Hi David, "how long" and "how much time" mean really the same thing when you are talking about "time". You can use either expression, and an English speaker is going to understand what you're trying to say, no problem. But sometime "how much time" will sound a little strange. I think you can always just say "how long" when you speak English, especially while you are learning English. For example: 1a. How long have you been learning to speak English? - GOOD 1b. How much time have you been learning to speak English? - NO (awkward) 2a. How long do you think this doctor's examination will take? - GOOD 2b. How much time do you think this doctor's examination will take? - OK 3a. How long did you live in Australia, before you moved to Canada? - GOOD 3b. How much time did you live in Australia, before you moved to Canada? - NO (awkward)

How long is more informal as in; How long will you be? How long will it take? How much time is more formal and not as rhythmic to say; How much time will it take? (to do a job, or carry out a task) Also, you could not ask someone. How much time will you be? (It just doesn't sound right, although the meaning is there) Also, how long could refer to any measurement, not just time How long is that piece of string? = 10cm