Goethe A1 Reading Part 2 – Ads
In Part 2 you read two ads for each situation and choose the matching one (a or b). Here’s how to compare reliably.
As of 2026 · Built to the official exam format
Key takeaways
- For each of 5 situations there are two ads – choose the matching one (a or b).
- Check that the ad really fits the situation – not just one matching word.
What this part tests
Part 2 tests whether you can find the matching information in short ads. You read five situations, and for each there are two small ads (a and b). You choose the ad that fits the situation.
It’s about comparing carefully: does the ad really fit the need of the situation? Watch for details like place, time, price or offer. Even one detail can rule out an ad.
The difficulty: an ad often picks up a word from the situation but doesn’t really fit. So check all the conditions. Every correct answer scores points; wrong answers are not penalized.
How to approach it
- 1
Read the situation and underline the need (e.g. “at the weekend”, “for children”).
- 2
Read both ads and compare them with the need.
- 3
Check that all the conditions really fit – not just one matching word.
- 4
Choose the ad that fits the situation exactly (a or b).
- 5
Transfer your answers to the answer sheet in good time.
Example task with answer
A short example in the same format: which ad fits the situation?
Situation: Sie möchten ein gebrauchtes Fahrrad günstig kaufen. Anzeige a: „Fahrrad zu verkaufen, gut erhalten, nur 60 Euro." Anzeige b: „Neue Fahrräder im Geschäft, ab 300 Euro."
Which ad fits? (a) Ad a · (b) Ad b
Why? You want to buy a cheap used bike. Ad a offers a used bike for 60 euros. Ad b sells new bikes from 300 euros – that doesn’t fit.
Practice: test yourself
Situation: Sie suchen einen Sportkurs am Wochenende. Anzeige a: „Fitnessstudio Aktiv – Kurse nur montags bis freitags." Anzeige b: „Sportverein Fit – Kurse auch samstags und sonntags."
Which ad fits?
Common mistakes
A shared word doesn’t make the ad right. Check all the conditions.
Place, time or price can rule out an ad. Read carefully.
Read the situation first, then the ads – that way you compare purposefully.
No answer means a guaranteed zero. Guess a or b if you have to.
Tips
- Underline the exact need in each situation before you read the ads.
- Watch for time, place and price – that’s often where the choice is decided.
- Read both ads fully before you decide.
Frequently asked questions
How many tasks does reading Part 2 have?
Five. For each of five situations you choose the matching ad (a or b).
How do I tell two ads apart?
Check the details: place, time, price or offer. Often a single criterion decides whether an ad fits.
Are wrong answers penalized?
No. There is no penalty – decide a or b on every task.
What’s the best way to practice Part 2?
Read small ads and practice comparing them with a situation. With a Prepliq mock you get the correct choice explained after each task.
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.