What the exam asks
| Task | What you see | What you do | Where it appears |
|---|---|---|---|
| Map or plan labelling (letters) | A map or floor plan with lettered positions (e.g. A–I) and a numbered list of places | Choose the correct letter for each place | Mostly Part 2, occasionally Part 1 |
| Plan labelling (word list) | A plan with numbered spaces and a box of place names | Choose the name for each space | Part 2 |
| Diagram labelling | A drawing of a machine, a building cross-section or a process, with numbered gaps | Write words from the recording within the word limit (often ONE WORD ONLY) | Parts 2 and 4 |
Four rules hold every time:
- The numbered places follow the order of the recording. The letters on the map are scattered, but you hear Question 11 before Question 12.
- There are more letters than questions. The spare letters are rarely random. Many are places the speaker mentions to mislead you.
- Each letter is normally used once. If the letter you want is already taken, check again.
- On computer, you select a letter (or drag a label) for map tasks and type words for diagram tasks. Spelling counts, and so does the word limit.
Core ideas
1. Orient yourself before a word is spoken
Use the preview time to build a mental model of the picture, not just to read the list. Find:
- The starting point: You are here, the entrance, reception or the car park. Speakers almost always begin there.
- The compass (usually north at the top) and any fixed landmarks that already have names on the map, such as the lake, the church or the stairs.
- Each letter’s position in words. For example, ‘C: across the river, north of the bridge’ or ‘G: between the lake and the path, south side’. When the speaker describes that position, you will recognise it at once.