TestDaF Reading (Leseverstehen) Part 2 – Multiple Choice
In Part 2 you read a longer journalistic text and answer multiple-choice questions. Here’s how to find the right option.
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Key takeaways
- You read a longer journalistic text and answer multiple-choice tasks (a/b/c).
- The answer is paraphrased – look for the statement in different words.
What this part tests
Part 2 tests whether you understand a longer, connected text precisely – usually a journalistic article on a topic relevant to higher education or society. You answer the tasks with three options each (a, b or c). Only one is correct.
The tasks follow the order of the text. In the TestDaF the correct answer is paraphrased, and you must grasp main points, details and conclusions.
Wrong options often pick up a word from the text 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 in different words.
- 4
Rule out options that aren’t in the text 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.
Viele Hochschulen bieten inzwischen Online-Vorlesungen an. Dadurch können auch Berufstätige studieren, die sonst keine Zeit für feste Präsenztermine hätten.
What advantage of online lectures does the text mention?
- aSie sind immer kürzer als Präsenzvorlesungen.
- Auch Berufstätige können dadurch studieren.
- cSie sind kostenlos.
Why? The text says that “auch Berufstätige studieren” can study thanks to them – that’s b. (a) and (c) are not in the text.
Practice: test yourself
Aus einem Artikel (sinngemäß): „Immer mehr Studierende absolvieren ein Auslandssemester. Die Hochschulen begrüßen das, weil internationale Erfahrung im späteren Beruf zunehmend gefragt ist."
Why do the universities welcome semesters abroad?
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Common mistakes
A word from the text doesn’t make the option right. The answer is paraphrased.
Only what’s in the text counts – not what you personally know about the topic.
Read the text closely enough to find the right spot.
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 connectors like “weil”, “obwohl”, “dennoch”.
- Practice reading longer journalistic articles.
Frequently asked questions
How many tasks does reading Part 2 have?
Around ten multiple-choice tasks (a/b/c) on a longer journalistic text.
Does the correct answer appear word for word in the text?
Often not. It’s usually paraphrased. Look for the statement, not the same word.
Are wrong answers penalized?
No. There is no penalty – answer every task.
What’s the best way to practice Part 2?
Read journalistic articles and practice recognizing paraphrases. With a Prepliq mock you get the answer explained after each task.
Other parts
Useful resources
Learn the most important TestDaF vocabulary interactively with flashcards.
Preview and download the official TestDaF practice test – with answers and study material.
Find your weak points before they cost you points
Practice this exam part in the official format and see what needs more attention before the real test.
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