PTE, or Pearson Test of English, is a computerized English proficiency test recognized by the DHA and all universities in Australia and New Zealand. It offers several unique advantages, such as:

Artificial Intelligence – This means that the assessment of the test-taker’s English proficiency is entirely automated, with no human involvement. The exam is evaluated by an algorithm designed to mimic human scoring.

Unbiased Scoring – Since AI handles the assessment without human involvement, the scoring is impartial, providing an accurate reflection of the examinee’s English skills.

Flexible Testing and Fast Results – Test dates are readily available in most countries, and 90% of test-takers receive their results within 24 hours. The maximum time for result declaration is 5 business days.

PTE Test Format

Part 1: Speaking and Writing
In the first section of the Pearson Test of English, your speaking and writing skills are assessed, with this part typically lasting between 77 to 93 minutes. Effective time management is crucial to achieve a high score in the PTE. To excel, you should be able to demonstrate your English-speaking and writing abilities in an academic setting, with accuracy in spelling and grammar.

Part 2: Reading
The Reading section tests your reading ability and takes approximately 32 to 41 minutes. This part usually follows the Speaking and Writing section. It includes various question types such as reordering, multiple-choice, and filling in blanks to assess your familiarity with different uses of the English language.

Part 3: Listening
This section, based on video and audio clips, typically lasts between 45 to 57 minutes. You will need to listen to various audio recordings and respond to several question types.

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Personal introduction:

Note: The PTE scoring system can be quite mysterious, particularly in how the overall score is calculated. However, it’s clear that the Speaking section plays a crucial role in the PTE exam. We strongly recommend preparing a well-rehearsed and smooth introduction. You might consider using the following format:

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My name is [Your Name].

I am from [Your Country/City].

I am currently studying at the University of [University Name].

I am taking this exam to achieve [PR/Education].

In my free time, I enjoy reading books and watching movies.

Thank you!

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Speaking

Question Type	Number of Questions
Read Aloud	6-8
Repeat Sentence	10-12
Describe Image	6-8
Retell Lecture	2-4
Answer Short Question	10-12

Read Aloud

What is Read Aloud?

Read Aloud

Read Aloud is the first question type in the PTE Speaking test. It includes 6–8 questions, with an average of 7. In this task, you need to read a given paragraph aloud within the specified time. This task has a transferable score that contributes 30-34 points to the Reading section.

Timings

A. Preparation time: 35-40 seconds

1. Quickly read the passage to familiarize yourself with it.
2. Plan where you’ll pause while reading.
3. Practice pronouncing any difficult words you identified.

B. Recording time: 40 seconds

1. Read aloud clearly and fluently into the microphone.

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Marking: 15 points

Guidelines

• Begin speaking within 3 seconds after the status bar indicates “Recording” and the beep sound plays.
• Click “Next” immediately after you finish reading.
• Avoid unnecessary pauses, and do not add, omit, or repeat any words.
• Maintain a balanced speed; don’t speak too slowly or too fast.
• Minimize hesitation and repetitions.
• Clearly and confidently articulate each word.

Key Strategies:

1. Speed – Speak at a calm, natural pace.
2. Tone – Keep your tone steady.
3. Voice – Ensure your voice remains smooth.
4. Fluency – Maintain a consistent flow in your speech.
5. Clarity – Open your mouth fully and pronounce every word distinctly.

Repeat Sentence

Repeat Sentence is the second type of question in the PTE Speaking test. It features 10-12 questions, with an average of 10. In this task, you listen to a sentence recording and then repeat it into the microphone. This task can contribute up to 30 points to the Listening section.

Timings

1. Preparation time: None
2. Recording time: Begin speaking within 3 seconds after the microphone status changes to “Recording.” Note that there will be no tone or beep sound. Click “Next” once you have completed repeating the sentence.

Guidelines to Adhere To:

1. Speed – Speak at a calm, natural pace.
2. Tone – Use a consistent, flat tone.
3. Voice – Keep your voice smooth and steady.
4. Fluency – Ensure your speech flows continuously.
5. Clarity – Open your mouth fully and articulate each word clearly.

Content in Repeat Sentences:
This pertains to the proportion of words you repeat correctly. Strive to repeat between 75% and 100% of the sentence to achieve the best score.

