How to Deal with 'You looked away from the screen for an extended period of time' in the Duolingo English Test?
According to the Duolingo English Test, "You looked away from the screen for an extended period of time" is the most common reason for failing certification. Many test-takers hold a significant misconception: they believe that as long as they keep their gaze on the computer screen, they won’t encounter any problems. Unfortunately, this can still lead to failing the exam. This blog explores the four main reasons behind screen-related certification failures and offers tips to help you succeed.
Looking Directly Away from the Screen
Duolingo offers the convenience of taking the test from home, but this ease comes with strict certification requirements. If you look directly away from the screen, your test may be invalidated. It's essential to keep your focus on the screen without glancing around.
Tip: Maintain a steady gaze, avoid excessive blinking or eye movement, and try to take the test in a well-lit room.
Spending Too Much Time Looking Down at the Keyboard
Most test-takers tend to look at the keyboard when typing, which can lead to spending too much time looking down during the writing section.
Tip: When you need to look down to type, do so briefly—aim to return your gaze to the screen within three seconds. This may require some intentional practice.
Focusing on the Camera Instead of the Screen
The webcam on laptops is usually positioned at the top center of the screen, and many people using external cameras find themselves in the same spot. Particularly during speaking tasks, some test-takers focus on the camera instead of the screen, worrying that not doing so might raise suspicions of cheating or looking away.
Tip: Always keep your eyes on the screen rather than the camera to ensure your attention remains on the test content. A wandering gaze may also be flagged.
Eyes Wandering
During the Duolingo exam, candidates often develop unconscious habits, such as looking around while thinking about their responses in speaking or writing tasks. This can easily lead to certification issues.
Tip: Keep your eyes fixed on the screen while answering questions. Consider doing a full mock test while recording yourself on a computer or phone to practice maintaining your gaze and avoid mistakes during the actual exam.
In summary, the four factors listed above are the primary reasons for the invalidation of verification. If any of these situations arise, the exam may be considered invalid. To ensure a smoother experience in receiving exam results, candidates should pay close attention to these details during their practice exams.
Further Reading: What is “Your test could not be certified” in Duolingo English Test?