PTE Writing Essay: Templates, Topics, Sample to Boost Your Score

Updated on Mar 26, 2025, 05:16

Every year, over 200,000 students sit for the PTE exam, striving for success in their academic and professional goals. The PTE Writing Essay section is crucial for achieving the scores you need, and it requires more than just basic writing skills. It’s an essential part of your journey, as it demonstrates your ability to express ideas clearly, logically, and concisely.

In this article, you'll discover the PTE Writing Essay structure, scoring, and key strategies to boost your score. With the right practice and strategies, you'll confidently tackle this task.

On This Page

1. Understanding PTE Writing Essay Task

The PTE Writing Essay task tests your ability to structure and present an argument clearly and coherently.

1/ 7

2. PTE Essay Writing Format & Structure

The PTE Writing Essay task follows a clear and structured format that you need to master to achieve a high score.

2/ 7

3. Sample PTE Essays & Model Answers

Even well-prepared test-takers often lose valuable points in the PTE Reorder Paragraph section due to common yet avoidable mistakes.

3/ 7

4. PTE Writing Essay Topics for Practice (2025 Updated List)

Practising with a variety of PTE writing essay topics is crucial for success in the exam.

4/ 7

5. Step-by-Step Guide to Writing a High-Scoring PTE Essay

Mastering the PTE Writing Essay task requires more than just good writing skills.

5/ 7

6. Effective Strategies to Boost Your PTE Writing Score

Improving your PTE writing score doesn’t happen overnight, but with the right strategies, it’s entirely achievable.

6/ 7

More for you

Boost Your PTE Score to 80+

Start Practicing Today!

7/7

Understanding PTE Writing Essay Task

The PTE Writing Essay task tests your ability to structure and present an argument clearly and coherently. It’s not just about writing; it’s about how effectively you can communicate your ideas within a limited time frame. Understanding the task is the first step toward creating a well-organised, high-scoring essay.

What is the PTE Writing Essay Task?

In this task, you’re asked to write an essay on a given topic, typically related to general issues or current events. You have 20 minutes to plan, write, and review your essay, which should be between 200 and 300 words. The main challenge is to present your ideas logically while staying within the given time and word limits.

How is the Essay Scored in PTE Academic?

The essay is scored based on several criteria: content, structure, grammar, and vocabulary. The scoring system looks at how well you address the question, the clarity and coherence of your argument, your use of language, and your ability to stick to the word limit. You’ll receive a score out of 15, which contributes to your overall PTE writing score.

Why is This Task Important for Your PTE Score?

The Writing Essay task is significant because it tests your ability to communicate effectively in an academic setting. A strong essay demonstrates your ability to construct arguments, use appropriate vocabulary, and organise thoughts clearly. This task plays a crucial role in your overall PTE score, impacting how well you can express complex ideas under time pressure.

Read Next: You can also check out the PTE score in bands to better understand how your performance on this task contributes to your overall score.

Introduction (1 sentence)

Begin with a direct statement referencing the map's title or theme.

Example: "This map illustrates..." or "As depicted, the map shows..."

Body (2-3 sentences)

Focus on the map's key features and significant patterns.
Use precise directional terms (e.g., "north," "southwest," "adjacent") and comparative language (e.g., "greater," "lesser," "significant").
Give specific locations and data points, if required.

Conclusion (1-2 sentences)

Summarise the map's primary takeaway or highlight a notable observation.

Example: "In summary, the map highlights..." or "Ultimately, the map provides valuable insights into..."

PTE Essay Writing Format & Structure

The PTE Writing Essay task follows a clear and structured format that you need to master to achieve a high score. You are given 20 minutes to write an essay between 200 and 300 words.

The key to success in this task is understanding the ideal structure, the time constraints, and how your essay will be scored. Knowing these aspects will help you write clearly, stay on topic, and present your ideas in an organised manner.

Ideal Word Count & Time Limit for PTE Essay

For the PTE Writing Essay task, the ideal word count is between 200 and 300 words. You must complete the essay within 20 minutes, which means time management is essential. Allocating enough time to plan, write, and review your work will help you make the most of the time limit. Staying within the word count ensures you cover the topic comprehensively without rushing.

