PTE Academic Reading: Tasks, Timing and Approach

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Five task types in about 23–30 minutes

Pearson lists five question types in the Reading part. One of them, Reading and Writing: Fill in the Blanks, contributes to both reading and writing. The section timing can vary by test form.

  • Fill in the Blanks (Dropdown)

  • Multiple Choice, Multiple Answers

  • Reorder Paragraph

  • Fill in the Blanks (Drag and Drop)

  • Multiple Choice, Single Answer

Use context before choosing a word

For gap tasks, read a little before and after each blank. Check meaning, grammar, collocation, and the relationship between sentences. A word may look plausible by itself but fail to fit the sentence or passage.

  • Use the sentence grammar to predict the kind of word needed.

  • Look for repeated ideas and linking words across the passage.

  • For paragraph order, find references and transitions that connect one paragraph to another.

Treat multi-select questions carefully

Some Multiple Choice, Multiple Answers items use partial-credit scoring and can deduct points for incorrect selections. Do not select an option just because it repeats a word from the passage. Confirm that the meaning is supported before clicking.

The exact task instructions and scoring details can change. Use Pearson’s current task guide as the source of truth.

A focused practice loop

Practise one task type at a time, then review why an answer fits. Keep a small error log for vocabulary, grammar, reference words, and timing. After a few focused sessions, mix task types so you practise switching approaches under a clock.

Official Pearson references