B1 Preliminary (PET) Practice Paper 13

Reading

Working from home has become increasingly popular over the past few years, and many companies are now offering flexible working arrangements. Sarah, a marketing manager, started working remotely two years ago and loves the flexibility it provides. She saves money on commute costs and can manage her time more effectively. However, she admits that staying motivated without colleagues around can be challenging. "I miss the casual conversations by the coffee machine," she says. To solve this, her company has introduced virtual team meetings and monthly in-person gatherings. Tom, who works in IT support, has a different opinion. He prefers working in the office because he finds it easier to collaborate and solve problems quickly. He also feels that remote work can blur the boundaries between personal and professional life, making it hard to switch off. Despite these differences, both agree that a hybrid approach—mixing home and office days—seems to work best. Companies are increasingly recognizing that one solution doesn't suit everyone, and offering choice is key to employee satisfaction and productivity.

1. Why does Sarah enjoy working from home?

A) She likes attending monthly office parties. B) She saves money and has better time management. C) She finds it easier to solve technical problems. D) She doesn't need to attend any meetings.

2. What does Sarah miss about working in an office?

A) Long commute journeys B) Formal team meetings C) Informal conversations with colleagues D) Her manager's supervision

3. According to Tom, what is a disadvantage of remote work?

A) It saves too much money. B) It makes it difficult to separate work and personal life. C) It improves collaboration with colleagues. D) It increases face-to-face communication.

4. What does Tom's role involve?

A) Marketing and sales B) Human resources management C) Information technology support D) Office administration

5. What solution do both Sarah and Tom support?

A) Completely remote work for everyone B) Returning to the traditional office full-time C) A combination of home and office working D) Eliminating all team meetings

Real-life notices

Read each notice. Which sentence (A, B or C) is closest in meaning?

STUDENTS: SHOW YOUR CARD FOR A DISCOUNT

A) Anyone can get the discount, no card needed. B) Students need to show their card to pay less. C) Only teachers get a discount here.

LIBRARY CLOSES AT 6PM ON FRIDAYS

A) The library is open latest on Fridays. B) The library shuts earlier on Fridays than other days. C) The library is closed all day Friday.

CAR PARK FULL — TRY STREET PARKING

A) There is no more space in the car park. B) The car park is closed for repairs. C) Street parking is not allowed today.

PLEASE TAKE A TICKET AND WAIT TO BE CALLED

A) You will be served in the order you arrived. B) You should go straight to the front. C) Tickets cost extra money here.

PLEASE QUEUE HERE

A) You should stand in line at this spot. B) This area is closed to the public. C) You can sit down here while you wait.

Use of English

Online shopping has changed the way people buy clothes. Previously, most customers ___1___ to visit physical stores to try on items before purchasing. Today, many retailers offer fast delivery and easy returns, which ___2___ online shopping more convenient. However, some disadvantages still exist. Customers cannot feel the fabric quality, and sizing can be ___3___. A recent survey showed that forty percent of online purchases ___4___ returned because they didn't fit properly. To improve the experience, technology companies ___5___ developing virtual try-on features using augmented reality. These tools allow shoppers to see ___6___ clothes would look on them before buying. Fashion brands believe this technology will reduce return rates ___7___ encourage more online sales. Despite these innovations, many people still prefer traditional shopping because they enjoy the social aspect of visiting stores with friends. ___8___ technology continues to improve, the future of retail will likely involve a blend of online and offline experiences.

1. Gap ___1___: which word completes the sentence?

A) had B) were having C) have had D) would have

2. Gap ___2___: which option fits best?

A) makes B) made C) has made D) making

3. Gap ___3___: which word is correct?

A) problem B) problematic C) problems D) problemed

4. Gap ___4___: which verb form is needed?

A) are B) is C) was D) were

5. Gap ___5___: which option completes this correctly?

A) are currently B) currently are C) have been D) are being

6. Gap ___6___: which word fits?

A) how B) what C) which D) that

7. Gap ___7___: which connector is appropriate?

A) and B) but C) although D) because

8. Gap ___8___: which option is best?

A) Because B) As C) However D) Therefore

Writing

You work at a customer service department for an online company. Write an email (120–150 words) to a customer explaining why their recent order was delayed and what you are doing to resolve the situation. Include an apology, a brief explanation, and an offer of compensation (e.g., discount on next purchase). Use a polite and professional tone.