Here’s a breakdown of the criteria on which your PTE essay will be scored.

Criteria	Description	Score Range
Content	Addresses the question with relevant ideas and examples.	0 - 5
Structure & Coherence	Organises ideas logically, with clear paragraphing and transitions.	0 - 5
Grammar & Vocabulary	Uses correct grammar, varied sentence structures, and appropriate vocabulary.	0 - 5

The structure of your PTE writing essay is crucial to presenting a well-organised argument. Here’s a simple breakdown.

Section	Purpose	Word Count
Introduction	Introduce the topic and state your position.	40 - 50 words
Body Paragraph 1	Present your first argument with supporting examples.	80 - 100 words
Body Paragraph 2	Present your second argument with supporting examples.	80 - 100 words
Conclusion	Summarise your arguments and restate your position.	30-50 words

This structure will guide you to produce a balanced and focused PTE essay. Make sure to apply this format and practice writing with different PTE essay writing with answers and PTE writing essay questions to improve your skills.

Read Next: You can check out the PTE exam syllabus to get a comprehensive understanding of all sections and their requirements.

Step 1: Identifying Key Features in the Map

Quickly scan the map, paying attention to the title, legend, and overall layout.
Identify the highlighted geographical elements, such as countries, regions, cities, or mountains, and analyse the given information, such as population density, resource distribution, or land use.

Step 2: Structuring Your Response Correctly

Now, start your response with a clear introduction by stating the map’s topic and its purpose.
Use directional and comparative terms to describe the main features and patterns.
Mention the data points and details to support your description.
In the end, briefly reiterate the main takeaway.

Step 3: Using Appropriate Vocabulary For Maps

Using good vocabulary will always help in describing the map better.
Use terms like region, territory, zone, area, and location.
You can also use directional words like north, south, east, west, adjacent, and bordering.

Step 4: Speaking Fluently With Correct Pronunciation

Prioritise clear pronunciation and a steady pace.
Minimize pauses and hesitations for fluent delivery.
A good way to practice this is to record yourself and listen back.
This will help you identify areas of improvement, and you can practice accordingly.

Sample PTE Essays & Model Answers

Practising with PTE writing essay samples with answers is one of the best ways to improve your writing skills. By reviewing model answers, you’ll gain insights into how to structure your ideas, use appropriate vocabulary, and organise your essay effectively.

Below are examples of different types of PTE writing essay samples to guide you in preparing for the exam.

PTE Essay Example - Agree/Disagree Type

This type of essay requires you to take a position on a given statement and argue either for or against it. Your goal is to clearly present your stance, supporting it with relevant examples.

Essay Prompt:

“Many people think that technology has made our lives easier. Do you agree or disagree with this statement?”

Sample Answer:

I agree that technology has made life easier. Smartphones, the internet, and automation help us complete tasks efficiently. For example, online banking and shopping save time, while telemedicine allows remote consultations. However, technology has its drawbacks, such as privacy concerns. Despite these, the benefits of technology far outweigh the disadvantages, making life more convenient.

PTE Essay Example - Advantages & Disadvantages Type

In this type of essay, you are asked to explore both the positive and negative aspects of a given topic. It’s crucial to present a balanced view before concluding with your opinion.

Essay Prompt:

“What are the advantages and disadvantages of working from home?”

Sample Answer:

Working from home offers flexibility, reduces commute time, and improves work-life balance. Employees can better manage their schedules. However, it can lead to isolation and distractions, lowering productivity. Balancing work and personal life can also be difficult, causing burnout. Despite these challenges, the benefits of remote work are significant when managed well.

PTE Essay Example - Problem-Solution Type

This type of essay requires you to identify a problem and propose solutions. It is important to provide specific, realistic solutions that address the issue directly.

Essay Prompt:

“The increasing use of plastic is damaging the environment. What can be done to reduce plastic waste?”

Sample Answer:

Plastic waste is a major issue, primarily caused by single-use items like bottles and bags. Governments should regulate plastic production and encourage recycling. Public education on its impact can also help. Businesses should switch to eco-friendly packaging. These steps can significantly reduce plastic waste and protect the environment.

