What is PTE Read Aloud in Speaking & Writing?
The PTE Read Aloud (RA) is a part of the speaking section. The exam tests the ability to read English text aloud clearly and fluently. Although categorised under "Speaking," it also contributes to your "Reading" score,
PTE academic read aloud test is designed to measure students' English language proficiency when applying to study abroad, and it is also accepted for visa applications from English-speaking countries.
For the test, you'll be presented with a written text on the screen, which is 60 words long, and you're required to read it aloud into the microphone.
However, before the test starts, you’ll have a short preparation time of 30-40 seconds. During this time, you will have to silently read the text and familiarise yourself with it before speaking it into the microphone.
Once the prep time is up, candidates will hear a beep sound that signals at the start of recording. When it stops, you have to start speaking.
To plan your PTE exam effectively, it's important to understand the test fees and available dates. You can find this information here: PTE Exam Fees
How PTE Read Aloud is Scored?

The scoring of PTE academic read aloud is done based on three criteria:
- Spoken Content: The exam confirms that you read every word correctly, in the right sequence, without making any changes. Points can be deducted if you make any changes to the original text.
- Fluency in Speech: You also have to speak what you read quickly and fluently. The test is designed to examine the natural flow of your speech. It analyses your English speaking pace, rhythm, and the presence of unnatural pauses or hesitations.
- Pronunciation: The exams also judge the way you pronounce the words. Therefore, when speaking, focus on mastering one accent and avoid mixing two or more accents. It is advised to have a large vocabulary to understand difficult words.
Based on these three criteria, a score is given that contributes to your Speaking and Reading scores.
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How to Answer PTE Read Aloud?
Mastering the PTE Read Aloud section demands a strategic approach that combines accuracy, fluency, and effective time management. Here's a breakdown of the most effective methods:
- Strategic Preparation: Make good use of the first 30-40 seconds. Find difficult words and punctuation, silently go over the text, and practice your pronunciation in your head.
- Focus on Pronunciation: Set aside time to practice pronouncing words clearly, particularly difficult ones. To make improvements, record and listen to your pronunciation.
- Natural Rhythm Development: Try to maintain a constant speaking pace. To create an organic flow, practice reading a variety of texts aloud.
- PTE Read Aloud Practice: It is important to practice regularly. Use practice exams and internet resources to simulate exam situations. Practising in a quiet setting can reduce distractions.
- Listen to Native Speakers: Immerse yourself in native English speech by listening to podcasts, news broadcasts, and other media. This will help you develop a better understanding of natural rhythm and intonation.
Lastly, smartly manage your time in the PTE read-aloud section. Use the preparation period to pinpoint key phrases and pronunciation challenges. Start reading shortly after the beep at a relaxed and controlled pace. Plus, practice regularly to read the paragraph within the required time, avoiding rushed delivery or excessively slow reading.
Also Read: PTE Reading Tips and Tricks
PTE Read Aloud Example Passages
It is important to become acquainted with the test format and the required level of performance. Here are three PTE read aloud examples for you to learn from:
Sample 1
The discovery of universal gravitation displays all the features of the new way of scientific reasoning, which is now so familiar to us. The discovery starts with Newton associating the Moon’s behavior with the behavior of rocks falling on the ground.
Sample 2
Photosynthesis is the process by which plants convert light energy into chemical energy. This complex reaction requires sunlight, water, and carbon dioxide and produces glucose and oxygen as byproducts.
Sample 3
Blue whales are the largest living mammals on this planet. Although the reports of maximum length and weight vary from one place to another, Antarctic blue whales are still known to be 100 feet long and weigh over 150 tons. The North Atlantic blue whales are expected to reach a size of 80 to 85 feet.
Online Practice Tests and PDF Downloads: How Can LeapScholar Help You?
LeapScholar offers full-length practice tests, including PTE read aloud PDF that replicate real exam conditions, helping you improve your score. Each test includes detailed answers to enhance your understanding and performance.
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Common Mistakes in PTE Read Aloud & How to Avoid Them

Despite all their efforts, test-takers often make some common mistakes in the PTE Read Aloud section. By Understanding these errors and knowing how to avoid them helps in getting a high score.
Here’s what you should look at for during PTE read aloud practice:
1. Mispronunciation
Regularly practise pronunciation with online dictionaries and phonetic resources, focusing on stress patterns and comparing your recordings with native speakers. You can explore the Speech Accent Archive. This site contains a huge database of people reading the same text, and it is very good for comparing different accents and hearing how the same text sounds.
2. Missing Punctuation and Pauses
When reading the text for the first time, paying attention to the punctuation would be a good idea. Take breaths in the middle of sentences to complement the content's tone and flow.
3. Skipping words
Avoid skipping words while reading aloud, as this affects clarity and accuracy. Focus on reading every word carefully, maintaining a steady pace without rushing.
4. Fast Reading
During read-aloud PTE practice, you should not read the text fast; obviously, the PTE assesses fluency rather than reading speed. Therefore, it is better to maintain a proper flow with enough space rather than trying to read quickly.
Furthermore, ensure a quiet environment on exam day to minimise distractions. Make sure the microphone is close to your mouth but not touching it. Plus, try to speak clearly and maintain a consistent volume throughout.
Scoring high on the PTE exam 2025 requires thoughtful preparation, consistent practice, and time management. Whether you choose coaching or self-study, use the right study materials and mock tests to improve.
To perform better in the test, practice regularly, pay special attention to pronunciation, and maintain a natural rhythm. You should also strategically use preparation time and rehearse under timed conditions to avoid frequent errors like mispronunciations, awkward pauses, and monotonous intonation.
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