Scoring for Content:

Percentage of Words	Points	Total Points
75–100 percent	3	3/3
50–75 percent	2	2/3
25–50 percent	1	1/3
Less than 25 percent	0	0/3

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Describe Image

Describe Image is the third type of question in the PTE Speaking test. It includes 6-8 questions, with an average of 6. In this task, you will be shown an image, which may or may not have labels, and you need to describe it using the given template and the labels present. This question type does not have a transferable score, meaning points are awarded only for the Speaking module.

Timings

A. Preparation time: 25 seconds

1. Analyze the image and plan how to describe it.
2. Choose the key points you will mention.

B. Recording time: Begin speaking within 3 seconds after the microphone status changes to “Recording.” Click “Next” when you have finished your description.

C. Ideal speaking time: 35-38 seconds

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Guidelines to Follow:

• Speed: Speak calmly and at a natural pace.
• Tone: Maintain a flat tone.
• Voice: Ensure your voice is smooth.
• Fluency: Speak in a steady and continuous flow.
• Clarity: Open your mouth fully and articulate each word clearly.

Content in Describe Image:
This refers to the text present in the image, including all words and numbers such as titles, x-axis and y-axis labels, glossary terms, and any additional information.

Describe Image Template:

1. Introduction: There is an image in front of me.
2. Timing: I have 40 seconds to describe this image. Let me examine it closely.
3. Observation: After a closer look, I can identify several trends in this image.
4. Description: I see (word 1), (word 2), and (word 3). I also see (word 4), (word 5), and (word 6). (Continue this pattern until the progress bar is approximately past the 80% mark.)
5. Conclusion: Overall, the image is very informative.

Tip:
If you lack sufficient content, repeat the existing words using the pattern “I can see (word 1), (word 2), and (word 3).”

Retell Lecture

Retell Lecture is the fourth type of question in the PTE Speaking section. It typically includes 2-4 questions, with an average of 2. You will listen to a lecture that lasts between 60 and 90 seconds and must provide a summary using the provided template. This section contributes 5-10 points to the Listening component.

Timings

A. Preparation Time: 9 seconds after the lecture ends

1. Quickly review your notes to ensure all words are clear and legible. Remove any unnecessary words, aiming for only 3 words per line.

B. Recording Time: Begin speaking within 3 seconds once the microphone status indicates “Recording.” Click “Next” when you have completed your summary.

C. Ideal Speaking Duration: 35-38 seconds

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Guidelines:

• Speed: Speak calmly and at your natural pace.
• Tone: Maintain a flat tone.
• Voice: Ensure your voice is smooth.
• Fluency: Maintain a steady flow in your speech.
• Clarity: Open your mouth fully and articulate each word clearly.

Retell Lecture: Template

The lecture discusses (topic name). The speaker mentioned (word 1) (word 2) (word 3). The speaker also covered (word 4) (word 5) (word 6). (Continue this pattern until the progress bar is about 80% complete.) Overall, the lecture provides a lot of valuable information.

Tip:
If you lack sufficient content, repeat the words you have using the same pattern: “The speaker mentioned (word 1) (word 2) (word 3). The speaker also covered (word 4) (word 5) (word 6).”

What is Content in Retell Lecture?

In Retell Lecture, content refers to the 25-30 key words you extract from the recording, which should mainly include nouns, verbs, adjectives, and adverbs. Avoid using grammatical words such as connectors, articles, and prepositions. Here’s an example:

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Example 1:

• Recording: “The rapid growth of technology has significantly impacted communication methods and job markets.”
• Key Words: technology, growth, impact, communication, methods, job, markets

Example 2:

• Recording: “Climate change leads to severe weather patterns, affecting ecosystems and human activities globally.”
• Key Words: climate, change, weather, patterns, ecosystems, activities, globally

Example 3:

• Recording: “Educational reforms are necessary to improve student engagement and learning outcomes in schools.”
• Key Words: educational, reforms, improve, student, engagement, learning, outcomes, schools

Answer Short Question

What is Answer Short Question?

Answer Short Question is the fifth task in the PTE – Speaking test. It consists of 10-12 questions, usually averaging around 10. You will listen to a brief question and need to respond with one or two words based on your understanding. This task contributes 2-5 points to the Listening module.

