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About Us Fill in the Blanks (Drop-down): PTE Reading Practice Questions with Sample Answers (2026)
Reading and Writing Fill in the Blanks shows a passage with a drop-down menu at each blank. You choose the word that fits both the meaning and the grammar. It scores in Reading and Writing together. Practice with 15 real passages below, answers included.
15 Questions
Practice questions
Attempt each one, then open the sample answer to compare.
Question 1
Choose the correct word for each blank.
Robot downtime has been a significant problem for manufacturers for years. Until recently, owners of robotstheir machine to run for no more than around 60,000 hours without issues. However, robot providers have more recently offered run times of 43 years beforethe impression that the human owner and the robot might retire around the same time. Other companies have used predictive statistical methods to estimate when the robot will need a replacement part, and send a technician around before it even wears out. While these developments sound like a tremendous step forwards, the claims made hide a morepattern of behaviour. It is often not just one robot, but the ancillary machines and equipment around it that causes problems. Most robot stoppages are caused by issues with conveyor belts, blockages, or faulty sensors, toData collected from more than 400 factories suggested that 80% of the time robots go out of action, it is due to machines around them. There is little basisoptimism until the bigger issues around work stoppages can be resolved.
[1] could have expected [2] leaving [3] troubling [4] name but a few [5] for
Question 2
Choose the correct word for each blank.
Coral reefs are among the most diverse ecosystems on Earth, providing habitat for countless marine species. However, they face significant threats due to climate change, pollution, and overfishing. Rising ocean temperatures cause coral, a process that weakens and eventually kills the coral.
Efforts to protect reefs include marine conservation areas and regulations todestructive fishing practices. Scientists also explore coral restoration techniques, such as growing coral fragments in nurseries beforethem into damaged reefs.
Public awareness and government policies play arole in conservation. Without immediate action, coral reefs may facedecline, affecting marine biodiversity worldwide.
[1] bleaching [2] prevent [3] transplanting [4] critical [5] irreversible
Question 3
Choose the correct word for each blank.
Antarctica is one of the most inhospitable places on Earth, with violent snowstorms and air temperatures recorded at less than -80C. However, it appears that it was not always like this. In 1912, the explorer Robert Scott discovered fossil plants which, on analysis soon after,to be from an ancient fern tree. The presence of these fossils provided clear evidence that in the past the continenthave been much warmer than today. Their similarity to fossils in South America also gaveto the idea that Antarctica had once been joined together with other landmasses. Since then, further such discoveries have been made, including other fossilised trees thata close resemblance to the petrified forests in Yellowstone Park. This forested Antarctica is hard to imagine now, but, however remote in time they may be, studying these shifts in the continent’s climate may produce some valuableinto the process of global warming today.
[1] were revealed [2] must [3] support [4] bear [5] insights
Question 4
Choose the correct word for each blank.
The first authorised biography of the Beatles, by the journalist Hunter Davies, was published in 1968. According to Davies, his publisher worried that it was already too late for a book,that ‘the bubble’s going to burst … we know everything that we could possibly want to know about the Beatles, and they’ll disappear soon.’
Davies’ publisher, Heinemann, wasn’t completely. The Beatles were indeed about to disappear: their break-up lay just two years away in 1970. But public interest didn’t disappear with them.
Over the past fifty years, there has been aBeatles books. Biographies, memoirs, music studies, cultural histories and reference works; hostile hatchet jobs, muckraking tell-alls and sycophantic suck-ups; good books, bad books, serious books, jokey books and bizarre books. Rather than bursting, the bubble hasinto a publishing industry.
Craig Brown’s One Two Three Four is its latest addition. An account of the band’s lifetime told in 150 short chapters, it is not based on new research; instead, the British journalist has, in his cheerful admission, ‘’ and ‘raided’ the millions of words already written about the Fab Four.
[1] fretting [2] clueless [3] vast outpouring of [4] swollen [5] plundered
Question 5
Choose the correct word for each blank.
The seahorse is one of the most unique creatures in our oceans. They are, however, coming increasingly underof extinction from a range of problems. The seagrass beds in the shallow coastal waters where they live are particularlyto changes in pollution levels or temperature. Increased pollution and other human activity create risks, and many seahorses get trapped in fishing nets, as they are dragged across the sea bed. Some aspects of seahorse behaviour increase the problems. They are, for example, monogamous, preferring to stay with the same partner throughout life. If one partner in a mating pair of seahorsesin a fishing net, the surviving seahorse may never find a new partner.
