The marker expects precise figures and the causal link (overheads → equipment shortfall), not a general statement.
“Not enough money for equipment.”
What is the main issue regarding the budget?
Set 3 markers penalize candidates who simply copy phrases from the data file without paraphrasing. Paper 3: Listening and Integrated Skills – Verification of Data File Cross-Referencing The listening component of Set 3 is notorious for rapid speaker turn-taking. A verified answer key includes time-stamped transcript solutions . Example (Data File Task B – Email to principal): In the audio, the guest speaker says: “While the initial budget allocation seemed sufficient, unforeseen administrative overheads have consumed nearly 30% of the funds allocated for equipment.”
Do not fall into the trap of treating answer keys as cheat sheets. Instead, use them as a marker’s manual. Read the rationales. Study the model essays. Annotate your mistakes. By the time you finish your third or fourth review of Set 3, you will not only have memorized answers—you will have internalized the skills to crack any DSE paper that comes your way.
C . Rationale: The phrase “canyon effect created by high-rise buildings” directly explains the phenomenon. The passage does not mention plant types (A) or quantity (B). Option D is contradicted (“negligible reduction” implies high existing pollution). Key Takeaway for Set 3 Reading: The paper tests definitional precision . Correct answers are often direct paraphrases of a single sentence. Wrong answers often contain true statements that are irrelevant to the question. Paper 2: Writing – Verified Scoring Guidelines for Set 3 Set 3’s writing tasks are unique. For example, in the 2025/26 edition, Part B asks students to write a proposal to the Home Affairs Bureau regarding youth mental health hubs, using data from three sources.
“Administrative overheads have reduced the equipment budget by approximately 30%.”
