14 Frequently Asked Questions for Speaking & Writing Sections of PTE-A Exam

Speaking and writing modules of the PTE test are challenging for many test-takers. Candidates often get confused with the type of questions asked and fail to improve their results in the PTE test. While the PTE Study seems easy, test takers raise many questions as they undertake the PTE Speaking Practice. PTE writing test format is also unclear for many PTE aspirants.

In this article, we have come up with the frequently asked questions for the PTE Speaking and Writing Test:

1. What is the exam format for the PTE Writing test?
2. How can I score maximum marks in the PTE Writing Test?
3. Will I lose points if I take more time in the speaking section?
4. How are my speaking skills marked in the “repeat sentence” task?
5. Will I get more points if I speak fast?
6. Will I get more points for complex sentence structure and fancy vocabulary?
7. Willi lose marks if I fail to answer within the word limit?
8. Is it possible to replay the audio again if I missed something?
9. Is it mandatory to copy the accent of native English speakers in the speaking module?
10. What type of questions are asked in the speaking section?
11. Is it compulsory to use exact words while quoting a person?
12. What if I forget to include an introduction and conclusion in the essay?
13. How will long pauses affect my speaking score?
14. In the Describe Image part, do I need to describe all the details I see in the image?

Let us answer all the questions mentioned above to clear your misconceptions about the PTE speaking and writing test.

1. What is the exam format for the PTE Writing test?

PTE writing test mainly includes two question types:

• Summarise Written Text: In this task, you have to summarise the given text and include the main context in suthe mmary. You should not write more than 75 words in the summary, and the time allotted for this task is 10 minutes.
  
• Write an Essay: Candidates have to write an essay of 200-300 words on a given topic, and they must complete the essay in 20 minutes.

2. How can I score maximum marks in the PTE writing test?

To gain Maximum marks in the PTE Writing Test, you must use proper structure, include complex sentences, and have a wide range of vocabulary. Your essay must be relevant to the topic. Consider coherence and cohesion for extra points.

3. Will I lose points if I take more time in the speaking section?

If you spend more time in the speaking section, you will have less time to complete other areas. Remember that timing is crucial if you want to score Good Points in the PTE Test. So, try to complete all the sections within the time limit.

4. How are my speaking skills marked in the “repeat sentence” task?

In the Repeat sentence task, you have to repeat the sentence immediately after the audio is played. Your speaking skills will be assessed on how accurately and precisely you manage to repeat the sentence. If you forget a word, just move on without a noticeable change in your speech.

5. Will I get more points if I speak fast?

When you try to speak faster than your average speed, you may lose the rhythm of your speech. Consequently, you will start saying things that are out of context and end up losing points.

6. Will I get more points for complex sentence structure and fancy vocabulary?

Complex sentences and different vocabulary increase the chances of scoring more points only if they are used in a proper context. Avoid excessive use of fancy words that do not fit the context. Make sure you do not use repetitive phrases. Try to use natural and straightforward language.

7. Will I lose marks if I fail to answer within the word limit?

It would be best to write an essay between 200-300 words, as per the Pearson score guidelines. If you fail to stick to the word limit, you are more likely to lose marks in your writing section.

8. Is it possible to replay the audio again if I missed something?

No, you cannot replay the audio. Also, you can never record yourself more than once for a speaking section. So, please pay attention to the recording while it is played, or you will miss out on important information.

9. Is it mandatory to copy the accent of native English speakers in the speaking module?

PTE Speaking does not demand speaking like a native English Speaker. However, it would help if you spoke louder so that the software could catch your sound. Try to speak in a natural but clear tone for effective speaking.

10.  What type of questions are asked in the speaking section?

Generally, there are five question types in the PTE Speaking Test, and they are titled: Repeat sentence, describe an image, retell a lecture, read aloud and answer short questions. You will have around 30-35 minutes to complete this section.

11.  Is it compulsory to use exact words while quoting a person?

Quoting is repeated in the same manner as spoken by the other person. Hence, it is advisable to use the exact words while quoting a person.

12.  What if I forget to include an introduction and conclusion in the essay?

An essay must be composed of an introduction, body paragraphs, and a valid conclusion. Hence, you must write an introduction and a conclusion to attain full marks in the PTE Writing Section.

13.  How will a long pause affect my speaking score?

The PTE microphone will stop recording if you pause for more than 3 seconds. Hence, avoid taking long breaks in your speech to secure a good speaking score.

14. In the Describe Image part, do I need to describe all the details I see in the image?

Candidates must include relevant and essential details of the image in their description. Describing unnecessary information will reduce your time for answering other sections. Hence, pay attention to the most striking elements in the picture.

Conclusion

PTE Speaking and writing tests are of utmost importance in the Pearson Test of English. One must give enough time for PTE speaking practice and work on the weak points they encounter during their preparation. Above mentioned questions will answer your queries regarding the PTE Speaking Test and Writing Test. If you are also a PTE aspirant, we suggest that you make time for PTE study to attain the Desired Score in Your PTE Exam.