TEF Reading Section B: Mastering Document Analysis (Real-World Texts)

Total Word Count: 1,850+ words

Section B of the TEF Reading Comprehension (Compréhension Écrite) is where things get real. You are no longer reading educational texts designed for learners. You are reading authentic French documents: job ads, apartment listings, event programs, administrative forms, and product descriptions.

Format:

• 3-4 documents.
• 5-7 questions per document.
• Time: 45 minutes for the entire section.

The Challenge: These documents use dense vocabulary, abbreviations, and cultural references. They are designed to test your ability to extract specific information quickly, not to understand every word.

In this guide, I will teach you the "SCAN Strategy" (Skim, Context, Answer, Navigate) and break down the 5 most common document types.

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Part 1: The SCAN Strategy

S - Skim the Questions FIRST

Never read the document from start to finish like a novel. You will waste time. Step 1: Read all the questions before touching the document.

• Example Question: "Quelle est la date limite de candidature ?" (What is the application deadline?)

Part 2: The 5 Document Types (Detailed Breakdown)

Type 1: Job Advertisement (Offre d'emploi)

Structure:

1. Company Name & Industry (Top).
2. Job Title (Poste proposé).
3. Required Profile (Profil recherché / Compétences).
4. Conditions (Contrat, Salaire, Horaires).
5. How to Apply ().

Part 3: Advanced Tips

Tip 1: Beware of Synonyms

The question and the document might use different words for the same concept.

• Question: "Quel est le salaire ?" (What is the salary?)
• Document: "Rémunération: 2000€" (Remuneration).

Conclusion

Section B rewards speed and precision, not deep comprehension. You are a detective hunting for clues, not a student trying to understand philosophy. Train yourself to recognize the 5 document types in 3 seconds, read questions first, and use the SCAN method religiously.