Cambridgereading

Gapped Text

Put missing sentences or paragraphs back into a long text. Tests how well you understand the way a text is organised.

15 minutes
B2 First (FCE), C1 Advanced (CAE), C2 Proficiency (CPE)
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What is this question type?

Gapped Text tests your understanding of text structure, coherence, and cohesion. At B2 First the missing parts are sentences. At C1 Advanced and C2 Proficiency they are whole paragraphs. You must work out how each part connects through reference words, linking expressions, and the logical flow of ideas.

Try a free B2 First Part 6 test

Winning Strategy

  1. 1

    Read the main text first to understand the general topic and structure

  2. 2

    Look for reference words (this, that, such, these) and what they refer to

  3. 3

    Identify linking expressions that show sequence or contrast

  4. 4

    Check for topic continuity: does the option continue the same subject?

  5. 5

    One option is extra and does not fit any gap

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Not reading the text before and after each gap

  • Ignoring reference words and pronouns

  • Missing logical connectors and discourse markers

  • Forgetting that one option is a distractor

  • Not reading the finished text to check that it flows logically

Tips for Success

  • Underline reference words (he, she, it, this, these)

  • Note time markers and sequence words (then, later, previously)

  • Look for repeated vocabulary or themes across paragraphs

  • Pay attention to how each option begins and ends

  • After completing, read the whole text to check it makes sense

Frequently Asked Questions

What is removed at each level?
B2 First Part 6 removes six sentences. C1 Advanced Part 7 removes six paragraphs, and C2 Proficiency Part 6 removes seven paragraphs. Each task has one extra option that does not fit.
What if an option seems to fit more than one gap?
Look more carefully at reference words and logical connections. Only one placement will be perfectly correct.
Should I complete gaps in order?
Start with gaps where you're most confident. This helps eliminate options for harder gaps.

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Gapped Text - Complete Study Guide for Cambridge English Qualifications

Gapped Text tests your understanding of text structure, coherence, and cohesion. At B2 First the missing parts are sentences. At C1 Advanced and C2 Proficiency they are whole paragraphs. You must work out how each part connects through reference words, linking expressions, and the logical flow of ideas.

Step-by-Step Strategy

  1. Read the main text first to understand the general topic and structure
  2. Look for reference words (this, that, such, these) and what they refer to
  3. Identify linking expressions that show sequence or contrast
  4. Check for topic continuity: does the option continue the same subject?
  5. One option is extra and does not fit any gap

Avoid These Mistakes

  • Not reading the text before and after each gap
  • Ignoring reference words and pronouns
  • Missing logical connectors and discourse markers
  • Forgetting that one option is a distractor
  • Not reading the finished text to check that it flows logically

Expert Tips

  • Underline reference words (he, she, it, this, these)
  • Note time markers and sequence words (then, later, previously)
  • Look for repeated vocabulary or themes across paragraphs
  • Pay attention to how each option begins and ends
  • After completing, read the whole text to check it makes sense

Frequently Asked Questions

What is removed at each level?

B2 First Part 6 removes six sentences. C1 Advanced Part 7 removes six paragraphs, and C2 Proficiency Part 6 removes seven paragraphs. Each task has one extra option that does not fit.

What if an option seems to fit more than one gap?

Look more carefully at reference words and logical connections. Only one placement will be perfectly correct.

Should I complete gaps in order?

Start with gaps where you're most confident. This helps eliminate options for harder gaps.

Available in: B2 First (FCE), C1 Advanced (CAE), C2 Proficiency (CPE)

Time allowed: 15 minutes