PTE Essay Example - Opinion-Based Type

This essay type asks for your viewpoint on a particular topic, requiring strong arguments and relevant examples.

Essay Prompt:

"Should governments invest more in space exploration or focus on solving problems on Earth?"

Sample Answer:

Governments should prioritize solving problems on Earth, such as poverty and climate change, before investing heavily in space exploration. Resources should be directed toward healthcare, education, and environmental protection. However, space research can lead to technological advancements that benefit society. While exploration is valuable, immediate global issues demand more attention.

PTE Essay Example - Discuss Both Views Type

In this type of essay, you need to discuss both sides of an argument before stating your opinion. A balanced perspective is essential.

Essay Prompt:

"Some people believe that university education should be free for all students, while others think students should pay for their studies. Discuss both views and give your opinion."

Sample Answer:

Some argue that university education should be free to ensure equal opportunities for all, regardless of financial background. Free education can lead to a more educated workforce, benefiting society. However, others believe that making students pay instils responsibility and helps universities maintain quality education. In my opinion, a partial subsidy system would be ideal, ensuring affordability while maintaining academic standards.

By practising with these PTE writing essay samples with answers and using a PTE writing essay template, you’ll be better prepared for the exam.

PTE Writing Essay Topics for Practice (2025 Updated List)

Practising with a variety of PTE writing essay topics is crucial for success in the exam. Here’s a list of the most frequently asked essay topics you might encounter in the 2025 exam:

The impact of social media on society
The advantages and disadvantages of online education
Is it better to work for a large company or a small one?
The role of technology in education
Should governments invest in space exploration?
The effects of climate change on the planet
The importance of learning a second language
The challenges of living in a foreign country
Should there be stricter laws on internet privacy?
The influence of advertisements on consumer behaviour

These topics will help you prepare for different types of questions, whether you're asked to agree/disagree, analyse advantages/disadvantages, or propose solutions to a problem.

How to Practice Effectively?

To prepare for the PTE Writing Essay, you need to practise writing essays regularly. Here are some tips to practise effectively:

Set a timer: Always write within the 20-minute time limit to simulate exam conditions. This will help you manage your time effectively during the real test.
Focus on structure: Stick to the standard essay structure—introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion. Practising this structure will make your writing more organised and easy to follow.
Review your work: After writing each essay, review it for grammar, clarity, and coherence. This will help you identify areas where you can improve.
Use a variety of topics: Practice with different essay types to ensure you're prepared for anything. The more topics you cover, the more confident you’ll feel during the exam.
Seek feedback: If possible, ask a teacher or a peer to review your essays. Constructive feedback can help you understand your strengths and areas for improvement.

By practising regularly with PTE writing essay templates 2025 and examples, you'll become more confident and efficient in writing high-scoring essays.

Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Them

In the PTE Writing Essay, common mistakes can significantly affect your score. Being aware of these errors and knowing how to avoid them can help you improve your writing.

Here are some of the most frequent mistakes and how to steer clear of them.

Failure to Stick to the Word Limit: Writing too few or too many words can cost you marks. Aim for 200-300 words. Practice writing within this range to ensure you don’t exceed or fall short.
Weak Introduction: A vague or overly general introduction can weaken your argument. Start with a clear thesis statement that directly addresses the prompt. This sets the tone for your entire essay.
Lack of Coherence and Cohesion: Jumping from one idea to another without clear transitions makes your essay harder to follow. Use linking words and phrases to connect ideas logically and smoothly.
Overcomplicating Vocabulary: Using complex words incorrectly can harm your essay. Stick to clear, precise vocabulary. Overcomplicating language may confuse the reader and lower your score in the PTE Writing Essay.
Poor Grammar and Spelling: Grammatical errors, punctuation mistakes, and spelling issues can all negatively impact your score. Always proofread your work for mistakes before submitting it.
Ignoring the Question: Straying off-topic or failing to fully address all parts of the essay prompt can cost you marks. Focus on what the question asks and make sure every paragraph is relevant to your argument.

By practising with a variety of PTE writing essay samples with answers and keeping these tips in mind, you can avoid common mistakes and produce a more polished and effective essay.

