Pearson | PTE
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The last part of the PTE Academic test is the PTE listening module. The PTE listening section tests your ability to understand spoken English in an academic environment. The PTE listening section evaluates your ability to understand a variety of accents, both native and non-native.
Some of the useful and effective PTE listening tips and tricks 2025 will surely help you excel in the exam. The PTE exam can prove your English language skills and add to your credibility in securing admission to renowned universities of the world. Some important PTE exam listening tips are given below:
PTE Academic: Complete Guide | Preparation Tips
You have to constantly stay attentive and focused in your PTE exam listening section and also for all other modules of the PTE exam as the listening scores are also integrated into your speaking, reading, and writing modules of the PTE exam. As a student ready to attempt the PTE exam you should practice listening to various English conversations, lectures, and documentaries to understand the varied accents people use across the globe.
This is one art of making notes, it is quite easy and you just need to develop yourself with rigorous practice so that you do not miss the main idea and the supporting ideas. Use your own symbols, signs, abbreviations, and short forms. Remember that no one is grading you on your notes, they are for you to understand and write finally.
As mentioned above, you have to be very attentive. While making notes pay attention to the keywords that you can expand, the main ideas, and the supporting ideas so that you can use all your efforts in typing the final answer in a logical way using correct cohesive devices.
The most important aspect of the PTE exam is the grammar of the English language, you are expected to be well versed with the basic elements and average knowledge of the grammar range will also help you score high in the PTE exam. Punctuation plays the most significant role when it comes to PTE exam grammar knowledge.
You should be extra vigilant in questions like Multiple choice- Choose Multiple answers and Highlight the incorrect words as these questions carry negative marks. So unless you are sure do not do a guesswork here.
The PTE exam 2025 listening section can be the most scoring PTE exam section if you concentrate well and follow the PTE listening tips and tricks. This article will discuss the PTE listening format, PTE listening tips and PTE listening strategies.
The table will show you what you will see in the PTE exam listening section, which you will take online on a computer.
Task Type | Number of Tasks | Task description | Skills Assessed | Text /Recording length |
Summarize spoken Text | 2-3 | After listening to the recording, write a summary of 50-70 words. | Listening and Writing | 60-90 seconds |
Multiple choice- Choose Multiple Answers | 2-3 | After listening to the recording, answer a multiple-choice question by selecting more than one response. | Listening | 40-90 seconds |
Fill in the blanks | 2-3 | The transcription of the recording appears on the screen with several blanks. While listening to the recording, you must type the missing words. | Listening and Writing | 30-60 seconds |
Highlight correct summary | 2-3 | After listening to a recording, select the paragraph that best summarizes the recording. | Listening and reading | 30-90 seconds |
Multiple choice- Choose the single answer | 2-3 | After listening to the recording, answer a multiple-choice question of the recording by selecting one response. | Listening | 30-60 seconds. |
Select the missing word | 2-3 | After listening to the recording, select the missing word or group of words that complete the recording. | Listening | 20-70 seconds. |
Highlight incorrect words. | 2-3 | The transcription of the recording appears on the screen. While listening to the recording, identify the words in the transcription that differ from what is said. | Listening and reading. | 15-50 seconds |
Write from Dictation | 3-4 | After listening to a recording of a sentence, type the same sentence. | Listening and writing | 3-5 seconds |
The above table gives a clear idea of all the question types in the PTE exam listening section and now we will check some of the PTE exam listening tips and tricks according to each question type. Always remember that each recording in the PTE exam listening section is played only once and you are allowed to use your erasable noteboard booklet and pen, and use these notes as a guide when answering the questions.
Some of the effective PTE listening tips - to summarize spoken text is as follows:
Be ready to take notes as you listen to the main and supporting ideas of the speech that is given.
Do not try to write down every word, you might end up losing the main points in this way.
When the audio stops, carefully look at the notes so that you can recollect the entire information.
Develop your own technique of note-making by using abbreviations, symbols, and short forms.
While summarizing do not use short forms of the words that you type, remember that full stop only comes at the end of the summary and not anywhere in between. It has to be a long continuous sentence.
