Reading

The test questions in this section follow this format: fill in the blanks, multiple choice question, re-order and paragraphs. It is allocated 32-41 minutes.

 Multiple choice questions assess reading. This task is divided into two parts. In part 1, the task is to select one correct answer after reading a passage of 110 words. In part two, the task is to answer questions based on a 300 words passage or written text by selecting more than one appropriate answer.
• In this section, a learner, may skim and scan through the written text and the questions to understand their content. Then an in-depth reading for better understanding followed by answer selection.
• Remember there is negative marking in this section, therefore, select your answers wisely.

 Re-order paragraph requires a proper arrangement of written text. There are two columns opposite to each other; in one column, is written sentences placed in random order and the other column is empty. The test taker has to arrange the written sentences to make a sound paragraph by dragging the text into the empty column.
• Read the paragraphs carefully to enable you to make sense of the order.
• Sentences with connectors such as however and moreover are normally within the body of the paragraph not at the beginning.
• Look out for “time” and “years” as they may help set the order of the paragraph. For example, if one paragraph goes something like “in 1954 there was….” then another paragraph goes like “Then in 1955 they started…..” It is easier to see which one comes first here.

 Fill in the blanks is divided into two parts. In part one, a written text with missing words is displayed on the screen and below the text are various words from which the test taker has to select a right answer by dragging it to the blank space. In part two the test taker is provided with a 300 words text that has blank spaces. The task is to select the correct answer from the dropdown menu.
• Read the sentences with missing words and try to find out the type of words missing. Is it a noun, verb or adverb? Then fill in the missing words.
• While reading, don’t skip any words and read the passage until the end sometimes it can only make sense if you read until the end.

Tips on how to prepare for PTE academic reading

Read a variety of written media

This can be books, online blogs newspaper and so on. This helps to increase the vocabulary and learning the proper use of words and punctuation. The test taker can practice reading silently and reading aloud. It might be taken lightly but some people don’t understand a written text unless they read in a particular way. Making a habit of reading will improve the reading, oral fluency, vocabulary and pronunciation.

Keep a journal for recording unfamiliar words

When one is reading, there will always be a new word. It is wise to keep a notepad or notebook where you can write these new unfamiliar words and use the dictionary to learn their meaning. Try to use a dictionary that will also provide examples of how to use the words in a sentence. Also, keep a dictionary by your side at all times. It cannot be hard with technology and apps. This will help improve your vocabulary and help you write like a professional.

A reader is a writer and a writer reads

Reading and writing complement each other so the learner must try to improve both skills. Reading increases vocabulary that is needed in writing and fill in blanks. While writing helps the learner to get accustomed to sentence formation, types of words and their proper utilization. Always proofread your typed text to check grammatical errors and spelling mistakes.

Get yourself the right resources

It is imperative to use the appropriate resources if one is to succeed in PTE Academics. Yes, practice is required but the material used for preparation also counts towards your success or failure. Get yourself PTE Academic study material to guide you through any section of your choice. Get other additional material that is recommended by PTE Academic professionals and learners who have taken the test before you and be active in online PTE Academic groups. This will help you find people who are also preparing for PTE Academics.

 Seek help

Learning a new skill can be tiring and sometimes it easy to get discouraged and give up. If you can’t do it on your own reach out to people who can help you. It can be a friend or a tutor. In the era of social media, there are online communities for almost everything. Search for a community that will help you towards achieving high scores in PTE Academics. Even if you don’t know anyone personally who is preparing for PTE you can pair yourself with an online buddy and become study maids.