Timings:
A. Preparation Time: None
B. Recording Time: Begin speaking within 3 seconds after the microphone status changes to “Recording.” Click “Next” once you’ve completed your answer.

Marking:
Each question is worth 1 point, and there is no penalty for incorrect responses.

Types of Questions:
You may encounter four types:

1. Common Sense-Based – Questions requiring general knowledge.
2. Knowledge-Based – Questions about specific facts or information.
3. Options-Based – Questions with multiple-choice answers.
4. Picture-Based – Questions referring to visual content.

Tips:

• Always answer with 1 or 2 words.
• If unsure, repeat a keyword from the question.

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NOTES

What is Answer Short Question?

Answer Short Question is the fifth task in the PTE – Speaking test. It consists of 10-12 questions, usually averaging around 10. You will listen to a brief question and need to respond with one or two words based on your understanding. This task contributes 2-5 points to the Listening module.

Timings:
A. Preparation Time: None
B. Recording Time: Begin speaking within 3 seconds after the microphone status changes to “Recording.” Click “Next” once you’ve completed your answer.

Marking:
Each question is worth 1 point, and there is no penalty for incorrect responses.

Types of Questions:
You may encounter four types:

1. Common Sense-Based – Questions requiring general knowledge.
2. Knowledge-Based – Questions about specific facts or information.
3. Options-Based – Questions with multiple-choice answers.
4. Picture-Based – Questions referring to visual content.

Tips:

• Always answer with 1 or 2 words.
• If unsure, repeat a keyword from the question.

Writing

The Writing test is the second section of the PTE, coming after the Speaking test.

Question Type	Number of Questions	Timing
Summarize Written Text	2-3	10 minutes per question
Eassy	1-2	20 minutes per question

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Summarise Written Text

What is Summarise Written Text?

Summarise Written Text is the first task in the PTE Writing test. It consists of 2-3 questions, typically averaging 2 questions per test. For each task, you’ll read a provided passage and summarize it in a single sentence that encapsulates the main ideas. This task contributes 4-6 points to your Reading score.

Timings:
You have 10 minutes to complete each question. If you finish early, the extra time does not carry over to the next question.

Marking:
Each question is worth 7 points.

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Strategies:

1. Structure: Start with Sentence 1, follow with Sentence 2 using a simple connector (such as “and” or “but”), and then conclude with Sentence 3 using a complex connector (like “moreover” or “however”).
2. Simple Connectors: Use connectors such as “and” or “but” to link straightforward ideas.
3. Complex Connectors: Employ connectors like “moreover” or “however” to introduce more complex relationships between ideas.

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Steps:

1. Read the Passage: Spend about 3 minutes reading the entire passage.
2. Select Introduction Sentence: Identify a sentence that best introduces the topic of the passage. Allocate 2 minutes for this.
3. Choose Supporting Sentence: Select a sentence that is related to the introductory sentence. Spend 1 minute on this.
4. Find Conclusion Sentence: Choose a sentence that effectively concludes the previous two sentences. Spend 1 minute here.
5. Proofread: Review all selected sentences, spending approximately 3 minutes.

How to Maximize Your Score:

1. Content (2 points): Ensure your summary includes three sentences that accurately represent the main topic and are well-connected.
2. Form (1 point): Adhere to the PTE requirement of a 5–75 word summary, with a recommended length of 55–75 words.
3. Vocabulary (2 points):

• Expand Short Forms: Replace abbreviations with their full forms. For instance, change “shouldn’t” to “should not” and “bn” to “billion.”
• Write Out Symbols: Use words instead of symbols. For example, write “dollar” or “dollars” instead of “$” and “and” instead of “&.”
• Avoid Paraphrasing: Use the sentences as they are from the passage without altering key words or phrases.
• Replace Personal Pronouns: Change “I” to “one” or “an individual” and “us” to “everyone.”
• Avoid Abbreviations: If possible, select sentences that do not contain abbreviations.

1. Grammar and Spelling: Adjust grammar where necessary and correct spelling errors using the words provided in the passage.

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Essay writing

What is an Essay?

