How Accurate are Duolingo Practice Tests for the Real Test?
Many language learners use Duolingo as a tool for improving their English proficiency. While Duolingo is a great resource for familiarizing oneself with the language, its practice tests hold some limitations. This article explores the accuracy of Duolingo's practice tests in predicting real test scores and provides insights based on a personal experience.
Understanding the Differences Between Practice and Real Tests
The Duolingo practice test is not a perfect representation of the real test. The primary difference lies in the duration and the adaptive nature of the questions. The practice test is only 30 minutes long, while the real test lasts 60 minutes. Furthermore, the practice test is adaptive, meaning the difficulty of the questions adjusts based on your answers. This can lead to discrepancies between practice and real test scores.
Personal Experience and Insights
I first wrote the Duolingo English Test ( DELT ) in December 23. My practice test scores ranged from 125-140 in the first session, 130-150 in the second session, and 125-140 in the third session. In the actual / real exam, my overall score was 140, with the lowest sub-score being 125. Based on my experience, the practice test scores are quite accurate in predicting real test scores.
Practice Test Analysis
Starting my practice in August, I took almost 7 to 8 practice tests. My estimated scores over those weeks were:
19 August: 90-135 20 August: 105-140 21 August: 95-135 22 August: 100-140 24 August: 110-145 26 August: 110-145 28 August: 105-140 28 August: 110-145 1 September: 110-145 8 November: 115-130On November 8, I practiced and got 115-130, then decided to take the test that night when there was less noise and fewer distractions. Although street dogs were fighting at the door, I managed to stay focused and completed the test without taking my eyes off the screen. After a couple of days, I received my results with an overall score of 120, confirming that my real test score was slightly lower than my estimate but still within the range of my practice test scores.
Key Lessons and Tips
Based on my experience, the real test score is likely to be around the middle of your estimated range. This suggests that the practice test is a reliable indicator of your real test performance. Here are some additional lessons and tips:
1. Manage Your Time
The real test is significantly longer than the practice test. With 60 minutes to complete the entire test, you need to manage your time effectively. Practice tests that are 15 minutes long can be misleading as they do not accurately simulate the longer duration of the real test.
2. Prepare for New Question Types
The real test includes new question types such as describing images in the audio speaking section. Additionally, you will encounter more tasks that require real English words and English words in audio. While these types of questions are not typically present in practice tests, familiarizing yourself with them can help improve your scores.
3. Stay Calm and Focused
Concentration and calm nerves are crucial. External factors like noise can distract you, but staying focused on the screen is essential. A quiet environment is ideal, but do not let distractions discourage you. Trust your preparation and stay composed.
Conclusion
115-125 is a very good score. Based on my prior experience, you can expect to receive around 125 or 120 in the real test. The main differences between the real test and the practice test lie in the duration, the adaptive nature of the questions, and the inclusion of new question types. By understanding these differences and preparing accordingly, you can increase your chances of achieving a high score.
Cheer up! Don't be too anxious, and wish you all the best for your test.