PTE Academic is an important test for non-native English speakers who wish to study or work in an English-speaking environment. With the exam date fast approaching, it is natural to be anxious. However, with strategic last-minute preparations, you can improve your performance and increase your score.
Practice for all sections
PTE exam is divided into four major sections: speaking, writing, reading, and listening. Each of these sections assesses different skills, and it is essential to practice all of them thoroughly. Even at the last minute, consistent practice can improve your performance to a great extent.
- Speaking:Take PTE Mock Test on different topics. This may include describing images, retelling stories, or responding to prompts. Focus on clarity, pronunciation, and fluency. Avoid mimicking unfamiliar accents; Instead, speak clearly and at a natural pace.
- Writing: Engage in timed exercises for essay writing and summarizing text. Make sure you adhere to the word limit (250-300 words for essays, 50-75 words for summaries). Pay attention to sentence structure, coherence, and grammar. If you are prone to making typos, set aside a few minutes at the end to review and revise your text.
- Reading: Time management is important for the reading section. Practice skimming passages for the main idea and scanning for specific information. Familiarize yourself with the types of questions, including multiple choice, rearranging paragraphs, and fill-in-the-blanks.
- Listening: Listen to different English accents through podcasts, PTE full video course, audiobooks, or news channels. During the test, pay close attention to the audio as it will be played only once. Practice taking quick, concise notes on essential points, as this will help you answer questions more accurately.
Focus on strengths and weaknesses
Identify your strengths and weaknesses in each section. While it is essential to improve weak areas, do not neglect your strengths. Balancing the two ensures that you are maximising your overall score.
- Weaknesses: If you have difficulty in specific sections, allocate extra practice time to those areas. For example, if reading comprehension is difficult, focus on reading more English texts and practising the types of questions where you often make mistakes.
- Strengths: Continue to practise the areas where you excel, ensuring that you can confidently score high. Do not let overconfidence lead to complacency.
Know exam format and time management
It is important to understand the exam format and timing for each section. PTE is a timed test, so it is important to manage your time efficiently to complete all the sections without any rush.
- Section timing: Sections of PTE exam are timed differently. Make sure you know how much time is allotted for each section and practice accordingly. During the exam, keep an eye on the timer, but don’t let it distract you.
- Time allocation: Do not spend too much time on any one question. If you are unsure about an answer, make an educated guess and move on. Spending too much time on a single question can waste valuable time that you could use for questions you’re more confident about.
Prepare for test day preparations
Preparation does not just mean studying; it also includes making sure you are prepared for test day preparations.
- Documents: Make sure you have the right identification document, usually a valid passport, ready for test day. Double-check all exam requirements to avoid any last-minute surprises. Without proper identification, you won’t be allowed to take the test.
- Getting to the test center: Plan to reach the test center early. This gives you time to relax and settle before the exam starts. Rushing or stressing due to arriving late can negatively affect your performance.
Final checks
Before the exam starts, take some time to check that all equipment is working correctly.
- Headphones and microphone: Make sure your headphones and microphone are working correctly. Adjust the volume to a comfortable level to ensure clarity during the listening and speaking sections.
- Keyboard and monitor: Familiarize yourself with the settings of the keyboard and monitor. Make sure you are comfortable with the screen brightness and your seating position.
Be physically and mentally prepared
Physical fitness is just as important as mental preparation.
- Be well-rested: Make sure you get a good night’s sleep before the exam. A rested brain works better, helping with focus and memory.
- Nutrition: Eat a healthy meal before the exam. Avoid heavy or sugary foods that can make you feel sluggish or anxious.