Accuplacer English Test Study Guide: Free English Accuplacer Tips
Updated November 20, 2023
The Accuplacer English test is a computer adaptive test designed to assess a student’s skills in reading and writing.
The multiple choice assessments in reading and writing help colleges place students in the most appropriate English classes to suit their skill level.
What Is the Accuplacer English Test?
The Accuplacer English test was developed by the College Board in the US. It is a computer-adaptive test designed to place English learners into appropriate language courses.
The Accuplacer English exam is an assessment designed to evaluate a student's proficiency in English language skills, particularly in reading and writing.
It is commonly used by colleges and universities in the United States as part of the admissions process to determine appropriate course placements for incoming students.
The test consists of multiple-choice questions that assess a range of language skills, including reading comprehension, sentence structure, and grammar.
The reading portion typically presents passages followed by questions that check the reader's understanding of the text.
The writing section focuses on sentence-level skills, such as identifying errors in grammar, punctuation, and usage.
Based on the test results, institutions may place students into developmental or remedial English courses to help them strengthen their skills if needed.
Alternatively, if students demonstrate strong English proficiency, they may be exempted from introductory English courses and allowed to enroll directly in higher-level courses.
It is worth noting that testing formats and specific content may vary between institutions, as they can choose which portions of the Accuplacer test to administer.
Check the college or university's guidelines and requirements regarding the Accuplacer English exam.
Take a Practice Accuplacer English Test on TestPrep-Online
What Is Included in the Accuplacer English Comprehension Test?
There are two main tests that are used in the Accuplacer English test. These are reading and writing.
In the reading and writing sections of the Accuplacer test, you are evaluated on your proficiency in critical reading, comprehension, sentence structure, and writing skills.
These sections are designed to assess your ability to understand and analyze written passages, as well as your command of grammar, punctuation, and effective writing techniques.
The Accuplacer Reading Test
There are numerous reading skills that are tested on the Accuplacer English, including how to read, language use, sentence structure, and other elements.
In the reading section, you will encounter 20 multiple-choice questions that require you to comprehend and analyze written passages.
The passages cover various subjects, such as social sciences, humanities, natural sciences, and practical topics.
You will need to demonstrate your ability to identify main ideas, draw inferences, make logical connections, and analyze the author's tone or purpose.
The reading section evaluates your reading comprehension skills and your ability to think critically and interpret written information.
The Accuplacer Writing Test
The writing section of the Accuplacer test focuses on evaluating your writing abilities, including sentence structure, grammar, punctuation, and organization of ideas.
There are 25 multiple choice questions. These contain sentences or passages that contain errors or inconsistencies.
Your task is to identify and correct these issues to improve the clarity, coherence, and overall quality of the written text.
You will need to pay close attention to sentence structure, so that sentences are grammatically correct, properly constructed, and convey ideas in a clear and concise manner.
You will also be assessed on your understanding and appropriate use of vocabulary and word choice to convey meaning accurately.
Example Questions for the Accuplacer English Comprehension Test
Here are some Accuplacer English test prep questions to help you understand the style and format of the test.
Accuplacer English Test Prep Questions – Reading
1. Read the following passage and answer the question that follows:
The Industrial Revolution, which began in the 18th century, brought about significant changes in manufacturing, transportation, and agriculture. One of the key inventions of this era was the steam engine, which revolutionized industry by providing a new and efficient source of power. Steam-powered machinery allowed for increased production rates, leading to the mass production of goods and the growth of factories. This transformation had far-reaching effects on society, as people migrated from rural areas to cities in search of employment opportunities. The Industrial Revolution marked a shift from an agrarian society to an industrialized one, with profound economic and social implications.
What was one of the key inventions that played a pivotal role in the Industrial Revolution?
a) The cotton gin
b) The printing press
c) The steam engine
d) The telegraph
2. Read the following passage and answer the question below:
The concept of sustainable development has gained significant attention in recent years. Sustainable development refers to a way of utilizing resources and conducting economic activities that meet the needs of the present generation without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. It emphasizes a balance between economic growth, social well-being and environmental preservation. By promoting renewable energy sources, responsible consumption, and conservation practices, sustainable development aims to address global challenges such as climate change, resource depletion, and social inequality.
What is the primary goal of sustainable development?
a) Achieving economic growth at all costs
b) Focusing solely on environmental preservation
c) Meeting the needs of the present and future generations
d) Addressing social inequality through economic activities
3. Read the following passage and answer the question below:
In recent years, the popularity of e-books has soared, transforming the way people read and access information. E-books, or electronic books, are digital versions of printed books that can be read on electronic devices such as e-readers, tablets, or smartphones. One of the advantages of e-books is their portability. With an e-reader, users can carry hundreds of books in a single device, making it convenient for travel or commuting. Additionally, e-books often offer features like adjustable font sizes, highlighting, and searching functions, enhancing the reading experience. However, some readers still prefer the feel and tangible experience of a physical book, savoring the turning of pages and the scent of ink and paper.