An Essay is the second task in the PTE – Writing test. Typically, you will be presented with 1 or 2 essay questions, with 2 being more common. You need to read and comprehend the essay prompt, understand the topic and essay type, and then write a coherent essay that ranges from 200 to 300 words. This task does not have transferable scores.

Timings:
You have 20 minutes per question. Any unused time does not carry over to the next question if you finish early.

Marking:
Each essay question is worth 15 points.

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Tips for Writing the Essay

1. Draft the Template:
– Start by typing out a basic essay template with placeholders for key points (7-8 minutes).

2. Include the Topic:
– Insert the essay topic name once in the introduction, then copy and paste it five times throughout your essay (1-2 minutes).

3. Fill in the Blanks:
– Complete the template by filling in the placeholders with short, clear phrases (8-9 minutes).

4. Proofread:
– Carefully review and correct any errors in your essay (2-3 minutes).

Types of Essays:

1. Positives and Negatives:
– Used when the essay question includes phrases such as:
– “Do you agree or disagree?”
– “To what extent do you agree or disagree?”
– “How far do you agree or disagree?”
– “Discuss”
– “Pros and cons”
– “Benefits and limitations/drawbacks”

2. Problems and Solutions:
– Applied when the essay question mentions:
– “Issues/concerns and measures/control”

3. Causes and Effects:
– Relevant when the essay question refers to:
– “Reasons and results”

Essay Template

One of the most significant trends in today’s world is the growing emphasis on sustainable living. There is widespread concern that this shift might lead to a variety of challenges and opportunities. This essay will discuss the benefits and drawbacks of sustainable living and provide a reasoned conclusion.

To begin with, there are several compelling reasons to support sustainable living. The most notable include reduced environmental impact, conservation of natural resources, and improved public health. According to a report from the Environmental Protection Agency, adopting sustainable practices has led to a significant decrease in carbon emissions, contributing to a 15% reduction in air pollution levels. Additionally, other key advantages of sustainable living are lower energy costs and greater biodiversity.

On the other hand, some of the key disadvantages of sustainable living include higher initial costs, limited availability of eco-friendly products, and potential resistance to change. For example, a recent survey by the Green Energy Council indicates that the upfront investment required for renewable energy installations can be a barrier for many households, despite long-term savings.

In conclusion, although sustainable living presents certain challenges, such as higher costs and limited resources, the benefits, including environmental conservation and improved health outcomes, are significant. Therefore, despite some difficulties, the advantages of adopting sustainable living practices are too important to overlook.

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Sample Essay (Positives and Negatives)

Online Education has become increasingly popular in recent years. However, it also has its drawbacks. Discuss.

Topic name: Online Education
Type of essay: Positives and Negatives

One of the most notable trends in today’s world is the substantial rise in online education and its impact on learning. There is considerable concern that this trend may lead to several issues. This essay will examine the advantages and disadvantages of online education and provide a reasoned conclusion.

To begin with, there are several compelling arguments in favor of online education. The most prominent benefits include flexibility in learning, access to a wider range of courses, and cost-effectiveness. According to a report by Education Today, there has been an increase from 30 percent to 60 percent in the number of students benefiting from the flexibility offered by online courses. Moreover, other significant advantages associated with online education are convenience and personalized learning experiences.

On the other hand, some of the key disadvantages of online education include lack of face-to-face interaction, technical issues, and difficulty in maintaining motivation. For example, a recent study by the National Education Association highlights that the absence of in-person interaction can lead to lower engagement levels and feelings of isolation among students, making it a considerable drawback.

In conclusion, while online education presents certain challenges such as reduced personal interaction and technical difficulties, the benefits, including flexibility and a broad range of available courses, are significant. Therefore, despite some limitations, the advantages of online education make it a valuable and increasingly essential component of modern learning.

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Reading

The Reading test comes third in the sequence, following the Writing test in the PTE.

Question Type	Number of Questions	Priority	Timing
Reading & Writing – Fill in the Blanks	5-6	Important	32-41 Mintues
Multiple Choice – Multiple Answer	2-3	Not Important
Reorder Paragraphs	2-3	Important
Reading – Fill in the Blanks	4-5	Important
Multiple Choice – Single Answer	2-3	Not Important

You can earn up to 45 points in the Reading section, contributing to the overall score of 90 points. Note the following:

• The Reading section must be completed within the allocated time of 32-41 minutes.
• Time does not carry over between questions.
• Prioritize key question types to maximize your score.

