Welcome back to the DETPractice Podcast, where we help you sharpen your skills for the Duolingo English Test.

Today, we’re diving into one of the most common questions students ask: Can I use templates on the test? The short answer is yes—but with an important catch. Templates are meant to be flexible blueprints that guide your thinking, not scripts to memorize. For example, a three‑sentence model can help you organize a photo description, but the words, grammar, and vocabulary must always be your own.

Why? Because the DET uses advanced AI detection systems that compare your answers against a massive database. If your response looks too much like someone else’s, your score may not be certified.

So here’s the key takeaway: don’t waste time memorizing entire sentences. Instead, focus on building a strong vocabulary bank and mastering short, useful expressions. That way, your answers stay authentic, natural, and a true reflection of your English ability.

Let’s get started.