start with your provider and level. Use the official exam website to understand task types, timing and assessment. Goethe A2 and telc B1 are different exams, so prepare for the format you will actually take.
Not sure about your level? Read our A1–B2 overview.
2. Reading: find answers in the text
Read the task first, then look for the information the question asks about. During revision, focus on context rather than isolated words. After an incorrect answer, ask: did I miss a detail, confuse a word or connect the wrong statement?
For a short practice session, read an everyday text and summarise its main idea in one sentence. At higher levels, include viewpoints and arguments.
3. Listening: focus on key information
Use audio exercises at your level. Before listening, read the questions and consider whether you need a time, a place, a decision or an opinion. Compare your answers with the solution afterwards.
Replay difficult sections when possible. The goal is to understand why you made a mistake. You do not always need to write down every unfamiliar word.
4. Writing: answer clearly and completely
Make sure you address every part of the task. Plan a short structure: an appropriate greeting, the required content and a suitable ending. Write clearly first, then review verbs, word order and endings you often find difficult.
The A1 app includes AI-assisted writing feedback. Use suggestions to revise and compare them with the rules you have learned. Automatic evaluation can make mistakes.
5. Speaking: practise your own answers aloud
Do more than prepare answers in your head. Say them aloud and occasionally record yourself. Check whether your point is clear and whether you answered the task. Practise with another person for exams involving dialogue or shared planning.
A short, clear argument can be a better starting point than a long memorised speech. Build your vocabulary and expression from there.
6. Make revision manageable
- Choose one skill and a manageable task for each study session.
- Note why answers were incorrect and revisit that difficulty.
- Alternate between exercises, vocabulary and producing your own language.
- Occasionally complete a mock test under the intended time conditions.
The A1, A2, B1 and B2 apps help you find exercises for those sessions.
An app supports your preparation. It does not replace an exam, issue an accredited certificate or guarantee a result. Choose learning materials that fit your individual goals.