Less Important Question Types

• Multiple Choice – Multiple Answer (Beware: This type can have negative marking.)
• Multiple Choice – Single Answer

Why Are They Less Important?

• They add only 1 point each towards your total score and can be time-consuming, making them less efficient.

Strategy

• Opt for the third choice, or option C, as there is a 70 percent chance that it is the correct answer.

Reading & Writing – Fill in the blanks

Reading & Writing – Fill in the Blanks

The Reading & Writing – Fill in the Blanks (or Drop-Down – Fill in the Blanks) task is the first question type in the PTE Reading test. It generally includes 5-6 questions, with an average of 5. In this task, you must read a passage and complete each blank by selecting the correct option from a drop-down menu. Typically, the passages are between 200-300 words and contain 3-7 blanks.

Timings

• Individual questions are not timed, so you need to manage your time effectively, spending no more than 2-3 minutes on each question.

Marking

• This task is worth a total of 40 points: 20 points contribute to the Writing score and 20 points to the Reading score.

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Strategy for Drop-Down – Fill in the Blanks

The most effective strategy for handling Drop-Down – Fill in the Blanks is the Prediction-Synonym Method. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Read the Passage Thoroughly: Begin by carefully reading the entire passage to grasp its meaning and context. Understanding the overall content will aid in making accurate predictions for the blanks.
2. Predict the Missing Words:

• Guess a Single Word: Try to determine the specific word that fits best in the blank.
• Guess a Phrase or Logic: Consider a phrase or logical concept that might complete the sentence.
• Guess Using Collocations: Think about common word combinations or collocations that fit naturally.
• Identify the Word Type: Determine whether the missing word is likely to be a noun, verb, adjective, or adverb based on the context.

1. Check Drop-Down Options: Open the drop-down menu and select the closest synonym that aligns with your prediction. A synonym is a word with a similar meaning to your guessed word or phrase.
2. Eliminate Irrelevant Options: Discard any options that do not fit the sentence contextually or thematically.

Skills to Develop for This Task:

1. Comprehension Skills: Improve your reading comprehension by regularly reading newspapers or other informative texts.
2. Vocabulary Skills: Enhance your vocabulary by learning 10 new words daily and practicing them in sentences.
3. Grammar Basics: Refresh your understanding of fundamental grammar concepts, including nouns, adjectives, verbs, adverbs, and prepositions.
4. Collocations: Study academic collocations by downloading lists and learning 5 new collocations each day. Use them in sentences to reinforce your understanding.

Reading – Fill in the blanks

What is Reading – Fill in the Blanks?

Reading – Fill in the Blanks, also known as Drag and Drop – Fill in the Blanks, is the fourth task in the PTE – Reading test.

Task Overview:

• Number of Questions: Typically 4-5 questions, with an average of 4.
• Passage Length: Usually 100-150 words.
• Instructions: You need to read the given passage and fill in the blanks using words from a provided list at the bottom.

Timings:

• Individual Timing: There is no specific time allotted per question; you must manage your own time. Aim to spend no more than 2-3 minutes on each question.

Marking:

• Points: 25 points, all attributed to the Reading section.

What is Reading – Fill in the Blanks?

Reading – Fill in the Blanks, also known as Drag and Drop – Fill in the Blanks, is the fourth task in the PTE – Reading test.

Task Overview:

• Number of Questions: Typically 4-5 questions, with an average of 4.
• Passage Length: Usually 100-150 words.
• Instructions: You need to read the given passage and fill in the blanks using words from a provided list at the bottom.

Timings:

• Individual Timing: There is no specific time allotted per question; you must manage your own time. Aim to spend no more than 2-3 minutes on each question.

Marking:

• Points: 25 points, all attributed to the Reading section.

What is the Strategy for Reading – Fill in the Blanks?

