In this question type of PTE reading fill In the blanks, and you will see a text with a number of gaps on the screen. You are required to fill in the gaps by choosing a word from the drop-down list provided just next to the gap.
If you are a serious PTE Academic Exam aspirant, you will know that the exam is broadly categorized into three different sections —
- Speaking and Writing
- Reading
- Listening
Each of these three sections aims at assessing the same skills of a candidate on which they are named. It is done by means of a computer-based test lasting three hours, at a stretch. Every one of these requires diligent preparation and thorough knowledge of facts.
We learn more about the PTE Reading Fill in the Blanks module that is covered under the PTE reading section and assesses solely the reading skills of a candidate.
What do you expect in PTE Reading Fill in the Blanks?
You will be given a small passage with a few missing words that are replaced by blanks. The missing words can be anywhere from 3 to 6. Below the passage, you will also be given a few options in a blue box. These can very well fit in the blanks above. However, there is a small trick. The number of options available is almost double the blanks provided in the text.
The candidates are required to drag and drop a befitting option into the correct blank space to score one credit. If you are not satisfied with your answer, you can also drag the same word and drop it back into the blue box before you choose a more appropriate option.
The passages given in this module are always small, say about 80 words. These can be based on different subjects ranging from literature to political science to academics.
How is it scored?
For every correct answer, a candidate scores a credit but none for an incorrect one. There are no negative markings in this section and it affects only the PTE reading scores of a candidate and not listening, writing or speaking. In case all the answers in the section are correct, one can score a maximum of 15 credits. However, if one or more answers are wrong, partial credits are scored.
What is the right approach?
It is very important to have the right approach while performing this task or you can end up wasting a lot of time on a small section. And that ends up affecting the time left for the other sections and the overall scores of the test.
The right approach we are talking about is to uphold speed and accuracy while definitely maintaining sincerity.
Well coming to practicing for this section, a candidate must practice not just reading but speed reading, i.e. reading the text and understanding it simultaneously. Since it also involves identifying the meanings of words, vocabulary and grammar must also be given equal preference and importance.
Some Useful Tips
- Limit the time you spend on this section
Ensure that you do not spend a lot of time on this question. Ideally, 1.5 minutes to 2 minutes are enough to PTE reading fill in the Blanks that are provided. The trick is to speed read through the passage at the first glance and use the skill of ace reading. By the end of it, you will know the basics, i.e. whether the word would be a noun, verb, adjective, etc. and what meaning will it have.
- Use the elimination strategy
Use the elimination strategy to find the correct word for a blank you are not sure about, i.e. eliminate the words you are sure are not any close to the answer. Then pick up the correct word from among the limited few options that are left behind.
- Expand your vocabulary
PTE reading fill in the blanks is all about playing with words. This means you must have a 10 on 10 vocabulary to crack this one. Consider reading different types of literature that have different varieties of words so you can master more of them. You can also use flashcards to improve your knowledge of words and definitely make the dictionary your best friend!
- Practice grammar
Just as this section will test your vocabulary, it will also test your grammar. Work on the basics of grammar so choosing the right form of word, tense, or collocation of words will come naturally to you and make it much easier for you.
- Give a final check
Even when you think you have done it all and done it correctly, take your time to recheck all your answers. Ensure not just to check all the blanks are filled but also that only the correct words are dropped at the right place. This is important since the candidates can change their answers at any time before they finally click ‘Next’.
All said and done, if a candidate prepares strategically for PTE Academic, uses the best-in-class study material, and utilizes mock tests, there is nothing that can come in the way of success.
Apart from considering all the useful tips, it is an equally wise decision to register for the much-hyped exam using the PTE Voucher. It does not just save a lot of money but also promises excellent PTE Practice test free for study. There are no issues related to its authenticity since thousands of students have relied on it and booked their slots in the PTE exam successfully. It is not just about a low price but also about a high success rate.
So go ahead and book the PTE test today…the right way, the PTE Voucher Code way!