PTE Paper Pattern: A Complete Guide for Aspiring Candidate!

PTE is a computer-based exam that tests the English language skills of non-native speakers. It examines the language-speaking ability of those who want to move to an English-speaking country. Thus, it is the most accepted test by other countries worldwide. It analyses accuracy, speed, and fairness. Thus, to prepare for it, knowing the PTE paper pattern is essential. So, this article discusses three major sections and other tips, useful for every aspiring candidate.

Overview of the PTE Academic Test

The test evaluates four language skills: speaking, writing, reading, and listening. The test contains three sections that give an overview of the skills required by a candidate. Thus, get a brief of the PTE paper pattern in this segment:

1. Speaking and Writing: 54–67 minutes

2. Reading: 29–30 minutes

3. Listening: 30–43 minutes

Speaking and Writing Section

The speaking and writing section is the first section of the PTE test. Besides, it consists of six types of tasks. The time allotted for this task is between 54 to 67 minutes. A candidate inside detail of this section is provided below:

Personal Presentation (Ungraded)

Applicants present themselves in 30 seconds. Though, it is not graded but gives the university or institution an insight into the applicant.

Read Aloud

Applicants read aloud a given text. Moreover, the task checks on pronunciation, fluency, and reading ability.

Repeat Sentence

A test-taker hears a sentence and repeats it word-for-word. Thus, it assesses the candidates' listening and speaking ability.

Describe Image

Candidates need to describe a picture, graph, chart, or other type of image.

Retell Lecture

A lecture is played for the candidates, and they have to summarize the most important points in their own words.

Short Answer Question

Candidates listen to a question and respond with short and sharp answers.

Task Types for Writing

According to the PTE paper pattern, the writing section contains two tasks. Thus, take a look at them:

Summary of Written Text

The candidate reads a passage and writes a summary of the piece in one sentence. The sentence should reflect the overall intent of the message in as few as 75 words.

Essay Writing

In this task, candidates write an essay of about 200–300 words. Thus, it tests an individual's ability to structure or organize ideas.

Reading Section

The reading section evaluates the comprehension and vocabulary skills of an aspirant. So, it takes 30 minutes to wrap up this task.

Multiple Choice Single Answer

Test-takers will choose one correct answer, out of the options based on the reading passage.

Multiple Choice Multiple Answers

In this task, test-takers choose several correct answers from the provided options.

Reorder Paragraphs

In this task, there are jumbled sentences. So, a candidate has to arrange them all for a meaningful text.

Fill in the Blanks(Reading)

There are missing words in the passage. Thus, a candidate has to drag and drop the correct options into the blanks.

Fill in the Blanks (Reading and Writing)

This integrated task requires candidates to choose the most appropriate word for each blank from a dropdown menu.

Listening Section

The listening section tests the hearing skills of an individual. Thus, the task analyses it by providing clips with different accents. Besides, this test lasts for nearly 30-45 minutes.

Summarize Spoken Text

After listening to a lecture or audio clip, candidates write a 50–70-word summary of its key points.

Multiple-choice, Multiple Answers

Candidates choose multiple correct answers based on the audio.

Fill in the Blanks

A recorded passage with empty spaces will appear. An individual will have to fill in the blank area while listening to the audio.

Highlight Correct Summary

A correct summary of the audio recording from a set of options appears before the test-taker.

Multiple-Choice, Single Answer

The test-taker is presented with a single best-choice answer for a question about the audio.

Choose Filler Word

Listens to an audio file and selects the word or phrase that could be added to complete the sentence.

Mark Incorrect Words

The candidates have a transcript of the audio they have to mark the words that do not match the audio.

Write from Dictation

A candidate hears a short sentence and types it exactly.

Thus, this was an overview of each of the sections of the PTE, now it is time to move ahead and explore the scoring criteria of the test to have a clear understanding.

Scoring Criteria in PTE Test

The PTE Academic utilizes an AI-based scoring system for accuracy. So, scores are on a scale of 10 to 90. Where 10 is the minimum and 90 is the maximum. Moreover, each section contributes to the total score that includes grammar, vocabulary, fluency, and communicative skills.

Now, knowing the scoring pattern is not the only thing, as you have to learn the strategies to get the higher grades. So the upcoming segment will help you perceive some effective tricks.

Tips for Success in PTE Test

Though the PTE paper pattern is comprehensive, a candidate can still excel in it with the following tips:

1. Familiarize Yourself with the Format

2. Develop Time Management Skills

3. Improve Listening and Speaking Fluency

4. Build Vocabulary and Grammar

5. Work on Increasing Typing Speed

Wrapping Up

The above sections give a detailed picture of the PTE test. Thus, every candidate must focus on the exam pattern, scoring criteria, tips, and much more to get good scores. The Pearson PTE mock test enables individuals to get an idea of all such aspects. Therefore, it helps them to plan, practice, and prepare systematically. It highlights weak areas and strengths that allow exposure to the test setting. With persistence and the right approach, success in PTE test is definitely within your fingertips! So, understand the core to see the results in no time.