PTE Mastery: Top Tips for Achieving a 90+ Score
Getting a high score on the Pearson Test of English (PTE) can seem like a daunting task, but with the right strategies and plenty of practice, it’s achievable. Here’s a list of top tips for hitting that 90 score you’re aiming for. Let’s dive in!
First off, what exactly is the PTE? It’s an English proficiency exam that tests your listening, reading, speaking and writing skills. It’s accepted for study applications by thousands of institutions around the world. Scoring 90 and above puts you in the superior range and can make your application stand out.
So how do you get there? Here are the best tips:
Tip #1: Understand the Test Structure and Question Types
Knowledge is power when it comes to the PTE. Take some time to thoroughly review the different sections – speaking, writing, reading, and listening. Familiarise yourself with the various question formats like summarising spoken text, re-telling a lecture, reading and writing fill-in-the-blanks, and more. The more you know ahead of time, the less surprised you’ll be on test day.
Tip #2: Drill the Question Types You Struggle With
We all have our strengths and weaknesses. After taking some practice tests, zero in on the question types that trip you up the most. Whether it’s oral summarising, essay writing or something else, dedicate extra study time to those areas. The goal is to turn those weaknesses into strengths!
Tip #3: Take Practice Tests…Lots of Them!
Doing practice questions is crucial for PTE success. Aim to take at least 5-10 full-timed practice tests before your real exam. This will help you get accustomed to the timing, pacing, and format. Review your results in detail to understand where you’re excelling and where there’s room for improvement. Adjust your study tactics accordingly.
Tip #4: Develop Effective Time Management Strategies
With a multitude of questions to get through, time management is key for the PTE. For example, the reading section gives you just 32-41 minutes to tackle 5-6 different reading passages and answer 10-11 questions per passage. You have to be a speed reader!
Work on strategies like skimming first before reading in detail and identifying key points quickly. Decide when it’s better to make an educated guess versus spending too much time on a single question. Practice will help maximise your efficiency.
Tip #5: Expand Your Vocabulary
Having a strong vocabulary can give you an edge on questions that require filling in blanks, summarising texts, or describing images. Make vocabulary building a part of your daily routine. Slide new words you encounter into your verbal toolbox.
Tip #6: Lean on Quality Study Resources
There are lots of PTE prep resources out there, but not all are created equal. Stick to official materials from Pearson as well as highly rated courses and books. PTE Academic’s official guides are incredibly valuable, as they provide you with real test questions from previous exams. You can also get insights straight from the test-maker’s mouth!
Tip #7: Focus on Fluency, Not Perfection for Speaking
In the speaking section, you’ll need to summarise lectures, answer short questions and even deliver presentations. While you want to minimise errors, more importantly, you need to speak clearly, coherently and fluently.
Don’t hesitate or have too many awkward pauses. Pay attention to proper pronunciation, intonation and cadence. Smooth delivery will score you more points than trying too hard for perfect grammar.
Tip #8: Record and Critique Your Responses
One of the best ways to improve at speaking is to record yourself answering PTE practice questions. Then go back and listen to the recordings objectively. Were your responses clear and to the point? Did you sound natural? What could you do better next time? Doing this allows you to hear your strengths and weaknesses.
Tip #9: Proofread, Proofread, Proofread for Writing
You only have 20 minutes to write an essay response for PTE writing questions. And there’s no spellcheck! That’s why proofreading is mission-critical. Get into the habit of leaving yourself a couple of minutes at the end to scour your work for spelling, grammar and coherency errors. Little mistakes can be costly to your score.
Tip #10: Take Care of Yourself!
Studying for a big test like the PTE can be a mental marathon. Be sure to take periodic breaks to recharge your batteries with activities you enjoy. Get enough sleep, eat well and exercise regularly leading up to your exam day. If you’re well-rested and feeling great, you’ll be able to perform at your peak.
Tip #11: Stay Calm and Confident on Test Day
All your hard work and preparation leads up to this – your PTE exam day. When you enter the test centre, take a few deep breaths. Visualise your success and trust in the work you’ve put in. Remain calm under pressure. If you hit a tough section, just move on without getting flustered. With a positive mindset, you’ve got this!
Put in the Practice and You Can Hit That 90 Score!
Scoring 90 on the PTE is certainly an ambitious goal. But suppose you consistently implement these test-taking tips and dedicate yourself to a solid study regimen. In that case, you’ll be giving yourself the best possible shot at achieving that superior score level.
Keep grinding away on your weak areas, take practice exams, and keep your eye on the prize. By trusting the process and bringing your best on exam day, that 90+ score you covet can be yours for the taking.
At Tijus Academy, we offer comprehensive PTE coaching in Kerala tailored to suit your individual learning needs. Our expert instructors provide personalized guidance and effective strategies to help you excel in the Pearson Test of English (PTE). Join us and unleash your full potential to attain your target score in the PTE exam.
