- Prompt: You’re given a prompt on a general interest topic (science, technology, social issues, etc.). It often asks you to take a stance (agree/disagree) or discuss causes and effects. You have 20 minutes to plan, write, and revise your essay.
- Word Count: Your essay should be between 200-300 words.
- Scoring: Your essay is automatically scored on these factors:
- Content: Your ability to address the topic, develop a clear position, and support your ideas with relevant examples.
- Development, Structure, and Coherence: How well your ideas are organized into paragraphs with a clear introduction, body, and conclusion. Your essay should show a logical flow.
- Grammar: Accuracy of your grammar and sentence structures.
- General Linguistic Range: The range and complexity of your vocabulary.
- Vocabulary Range: The diversity of words you use, including less common vocabulary.
- Spelling: Correctness of your spelling.
- Understand the Prompt: Carefully analyze the topic and determine the main question asked.
- Quick Planning: Take 2-3 minutes to brainstorm key points to support your opinion or argument.
- Essay Structure:
- Introduction: Introduce the topic and clearly state your thesis statement (main argument).
- Body Paragraphs (2-3): Develop each supporting point in a separate paragraph with examples and explanations.
- Conclusion: Summarize your main points and restate your thesis.
- Linking Words and Phrases: Use transition words to ensure a smooth flow between ideas (e.g., moreover, therefore, in contrast).
- Proofread: Leave time after writing to check for grammatical errors and clarity.
- PTE Practice Essays: Search for “PTE Essay Prompts” to find many examples and practice tests.
- Write on Diverse Topics: Regularly practice writing essays on various subjects to broaden your thinking and vocabulary
- Get Feedback If possible, ask a teacher or someone with good writing skills to evaluate your essays.
- Staying on topic and addressing the prompt fully is crucial.
- Avoid informal language or slang.
- You can write in either British or American English, but be consistent.