The Pearson Test of English (PTE) is a standardized test designed to assess the English language proficiency of non-native English speakers. It is accepted by universities, colleges, and governments worldwide, and a good score can open doors to various opportunities. So, if you are a non-native English speaker aspiring to study abroad, getting a good score in your PTE is essential.
If you’re taking the PTE soon and are feeling nervous, don’t worry!
Time Management
Managing your time in PTE plays a key role. So, let’s talk about how you can split your time between the different modules in your PTE.
- Speaking module: Do not waste much time in this module— especially in the “Read Aloud” and “Repeat Sentences” sections. Remember to click the NEXT button and go to the next question immediately after speaking so no unnecessary sounds get recorded. Conversely, in the “Describe Image” and “Retell Lecture”, it is best to keep speaking till the last second of the recording bar; since the points contribution of these questions is more. On the other hand, don’t waste much time answering the questions in the “Answer Short Question” section, and use crisp one-word answers.
- Writing module: For the “Summarise the Written Text” section, make sure you read the paragraph for the first 2 minutes, understand what sentences you will pick, and then type them. Always leave 2-3 minutes for Proofreading. For the “Essay”, dedicate the first 7-8 min towards typing the template. We recommend that you think about the ideas, while typing your responses. Add your general views/ideas for the next 10 minutes and save the last 2-3 min for Proofreading.
- Reading Module: Spot the Timewaster question, and do not waste time on it. For the next sections, i.e., “Reorder Paragraph” and “FIBs”, do not waste more than 1-2 minutes on each question.
- Listening Module: This section has 4 Timewaster questions and 4 Important ones. Anyone wanting their desired score cannot use the traditional learning path to solve every question. The points drastically vary in this section between the most and least important questions. The most important questions are “Summarise Spoken Text”, “FIBs”, “Highlighting Incorrect Words”, and “Writing from Dictations”. (4 questions). On the other hand, the Timewasters or least important questions are MCQ multiple answers, MCQ single answers, highlight correct summary and select missing words (For these questions, click the most preferred answer and go to the next one asap as soon as the audio stops).
On the Day of the Exam
On the day of your final exam, we recommend you practice the Speaking Module, just as a warm up session 30-40min before your exam, and never miss the Introduction Session.
Some people are more productive in the morning and others in the evening. Analyse when you are the most productive, and always book your exam during that time.
Arrive at the exam centre 30 mins before your exam starts and don’t forget your passport.
Revise All the Templates & Word Counts Before the Final Exam
It is recommended to revise all the templates word to word before the exam (even the punctuations in the template) to avoid grammatical errors, and the word counts for Summaries, Written and Spoken Tests, Essays, etc.
Always Talk to Your PTE Experts Before the Final Exam to Clear All Doubts
Always talk to your tutors before the final exams and clear any last-minute doubts. Moreover, attempt a Mock Test & get it checked before the final exam so your tutor can guide you on your strengths and weaknesses.
Check Your Equipment & Surroundings While Giving Your Exam
Expect a noisy environment at the exam centre.
At EnglishWise, we have an exam centre-like environment in all our physical institutes. Here, you do not sit alone while attempting the mock test like your final exam. In the final exam, expect about 10-12 other students to start the exam with you simultaneously.
In other words, when they attempt the Speaking Module, so will you. Now, it might create some distraction, but do not panic. If you are an EnglishWise student, you have already experienced this and trained yourself accordingly. For others, you can expect a noisy environment at the test centre. Under such circumstances, it is best to stay calm & attempt the questions methodically.
It is highly recommended to check your microphones, laminated booklet, marker, and the microphone they provide during the test. Always ensure that your voice can be heard clearly and that there are no breathing sounds or background noise. Also, check the marker to see whether it is not dried up— remember to close the marker lid after every use, or the ink will dry up.
Most Importantly
If you face a technical issue during the exam, DO NOT PANIC. Raise the issue with the invigilator immediately and get your case number on the spot. Doing so will work in your favour, especially if you don’t get your desired score.
Under such circumstances, you can talk to PTE customer service and avail yourself of a free test with the help of the case number. However, this case has some exceptions, so it is best to consult with your PTE trainer and approach customer service accordingly.
Lastly, be confident. If you have practised enough, nothing can stop you. Just relax and try to keep track of the time, and you are all set to ace your PTE exam! GOOD LUCK!
