Demystifying the New English Exam Format for Postgraduate Entrance

The English exam for postgraduate entrance in China has undergone significant changes in recent years, introducing a new section known as the "New English Exam Format." This section replaces traditional reading comprehension and grammar sections with a more dynamic and integrated approach, focusing on skills like logical reasoning, text completion, and paragraph matching. Understanding this format is crucial for candidates aiming to excel in the exam. Below, we address some common questions to help clarify what this new section entails and how to prepare effectively.

What Is the New English Exam Format?

The New English Exam Format is a section of the postgraduate entrance exam designed to assess candidates' ability to understand and analyze academic texts. Unlike the old format, which relied heavily on multiple-choice questions, this section includes tasks like "paragraph matching," where you must pair paragraphs based on their content, and "text completion," where you fill in gaps in a passage using given options. The goal is to evaluate not just reading comprehension but also critical thinking and logical reasoning skills.

How Does Paragraph Matching Work?

Paragraph matching requires you to read a series of short paragraphs and then match each paragraph to a specific question or statement. The key to success in this task is to focus on the main idea of each paragraph and how it relates to the questions. For example, if a question asks about the causes of a phenomenon, you would look for a paragraph that discusses those causes. Practice by timing yourself and reviewing your answers to identify patterns in how questions and paragraphs are connected.

What About Text Completion?

Text completion involves filling in missing words or phrases in a passage. The options are usually grammatically correct, so the challenge lies in choosing the one that best fits the context. To prepare, practice reading passages quickly and identifying gaps, then selecting the most logical option. Pay attention to clues like transition words and the overall tone of the passage. Remember, the correct answer should not only fit grammatically but also logically contribute to the meaning of the text.

Are There Any Tips for Improving Scores?

Yes! First, familiarize yourself with the types of texts used in the exam, such as academic articles and research summaries. Second, practice under timed conditions to improve your speed and accuracy. Third, review your mistakes carefully to understand where you went wrong. Finally, consider joining a study group or taking a prep course to gain additional insights and strategies. With consistent practice and a clear understanding of the format, you can confidently approach this section of the exam.