Key Word Transformation:
The 2-Mark Technique
Part 4 is worth the most marks per question (0, 1, or 2). Each sentence tests a specific grammatical structure. Learn the patterns and you can score full marks on every sentence.
1How the Marking Works
Each sentence is marked for TWO elements (1 mark each)
⚠️ Word limit: 3–8 words (including the key word)
Contractions count as TWO words (e.g. "don't" = "do not" = 2 words). Going over 8 words = automatic 0.
2The 6 Core Transformation Types
Passive Voice
They announced the results yesterday.
ANNOUNCEDThe results were announced yesterday.
Move the object to subject position. The agent (by + noun) is optional if not needed.
Reported Speech
"I will call you tomorrow," he said.
PROMISEDHe promised to call me the following day.
Watch tense backshift and time/place adverb changes (tomorrow → the following day).
Conditionals
You must study harder or you will fail.
UNLESSYou will fail unless you study harder.
Unless = if not. Remember: unless is always used with a positive verb form.
Modal Verbs (Deduction)
I'm sure she didn't take your keys.
HAVEShe can't have taken your keys.
can't have + past participle = negative deduction about the past. must have = positive deduction.
Comparatives
No other city in Spain is as large as Madrid.
LARGESTMadrid is the largest city in Spain.
No other X is as ... as Y → Y is the most ... Superlative transformation.
Causative Have / Get
A mechanic is going to repair her car.
REPAIREDShe is going to have / get her car repaired.
have / get + object + past participle. Subject arranges for the action, not does it themselves.
3Top 4 Avoidable Mistakes
The core meaning of the original must be preserved. Adding emphasis, changing tense or negating something the original doesn't negate = 0 marks.
You may NOT change the key word. Use it exactly as given. "HAVE" is HAVE — not "has", "had", or "having" UNLESS the grammar requires it as an auxiliary verb form.
Count every word including articles, prepositions and auxiliaries. Contractions (don't) count as two words. Write the word count lightly in pencil.
E.g. "insist on doing" not "insist to do". If the key word requires a fixed preposition, you must include it.
Pre-submission checklist
- Key word is unchanged
- Between 3 and 8 words total (including key word)
- Core meaning matches the original
- Correct tense, agreement and word form used
- Fixed prepositions included where required
- Contractions counted as two words
Practice Key Word Transformation
Apply the 2-mark technique with our free Part 4 exams. Real exam format, instant feedback.
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