The best tips for PTE test takers
Nowadays, there is a lot of information online about the PTE Academic exam and how to practice and prepare for it. However, many candidates are still nervous and worried about their test.
The PTE Academic is a well-designed test of English. It is not difficult to learn how to take it. Unlike most other tests, though, it is completely online and computer-based. There is no face to face speaking test with an examiner and, while many test takers are happy about this, many others worry about having to do their test with a computer only, especially older candidates who perhaps have not grown up using computers.
However, any worry or stress you take to your test will affect your score! You must learn about all parts of the PTE, you must practice all parts of the test and you must do other basic things, such as getting enough sleep in the days before your test.
With this in mind, here are some practical tips to help you:
- The PTE is not a general knowledge test. It is a test of your command of English. Focus on practicing and improving your language skills when preparing for your test. Do not waste time learning and memorizing knowledge about a vast range of topics. A basic general knowledge, which most adults already have on many topics, is fine. Focus on improving your English instead. It is your mistakes in the use of English that will lower your score!
- Read all test instructions carefully. It can be a huge mistake not to read the instructions. Be sure you know what you are required to do before you begin. Is there a single correct answer? Or multiple answers? Does the essay prompt contain 2 questions or only one? If there are 2 questions and you only answer one, your response is incomplete, which will affect your score.
- Slow down, relax. During their test, many candidates feel rushed when they see the timer on the screen. This causes them to rush their answers, which causes them to make mistakes. You must avoid this scenario as much as possible. Remember to breath deeply and slowly — this will help you to slow down and focus on what you have to do. Learning about the test and all its different parts and practicing before your test will also help you to feel relaxed and confident on the day.
“koala bear sleeping on tree” by David Clode on Unsplash
4. Get enough sleep. You may have a job, or you may have family responsibilities and therefore not as much time as you would like to prepare for your test. But, do not make the mistake of arriving for your test struggling to focus from lack of sleep. To get through the 3-hour test and get the score you want, you must make sure you get enough sleep, ideally in the days beforehand, but at least the night before the test. Once the test starts you will not have much time to relax or regain lost focus, so it really should go without saying that you need to get enough sleep beforehand.
All the best!