Researchers need to better understand how to manage oceans more effectively in the future,this beautiful creature may become extinct. Yet experts still have very little idea about how many there are in the wild, or how many differentthere are because these creatures are so challenging to study.
[1] threat [2] vulnerable [3] gets caught [4] otherwise [5] species
Question 6
Choose the correct word for each blank.
The printing press, invented by Johannes Gutenberg in the 15th century, revolutionized the spread of knowledge. Before its invention, books werecopied by hand, making them expensive and rare. The printing press allowed for mass production, significantly reducing costs and increasing.
As books became more accessible, literacy rates began to rise, and ideas spread more rapidly. The technology also played a crucial role in theof the Renaissance and the Reformation. Governments and religious institutions, however, sought tocertain publications, fearing the influence of unrestricted information.
With the expansion of printing, new methods and technologies were developed toefficiency and quality.
[1] manually [2] circulation [3] spread [4] regulate [5] enhance
Question 7
Choose the correct word for each blank.
Archaeology is the study of past human societies through material remains. Excavations at ancient sites help researchersartifacts, which provide valuable insights into how people lived. These discoveries can include tools, pottery, and even entire structures, offering clues about trade, culture, and daily activities.
One major challenge in archaeology is theof preserving delicate objects. Organic materials, such as wood or fabric, oftenover time due to environmental conditions. To address this, specialists use advanced techniques to stabilize and protect these fragile items before theyfurther damage.
[1] uncover [2] difficulty [3] deteriorate [4] suffer
Question 8
Choose the correct word for each blank.
Some areas in the world are fortunate to have supremely fertile, high quality soil. But few places arewith the American state of Iowa, where its nutrient-rich soil is known as ‘black gold’. However, that may soon come to an end unless drastic action is taken immediately to address andhalt soil erosion across the state.
Sadly, Iowan crops are no longer flourishingin one of America’s agricultural heartlands. The issue is that the rich, fertile top layer of soil is becoming much thinner and is on the verge of disappearing entirely. Not only does that rob the landextra vital nutrients, but it also means that it loses a certain amount of protection against the elements. This could explain why acidity levels in the soil seem to be changing.
In many instances, this situation arose as a result of over-farming. Theprocessing of the land has taken its toll, but it’s not too late to bring the land back to its former glory.
[1] on a par [2] ultimately [3] as they once did [4] of [5] relentless
Question 9
Choose the correct word for each blank.
Bioarchitecture is an innovative approach to design that draws inspiration from nature to create buildings that are both functional and. This field merges biology, engineering, and architecture to produce structures that mimic natural forms, such as shells, honeycombs, or plant systems.
Rather than relying solely on artificial materials, bioarchitecture often incorporates sustainable resources and energy-efficient systems. Some structures are designed to regulate temperature or light, similar to how living organisms adapt to their environment.
Beyond aesthetics, bioarchitecture emphasizes harmony with surrounding ecosystems. Green roofs, living walls, and natural ventilation are common features that reduce environmental.
As urban areas grow, architects are rethinking design principles to support biodiversity and human well-being. Bioarchitecture encourages us to view buildings not as static shelters but asparts of a larger ecological system.
This philosophy challenges conventional architecture and promotes a future where design aligns with nature’s own.
[1] efficient [2] passively [3] impact [4] integrated [5] principles
Question 10
Choose the correct word for each blank.
Sustainable agriculture aims to meet society’s food needs without compromising future generations. Itvarious farming techniques to preserve resources and maintain soil fertility. One key practice is crop rotation, which prevents soiland enhances productivity. Additionally, organic farming minimizes the use ofchemicals, reducing environmental damage.
Despite its benefits, sustainable agriculture faces challenges such as climate change and economic constraints. Farmers mustinnovative solutions to maintain efficiency while ensuring environmental responsibility. Governments and organizations worldwide support such initiatives through policies and.
[1] integrates [2] erosion [3] excessive [4] implement [5] subsidies
Question 11
Choose the correct word for each blank.
Sleep plays a crucial role in overall health, affecting cognitive function, mood, and physical well-being. Studies suggest that a consistent sleep schedulethe body’s internal clock, leading to better rest quality. Conversely, irregular sleep patterns canconcentration and memory.
