CELPIP Listening Part 1: Problem Solving
In Part 1, you hear two people discussing a problem and exploring solutions. You need to identify the main issue, understand the proposed solutions, and grasp the reasoning behind their choices. This is one of the most straightforward parts of the Listening test.
Practice Problem Solving NowWhat to Expect
You will hear a conversation between two people — usually friends, coworkers, or family members — discussing an everyday problem. The conversation typically runs 1.5 to 2.5 minutes.
The problem might involve a scheduling conflict, a decision about a purchase, planning an event, dealing with a neighbor issue, or resolving a workplace situation. Both speakers share ideas and weigh options.
You will answer 5-8 multiple-choice questions about the conversation. Questions test your ability to identify the main problem, understand each speaker's perspective, recognize the solutions discussed, and determine the final decision.
Tips for Scoring High
- Read all questions before the audio plays — this tells you exactly what to listen for.
- Pay attention to who says what. Questions often ask about a specific speaker's opinion or suggestion.
- Listen for signal words like "I think we should", "How about", "The problem is", and "Let's go with" — these mark key information.
- Note the final decision or preferred solution. Often the last exchange reveals what they decided.
- Don't overthink — the correct answer is always directly stated or clearly implied in the conversation.
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