Goethe A1 Reading Part 1 – Short Texts
In Part 1 you read short texts like emails and decide for each statement between true and false. Here’s how to find the information reliably.
As of 2026 · Built to the official exam format
Key takeaways
- You read short texts (e.g. emails) and decide for 5 statements: true or false?
- Read the statement first, then find the information in the text.
What this part tests
Part 1 tests whether you understand short, simple texts – usually private emails or short letters. You read the texts and decide for five statements whether they are true or false.
It’s about simple information: who comes when? what does someone bring? You don’t have to understand every word, just find the important information. Read the statement first, then look for the matching spot in the text.
A false statement often differs in just one detail – a different time, a different person. Read carefully for the information. Every correct decision scores points; wrong answers are not penalized.
How to approach it
- 1
Read the statement first and underline the important information (name, time, thing).
- 2
Look for the matching spot in the text for that information.
- 3
Compare the statement with the text: is it really correct?
- 4
Decide true or false and move on to the next statement.
- 5
Don’t leave any task open – when unsure, guess.
- 6
Transfer your answers to the answer sheet in good time.
Example task with answer
A short example in the same format: you read a short text and decide whether the statement is true.
„Hallo Anna, der Yoga-Kurs beginnt am Dienstag um 19 Uhr, nicht um 18 Uhr. Bitte komm pünktlich! Liebe Grüße, Sara"
Statement: “The yoga course starts at 6 p.m.”
Why? In the text the course starts “um 19 Uhr, nicht um 18 Uhr” (at 7, not at 6). So the statement is wrong – false.
Practice: test yourself
Du liest (sinngemäß): „Liebe Eva, ich komme am Freitag um 18 Uhr zu dir. Ich bringe Pizza mit. Bis dann! Tom"
Is the statement true or false? Statement: “Tom brings pizza.”
Common mistakes
Even a different time or person makes the statement false. Read carefully.
A matching word isn’t enough. Check whether the whole statement is correct.
Read the statement first, then the text – that way you search purposefully.
No answer means a guaranteed zero. Guess an answer if you have to.
Tips
- Underline the important information in each statement before you read the text.
- Watch for times, names and numbers – that’s often where it’s decided.
- Practice reading short emails and letters.
Frequently asked questions
How many tasks does reading Part 1 have?
Five true/false tasks on short texts like emails.
Do I have to understand every word?
No. You should find the important information. Read the statement first, then search the text purposefully.
Are wrong answers penalized?
No. There is no penalty – decide on every statement.
What’s the best way to practice Part 1?
Read short emails and practice finding information. In a Prepliq mock you practice this with instant scoring.
Other parts
Useful resources
Learn 600+ of the most important Goethe-Zertifikat A1 words interactively with flashcards.
Preview and download the official Goethe-Zertifikat A1 practice test – with answers and study material.