PET · Reading Comprehension · Lagos, Nigeria
Reading Comprehension for the PET Exam — Lagos candidates
12% of the PET test plan. Understanding longer texts, articles, and emails at B1 level with multiple-choice and matching questions. Calibrated for Lagosian candidates.
Examiners do not award marks for content alone — they award them for the ability to demonstrate competency in the precise format the test demands. Reading Comprehension sits at roughly 12% of the Cambridge Preliminary English Test (B1) content distribution — B1 Preliminary Reading tests understanding of authentic-style texts: articles, notices, emails, and short stories. Unlike A2 Key, texts at B1 are longer and require understanding of implied meaning. Candidates must read efficiently and use contextual clues to answer inference questions. Pass rates for the PET are published annually by the awarding body and vary by cohort and locale. For Lagos candidates preparing for PET, the calibration of study to local context matters: Lagos is West Africa's densest exam centre — JAMB UTME, WAEC, IELTS, and TOEFL all operate large weekly sessions. Pearson VUE Lagos serves NCLEX, GRE, and GMAT candidates region-wide.
Common failure modes
These are the patterns that cause most candidates to lose marks on this topic. Recognising them in advance is half the work.
- !Reading too slowly — not finishing all questions within the allotted time
- !Selecting answers supported by one word in the text but not by the overall meaning
- !Confusing the overall purpose of a text with a detail from it
Study tips
- 1Practice skim reading: read for the general idea in 90 seconds, then answer questions.
- 2For multiple-choice questions, read the question and options before re-reading the relevant text section.
- 3Build B1 reading habit: read short English-language news articles (BBC Learning English B1) daily.
- 4JAMB UTME is delivered as CBT only — book your nearest CBT centre (Yaba, Surulere, Ikeja) early; centres outside Lagos State require interstate travel.
- 5IELTS speaking and listening sessions in Victoria Island fill 6 weeks ahead during peak migration season (May–August). Book a Lekki or Ikeja slot if VI is full.
- 6For NCLEX/GRE/GMAT: the Pearson VUE Ikeja centre is the most reliable NG site; bring a backup ID and arrive 90 minutes early — Lagos traffic is the most common cause of missed slots.
Sample PET Reading Comprehension questions
These sample items mirror the format and difficulty of real PET questions. Practice with thousands more on the free Koydo question bank.
- 1
An article says: "While many tourists visit Paris for the Eiffel Tower, locals often prefer the quieter charm of Montmartre." What does this suggest about Montmartre?
- AIt is more popular than the Eiffel Tower
- BIt is known primarily to tourists
- CLocal residents find it more appealing than major tourist sitesCorrect
- DIt is the most visited area in Paris
Why this answer?
The phrase "locals often prefer" clearly indicates Montmartre is preferred by local residents (not tourists). The comparison with the Eiffel Tower (tourist favourite) implies Montmartre is less touristy. Options A and D contradict the text; option B is the opposite of what is stated.
Frequently asked questions
How many parts are in B1 Preliminary Reading?
What is the PET pass rate for Lagosian candidates?
How long should Lagosian candidates study Reading Comprehension for the PET?
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Cambridge B1 Preliminary — every paper, every task type.
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