What is the Task?
The “Answer Short Question” task in the PTE (Pearson Test of English) Academic exam is a critical component designed to evaluate your speaking and listening abilities. In this task, you will hear a brief question through your headphones, and your task is to provide a concise answer. While it may seem straightforward, there are important nuances to consider.
Which Section Does It Fall Under?
This task is part of both the Speaking and Listening sections of the PTE Academic exam. It uniquely assesses your ability to comprehend spoken English and respond accurately and succinctly.
How Long Does It Last?
Each question is quick; you will hear a question and then have a few seconds to prepare your response before recording begins. The entire task, which includes several questions, generally lasts between 10-15 minutes, depending on the number of questions.
What Are the Questions Like?
The questions are usually simple and aim to gauge your general knowledge and understanding of common topics. These can cover a variety of subjects, from science and geography to history and daily life. The focus is on your ability to understand and respond appropriately, rather than the complexity of the questions.
How to Answer the Questions?
- Listen Carefully: Ensure you fully understand the question before responding.
- Keep It Simple: Provide a brief and direct answer. Often, one or two words will suffice.
- Stay Calm: If unsure of the answer, it’s better to make an educated guess than to remain silent. Incorrect answers do not affect your score negatively, so it’s worth attempting.
Tips from the Tutor for Scoring High:
- Brush Up on General Knowledge: As the questions can cover a wide range of topics, improving your general knowledge can be very beneficial.
- Focus on Pronunciation: Clear and accurate pronunciation can significantly impact your score.
- Respond Quickly: Provide your answer promptly. Avoid hesitation, as delays can affect your fluency score.
- Get Familiar with the Format: Practice with sample questions to become comfortable with the task’s timing and pressure.
10 Practice Questions:
- What is the main ingredient in guacamole? (Avocado)
- Who wrote the play “Romeo and Juliet”? (Shakespeare)
- What do we call the device used to measure temperature? (Thermometer)
- Which planet is known as the Red Planet? (Mars)
- What is the capital city of Japan? (Tokyo)
- What is the largest mammal in the world? (Blue Whale)
- What do we call a baby cat? (Kitten)
- Who painted the Mona Lisa? (Da Vinci)
- What is the chemical symbol for gold? (Au)
- What is the hardest natural substance on Earth? (Diamond)
For additional practice, visit our website and use our practice portal: PTE Study Solutions Sample Questions
By understanding the task, practicing regularly, and applying these tips, you’ll be well-prepared to excel in the “Answer Short Question” section of the PTE Academic exam. Preparation is key, so make the most of your study time. Good luck!