Do not forget to use discourse markers, cohesive words, and sequential words.
One of the important parameters to be mindful of while attempting the PTE exam listening section multiple choice- choose multiple answers is that this also has negative marking. One wrong selection will lead to a -1.
Some of the top strategies for multiple choice- choose multiple answers are as follows:
Read the question carefully and skim all the options before the audio begins.
Be attentive to the audio and note all the key points and supporting points and the way these points were developed in the audio.
Use the elimination method to reach the correct answer choice.
Be aware of the time and do not spend too much time here.
Play safe and select only one option if you are not sure.
Some of the useful strategies of the PTE exam listening test- Fill in the blanks question type is as follows:
Quickly skim the text to gain a general idea of the topic.
Be ready to write all answers in the erasable note book that is given to you and transfer all answers carefully after the audio stops.
Do not check spelling at the time of noting in the note pad, you will end up missing the next answer.
Familiarize yourself with the quarterly keypad and practice correct typing.
Some of the useful strategies for the PTE Listening Test- Multiple choice- choose single answer is as follows:
Use the time to read the questions quickly.
As you listen be attentive to the development of ideas the speaker is giving for the information.
After you have chosen the option, check again that each of the other options is incorrect.
Be aware of the time and do not spend too much time on this.
Practice dedicatedly and expand your vocabulary by creating a list of words with their meanings.
Note -making technique works best for PTE exam listening section and specially for all the lecture-based questions. Some of the important tips for PTE exam listening test- Highlight correct summary-based questions are as follows:
Develop your own rapid technique of making notes by using abbreviations, symbols, and sign language.
Practice skimming sets of summaries using practice tests available on online portals.
Use the elimination method to eliminate all the wrong information.
Find podcasts of lectures along with their transcripts to practice more and more before the exam.
This question of the PTE exam listening section seems to be easy if you stay focused on what you hear and can infer the last part of the information that is given in the audio. Some of the effective PTE exam listening test tips for Select the missing word question type are as follows:
Develop your skills of predicting the ideas that you will hear. Listen to 20 seconds of a lecture and predict what the speaker will say next.
Expand your vocabulary of academic words in context.
As you listen, make a mental map of what you are hearing.
Do not make notes on this question as it is important to listen for the development of the idea.
The most easy yet challenging of this PTE exam is Listening test Questions- Highlight incorrect words that come with a negative mark. You need to be very careful in what you hear and select only the wrong words. Some useful PTE exam listening tips for Highlight incorrect words are as follows:
Remember that the audio will be played only once so you are expected to be very careful.
Keep up with the speaker and do not waste time in thinking whether your selection was right or wrong.
Do not change your mind until you really think and feel you have made a slight error.
Do not guess as you will end up getting a negative mark here.
The last question of the PTE exam and also of the PTE exam listening section test. This question can help you score well if you have practised really well.
Some of the useful tips for PTE exam listening test question - write from dictation are as follows:
When the audio begins, focus on the meaning of the sentence.
Write the keywords quickly, you can leave pronouns, and articles. Then finally type the correct sentence.
Use your knowledge of grammar and word form to complete the sense of the sentence.
Check the spelling of every word before you submit.
Check out the PTE exam listening section scores based on each question type:
Content | 2 Provides a good summary of the text. All relevant aspects are mentioned 1 Provides a fair summary of the text, but one or two aspects missing 0 Omits or misrepresents the main aspects |
Formal | 2 Contains 50-70 words 1 Contains 40-49 words or 71-100 words 0 Contains less than 40 words or more than 100 words. Summary is written in capital letters, contains no punctuation or consists only of bullet points or very short sentences |
Grammar | 2 Correct grammatical structures 1 Contains grammatical errors with no hindrance to communication 0 Defective grammatical structures which could hinder communication |
Vocabulary | 2 Appropriate choice of words 1 Some lexical errors with no hindrance to communication 0 Defective word choice which could hinder communication |
Spelling | 2 Correct spelling 1 One error 0 More than one error |
Communicative Skills: Listening
Partial credit scoring:
Points are deducted for incorrect options chosen
1 point for each correct response
-1 point for each incorrect response
The minimum PTE score is 0
Partial credit scoring
1 Each correct word spelled correctly
0 Minimum score
Correct or incorrect
1 Correct response
0 Incorrect response
Correct or incorrect
1 Correct response
0 Incorrect response
Correct or incorrect
1 Correct response
0 Incorrect response
1 Each correct word
-1 Each incorrect word
0 Minimum score
Partial credit scoring
1 Each correct word is spelled correctly
0 Minimum score
Are you in need of an additional PTE preparation guide? Look no further, we have got you covered. Read expertly crafted PTE preparation tips and more from the PTE preparation e-book given below.
