This guide is designed to help anyone involved with the preparation of language tests, and particularly those wishing to make use of the Council of Europe's "Common European Framework of Reference for languages: Learning, ,teaching, assessment".

The aim has been to make the content of the guide relevant not only to test constructors preparing tests in a more formal context such as state examinations, but also to teachers working on school tests. Achieving the correct balance in trying to meet the needs of these two groups has presented something of a challenge; for this reason, readers are encouraged to consider and implement the advice contained in this guide in the light of their purpose in preparing tests and the amount of time and resources they have available.

The focus is largely on matters of process rather than those of product, in the belief that suitable products emerge from clear principles and well-designed processes rather than the other way round.