Goethe C1 Reading Part 2 – Article
In Part 2 you read an information-rich article and answer multiple-choice questions. Here’s how to find the right option.
As of 2026 · Built to the official exam format
Key takeaways
- You read an information-rich magazine article and answer 7 multiple-choice tasks (a/b/c).
- The answer is paraphrased – grasp main points and details precisely.
What this part tests
Part 2 tests whether you understand a demanding, information-rich text precisely – usually a magazine or internet article on a factual or research topic. You answer seven tasks with three options each (a, b or c). Only one is correct.
The tasks follow the order of the text. At C1 the correct answer is always paraphrased, and you must grasp main points, details and conclusions – also between the lines.
Wrong options often pick up a word but distort the meaning, or are only almost true. Rely precisely on the text. Every correct answer scores points; wrong answers are not penalized.
How to approach it
- 1
Read the article once in full for an overview.
- 2
Read each question and look for the matching spot in the text.
- 3
Choose the option that restates the text precisely in different words.
- 4
Rule out options that are only almost true or distort the meaning.
- 5
Back up your answer with a spot in the text.
Example task with answer
A short example in the same format: read the extract and choose the right option.
Die Forscher betonen, dass nicht die Technik selbst das Problem sei, sondern der unreflektierte Umgang mit ihr. Entscheidend sei, bewusst Pausen einzulegen.
What do the researchers see as the actual problem?
- aDie Technik selbst.
- Den unbewussten Umgang mit der Technik.
- cDas Einlegen von Pausen.
Why? The text says “nicht die Technik selbst”, but “der unreflektierte Umgang” is the problem – that’s b. (a) is explicitly denied, (c) is the solution, not the problem.
Practice: test yourself
Aus einem Artikel (sinngemäß): „Eine Studie zeigt: Wenn Eltern ständig aufs Handy schauen, reagieren ihre Kinder oft mit Frust und Wut. Auffällig ist, dass die Kinder das Verhalten der Eltern genau registrieren."
What is striking according to the study?
Common mistakes
A word from the text doesn’t make the option right. The answer is paraphrased.
An option is often only almost true. Check each precisely against the text.
Only what’s in the text counts – not what you personally know about the topic.
No answer means a guaranteed zero. Guess an option if you have to.
Tips
- Mark the spot in the text that proves your answer.
- Watch for evaluative and qualifying words that change the meaning.
- Practice reading long factual and science texts.
Frequently asked questions
How many tasks does reading Part 2 have?
Seven multiple-choice tasks (a/b/c) on an information-rich magazine article.
Does the correct answer appear word for word in the text?
No. It’s paraphrased, and you must also recognize fine points and conclusions.
Are wrong answers penalized?
No. There is no penalty – answer every task.
What’s the best way to practice Part 2?
Read demanding articles and practice recognizing paraphrases and conclusions. With a Prepliq mock you get the answer explained after each task.
Other parts
Useful resources
Learn 800+ of the most important Goethe-Zertifikat C1 words interactively with flashcards.
Preview and download the official Goethe-Zertifikat C1 practice test – with answers and study material.