The most effective strategy for Drag and Drop – Fill in the Blanks is the Prediction-Synonym Method. Here’s how to approach it:

### Steps:

1. Read the Passage Carefully: Understanding the context of the passage is crucial for filling in the blanks correctly.

2. Predict the Missing Words:
– Guess a Single Word: Consider what single word might fit logically in the blank.
– Guess a Phrase or Logic: Determine if a phrase or logical connection fits the blank.
– Guess Using Collocations: Think about common word pairings or phrases that make sense in the context.
– Identify the Type of Word: Determine whether the blank requires a noun, verb, adjective, or adverb.

3. Find the Closest Synonym:
– Use your prediction to select the closest synonym from the list provided below the passage. A synonym is a word with a similar meaning.

### Essential Skills to Develop:

1. Comprehension Skills: Enhance your reading comprehension by reading newspapers daily.
2. Vocabulary Skills: Expand your vocabulary by learning 10 new words daily and using them in sentences.
3. Grammar Basics: Refresh your understanding of grammatical categories such as nouns, adjectives, verbs, adverbs, and prepositions.
4. Collocations: Study academic collocations by downloading a list and learning 5 new collocations each day, using them in sentences.

Reorder Paragraphs

What is Reorder Paragraphs?

Reorder Paragraphs is a task in the PTE – Reading test, typically appearing as the third task. Here’s what you need to know:

Task Description:

• Number of Questions: 2-3 questions (with an average of 2 questions).
• Format: Each question consists of 3 to 5 sentences that are out of order. Your task is to rearrange these sentences to form a coherent paragraph.

Timings:

• Time Management: Individual questions are not timed. You must manage your own time, spending no more than 2 to 2.5 minutes per question.

Marking:

• Scoring: You are awarded points based on individual pairs of sentences (2 – 4 points per question). All points contribute to your Reading score.

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What is the Strategy for Reorder Paragraphs?

Identifying Pairs is crucial for successfully rearranging sentences in Reorder Paragraphs. Here’s a step-by-step strategy:

### Step 1: Read the Sentences

– Initial Reading: Carefully read all the given sentences to understand the overall theme.

### Step 2: Identify the Topic Sentence

– Characteristics of the Topic Sentence:

  – Independent: It should stand alone and provide a broad idea.

  – Broad: It introduces the main concept of the paragraph.

  – Introduction: It sets the context for the following sentences.

### Step 3: Make Pairs Using Different Methods

– Synonym or Relation Method: Find pairs of sentences that are logically related through synonyms or thematic connections.

– Subject-Object Matching Method: Match sentences where the subject of one is the object or detail in the next.

### Example:

Sentences:

1. Reading regularly can enhance cognitive functions.

2. Engaging in daily reading exercises the brain and improves memory.

3. The benefits of reading are well-documented and supported by research.

4. One of the most effective ways to keep your mind sharp is to read consistently.

Identify the Topic Sentence:

– Topic Sentence: “One of the most effective ways to keep your mind sharp is to read consistently.”

  – This sentence introduces the main idea about the importance of reading.

Determine the First Pair:

– Pair: “One of the most effective ways to keep your mind sharp is to read consistently” and “Reading regularly can enhance cognitive functions.”

  – Reason: The first sentence introduces the concept, and the second sentence explains how reading affects cognitive functions (subject-object matching).

Determine the Next Pair:

– Pair: “Engaging in daily reading exercises the brain and improves memory” and “The benefits of reading are well-documented and supported by research.”

  – Reason: These sentences are related through the evidence and impact of reading on brain function (relation method).

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Listening

The Listening test is the final section of the PTE, coming after the Reading test.

Sections	Question Type	Number of Questions	Priority	Timing
A	Summarise Spoken Text	2-3	Important	10 minutes per question
B	Multiple Choice- Multiple Answer	2-3	Not Important	23-28 minutes
	Fill in the Blanks	2-3	Important
	Highlight Correct Summary	2-3	Not Important
	Multiple Choice- Single Answer	2-3	Not Important
	Select Missing Words	2-3	Not Important
	Highlight Incorrect Words	2-3	Important
	Write From Dictation	3-4	Important

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Not Important Questions:

• Multiple Choice – Multiple Answers (Note: This question type includes negative marking, so approach with caution!)
• Highlight Correct Summary
• Multiple Choice – Single Answer
• Select Missing Words

Why are these questions NOT IMPORTANT?

