How to score 90 in the PTE Reading test

• Read the full article to learn tips and tricks to achieve a 90 in PTE Reading.
• Watch this companion video to learn how to master PTE Reading
• Go to e2language.com, sign up for free and practise a few PTE reading tasks

In this blog, you will learn and practice the skills to achieve a high score in PTE Reading.  Watch the video and learn the method for the PTE Academic Re-Order Paragraph task.   

Watch E2 Expert and past ELT examiner, Mark, as he shows you how to best approach the PTE Re-order Paragraphs questions in this video.   Follow Mark’s instructions and develop your confidence to achieve a high score in PTE Reading and learn the method for PTE Re-order Paragraph. Good luck!

PTE Re-order paragraphs

PTE Reading Tips: Re-order Paragraphs

Once you’re confident with Re-order Paragraph task, follow these tips to best prepare and achieve your desired score for PTE Reading.

Read widely to prepare for PTE Reading

Expose yourself to as much written English material as you can. The wider the range of language in which you can surround yourself, the better. Because the more you immerse yourself in English, the more you will absorb. It will grow your confidence for the PTE Reading test.

You can practise reading academic texts, newspapers, and magazines to improve your reading speed and comprehension.

Read what you love to prepare for PTE Reading

We are best at what we love. Our passion for a subject enhances our thirst for material. Reading about what you love heightens your reception and lowers your filters. It leads you to take in information and build knowledge of language in order to pass your PTE Reading.

Read English subtitles to prepare for PTE Reading

It is best to watch movies, videos and TV in English with English subtitles. You can read and listen at the same time. This is efficient and effective multi-tasking and it will prepare for your PTE Reading and you will have fun at the same time. It enhances not only your reading but also your listening. English subtitles also develop your understanding and use of vocabulary, grammar, punctuation and spelling. This will also help you in your Writing and Speaking.

Understand the question types by familiarising yourself with the different types of questions in PTE reading, such as multiple-choice, reorder paragraphs, and fill in the blanks. This will help you understand what is expected of you in each question and answer accordingly.

Familiarise yourself with the test format

Familiarise yourself with the test format and make sure you understand the particular requirements of each task. Be prepared and do what the instructions say. 

Manage your time 

In PTE Reading and all test sections, you need to be familiar with the time limits for each section. Keep a close eye on timers to ensure you use your time efficiently and effectively.
Don’t spend more time on a section of a question than it deserves. Practice taking timed tests and work on improving your speed and accuracy.

Finally, if you finish early, take every available moment to check and double-check. Stay focussed and use time wisely.

What is skimming and scanning?

Skimming and scanning are important techniques that can help you save time during the exam. Skim through the text to get a general idea of the topic and then scan for specific information related to the question, for example, dates and names of people and places.

Scan and move your eyes rapidly across the lines, systematically looking for the answers you want. Look for key referring words like both, them and it. Also look for key content words and for specialised vocabulary. 

Pay attention to grammar and vocabulary

Make sure you have a good understanding of English grammar and vocabulary, as these are essential for answering questions in PTE reading. You can improve your grammar and vocabulary by reading widely and practising regularly.

Practice, Practice, Practice

Finally, the key to excelling at PTE reading is to practise as much as possible. 

Take as many practice tests as you can, and work on improving your weaknesses. This will help you feel more confident and prepared on test day.

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Get Additional PTE resources

If you want to improve PTE Academic Writing score, follow the tips in our PTE Writing article.

If you’re after assistance on PTE Speaking, read these articles on PTE Describe Image, PTE Re-tell Lecture, and PTE Repeat Sentence.