Experts recommend creating a relaxing bedtime routine and limiting screen time before sleep. Additionally, factors like diet and exerciseinfluence sleep quality. While some people rely on naps, excessive daytime sleep cannighttime rest, making it harder to fall asleep.
For optimal health, adults are advised to getseven to nine hours of sleep per night.
[1] regulates [2] impair [3] significantly [4] compromise [5] approximately
Question 12
Choose the correct word for each blank.
Recent studies have highlighted the strong connection between the gut and the brain, often referred to as the “gut-brain axis.” The gastrointestinal tract contains millions of neurons and is responsible for producing neurotransmitters such as serotonin, which play a key role in regulating mood and cognitive function. This has led scientists tothe gut as a “second brain.”
Changes in gut bacteria, influenced by diet, stress, or antibiotics, can significantly impact mental well-being. For instance, people with anxiety or depression often show ain microbial diversity.
Probiotics and prebiotics are now being explored as potential therapies to restore balance and improve mental health. While more research is needed, early findings are.
This growing field suggests that nutrition and gut health should be considered when addressing psychological conditions. A moreapproach that includes both medical treatment and dietary changes may prove more effective than treating symptoms in.
[1] label [2] decrease [3] promising [4] holistic [5] isolation
Question 13
Choose the correct word for each blank.
Regular physical exercise is essential for maintaining overall health and well-being. It helps strengthen the heart, improve lung capacity, andthe risk of chronic diseases. Additionally, exercise has been shown to enhance mental health by reducing stress andmood.
Health experts recommend a combination of aerobic and strength-training exercises for optimal benefits. However, a lack of time or motivation oftenpeople from maintaining a consistent fitness routine. To overcome this, setting realistic goals and finding enjoyable activities canlong-term commitment to an active lifestyle.
Ultimately, regular exercise leads to a healthier, morelife.
[1] reduce [2] boosting [3] prevents [4] ensure [5] active
Question 14
Choose the correct word for each blank.
In recent years, remote work has shifted from a rare privilege to a widely accepted employment model. Advances in digital communication tools have made it easier for professionals to collaborate, regardless of their physical location. Many companies now offer flexible work arrangements totop talent and reduce operational costs.
Employees often report higher job satisfaction when working remotely, as it allows for better work-life balance and the freedom to design their own schedules. However, some challenges remain, including maintaining productivity and avoiding a sense offrom colleagues.
To address these issues, businesses are investing in virtual collaboration platforms and encouraging regular check-ins. Managers also play a critical role in ensuring that team members feel supported and.
As this trend continues, experts predict that hybrid work models will become the, blending office-based and remote work to offer the best of both worlds. The long-term effects on company culture and employee performance are still being.
[1] attract [2] isolation [3] engaged [4] standard [5] evaluated
Question 15
Choose the correct word for each blank.
The human brain is a complex organ responsible for controlling thoughts, emotions, and bodily functions. It consists of billions of neurons that communicate through electrical and chemical signals. Scientists have long studied how different regions of the brainvarious cognitive processes.
One of the biggest mysteries in neuroscience is how memory is stored and retrieved. Research suggests that experiences arein neural networks, but the exact mechanisms remain unclear. Advances in brain imaging technology have allowed researchers todeeper into understanding these processes.
In addition to memory, the brain plays a crucial role in decision-making. Studies indicate that emotions canjudgment, sometimes leading to irrational choices. Understanding these connections could help in developing treatments for neurological disorders and improving mental health.
However, despite scientific progress, the brain remains one of the mostaspects of human biology.
[1] influence [2] stored [3] investigate [4] affect [5] mysterious
How to approach it
- Read the whole sentence. Meaning before and after the blank guides the choice.
- Check collocation. Some words simply go together. Trust common pairings.
- Check grammar. The word must fit the part of speech and tense.
- Re-read with your choice. Confirm the sentence still makes sense.
FAQs
How is this different from the drag and drop version?
Here each blank has its own drop-down of four options, and the task scores in both Reading and Writing. The drag and drop version has a shared word bank and scores Reading only.
How many blanks does each passage have?
Usually 4 to 6 blanks in a passage of up to 300 words. Every correct blank earns one mark.
Is there negative marking?
No. A wrong pick scores zero for that blank, so always choose something for every blank.
What should I check before picking a word?
Read the full sentence first. The word must fit the meaning, the grammar and common collocations around it.
How do I improve at collocations?
Read academic English daily and note word pairs like play a role or profound impact. Most blanks test exactly these pairings.