PTE Academic – Writing Section Guide

Overview

The PTE Writing section is combined with Speaking and lasts about 54–67 minutes.
It tests your ability to write clearly, concisely, and correctly in academic English.

Tasks in Writing Section:
1️⃣ Summarize Written Text (1–2 tasks)
2️⃣ Essay Writing (1 task)


Task 1: Summarize Written Text

  • What happens?
    You’ll read a passage (up to 300 words) and write a one-sentence summary (5–75 words).
  • Time: 10 minutes per summary.

How it’s scored:

  • Content → Did you capture the main idea?
  • Form → One single sentence only.
  • Grammar → Correct sentence structure.
  • Vocabulary → Appropriate word choice.

Tips:
✅ Identify the main idea + key supporting detail.
✅ Use connectors like because, which, although, and, but.
✅ Avoid copying whole sentences; paraphrase.
✅ Check word count (at least 5 words, max 75).

Example:
Original text: The internet has revolutionized education by making knowledge accessible worldwide, though some argue it reduces face-to-face interaction.
Summary: The internet has transformed education by making information globally accessible, though it limits personal interaction.


Task 2: Essay Writing

  • What happens?
    You’ll write a 200–300 word essay on an academic or general topic.
  • Time: 20 minutes.

Common Essay Types:

  • Agree/Disagree
  • Opinion
  • Problem/Solution
  • Advantages/Disadvantages

How it’s scored:

  • Content → Did you answer the question?
  • Structure → Clear introduction, body, conclusion.
  • Coherence → Ideas flow logically.
  • Grammar → Correct sentence formation.
  • Vocabulary → Formal & academic language.

Tips:
✅ Plan 2–3 minutes before writing.
✅ Use a simple essay structure:

  • Introduction (rephrase the question + your opinion)
  • Body 1 (supporting idea + example)
  • Body 2 (another idea + example)
  • Conclusion (summarize + restate opinion)
    ✅ Stick to word limit (200–300 words).
    ✅ Avoid complex grammar if unsure — clarity is more important.
    ✅ Check spelling before submitting.

Example Essay Topics:

  • Do you think technology is making people less social?
  • Should students be required to wear uniforms?

Scoring in Writing Section

  • Range: 10–90 points.
  • Both tasks contribute to your overall writing score.
  • Integrated scoring → Summarize Written Text also affects Reading score.

Preparation Tips for Writing

  • Read English newspapers/articles daily to improve sentence structures.
  • Practice writing summaries in one sentence.
  • Write essays within 20 minutes to build speed.
  • Use templates (intro + body + conclusion) but keep language natural.
  • Take mock tests to evaluate time and accuracy.

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