Multiple Choice, Single Answer: PTE Listening Practice Questions with Sample Answers (2026)
You hear a short recording once and choose the single best answer, usually about the main idea, the speaker's purpose or a specific detail. Practice with 15 real recordings below, answers and explanations included.
Practice questions
Attempt each one, then open the sample answer to compare.
Question 1
You will hear a recording. Answer the question by selecting the correct option.
What was a key shift introduced by Impressionism?
C
Question 2
You will hear a recording. Answer the question by selecting the correct option.
What is a major benefit of AI in healthcare?
C
Question 3
You will hear a recording. Answer the question by selecting the correct option.
What does the speaker say about Homo habilis?
D
Question 4
You will hear a recording. Answer the question by selecting the correct option.
What does the speaker focus on in the audio?
C
Question 5
You will hear a recording. Answer the question by selecting the correct option.
What does the speaker mainly say about kinship?
B
Question 6
You will hear a recording. Answer the question by selecting the correct option.
What is the effect of social stratification?
B
Question 7
You will hear a recording. Answer the question by selecting the correct option.
Modern philosophy emerged in the 17th century, marking a shift in thought and inquiry. Philosophers like René Descartes and John Locke laid the groundwork for modern epistemology and metaphysics. Their ideas influenced the development of scientific methods and rationalism. The emphasis on reason and individualism became central themes in Enlightenment philosophy, leading to debates on knowledge, existence, and personal freedom. This philosophical movement has had a profound impact on contemporary thought and democratic ideals.
Which philosopher is known for saying 'Cogito, ergo sum'?
C
Question 8
You will hear a recording. Answer the question by selecting the correct option.
What conclusion can be drawn from the audio?
B
Question 9
You will hear a recording. Answer the question by selecting the correct option.
Which option best summarises the audio about paradox of thrift ?
Which option best summarises the audio about paradox of thrift?
B
Question 10
You will hear a recording. Answer the question by selecting the correct option.
What is the benefit of consuming dietary fiber?
C
Question 11
You will hear a recording. Answer the question by selecting the correct option.
Entrepreneurship is the process of starting and operating a new business, often characterized by innovation and risk-taking. Entrepreneurs play a crucial role in driving economic growth by creating new products and services, generating jobs, and fostering competition. However, the journey of an entrepreneur is fraught with challenges, including securing funding, navigating market competition, and managing a team effectively. Successful entrepreneurs often exhibit qualities such as resilience, adaptability, and strong leadership skills.
What is a crucial characteristic of successful entrepreneurs?
A
Question 12
You will hear a recording. Answer the question by selecting the correct option.
Creative writing is an art that allows individuals to express their thoughts, emotions, and imagination through various forms such as fiction, poetry, and drama. It often relies on narrative techniques, character development, and stylistic devices to engage the reader. Creative writing is not just limited to storytelling; it can also encompass personal essays, screenplays, and even lyrics. The aim is to evoke feelings and provoke thought, making creativity an invaluable skill in both personal and professional realms.
What is the primary purpose of creative writing?
B
Question 13
You will hear a recording. Answer the question by selecting the correct option.
What does the speaker focus on in the audio?
C
Question 14
You will hear a recording. Answer the question by selecting the correct option.
What is a drawback of the informal sector?
C
Question 15
You will hear a recording. Answer the question by selecting the correct option.
What was the Parthenon primarily built to honor?
A
How to approach it
- Pre-read the options. Know what to listen for.
- Identify the question type. Main idea, purpose or detail?
- Eliminate distractors. Remove options that were not said.
- Choose the best fit. One option answers the exact question.
FAQs
How many of these come in the exam?
Usually 1 to 2. One correct option out of three to five.
Is there negative marking?
No. Always choose something, a considered guess is free.
What is the most common question type?
Main idea and speaker purpose. Ask yourself what the speaker is trying to do: inform, argue, instruct or describe.
Should I read options before the audio?
Yes. Pre-reading tells you whether to listen for a fact, an opinion or the overall gist.
The audio mentioned words from a wrong option. Why?
Distractors reuse words from the recording out of context. Match the meaning of the whole option, not familiar words.