PTE Preparation Tips 2025: A Comprehensive Guide

Updated on 27 May, 2025

Pragya Sharma

Pragya Sharma

Sr. Content Editor

PTE or Pearson Test of English is a globally competitive exam that is taken by study-abroad aspirants every year. It assesses the applicants’ English language proficiency and ability to study or work in English-speaking countries. 

Considering the tough competition in the exam, it is essential to follow a strategic approach to excel, which involves more than just understanding the test format and availing the preparatory resources on hand. 

It requires applying actionable tips to succeed, such as building effective time management abilities, practicing speaking using AI-based tools, and developing frequently-used vocabulary in the real world. This blog presents more such expert tips and strategies for PTE preparation in 2025.

PTE Exam Preparation Tips

Looking for some tried-and-tested tips to ace PTE? We share below some valuable tips from PTE expert test-takers who have excelled in the competitive exam by following these strategies. 

PTE Exam Preparation Tips: Reading

To achieve a good score in your exam, thorough PTE exam preparation is a must. Here are a few tips that can help you beat the competition:

Topics in PTE Reading Section Tips to Perform Better
Reading & Writing: Fill in the Blanks
  • Read before and after the blank to identify the correct word.
  • Skim through the text to understand the overall meaning for choosing the correct word.
Re-order Paragraphs
  • Quickly read all the text paragraphs before beginning to re-order them.
  • Always find the topic sentence first.
Multiple Choice, Single Answer
  • Before reading the text, make a note of the keywords in the prompt.
  • Evaluate possible options for response.
Multiple Choice, Multiple Answer
  • Read before and after the blank to identify the correct word.
  • Make a note of any words repeated in the option.
Fill in the Blanks
  • Use your grammar knowledge to choose the right word.
  • Think of commonly-used words.

PTE Exam Preparation Tips: Speaking and Writing

Some helpful tips to improve both your speaking and writing skills for the PTE test are:

Topics in PTE Speaking and Writing Section Tips to Perform Better
Repeat the Sentence
  • Listen to the way the sentence is phrased and note the stress and intonation pattern.
Re-tell a Lecture
  • Use the image to determine the lecture topic. Also, use the 40-second speaking time well.
Summarize the Written Text
  • Give your response in the correct form. Practice compound and complex sentences well.
Read Aloud
  • Focus on words with important information.
  • Make use of punctuation to determine when to pause while reading.
Describe an Image
  • Stress the primary message of the image.
  • Organize your image description well.
Answer Short Questions
  • Avoid pausing for too long or giving long answers.
Essay 
  • Analyze the task provided and the essay prompt before writing.

PTE Exam Preparation Tips: Listening

This section primarily focuses on your listening, comprehension, and retention abilities. Here are some tips to perform well in this segment:

Topics in PTE Listening Section Tips to Perform Better
Multiple Choice, Multiple Answers
  • Make notes of the main points in the audio as well as other supporting information. 
  • Choose the response for its meaning and not only to match the words heard.
Highlight Correct Summary
  • Make notes and match them to the correct summary.
Select the Missing Word
  • The audio is played only once, so listen to it carefully. 
Write from Dictation
  • Type as many correct words as you remember in the correct order in the box. 
Summarize Spoken Text
  • Summarize the main point and include supporting information as well; do check for spelling, grammar, and punctuation. 
Fill in the Blanks
  • Skim through the text before the recording starts. 
  • Also, use the erasable note board booklet to write the words heard for filling out the blanks.
Multiple Choice, Single Answer 
  • Skim through the Q&A options before listening to understand the topic better. 
  • Focus on the type of information needed.
Highlight Incorrect Words
  • Quickly read the transcript and use the cursor to follow the text.

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PTE Study Material Online and Offline

PTE test-takers can avail of numerous options, both offline and online, to prepare for the international competitive exam. Listed below are the various resources available for PTE aspirants to help them in their preparation for the test:

Online Study Material for PTE Preparation

  • upGrad: The most widely preferred online learning platform by several PTE learners every year, upGrad offers online mock tests, video guides, exam tips, and free digital courses to help you prepare for PTE. You can check out the huge variety of free online study resources for PTE on the platform and prepare to study abroad.    
  • Official PTE Academic Practice App: The official app of PTE provides a wide range of practice tests for applicants to get familiar with. Additionally, you can find complete details of the exam pattern on the app, along with a study planner and some personalized tips to help you along.

Offline Study Material for PTE Preparation

  • Check out the PTE exam preparation books and other preparatory material from different publishers on Amazon at reasonable prices. Some of the most popular PTE study books include The Official Guide to PTE Academic by Pearson PTE Academic, Expert PTE Academic Coursebook B1 & B2, and PTE Practice Test Plus with Key, Vol 1 and 2 (with CD-ROM).
  • Make use of practice tests available on CD or DVD for self-study and offline practice.
  • You can also take the help of study notes and flashcards prepared by some PTE alumni for additional support.   

