WHAT IS PTE?
The Pearson Test of English (PTE) is an integrated test (i.e., a computer-based test) that evaluates the English language skills of non-native speakers planning to apply for university programs in English-speaking countries. It is accepted in countries like Canada, the USA, the UK, Australia, New Zealand, Germany, and France.
There are three parts to the test:
- SPEAKING AND WRITING SECTION
- READING SECTION
- LISTENING SECTION
These three sections help the examiners to assess the English fluency of non-native speakers. There are 20 types of questions in the test that start from multiple choice questions to essay writing. Please review different question formats as each section has a different set of questions.
SPEAKING & WRITING SECTION:
This section consists of seven different types of questions. This will take approximately 54-67 minutes. You will be tested in both your speaking and writing skills. For speaking you will be graded on how well you listen, read and write. There are 5 different categories from which your speaking proficiency will be judged. As for writing, it is the second section of the speaking module. It evaluates and grades you based on your grammar, sentence formatting, and vocabulary usage.
READING SECTION:
It is the second section of this test. This section contains passages and questions that are based on your reading skills. It comprises 5 tasks. The texts that are given are authentic and contain a variety of topics ranging from academic to literature. You do not need to know any of the mentioned knowledge prior as all the answers to the questions can be found in the texts.
LISTENING SECTION:
It is the last section of the test. This section evaluates your listening skills. You will be given an audio or video clip that begins automatically, and it will be played only once. You are allowed to take notes in this section.
TIPS AND STRATEGIES TO GET A GOOD SCORE IN PTE:
- Practice intonation at the beginning and at the end of the sentences to make them sound more authentic.
- Do not stop speaking if you made a mistake, continue.
- If you’re not able to remember the whole sentence, try to remember keywords to answer the question.
- Keep practicing tongue twisters as they help
- Try not to speak before the microphone opens, as your answer would not record.
- In the writing section, try writing your answers in 35-45 words.
- It is important to make a good strategic plan and stick to it. It should have a combination of methods, practice tests, and lastly analysis.
- Assess yourself with tests so you can get to know in which section you are lacking.
- Time management is really crucial in this exam. You have to keep practicing your tests according to the time given for each test, as you would get first-hand practice and will also be able to manage the time.
- Lastly, strong vocabulary is very important for this test. You should have a good hold of words. To improve and enhance your vocabulary, reading and learning the meanings of words come in handy.
With these tips and techniques and with your confidence in yourself, you can achieve a good score in your PTE!