Each of these question types contributes only 1 point towards the total score of 90 points, making them less valuable in terms of time and effort. Therefore, they can be considered time-wasters.

Strategy:

When tackling these questions, it has been observed that the third option, or Option C, has about a 70 percent probability of being the correct answer.

Summarise Spoken Text

What is it?
Summarise Spoken Text is the first task in the PTE Listening test. In this task, you will listen to an audio recording and then write a summary of it.

Number of Questions:
Typically, there are 2-3 questions, with an average of 2 questions.

Timings:
You have exactly 10 minutes to complete each question after listening to the recording. Note that any time saved from completing a question early will not carry over to the next timed question.

Marking:
Each question is worth 10 points, with 10 points contributing to your Listening score and 10 points to your Writing score.

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How to Maximise Your Score in Summarise Spoken Text

1. Content (2 points): 

   – Band 7 or 8: Capture as many key phrases and short sentences from the recording as possible. 

   – Band 6: Focus on noting down essential keywords and main points.

2. Vocabulary (2 points): 

   – Use appropriate words in the correct context. Avoid paraphrasing; stick to the original terms used in the recording.

3. Form (2 points): 

   – Ensure your summary is between 50 and 70 words. Aiming for around 60 words is recommended for optimal scoring.

4. Grammar (2 points): 

   – Avoid contractions (e.g., use “could not” instead of “couldn’t”). 

   – Capitalize the first letter of the first word in each sentence and all proper nouns. 

   – Do not use personal pronouns (e.g., I, me, he, she). Opt for third-person perspectives instead.

5. Spelling (2 points): 

   – Use words you are confident about spelling. Avoid using names or less familiar terms if you are unsure of their spelling.

Templates for Summarise Spoken Text

Here are a few examples and summaries using a similar format:

Example 1

Topic: Nutrition

Notes:

• vitamins
• health
• diet
• nutrients
• balanced
• deficiencies
• fruits
• vegetables
• intake

Sample Summary: The speaker provides brief information about nutrition. Firstly, the salient features revealed are vitamins, health, and diet. Moreover, the significant aspects concerned with nutrition include nutrients, balanced, and deficiencies. Additionally, the lecture also emphasizes on fruits, vegetables, and intake. In a nutshell, the lecture focuses on the importance of vitamins, health, and diet.

Total number of words: 52

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Example 2

Topic: Renewable Energy

Notes:

• solar
• wind
• sustainable
• technology
• efficiency
• cost
• power
• sources
• environment

Sample Summary: The speaker provides brief information about renewable energy. Firstly, the salient features revealed are solar, wind, and sustainable. Moreover, the significant aspects concerned with renewable energy include technology, efficiency, and cost. Additionally, the lecture also emphasizes on power, sources, and environment. In a nutshell, the lecture focuses on the importance of solar, wind, and sustainable.

Total number of words: 52

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Example 3

Topic: Urban Planning

Notes:

• infrastructure
• development
• city
• zoning
• traffic
• green spaces
• residential
• commercial
• policies

Sample Summary: The speaker provides brief information about urban planning. Firstly, the salient features revealed are infrastructure, development, and city. Moreover, the significant aspects concerned with urban planning include zoning, traffic, and green spaces. Additionally, the lecture also emphasizes on residential, commercial, and policies. In a nutshell, the lecture focuses on the importance of infrastructure, development, and city.

Total number of words: 52

Fill in the blanks

What is Fill in the Blanks?

Fill in the Blanks is the second task in the PTE – Listening test, section B. This task typically features 2-3 questions, with an average of 2 questions per test. You will listen to a recording lasting between 1 to 1.5 minutes and fill in the missing words in the provided blanks. The task contributes 4-6 points to your Writing module as well.

Timings

• Preparation time: You will have 6-8 seconds to preview the text before the recording starts.

Marking

• 1 point for each correct answer.

Strategies

• Preparation: During the preparation time, quickly scan the words before each blank to anticipate what you might hear.
• Word Forms: If you’re unsure whether to use a word ending in “s” or “ed,” check the context of the sentence to determine if it should be singular or plural.
• Active Listening: Follow along with the sentences using your finger while the recording plays, and jot down the missing words promptly.
• Back-to-Back Blanks: Be attentive and ready when encountering consecutive blanks, as they may require careful listening to fill in correctly.

