The first version of PassPilot had a hard 15-second timer for speaking. Test-takers hated it.
The problem
The official exam has a 15-second prep timer. We replicated it exactly. Result: 70% of test-takers rushed their response, didn't use the full 60 seconds, and scored lower than they would in a relaxed setting.
What we changed
We kept the prep timer for realism, but added an optional un-timed mode. The instant assessment still scores you the same way — pacing matters in the real exam, so we surface that as a note. But you can practice without anxiety.
The data
After the change, average speaking scores went up 11%. More importantly, students came back. Daily active users doubled.