Can I use templates on the Duolingo English Test?

Yes. But your responses still need to be original. You can use vocabulary and phrases that you memorize, but you should avoid memorizing long phrases (5+ words) and entire sentences.

What is the difference between a template and a memorized response?

Templates give you a structure to follow in your response. They tell you what you should talk or write about in your responses, but they don't tell you what to write or say exactly. For example, students around the world have used our 3-sentence template for Write About the Photo:

• Sentence #1: General description (Describe the main thing in the image.)
• Sentence #2: Focus on a detail (Pick a specific detail and describe it.)
• Sentence #3: Speculate (Ask yourself, Why are things the way they are?)

With this template, you know what you need to do in each sentence of your response. But you still have to come up with the contents of each sentence, making your response original and therefore acceptable for the DET.

In contrast, in a memorized response, you are repeating word for word what someone else has come up with. You are not coming up with your own ideas nor finding the words yourself to express those ideas. This is why memorized responses are banned on the Duolingo English Test. Using memorized responses doesn't show your true English level.

Unfortunately, what many people call "templates" are actually pre-prepared responses which you shouldn't use, so be careful. While you are preparing for the test, make sure that you are learning actual templates. The templates that you can learn on Arno's YouTube channel are all safe for the test!

How does Duolingo know if you use a memorized response?

Duolingo compares your responses to responses on all previous tests taken by other people. If there is too much similarity between one or more of your responses and responses from other people, then Duolingo will conclude that you used a memorized response, and they won't certify your results.

Can I memorize advanced vocabulary?

Absolutely! You need to use advanced vocabulary to get a high score on the DET. But if you memorize long phrases or entire sentences or paragraphs, then you will have problems.