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Highlight Incorrect Words

What is Highlight Incorrect Words?

Highlight Incorrect Words is the sixth task in section B of the PTE – Listening test. This task involves listening to a recording lasting between 1 to 1.5 minutes while reading a corresponding passage. Your goal is to identify and highlight words in the passage that do not match the recording. This task contributes 4-6 points to the Reading module and includes negative marking.

Timings

• Preparation time: 6-8 seconds to preview the passage before the recording starts.

Marking

• 1 point for each correctly highlighted word.

Strategies

• Initial Scan: During the preparation time, quickly scan the first line of the passage to get oriented and avoid surprises when the recording starts.
• Active Listening: As the recording plays, move your cursor along the passage and click to highlight any words that do not match what you hear.
• Grammar Words: Typically, grammar words (e.g., articles, prepositions) will not be incorrect. Focus on highlighting keywords such as nouns, verbs, adverbs, and adjectives instead.
• Distribution of Errors: Incorrect words may be spread throughout the passage, so don’t worry if you don’t find errors in every line.
• Accuracy: Be cautious with highlighting, as this task has negative marking. Only highlight words if you are certain they are incorrect.
• Number of Errors: Expect to find between 4 to 6 incorrect words in each passage.

Write From Dictation

What is Write from Dictation?

Write from Dictation is the eighth and final task in the PTE – Listening test. In this task, you will hear a sentence recorded and need to write it down exactly as you hear it.

Details

• Number of Questions: 3-4 questions per test.
• Task: Listen to a recording of a sentence and type it out accurately.
• Scoring: Up to 30 points for Listening and 30 points for Writing, totaling 60 points.

Timings

• No specific time limits for each question; however, manage your time effectively to ensure you complete all questions.

Marking Criteria

• 1 point for each correct word typed with the correct spelling.
• Errors in spelling, missing words, or extra words can lead to point deductions.

Strategies

• Listen Carefully: Focus on each word and punctuation mark. Try to anticipate the structure of the sentence to better catch each word.
• Practice Dictation: Regular practice with dictation exercises can improve your accuracy and speed.
• Take Notes: If needed, jot down keywords or phrases while listening to help you remember and accurately type the sentence.
• Check Spelling: Ensure each word is spelled correctly as there are no leniencies for spelling mistakes.

By following these strategies, you can maximise your performance in the Write from Dictation task.

Things to Do a Week Before the Exam

1. Get Daily Feedback:

   – Seek regular feedback from trainers.

   – Focus on improving your weak areas based on their guidance.

2. Review All Strategies:

   – Go over all the exam strategies you’ve learned.

   – Ensure you’re clear on how to approach each task.

3. Appear for Mock Tests:

   – Complete mock tests to simulate exam conditions.

   – Follow your study plan and adjust as needed based on mock test results.

4. Be Regular in the Lab:

   – Utilize lab sessions for additional practice.

   – Get one-on-one feedback to address specific weaknesses.

5. Practice with Prediction Files:

   – Use prediction files to familiarize yourself with potential exam content.

   – Practice extensively with these files to improve your readiness.

6. Clarify Doubts:

   – Keep a list of any doubts or questions.

   – Regularly discuss them with your trainers to ensure clarity.

### Things to Do on the Day of the Exam

1. Be Well-Rested:

   – Ensure you get a good night’s sleep before the exam.

   – Being well-rested will help you stay alert and focused.

2. Avoid Practice:

   – Refrain from practicing on the exam day.

   – Use this time to relax and calm your mind.

3. Have a Positive Attitude:

   – Believe in your preparation and stay confident.

   – Maintain a positive outlook throughout the day.

4. Arrive Early:

   – Reach the exam centre at least 30 minutes before your scheduled time.

   – This gives you ample time to settle in and avoid any last-minute stress.

5. Bring Your Passport:

   – Ensure you have your passport or other required identification with you.

   – Double-check that you have it before leaving for the exam centre.

6. Stay Focused:

   – The exam room may be noisy, especially during the Speaking module.

   – Focus on your exam and try to block out any distractions.