Making mistakes is ok while practicing for the PTE test. But ignoring them is not. Learning from the mistakes is the secret of many PTE test taker’s success. Along with that, know the mistakes of others too. It gives you a broader view of places where a wrong answer is possible. So, here is the list of 9 Common mistakes in PTE and tips to avoid them.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in PTE:
1. Not reading the question/ passage properly
In the PTE reading section, most of the test takers fail to read the sentence. It can be due to being anxious or in a hurry to answer. But this is a simple mistake that can cost a fortune.
Tip: Always read the sentence twice clearly.
2. No need to understand all the words
While answering comprehension passages, time management is the key. There are many strategies to boost PTE reading scores. Follow them and skip the tricky words.
Tip: It is not mandatory to understand all words. Learn to skim the passages and have an overview of the given passage.
3. Spelling & Grammatical Errors
This can be observed in all PTE sections. Spelling mistakes, punctuation errors, and grammatical errors look small but they may cost a mark in the score.
Tip: The only way to improve the grammar in the PTE test is by practice. Because this kind of mistake needs to be memorized properly. The more the practice better the score would be. Make sure to correct the spellings after each PTE practice test.
4. Lack of Concentration
Especially in the PTE Listening section, Indian students face a lack of concentration due to English not being their mother tongue. A second of missing can also lead to the loss of an important point. What to do then?
Tip: One of the best tips to improve PTE Listening score is to start listening to English. One can watch movies, sitcoms, news, podcasts, songs, etc., to get habituated to listening to English. Start following their words which can improve the concentration levels.
5. Missing Introduction
A common mistake in the PTE writing section is to forget to introduce the essay. PTE writing score is evaluated based on the structure of an essay. So introduction, body, and conclusion are mandatory.
Tip: The best way to boost PTE writing score is just practice. After each practice session, evaluate the essay and write it once again. Now, remember the mistake done and try not to repeat it.
6. Leaving answer box empty
The test itself is a lot of pressure, and it can cause hurries where most of the students leave the answer box empty knowingly or unknowingly.
Tip: PTE has no negative scoring. Remember these lines. And check all the answers before submitting the test. Guessing the answer will not cause any loss of scores. So always fill the answer box even if it is a wild guess.
7. Usage of fillers
During the PTE Speaking section, the main point where most of the students lose a mark is due to the usage of fillers. Fillers mean the sounds we use to fill the gaps while thinking about what to speak next. This usage of fillers indicates that the applicant has no proper flow of thoughts.
Tip: Again, practice. Record while taking sample PTE Speaking test and listen afterward. This practice can improve your PTE Speaking section score. Try to lessen the usage of fillers.
8. Speech tone & Speed errors
Here the mistake is, speech tone will be either very loud or very low. And speed would be either very fast or very slow. A moderate tone of speech and speed are required.
Tip: Pitch maintenance can be observed and worked on once the practice session is recorded. Work on the recorded session and find out the mistakes. Repeat the exercise until you get better.
9. Poor Time management
PTE is a 3-hour test where all the sections need to be answered in time. Each section will be allotted with different time like
Part 1: Speaking & Writing – 77-93 minutes
Part 2: Reading – 32-40 minutes
Part 3: Listening 45-57 minutes
Most of the candidates fail to manage the time and finish the task in time. Some questions can be answered quickly, and some can’t. Manage the time wisely so that all questions can be answered.
Tip: Practicing can help to differentiate the questions which need time and which don’t. Know to complete the syllabus.
Learn about mistakes that can help to avoid them. For more expert tips, check our PTE training sessions.
