In the PTE Listening section, signpost words (also known as transitional words and phrases) play a crucial role in understanding the flow of information. These words signal connections between ideas, help predict what comes next, and guide you toward the correct answers in different listening tasks.
At Benchmark, we help test-takers develop strategies to identify and use signpost words effectively, ensuring better comprehension and higher accuracy in the PTE Listening section. In this guide, you’ll learn how to use transitional words to improve performance in tasks like Summarize Spoken Text, Multiple-Choice Questions, and Fill in the Blanks.
For real exam practice, check out Free PTE Listening Practice Test with Answers.
What Are Signpost Words in PTE Listening?
Signpost words are transitional phrases that help organize spoken ideas logically. Recognizing these words allows you to:
- Predict the next part of the conversation or lecture.
- Identify key points and supporting details.
- Anticipate a shift in topic, contrast, or conclusion.
- Answer questions more accurately, especially in Summarize Spoken Text and Multiple-Choice tasks.
Common Types of Signpost Words in PTE Listening
| Signpost Type | Function | Common Examples |
|---|
| Introduction/Topic Change | Signals a new topic or idea | Now, today we will discuss, let’s begin with, I’d like to start by |
| Addition | Adds more information | Furthermore, in addition, moreover, also, another point |
| Cause and Effect | Shows relationship between actions/results | As a result, therefore, consequently, this means that, leads to |
| Contrast | Indicates opposing ideas | However, on the other hand, but, whereas, yet, despite this |
| Example/Illustration | Gives a concrete example | For instance, for example, such as, to illustrate, in particular |
| Emphasis | Highlights an important point | Most importantly, significantly, notably, in fact |
| Conclusion | Signals the end or summary of discussion | In conclusion, to summarize, overall, to sum up |
Understanding these phrases will help you quickly follow the speaker’s flow of thought and extract important information.
For better listening comprehension, read How to Improve Your Listening Skills for PTE Multiple Choice Questions.
How Signpost Words Help in Different PTE Listening Tasks
1. Summarize Spoken Text
- Task: You must write a 50-70 word summary of a recorded lecture.
- How Signpost Words Help:
- They highlight the main topic and key details.
- They indicate the logical sequence of ideas.
- They signal a conclusion or summary at the end.
Example Lecture with Signpost Words:
“Today, we will discuss climate change. First, let’s begin with the causes. The primary cause is greenhouse gas emissions. Furthermore, deforestation worsens the situation. However, some scientists argue that natural climate variations also play a role. In conclusion, urgent action is needed to combat global warming.”
How to Use This in Your Summary:
“The lecture discusses climate change, starting with greenhouse gas emissions as the main cause. The speaker adds that deforestation contributes, but some scientists argue natural climate variations also play a role. The conclusion emphasizes the need for urgent action.”
For step-by-step structuring tips, check PTE Summarize Spoken Text: Structuring Your Answer.
2. Multiple-Choice Questions (Single & Multiple Answers)
- Task: Identify the correct answer based on the audio.
- How Signpost Words Help
- They signal key details that may be tested in the question.
- They highlight contrasting viewpoints, which are often part of answer choices.
Example Question Audio with Signpost Words
“Some believe that online education is just as effective as traditional learning. However, studies indicate that students in face-to-face classes score better on exams. In addition, student engagement levels tend to be higher in physical classrooms.”
How to Answer Correctly:
- The phrase “however” signals a contrast—this is a clue that online learning may not be as effective.
- “In addition” introduces a key supporting point—higher engagement levels in traditional classrooms.
- If a question asks: What is a disadvantage of online learning?, the answer is likely lower exam performance and less engagement.
For better accuracy on tricky audio clips, check How to Tackle Tricky Audio in the PTE Listening Section.
3. Fill in the Blanks
- Task: Listen to a sentence and type the missing word(s).
- How Signpost Words Help:
- They provide context to predict missing words.
- They guide you on whether the missing word is a noun, verb, or adjective.
Example Sentence with a Blank:
“The company increased its marketing budget. As a result, sales ________ significantly.”
Correct Answer:
“The company increased its marketing budget. As a result, sales grew significantly.”
- “As a result” signals cause and effect, so the missing word must show growth or increase.
For more spelling practice, check PTE Listening Spelling List 2022.
4. Write from Dictation
- Task: Type a sentence exactly as you hear it.
- How Signpost Words Help:
- They indicate key parts of a sentence that should not be missed.
- They help you anticipate the structure of the sentence.
Example Sentence with Signpost Words:
“To summarize, the research found that air pollution has increased in urban areas.”
- If you catch “To summarize,” you’ll know that the sentence is drawing a conclusion.
For dictation exercises, check Mastering PTE Write from Dictation: Tips and Practice Exercises.
Practice Exercise: Identify the Signpost Words
Listen to the following sentences and identify the signpost words:
- The economy has grown over the past decade. However, inflation remains a concern.
- Many experts support renewable energy. For instance, solar and wind power are widely used today.
- In conclusion, the study demonstrates a strong link between exercise and mental health.
Answers:
- However (contrast)
- For instance (example)
- In conclusion (summary)
For more listening practice, check Using Mock Tests to Ace the PTE Listening Section.
Final Tips for Using Signpost Words Effectively
| Tip | How It Helps |
|---|
| Listen for transitions early | Helps anticipate the next key idea. |
| Recognize contrasting opinions | “However,” “On the other hand” often signal a shift. |
| Identify cause-and-effect relationships | “As a result,” “Therefore” help predict answers. |
| Practice active listening with academic lectures | TED Talks and university lectures improve comprehension. |
For better focus strategies, check How to Stay Focused During the PTE Listening Section.
Conclusion
Signpost words are essential for mastering the PTE Listening section. They help test-takers follow the speaker’s logic, predict answers, and quickly identify key points. By actively listening for these transition words, you can significantly improve your comprehension and accuracy in Summarize Spoken Text, Multiple-Choice Questions, and Fill in the Blanks.
At Benchmark, we provide structured techniques and real exam simulations to help you develop strong listening and note-taking skills. With regular practice and attention to signpost words, you’ll be able to navigate PTE Listening with confidence and achieve your target score.