Ready to achieve your PTE Writing Essay goals and score 80+? Leap Scholar’s PTE Score 80 Course is designed to help you master every aspect of the exam with expert guidance, practice materials, and personalised support.

Step-by-Step Guide to Writing a High-Scoring PTE Essay

Mastering the PTE Writing Essay task requires more than just good writing skills. It involves understanding the prompt, structuring your ideas clearly, and presenting your argument in a well-organised manner.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you score highly in the PTE Writing Essay task.

Step 1 - Understanding the Essay Prompt

Carefully read the prompt and break it down into key points. Identify whether it’s asking for your opinion, a comparison, or an explanation.

For example, if the prompt asks, "Do you agree or disagree with the use of technology in education?" identify that it requires your opinion. The clearer you are on what’s being asked, the more focused your response will be.

Step 2 - Planning & Structuring Your Ideas

Jot down your main ideas and supporting examples. For example, if your prompt is about technology in education, you could write down points such as “increased access to learning materials” or “lack of personal interaction.”

Think about how your arguments will connect logically, helping to keep your essay organised and on track. A clear plan will guide your writing and help avoid unnecessary detours.

Step 3 - Writing the Introduction (Hook + Thesis Statement)

Start with a hook to grab attention—something interesting or thought-provoking. For example, "Imagine a world where every student has access to any textbook they need at the click of a button."

Follow it up with a clear thesis statement outlining your position, such as "While technology in education has its drawbacks, it offers significant benefits in terms of accessibility and flexibility." This sets the stage for the rest of the essay and keeps your argument focused.

Step 4 - Developing Strong Body Paragraphs (Coherence & Cohesion)

Each body paragraph should focus on one main idea, supported by examples. For instance, in a paragraph discussing the benefits of technology in education, you could write: "One significant advantage of technology is its ability to provide immediate access to information.

For example, students can use online platforms like Khan Academy to access free courses on subjects ranging from mathematics to history." Ensure your ideas flow logically from one paragraph to the next, creating a cohesive and easy-to-follow argument.

Step 5 - Writing a Clear & Impactful Conclusion

Summarise your main points and restate your position freshly. For example: “In conclusion, while the use of technology in education poses challenges, its ability to democratise access to learning makes it an invaluable tool in modern classrooms.”

Keep it concise and avoid introducing new ideas. A strong conclusion reinforces your argument and leaves a lasting impression.

By following these steps, you'll be able to produce a clear, organised, and high-scoring PTE essay.

Also Read: PTE exam Practice test

Effective Strategies to Boost Your PTE Writing Score

Improving your PTE writing score doesn’t happen overnight, but with the right strategies, it’s entirely achievable. It’s all about refining your approach, being mindful of the exam’s specific requirements, and practising consistently.

Here are some proven methods that can significantly boost your performance in the PTE Writing Essay.

Focus on Structure: Organise your essay with a clear introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. Stick to this structure for clarity and better coherence.
Stay Within the Word Limit: Keep your essay between 200-300 words. Be precise and avoid over-explaining.
Use Clear and Varied Vocabulary: Include a mix of simple and advanced vocabulary to make your essay sound more professional without overcomplicating your language.
Practice Under Time Constraints: Write essays within the 20-minute time frame to improve time management and ensure you can complete your work on time.
Proofread and Review: Always take time to proofread your essay, checking for grammar, spelling, and structure issues. This helps ensure your work is polished and error-free.

By applying these strategies, you’ll improve the quality and efficiency of your PTE Writing Essay, helping you achieve a higher score.

Also Read: PTE reading tips and tricks

Next Up

PTE Reading Fill in the Blanks

PTE Highlight Correct Summary

PTE Summarize Written Text

PTE Academic Read Aloud

PTE Academic Repeat Sentence

PTE Describe Image

PTE Listening Fill in the Blanks

PTE Collocation List

FAQs

Q. How to write an essay in PTE Writing Essay?

Ans. Writing a successful PTE writing essay requires a clear structure. Start with a strong introduction, stating your position or summarising the issue. Follow with body paragraphs that provide logical arguments and examples, and finish with a concise conclusion. Focus on clarity and coherence throughout.

