1. Write-from-dictation: prioritise nouns and verbs
The scoring is per-word, not per-sentence. If you can't capture the whole sentence, write down every noun and verb you remember. Half-marks beat zero.
2. Summarize-spoken-text: 50-70 words, exactly
Under 40 = automatic 0 on "form". Over 80 = the same. The sweet spot is 55. Practise hitting it.
3. Highlight correct summary: the longest option is rarely right
PTE writers add distractor options that paraphrase too aggressively. The correct summary usually has the cleanest match of named entities and verbs, not the most elaborate phrasing.
4. Multiple-choice multiple-answers: trust your second-instinct
If you marked 2 confidently and there's a 3rd that maybe fits, leave it. The negative-marking on this item type wipes out gains from over-selection.
5. Select missing word: predict before you hear
The recording fades out 1-2 words before the end. If you've been listening for the argument structure, the missing word is usually predictable from context. Force yourself to guess before reading the options.
Writes about scoring, calibration, and what actually moves a candidate's band. Meet the team →