Title | Download Link |
PTE Academic 2025 Preparation Tips and Tricks |
About the Author:
Pooja Aggarwal is an experienced trainer with over 15 years of expertise in helping students achieve their educational goals. With a degree in Education, she focuses on clear, patient, and personalised instruction. Her approach has successfully guided students from diverse backgrounds, preparing them for both Academic and General Training modules of various exams in a supportive and engaging environment.
The listening part of the PTE exam is quite easy if the students do regular practice before the exam and also familiarise themselves with the PTE exam format and PTE exam listening tips and tricks.
Not just 65, you will surely score high in the PTE listening test if you develop certain strategies like listening attentively and understanding various accents, making notes on what you hear, and developing your vocabulary.
In all, the entire listening section of the PTE exam will be covered in less than an hour, the only expectation is that the candidates must perfect themselves in the PTE listening skills.
You can improve listening skills for the PTE exam by regularly listening to authenticated English podcasts, making notes, and speaking aloud what you have heard. This little trick will help you in all modules of the PTE exam.
Multiple reasons can influence your low PTE listening score. However, the negative marking system of the PTE listening test generally affects the average score. Therefore, students are advised to answer wisely and avoid blind guessing to get a good PTE score.
The ease of the IELTS versus the PTE can vary depending on your strengths and preferences. IELTS tends to focus more on British English and has a variety of question types that might be familiar if you are accustomed to traditional exams. PTE, on the other hand, is computer-based and features a more integrated approach to language skills, which some find more straightforward. For tailored guidance, especially if you're considering studying abroad, Invicta Career Consultancy can offer valuable insights and support in choosing the test that aligns best with your goals and strengths. Additionally, consider researching other well-reviewed consultancy firms to find the one that best suits your specific needs and preferences.
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With a PTE score of 55 and a writing score of 47, you might face some challenges in meeting the language requirements for a student visa in Finland. It's essential to check the specific visa requirements for the institution and program you're applying to, as they can vary. For personalized guidance and to explore potential solutions, including improving your language scores or finding alternative pathways, consider consulting with Invicta Career Consultancy. They can offer tailored advice to help you navigate the visa process effectively, While there are other options available, hence you can pay a visit to their website (icclearning.com) and get consult with them for better guidance. All the best to you.
With an overall PTE score of 50 and a 57% in your 12th grade, you may be eligible to apply for certain programs in Australia, although specific requirements can vary by institution and course. It's important to verify the exact admission criteria of the universities or colleges you are interested in. For detailed advice and assistance in choosing the right program and ensuring your application meets all requirements, consider reaching out to Invicta Career Consultancy. They can provide personalized support to enhance your application and guide you through the process, While there are other options available, hence you can pay a visit to their website (icclearning.com) and get consult with them for better guidance. All the best to you.
Since you've completed your MSc in IT in 2023 and scored 57 on the PTE, the next step for studying in Canada involves selecting a suitable program and university. Research Canadian institutions offering advanced IT or related programs that accept your PTE score. Additionally, ensure your PTE score meets the minimum requirements for your chosen program. You will need to prepare and submit your application along with necessary documents such as transcripts, statement of purpose, and letters of recommendation. After receiving an acceptance letter, you can apply for a study permit (student visa) through Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). Ensure your application is complete and accurate to avoid delays. For personalized and expert guidance throughout this process, consider consulting Invicta Career Consultancy, which can provide tailored advice and support for your study abroad plans, While there are other options available, hence you can pay a visit to their website (icclearning.com) and get consult with them for better guidance. All the best to you.
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