Cambridgeuse of english

Key Word Transformation

Complete the second sentence using a given key word while keeping the same meaning. Tests grammar and vocabulary.

12-15 minutes
B2 First (FCE), C1 Advanced (CAE), C2 Proficiency (CPE)

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What is this question type?

Key Word Transformation tests your knowledge of grammar structures, vocabulary, and your ability to paraphrase. You must complete a gapped sentence using a given word so it means the same as the original sentence.

Winning Strategy

  1. 1

    Read both sentences carefully and identify what grammar or vocabulary is being tested

  2. 2

    The key word must not be changed in any way

  3. 3

    Stay within the word limit, including the key word: 2-5 words at B2 First, 3-6 at C1 Advanced and 3-8 at C2 Proficiency

  4. 4

    Make sure your completed sentence has exactly the same meaning

  5. 5

    Check grammar agreement and tense consistency

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Changing the key word (adding -ing, -ed, making plural)

  • Writing too many or too few words

  • Changing the meaning slightly

  • Forgetting to include all necessary grammar elements

  • Poor spelling or grammatical errors in your answer

Tips for Success

  • Learn passive voice transformations

  • Study reported speech structures

  • Know conditionals and wish/if only patterns

  • Practice causative structures (have/get something done)

  • Learn phrasal verb equivalents of single verbs

Frequently Asked Questions

What counts as a word?
Contractions count as two words, so "don't" counts as "do not". The key word counts toward the limit: 2-5 words at B2, 3-6 at C1 and 3-8 at C2.
Can I change the key word?
No, the key word must appear exactly as given - no changes at all.
How are marks awarded?
Usually 2 marks per question - you can get 1 mark for a partially correct answer.

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Key Word Transformation - Complete Study Guide for Cambridge English Qualifications

Key Word Transformation tests your knowledge of grammar structures, vocabulary, and your ability to paraphrase. You must complete a gapped sentence using a given word so it means the same as the original sentence.

Step-by-Step Strategy

  1. Read both sentences carefully and identify what grammar or vocabulary is being tested
  2. The key word must not be changed in any way
  3. Stay within the word limit, including the key word: 2-5 words at B2 First, 3-6 at C1 Advanced and 3-8 at C2 Proficiency
  4. Make sure your completed sentence has exactly the same meaning
  5. Check grammar agreement and tense consistency

Avoid These Mistakes

  • Changing the key word (adding -ing, -ed, making plural)
  • Writing too many or too few words
  • Changing the meaning slightly
  • Forgetting to include all necessary grammar elements
  • Poor spelling or grammatical errors in your answer

Expert Tips

  • Learn passive voice transformations
  • Study reported speech structures
  • Know conditionals and wish/if only patterns
  • Practice causative structures (have/get something done)
  • Learn phrasal verb equivalents of single verbs

Frequently Asked Questions

What counts as a word?

Contractions count as two words, so "don't" counts as "do not". The key word counts toward the limit: 2-5 words at B2, 3-6 at C1 and 3-8 at C2.

Can I change the key word?

No, the key word must appear exactly as given - no changes at all.

How are marks awarded?

Usually 2 marks per question - you can get 1 mark for a partially correct answer.

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

Time allowed: 12-15 minutes