Section 1 tests how well you understand short conversations where a problem is discussed and a solution is suggested. The audio is played only once, so focused listening + quick reasoning is essential.

What is Listening Section 1?

You listen to short dialogues (usually two speakers) set in everyday or work-related situations — stores, offices, public services. One speaker usually explains a problem while the other provides help, options or a solution.

Structure & Format

  • 3 sections (separate mini-conversations)
  • Approximately 6–8 multiple choice questions total
  • Answers may be text, phrases, pictures or diagrams
  • Audio is played only once — no repeats

Timing

Each mini-conversation typically lasts ~1 to 1.5 minutes. You generally have around 30 seconds to choose an answer after hearing the question — practice pacing yourself.

Quick facts: Audio plays once • 3 sections • total ~8 questions • answer options can include images/diagrams.

Question Patterns

CELPIP groups the questions in a few common ways (knowing which group you're in helps manage focus):

  • Type A: Q1–2, Q3–5, Q6–8
  • Type B: Q1–3, Q4–5, Q6–8
  • Type C: Q1–3, Q4–6, Q7–8

Introduction Clues — Use Them!

Before the conversation starts you’ll often hear a short intro: the speakers’ roles, the location, or the relationship (e.g., customer & shop assistant). Use this to predict likely topics and questions.

Tips & Strategy

✅ Preview options quickly before audio begins.
✅ Listen for transition words (but, however, because) which signal contrast or reason.
✅ If you miss a detail, rely on broader context rather than panicking.
✅ Eliminate obviously wrong options first to save time.

Common Pitfalls

  • Over-focusing on accent or pronunciation and missing meaning
  • Spending too long on one question
  • Not reading all options before answering
  • Forgetting that the audio will not repeat

Practice Example (Mini)

Audio scenario: Two colleagues discuss where to host a team lunch — nearby cafe or a restaurant downtown.

Sample question: What is the main problem they are discussing?

  • A. The cost of the meal
  • B. The location of the lunch
  • C. The number of people attending
  • D. The timing of the lunch

Study Plan

  • Daily 15-minute focused listening practice (dialogues & CELPIP samples)
  • Do timed mock sections to build speed
  • Work on paraphrasing & synonyms — test language is often rephrased
  • Practice reading answer options faster — this is a key skill

Final Takeaways

Section 1 may be short, but strong performance here builds momentum for the rest of the Listening test. Focus on quick prediction, active listening, and fast elimination of wrong answers.

Want guided practice?

My Engvish Academy offers bilingual (English + Hindi/Gujarati) CELPIP listening sessions and mock tests. Visit our site & join a demo