FCE Practice test 2

You have 45 minutes to complete this section.

FCE Practice Test - Use of English

Part 1: Multiple-choice Cloze

For questions 1–8, read the text below and decide which answer (A, B, C, or D) best fits each gap.

The Wonders of the Night Sky

Throughout history, humans have (1) ___ to the stars in search of answers and inspiration. Ancient civilizations used the night sky as a (2) ___ for navigation, agriculture, and even predicting the future. Today, despite technological advancements, people continue to (3) ___ fascination from observing stars and planets. Amateur astronomers often (4) ___ to dark, isolated places, away from city lights, to gain clearer views of the night sky. This activity requires patience, (5) ___ can reward observers with breathtaking views of celestial events. Astronomy also helps us (6) ___ our place in the universe and appreciate how small yet significant we truly are. Therefore, stargazing remains a (7) ___ and enjoyable hobby for many, (8) ___ their age or background.

  1. A) viewed B) seen C) looked D) watched

  2. A) mark B) guide C) point D) sign

  3. A) gain B) collect C) receive D) draw

  4. A) travel B) move C) reach D) lead

  5. A) yet B) but C) so D) or

  6. A) admit B) realize C) recognize D) confess

  7. A) regular B) common C) frequent D) usual

  8. A) regardless B) despite C) although D) however


Part 2: Open Cloze

For questions 9–16, read the text below and think of the word which best fits each gap. Use only one word in each gap.

Cooking at Home

Cooking at home has become increasingly popular, partly because people have become more health-conscious and partly due to the rising costs (9) ___ eating out. Home-cooked meals tend to (10) ___ healthier because individuals can control exactly (11) ___ ingredients go into their food. Moreover, cooking can be relaxing, providing a break (12) ___ busy routines. (13) ___ addition, cooking at home often saves money compared (14) ___ dining at restaurants. Some people initially find cooking daunting, (15) ___ once they get started, many find joy in creating delicious dishes themselves. In short, cooking at home is beneficial (16) ___ more ways than one.


Part 3: Word Formation

For questions 17–24, read the text below. Use the word given in capitals at the end of some lines to form a word that fits in the gap in the same line.

The Importance of Sleep

Sleep plays a vital role in our physical and (17) ___ well-being. (EMOTION) Adequate sleep is essential for good health, helping the body recover and ensuring the brain functions (18) ___. (EFFECT) Lack of sleep can lead to serious health problems, including increased risk of illness and impaired (19) ___. (CONCENTRATE) Despite knowing the (20) ___ of sufficient sleep, many people still fail to get the recommended amount. (IMPORTANT) This can be due to busy lifestyles, stress, or even the (21) ___ use of electronic devices before bedtime. (EXCESS) Research shows that establishing a (22) ___ sleep routine can greatly enhance sleep quality. (REGULARITY) Experts also recommend creating a peaceful sleep (23) ___ to encourage relaxation. (ENVIRON) Therefore, prioritizing good sleep practices is crucial for maintaining a healthy and (24) ___ life. (PRODUCT)


Part 4: Key Word Transformation

For questions 25–30, complete the second sentence so that it has a similar meaning to the first sentence, using the word given. Do not change the word given. You must use between two and five words, including the word given.

  1. Alex regrets not studying harder for his exams. WISHES Alex ___ harder for his exams.

  2. “Did you remember to lock the door?” Jenny asked me. IF Jenny asked me ___ to lock the door.

  3. She started learning French three years ago. BEEN She ___ French for three years.

  4. It’s too cold to swim today. ENOUGH It’s ___ to swim today.

  5. You should take an umbrella because it might rain. CASE Take an umbrella ___ rains.

  6. Despite feeling tired, Tom finished his work. ALTHOUGH Tom finished his work ___ tired.

Answer key

FCE Practice Test - Use of English

Part 1: Multiple-choice Cloze

For questions 1–8, read the text below and decide which answer (A, B, C, or D) best fits each gap.

Answer Key:

  1. C (looked)

  2. B (guide)

  3. D (draw)

  4. A (travel)

  5. B (but)

  6. C (recognize)

  7. B (common)

  8. A (regardless)

Part 2: Open Cloze

For questions 9–16, read the text below and think of the word which best fits each gap. Use only one word in each gap.

Answer Key:

  1. of

  2. be

  3. what

  4. from

  5. In

  6. to

  7. but

  8. in

Part 3: Word Formation

For questions 17–24, read the text below. Use the word given in capitals at the end of some lines to form a word that fits in the gap in the same line.

Answer Key:

  1. emotional

  2. effectively

  3. concentration

  4. importance

  5. excessive

  6. regular

  7. environment

  8. productive

Part 4: Key Word Transformation

For questions 25–30, complete the second sentence so that it has a similar meaning to the first sentence, using the word given. Do not change the word given. You must use between two and five words, including the word given.

Answer Key: 25. wishes he had studied

  1. if I had remembered

  2. has been learning

  3. not warm enough

  4. in case it

  5. although he was