telc C1 Sprachbausteine – Gap-fill Text (Four-option Multiple Choice)
In the Sprachbausteine you fill 22 gaps in a connected text. For each gap you choose from four options – here’s how to spot the one that fits in context.
As of 2026 · Built to the official exam format
Key takeaways
- 22 gaps in a connected text – choose from four options per gap.
- Grammar and precise vocabulary in context are tested.
What this part tests
The Sprachbausteine test your grammar and vocabulary in context. You read a connected, demanding text with 22 gaps. For each gap you choose, from four options (a, b, c or d), the one that fits exactly in grammar and meaning.
It tests demanding connectors and adverbs, verbs with a preposition, noun-verb collocations, fixed expressions and fine differences in meaning between similar words. It’s not about isolated rules, but about a feel for the language in context.
The difficulty: often two or more options seem possible. What decides is the exact meaning in context – a different connector changes the sense, a synonym doesn’t fit the collocation. Every correct gap scores points; wrong answers are not penalized.
How to approach it
- 1
Read the whole text once to understand the topic and line of argument.
- 2
Go gap by gap and read the whole sentence each time, often the one before too.
- 3
Ask yourself: what meaning does the context require? Does the collocation or preposition fit?
- 4
Rule out clearly wrong options and decide between the plausible ones by the sense.
- 5
Read the chosen option as a check – does it really fit exactly?
- 6
Enter an answer for every gap – even when guessing, because there’s no penalty.
Example task with answer
A short example in the same format: choose the option that fits in context for each gap.
Die Stadt hat Maßnahmen ___ (1), um den Verkehr zu reduzieren. Der Erfolg dieser Maßnahmen wird ___ (2) von der Akzeptanz der Bevölkerung abhängen.
Gap (1): (a) ergriffen · (b) gemacht · (c) genommen · (d) gestellt
Why? “Maßnahmen ergreifen” (to take measures) is the fixed collocation. “machen”, “nehmen” or “stellen” don’t go with “Maßnahmen”.
Gap (2): (a) maßgeblich · (b) geringfügig · (c) versehentlich · (d) beiläufig
Why? “maßgeblich” (= decisively) fits the sense: success depends decisively on acceptance. “geringfügig”, “versehentlich” and “beiläufig” contradict the context.
Practice: test yourself
Der Bericht stützt sich auf eine breite Datenbasis, ___ er die Entwicklung über zehn Jahre nachzeichnet.
Which option fits best in the gap?
Common mistakes
The right option depends on the context. Always read the whole sentence, often the one before too.
Not every synonym fits the fixed expression. “Kritik üben”, not “Kritik machen”.
indem (means), sofern (condition), zumal (reason) – the exact meaning decides.
No answer means a guaranteed zero. Enter an option even if you have to guess.
Tips
- Learn demanding connectors and adverbs with their exact meaning.
- Practice fixed expressions (collocations) as units – they often decide the gap.
- Watch for fine differences in meaning between synonyms.
Frequently asked questions
How many gaps does the Sprachbausteine part have?
22 gaps in one connected text. For each you choose from four options (a/b/c/d).
Are the Sprachbausteine one or two parts?
At C1 it’s a single part – one gap-fill text with 22 four-option multiple-choice tasks.
Are wrong answers penalized?
No. There is no penalty for guessing – so fill every gap.
What’s the best way to practice the Sprachbausteine?
Practice connectors, fixed expressions and synonyms in context. In a Prepliq mock you get the correct option explained after each gap.
Useful resources
Learn 800+ of the most important telc German C1 words interactively with flashcards.
Preview and download the official telc German C1 practice test – with answers and study material.