Cambridge C1 Test Example Apr 2026
It is now widely accepted (9) ____ excessive smartphone use can have negative effects on mental health. Many people find themselves checking their phones repeatedly, even when there is no notification. This behaviour, (10) ____ is often compared to a compulsion, can disrupt sleep patterns and reduce productivity. (11) ____ the problem is recognised, few individuals take active steps to reduce their screen time. Experts suggest setting aside specific times (12) ____ day when phones are put away. Another strategy is to turn (13) ____ non-essential notifications, so that the device demands less attention. (14) ____ is important to note, however, that not all screen time is harmful; using a phone for work or meaningful communication differs significantly (15) ____ mindless scrolling. Ultimately, the goal is not to abandon technology (16) ____ to use it more intentionally. For questions 17–24, read the text below. Use the word given in capitals at the end of some lines to form a word that fits in the gap.
A. Maria – former lawyer, now pastry chef B. James – former engineer, now teacher C. Leila – former doctor, now software developer D. Tom – former journalist, now charity manager cambridge c1 test example
41 C 42 B 43 A 44 E 45 F 46 D
47. I found that my previous job lacked emotional reward. 48. My current role uses my analytical skills from my old career. 49. I had to overcome a fear of failure in a completely different field. 50. I initially worried about the pay cut but have no regrets. 51. My past experience helps me communicate complex ideas simply. 52. I was drawn to a career with more tangible results. 53. The transition required formal retraining in my spare time. 54. I value the flexibility that my new job offers. 55. Colleagues in my old field thought I was making a mistake. 56. I now feel my work directly benefits the community. Answer Key (for self-assessment) Part 1: 1 A 2 B 3 A 4 A 5 D 6 C 7 A 8 C It is now widely accepted (9) ____ excessive
25 If only I had studied 26 may have been 27 is said to be 28 had we arrived at 29 hasn’t visited / has not visited 30 little chance of him / little chance of his (11) ____ the problem is recognised, few individuals
The solution may lie in changing how adults approach practice. Instead of lengthy grammar drills, short, frequent, and meaningful interactions appear more effective. (45) ____
17 growth 18 significant 19 community 20 innovative 21 obstacles 22 promising 23 effective 24 permanent
