The PTE Academic test (Pearson Test of English Academic) is a computer-based English proficiency test that evaluates the reading, writing, listening and speaking skills of non-native speakers who aspire to study abroad. Although it is lesser-known than its close cousins, TOEFL and IELTS, what works in the favour of PTE Academic test is the fact the results are typically available within five business days.

For those who wish to secure a spot in the University of their choice, here’s our what-not-to-do list:

Excessive confidence in your abilities is a recipe for disaster

You may have been a debate champ or scored top marks on your English tests all through high-school, but that is no guarantee that you will ace the PTE. The test gauges not only your knowledge of the English language but also your ability to function in an out-and-out English environment. Familiarize yourself with the PTE Academic test format to ensure that you are not caught off guard on exam day.

Not practising enough

Taking mock tests is an integral part of PTE preparation and it helps candidates assess their level of preparedness. Before you sit for the actual exam, make sure that you take at least 10 mock tests that are as close to the structure of the actual PTE exam as possible. After finishing each test, you need to analyse your strengths and weaknesses. Brush up on your basic concepts in areas where you struggle most.

Get your hands on the PTE voucher, complete with online mock tests, free study material and expert evaluations.

Not Acclimatizing yourself to the PTE Academic test environment

Students are so accustomed to quiet, study spaces that the actual PTE Academic test environment can feel like a bolt from the blue. You will be sitting in a partitioned booth in very close quarters with other applicants. It can become difficult to focus on your own test as you may be able to hear them speak as they take theirs. Read up on tips to train your brain to brush aside all distracting sounds.

Don’t let anxiety get the best of you

It is only natural to get slightly nervous if you are stuck with a difficult question, but fretting about results while taking the exam will not do your final scores any good. You need to coach yourself to be able to look past it and continue with the next question.

Don’t be a hard worker, be a smart worker

• No matter how well you prepare, there is always room for error. Here are some clever hacks to help you sail through tricky situations, should you find yourself in one
• If you are reading text aloud and realize that you made a mistake, continue to speak.
• If you can’t memorize complete sentences for the “repeat sentence” questions, focus on the keywords and repeat those.
• As for the “re-tell lecture” exercises, instead of full names, you can use titles like professor, Dr, etc.
• When you are summarizing written text, avoid very long sentences and don’t provide any examples, unless categorically asked for.
• While writing summaries, avoid using personal pronouns such as I, We, Us, and Me.
• If the question has negative marking and you are not certain of the solution, skip it.