The full form of PTE is the Pearson Test of English and the PTE-Academic is an international computer-based English language test for candidates looking to study abroad in countries where English is the primary language of communication.
In this article, we are going to focus on the top PTE preparation tips for 2023. There is a deluge of information available for the PTE exam, which can be overwhelming for candidates. Hence, we have tried to get rid of the noise and provide only what is relevant to our PTE test takers.
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Before we delve into the best preparation for PTE exam tips and tricks. We are happy to inform you that the conducting body of the PTE exam, Pearson PLC Group has launched the much-awaited PTE at Home. The PTE at Home is the identical version of the PE Academic test, however, the PTE at home is held from the comfort of candidates’ homes due to the pandemic and safety of the student. The PTE exam pattern has also been shortened by one hour. The PTE Academic is now for a total duration of two hours without compromising on the quality of the PTE exam.
Preparation for PTE – Top Tips
Provided below are some of the PTE Preparation tips for beginners who are looking to ace the PTE test.
- Bridge the PTE Score Gap
- Familiarize yourself with the PTE Exam Format
- Get hold of the best PTE Study Material
- Practice, practice, practice
- Exam Day Tips
Preparation for PTE: Bridge the PTE Score Gap
Many times candidates are confused about where to start while preparing for the PTE exam. To begin with, you must understand the pattern of the test thoroughly. As far as the preparation goes, you should understand your current English proficiency level, and the PTE score you will need to achieve, to apply to their preferred university. Hence, you should prepare to bridge the score gap. Candidates can check out the Sample Question Papers available on the official website or on our PTE Practice Papers page. However, the official PTE sample papers, available on the website need to be bought by the candidate.
Preparation for PTE: Familiarize yourself with the PTE Exam Format
PTE is of two types: PTE Academic and PTE General. The Academic test is for students who plan to study overseas, while the General test is for those who wish to move abroad for residency or work.
PTE Academic Exam Format
| Section |
Duration |
Tasks |
|---|---|---|
| Speaking & Writing |
54-67 Minutes |
Personal Introduction Read Aloud Repeat Sentence Describe Image Re-tell Lecture Answer Short Question Summarize Written Text Essay |
| Reading |
29-30 Minutes |
Reading & Writing: Fill in the Blanks Multiple Choice, Multiple Answer Re-order Paragraphs Fill in the Blanks Multiple Choice, Single Answer |
| Listening |
30-43 Minutes |
Summarize Spoken Text Multiple Choice, Multiple Answers Fill in the Blanks Highlight Correct Summary Multiple Choice, Single Answer Select Missing Word Highlight Incorrect Words Write from Dictation |
PTE General Exam Format
PTE General has more acceptance in non-English speaking European countries. It has 6 levels which are linked to the CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages) levels.
| PTE Level |
Time |
CEFR Level |
|---|---|---|
| PTE Foundation |
1 Hour 15 Minutes |
Level A1 |
| PTE Level 1 |
1 Hour 35 Minutes |
Level A2 |
| PTE Level 2 |
1 Hour 35 Minutes |
Level B1 |
| PTE Level 3 |
2 Hours |
Level B2 |
| PTE Level 4 |
2 Hours 30 Minutes |
Level C1 |
| PTE Level 5 |
2 Hours 55 Minutes |
Level C2 |
It is very important to go prepared for the PTE Exam. One of the main reasons why there is no fixed PTE Exam Date and the candidates are allowed to schedule their PTE exam, is to give them ample time to prepare for the exam. Candidates should be aware of the PTE Syllabus as well as the PTE Exam Pattern. This way they would know the composition of their question paper and areas that need extra attention.
As informed earlier, given the pandemic, the PTE has replaced the existing PTE Exam Pattern with a shorter version for candidates to be able to maximize their results without compromising on the quality of the exam. Starting November 2021, the PTE Exam is for a total duration of two hours. Candidates should also know the test format, understand the number of questions asked, the length and timing devoted to each section, the type of questions being asked and finally understand how each question would be presented to the candidate.
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Preparation for PTE: Best PTE Study Material
PTE test takers who are looking to maximize their chances of achieving their desired score on the PTE test can choose from a wide range of quality PTE Academic study material. PTE online preparation materials available include the best PTE books, a mobile phone app for practice on the go and a fully Scored Practice Test – which gives an indicator of how the candidate may perform on the test. We are mentioning some of the resources that will help you get a score on the exam:
- The Official Guide to PTE Academic
- PTE Academic Official Practice App
- Pearson-associate Courses: Pearson has teamed up with E2Language and Macquarie University for online PTE Courses.
- E2 PTE Academic
- PTE Tutorials App
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Practice, Practice, and Practice
We cannot stress the importance of practicing PTE Sample Papers as part of your preparation tool. Candidates should time themselves and should self-assess after every PTE mock test so that they can identify weak areas and work on them. Candidates are advised to use the official PTE Practice Papers that are available on the official PTE website, https://www.pearsonpte.com/. Candidates can also get in touch with our counsellors, Shiksha Study Abroad Counsellors, here.
PTE Exam day Tips
When we talk about PTE exam day tips, we are talking about the exam tips for days leading up to the PTE Exam and not the actual day of the exam. Candidates wanting to know about the Do's and Dont's of the PTE Exam Date, click here. Candidates, old or new, are required to go through the PTE Exam Tips for a smooth journey to achieving your desired PTE score.
PTE test takers should learn to make the most of their spare minutes to practice skills including, practicing activities each day to maintain and build their knowledge, practicing speaking English at your home, school or workplace and taking every opportunity to write in English. For example, sending emails to friends or contacts, or keeping a journal. Candidates can also listen to English-speaking media, like television (use English subtitles if available) and radio broadcasts. Try to observe native speakers and listen to the language they use in different contexts.
First-time PTE test takers looking to ace their PTE exam can take inspiration from the article above. However, just as one size does not fit all, similarly, this is article serves the purpose of a larger population. You can prepare your own strategy and use this article as a reference point. You can plan the next steps of your PTE preparation, entirely based on individual strengths and weaknesses. Our team would love to hear from you. Do get in touch with us in the comments below.
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