How to Choose the Best Books for PTE?

From the various options available (as shared above) for PTE preparation, it helps to keep a few points in mind to make an informed choice when buying study books:

  • Consider your learning style: Every learner has their unique style of preparing for the test. Some prefer a more structured approach, best followed by pursuing learning through books, study materials, and practice tests. Others may prefer to practice actively on online apps and platforms.
  • Stick to credible resources: When buying study books for PTE preparation or opting for online practice, always stick to reliable sources, apps, and learning platforms. Look for authentic and official PTE study material in your search for study resources for the exam.
  • Consider PTE coaching: Sometimes formal coaching for PTE preparation can provide the much-needed push and structured guidance to ace the test, along with expert guidance on the types of books to read for the exam preparation.

How upGrad Can Help You Prepare for PTE

We are the most widely preferred online learning platform, accessed by numerous learners worldwide. We help PTE aspirants boost their PTE preparation by: 

  • Allowing you a free download of the PDF for the PTE Syllabus to familiarize yourself with what to study for the exam
  • Supporting your PTE preparation journey with many free online courses available on our platform 
  • Sharing complete details on the exam dates, test pattern, exam format, and more on our PTE Resources page 
  • Providing a wide range of PTE practice tests to help you achieve a high test score 

FAQs

What is the best way to start preparing for the PTE exam?

The best way to begin your PTE preparation is to avail yourself of the free online learning resources available on platforms such as upGrad. You can explore a variety of free course guides, study materials for preparation, and mock tests to familiarize yourself with PTE concepts. 

How long does it take to prepare for the PTE exam?

This may vary from one applicant to another, depending on their strengths and weaknesses. However, it is best recommended to start your PTE preparation at least 4-6 weeks before you are scheduled to take the test.

Are there any free resources available for PTE preparation?

Yes, several free resources are available to help you prepare for PTE. You can explore a wide variety of free online courses, practice tests, and other PTE tools to score high on various apps and reliable digital learning platforms like upGrad.

Is coaching necessary for PTE preparation?

While it is not necessary, but surely helpful to prepare for the global competitive PTE test taken by several candidates worldwide each year. Coaching helps provide a structured learning path to the test aspirants and also assists through regular feedback and performance monitoring. 

What are the most important skills to focus on during PTE prep?

Some of the key skills to focus on when preparing for PTE are improving proficiency in English speaking, writing, reading, and listening. The test evaluates the fluency of the candidate in all these 4 areas to determine their ability to travel to English-speaking countries.

How often should I take practice tests?

It depends on your requirements and English proficiency level. It is generally recommended to practice as much as possible, as PTE is an international competitive exam, and the competition can be rather tough. 

Can I retake the PTE exam if I don’t get my desired score?

Yes, you can book another PTE test if you aren’t satisfied with your previous scores. It is possible to book the next date convenient for you. You can retake the test as many times as you wish. 

How important is mock test simulation for PTE preparation?

Mock tests are very helpful for PTE exam preparation. They simulate the exact PTE exam format and pattern on the test day and allow the applicants to get familiar with the question types, while managing time to answer them within the stipulated duration.  

How can I improve my Speaking and Writing scores in PTE?

To improve your speaking score, make sure to regularly practice clear speaking and work on building confidence using mock tests and tools, such as the PTE mock exam software. For a higher writing score, work on the structure, vocabulary, and grammar. Use available templates on resources such as upGrad to organize your essays and summaries.

How can I manage time effectively during the PTE exam?

Practice using timed mock tests to get a fair understanding of the pace of each section. Analyze the total time taken on each task. Try using keyboard shortcuts and avoid spending much time on difficult questions; move on and come back, if time permits.

What are the most common mistakes to avoid during PTE preparation?

Some of the common errors to watch out for when preparing for PTE 2025 are:

  • Don’t focus too much on memorizing templates; work on developing your language skills instead.
  • Don’t ignore the sections that you are not too good at; work on them more. 
  • Don’t ignore working on oral fluency and pronunciation.
  • Don’t underestimate the value of feedback, mock tests, and practice tests.

Pragya Sharma

Sr. Content Editor

Pragya Sharma is a content developer and marketer with 6.5+ years of experience in the education industry. She started her career as a social media copywriter for NIELIT, Ministry of Electronics & IT, and has now scaled up as a 360-degree content professional well-versed with the intricacies of digital marketing and different forms of content used to drive and hook the target audience. She is also a co-author of 2 stories in an anthology based on the theme- women empowerment.

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