PTE Academic is a popular English proficiency exam for students seeking to study abroad or for immigration purposes. Among its four sections – Speaking, Writing, Reading, and Listening – the Reading section often proves challenging. While the Reading section tests your ability to understand written English, it is also easy to make mistakes that can negatively impact your overall score.
Rushing Through the Texts
One of the most common mistakes students make in PTE Reading section is rushing through the text without fully understanding it. The pressure to complete the exam within the time limit often leads students to skim through the passages too quickly, missing crucial information.
Tip: Instead of rushing, focus on reading strategically. Take PTE mock test daily, which will help you understand texts faster without missing important details.
Ignoring the Instructions
Each question type in the PTE Reading section comes with specific instructions. Ignoring these instructions, or not paying attention to key words like "choose two options" or "fill in the blank with one word," can lead to mistakes and lower scores.
Tip: Always read the instructions carefully. If the instructions ask for multiple answers, make sure to select the correct number of options. Take a few extra seconds to ensure you understand what’s being asked before answering.
Mismanagement of Time
Time management is crucial in PTE Reading section. Many students spend too much time on one question, especially if it is challenging, which leaves them with less time to complete the rest of the section.
Tip: Do not spend too much time on any single question. If you are stuck, mark the question for review and move on. This ensures that you answer as many questions as possible within the time limit.
Over complicating Simple Questions
Many students overthink and over complicate questions that are straightforward. They may second-guess themselves or assume that every question is trickier than it appears.
Tip: Trust your instincts, especially with simpler questions. PTE Reading section is designed to test your comprehension, not trick you. If the answer seems obvious, it is probably correct.
Not Practicing Different Question Types
PTE Reading section includes various question types such as Multiple Choice, Fill in the Blanks, Re-order Paragraphs, and Highlight Correct Summary. Focusing on only one type of question during your preparation can limit your ability to handle the diversity of questions in the actual exam.
Tip: Ensure you practice all question types during your preparation. This will familiarize you with the format and help you approach each question confidently.
Failure to Identify Keywords
In the PTE Reading section, questions often rely on keywords that are directly related to the passage. Failing to recognize these keywords can cause you to select the wrong answers.
Tip: When reading the question, try to identify keywords that you can use to locate the relevant section in the passage. Highlight or mentally note important words while reading the text, as these will guide you to the right answers.
Neglecting Vocabulary Preparation
Many students underestimate the importance of building a strong vocabulary for the PTE Reading section. Lack of familiarity with certain words can make it difficult to understand the passage, leading to incorrect answers.
Tip: Make vocabulary building a part of your study routine. Reading a variety of English materials, such as newspapers, novels, and academic articles, can expose you to new words. Consider keeping a vocabulary journal and learning the meaning, synonyms, and usage of new words. You can join Vision Language Experts a PTE center to get experts guidance.
Guessing Without Elimination
When students are unsure of the answer, they sometimes guess randomly without using logical elimination. This increases the chances of selecting incorrect answers.
Tip: Always try to eliminate wrong options before guessing. This increases your likelihood of selecting the correct answer. If you’re left with two options, make an informed guess rather than a random one.
Not Revising Answer Choices
Many students fail to review their answers before moving on to the next question. This can lead to careless mistakes, especially when answering questions like Re-order Paragraphs or Multiple Choice questions.
Tip: If you have time, revisit your answers, especially for complex questions. Revising helps you catch any errors or misinterpretations you may have made during your first attempt.
Lack of Regular Practice
Finally, the biggest mistake students make is not practicing enough before the exam. PTE Reading section requires familiarity with the question types, strong reading skills, and the ability to manage time effectively.
Tip: Regular practice is essential for success in the PTE Reading section. Utilize resources like practice tests, PTE online coaching, and reading exercises to hone your skills. The more you practice, the more comfortable you'll become with the test format, improving your overall performance.