Q. How to improve PTE Writing Essay?

Ans. To improve your PTE writing essay, practice regularly, focusing on structure, grammar, and vocabulary. Stick to the word limit and time constraints. Use complex sentences academic vocabulary, and link ideas smoothly. Proofread your work to avoid spelling and grammar mistakes.

Q. How to score 90 in PTE Writing?

Ans. Scoring 90 in PTE writing an essay involves mastering structure and language. Ensure your essay has a clear introduction, well-organised body paragraphs, and a concise conclusion. Use a mix of complex sentences and appropriate vocabulary. Minimise grammatical errors and stay within the word limit.

Q. How do I write a PTE Writing Essay Template?

Ans. A PTE writing essay template generally includes an introduction, two body paragraphs, and a conclusion. Start with a brief introduction stating your main argument. Present one idea per body paragraph with supporting examples. Conclude by summarising your argument and restating your position.

Q. Which template is best for PTE Writing?

Ans. The best template for a PTE writing essay is one that ensures clarity and structure. Start with an engaging introduction, followed by two well-structured body paragraphs that support your thesis. Finish with a concise conclusion that reinforces your argument. Stick to the word limit for maximum clarity.

Q. What are the different types of PTE Writing Essays?

Ans. The PTE writing essay section typically includes three types of essays: Agree/Disagree, Advantages & Disadvantages, and Problem-Solution. Each requires a slightly different approach, but all demand clear, well-organised arguments with strong examples and logical progression throughout the essay.

Q. What is the PTE essay word limit?

Ans. The word limit for a PTE writing essay is between 200 to 300 words. Staying within this limit is crucial for clarity and conciseness. Writing too much or too little may affect your score, so aim to balance quality and quantity within the given word count.

Q. What is the format of the writing section in PTE?

Ans. The PTE writing essay section includes two tasks, which are Summarise Written Text and Write an Essay. The essay task requires you to write a 200-300 word response to a given prompt. Both tasks are completed in a 20-minute timeframe, so time management is crucial.

Q. What are the most common topics in the PTE Writing Essay?

Ans. Common topics in PTE writing essays include technology's impact on society, the environment, education, health, and social issues. Other popular themes focus on government policies, the effects of globalisation, and arguments about modern lifestyles. Practice with a variety of topics to be prepared for the exam.

Q. What are the changes in the PTE Writing Essay in 2025?

Ans. The PTE writing essay format in 2025 may include updated prompt types and scoring criteria. While the structure of the writing section remains similar, it is important to stay informed about any changes through official PTE updates to ensure you are well-prepared for the latest requirements.

Q. What are some major essay topics for PTE?

Ans. Some major essay topics for PTE include the following:

The role of technology in education
The impact of social media on society
Climate change and environmental issues
The advantages of online learning
The future of work and automation
Health and fitness in modern society

These topics often appear in various forms in the PTE exam, so practising essays on these subjects will help you prepare effectively.

IELTS Exam	IELTS Exam Date	IELTS Exam Fee
IELTS Modules	IELTS Listening Practice Test	IELTS Speaking Practice Test
IELTS Reading Practice Test	IELTS Writing Practice Test	IELTS Test Centres
IELTS Results	Types of IELTS	IELTS Pattern
IELTS Exam Eligibilty	IELTS Slot Booking	IELTS Band Score
IELTS Registration	IELTS Books	IELTS Preparation
IELTS Practice Test

PTE Exam	PTE Syllabus	PTE Dates
PTE Results	PTE Fees	PTE Preparation
PTE Centre	PTE Speaking & Writing Practice Test	PTE Reading Practice Test
PTE Listening Practice Test	PTE Registration	PTE Practice Test
PTE Score Chart	PTE Score Calculator

PTE Highlight Correct Summary	PTE Summarize Written Text	PTE Read Aloud
PTE Describe Image	PTE Academic Repeat Sentence	PTE Reading Fill in the Blanks
PTE Listening Fill in the Blanks	PTE Short Answer Questions	PTE Collocation List
Process Chart PTE	Pie Chart PTE	PTE Line Graph
PTE Retell Lecture	Map Chart PTE	PTE Reorder Paragraph
PTE Writing Essay	Summarize Spoken Text PTE