What is one advantage of e-books mentioned in the passage?
a) They provide a tangible reading experience
b) They offer adjustable font sizes and search functions
c) They are only accessible through e-readers
d) They limit the number of books that can be carried
1. Read the following sentence and select the option that corrects the section in bold:
I have went to the library every Saturday to borrow books for my research project.
a) have gone
b) has went
c) had went
d) was going
2. Read the following sentence and select the option that corrects the text in bold:
The weather is nice today, so I think I will take a walk in the park, eating an ice cream cone.
a) taking an ice cream cone
b) to eat an ice cream cone
c) and eat an ice cream cone
d) eat an ice cream cone
3. Read the following sentence and select the option that corrects the sentence structure:
Running late for the bus, the keys were left behind.
a) Running late for the bus, I left the keys behind.
b) Running late for the bus, leaving the keys behind.
c) Running late for the bus, the keys left behind by me.
d) Running late for the bus, left behind were the keys.
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How to Prep for the Accuplacer English Test
Here are some ways to help prepare for the Accuplacer English placement test.
Step 1. Take Practice Tests
Completing Accuplacer English placement test practice helps familiarize you with the test format and question types.
Practice tests are effective tools for assessing your current proficiency level and identifying areas that need improvement.
Try to simulate test conditions as closely as possible by studying in a quiet environment.
Step 2. Revise Basic English Practices
This involves reviewing fundamental grammar rules, punctuation guidelines, and sentence structure principles.
Refreshing your understanding of these basic English practices can improve your overall writing and language skills.
Pay attention to topics such as subject-verb agreement, proper verb tenses, correct word usage, and consistent punctuation.
Step 3. Check Directions to Testing Center
Familiarize yourself with the location, parking arrangements, and any specific instructions provided by the testing center.
Knowing the exact route and estimated travel time, you can plan your journey accordingly and avoid any unnecessary stress or delays.
If you arrive confidently and on time, it sets a positive tone for your test-taking experience.
Step 4. Get Plenty of Rest, Drink and Eat Well
Prioritize your well-being by getting plenty of rest, staying hydrated, and eating nutritious meals.
A good night's sleep before the test helps sharpen your focus, improve concentration, and optimize your cognitive function.
Good hydration from drinking plenty of water means that your brain functions at its best, promoting alertness and mental clarity.
The Accuplacer English test is an assessment designed to evaluate a student's English language proficiency, including skills in reading comprehension and writing ability.
It is commonly used by colleges and universities as part of their placement process to determine the appropriate level of English courses for incoming students.
The length of the Accuplacer English test can vary, but typically it takes around 60 minutes to complete.
However, it's important to note that the duration may depend on the specific institution and the number of sections included in the test.
The difficulty level of the Accuplacer English assessment can vary from person to person.
The test is designed to assess a range of English language skills, so some individuals may find certain sections more challenging than others.
Adequate preparation and familiarity with the test format and content can help improve performance and reduce difficulty.
Most institutions may offer the test for free to their students, while others may charge a fee.
It is advisable to check with the specific college or university where you plan to take the Accuplacer test to find out if there is a fee involved.
The number of questions on the Accuplacer English test can vary depending on the specific version of the test and the institution administering it.
Generally, the Accuplacer reading test contains 20 multiple choice questions and the writing test contains 25.
To take the Accuplacer English test, you typically need to contact the college or university where you plan to enroll.
They will provide you with information on scheduling and taking the test.
To prepare for your Accuplacer English placement test practice, start by familiarizing yourself with the test format and content.
You can do this by using Accuplacer English study guides on TestPrep-Online.
Practice regularly and consider seeking additional guidance from teachers, tutors or study groups if needed.
To increase your chances of success on the Accuplacer English test, it is important to prepare thoroughly.
Take free Accuplacer English practice tests on TestPrep-Online and review your performance to identify areas for improvement.
You can find both Accuplacer English Reading practice tests and Accuplacer English Writing practice tests.
You can find more sample questions for the Accuplacer English test on the official Accuplacer website, which provides free practice materials and study resources.
There are other sites online platforms and educational websites that offer Accuplacer English prep materials, including sample questions and a Accuplacer English study guide on TestPrep-Online.
A complete study guide for the Accuplacer English test can be obtained from various sources, including TestPrep–Online.
The official Accuplacer website provides study guides and resources that cover the content and format of the test.
Final Thoughts
The Accuplacer English test is a computer-based assessment that evaluates your proficiency in reading and writing.
It is essential for you to prepare thoroughly to maximize your potential and achieve the best possible result.
Dedicate time and effort to study the necessary skills, familiarize yourself with the test format, and practice with sample questions.
Adequate preparation not only boosts your confidence but also equips you with the tools needed to navigate the test effectively and showcase your language skills successfully.
