For the writing section of the PTE test, you will be assessed on two tasks. One section asks you to summarize a written text and the other to write an essay. Read on for a simple summary of each task and a quick and easy list of handy tips for both tasks!
Summarize Written Text:
The text summary tasks ask you to summarize a passage of one or more paragraphs of text in one sentence. Comprehension is key as well as the ability to write in a succinct manner, condensing information while getting across the gist of the topic and the important points. You are given 10 minutes to complete the task.
Top 10 Tips:
- Find key words and topic words to locate important information.
- Look for repeated words as they are likely to be relevant.
- Use your own words by thinking of synonyms and rephrasing.
- Write the summary in the third person.
- Stick to a timing structure: Read and plan (3 minutes) Write (5 minutes) Check (2 minutes).
- Remember to start the sentence with a capital letter and end it with a full stop.
- Only write one sentence. If you have used 2 full stops, this is more than one sentence.
- Stick to the facts; not explanations, inference or examples.
- Accuracy is key – focus on the grammar, spelling and punctuation of your answer.
- Write your sentence in 30 words if possible and don’t exceed 50 words.
The PTE Essay
You will be asked to write a 200 -300 words argumentative essay in response to a prompt. You will have 20 minutes to complete the task.
Top 10 Tips:
- Give yourself some thinking time about the topic. What do you already know?
- Check what type of essay it is; opinion/ balanced argument/ problem and solution etc.
- Use a tried and tested essay structure: E.g. Introduction, 2 body paragraphs, conclusion.
- Use a variety of sentence structures and a range of punctuation.
- Include examples, research or statistics in the body paragraphs.
- Keep track of time: E.g. Read and plan (4 minutes) Write (13 minutes) Check (3 minutes).
- Know your grammar weaknesses and be aware of them: E.g. articles, tense, etc.
- Write in full sentences and avoid note form.
- Use synonyms to avoid repetition of words.
- Always proofread your work.
Good luck using our 20 top tips and check out our other PTE writing articles for a more in depth look at achieving success in this section of the PTE test. Now apply these tips and get your writings evaluated using our PTE Writing Correction service.
