PTE Short Answer Questions: Format, Sample Questions & Scoring Tips

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Updated on Mar 21, 2025, 14:16

Preparing for the PTE Academic Speaking section can be challenging. Many test-takers find the PTE Short Answer Questions tricky. Candidates often excel in reading and writing but struggle with speaking. But if you can correctly handle the PTE short answer questions, this journey of moving abroad becomes smooth. Whether applying to Yale or Harvard, understanding how PTE short questions work can improve your chances. This guide covers tackling PTE short answer questions, scoring, and strategies to help you succeed.

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1. What Are PTE Short Answer Questions?

PTE Short Answer Questions are a task you'll encounter in the PTE speaking section.

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2. PTE Short Answer Questions Format & Scoring

PTE short answer question sections include 10 to 12 questions worth one mark each, with no penalties for incorrect answers.

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3. List of PTE Short Answer Questions & Sample Answers

Practicing with PTE short answer questions is one of the best ways to prepare for the PTE Short Answer exam.

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4. How to Answer PTE Short Answer Questions Effectively?

When your mind is racing, finding the right words or deciding what to speak is challenging.

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5. PTE Short Answer Questions Practice Materials

PTE short answer questions, practice materials, and online tests are designed to help you respond quickly and accurately.

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6. Expert Tips to Score High in PTE Short Answer Questions

Scoring high in PTE Short Answer Questions requires more than knowing the correct answer.

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1.

What Are PTE Short Answer Questions?

PTE Short Answer Questions are a task you'll encounter in the PTE speaking section. In this exercise, an audio clip will automatically play, and you're expected to give a brief response consisting of one or a few words. 

 

As soon as the audio ends and the microphone becomes active, you should quickly provide your answer within the 10-second time frame.

 

Remember, there's no option to replay the audio; you only have one opportunity to record your answer. Sometimes, an image might be displayed along with the question.

 

How Does This Section Contribute to Your PTE Speaking Score?

 

Short Answer Questions contribute significantly to your Speaking score. Accuracy, pronunciation, and fluency are all assessed. Your ability to comprehend and respond promptly impacts your overall performance.

 

This section assesses how well you can listen, speak, and use a wide range of vocabulary. It also tests whether you can understand questions and respond accurately under time pressure. Your results here will contribute to your speaking and listening scores in the overall PTE Academic exam.

2.

PTE Short Answer Questions Format & Scoring

PTE short answer question sections include 10 to 12 questions worth one mark each, with no penalties for incorrect answers. Key highlights of the PTE short answer questions format & scoring are as follows:
 

Features Details
No. of questions 10 -12
Prompt duration 3 to 9 seconds
Provide answers 10 seconds timeframe
A replay of the audio Not Possible
No. of times you can answer Only once
Question type Either factual or general knowledge-based.

 

Scoring Criteria for Short Answer Questions

 

The scoring criteria for PTE Short Answer Questions assess your ability to provide clear, accurate, and concise responses within the given time.

 

  • Content: Correctness of your answer (1 point).
  • Pronunciation: Clarity and correctness of pronunciation (1 point).
  • Fluency: Smoothness and pace of speech (1 point).

 

Note: There is no negative marking for wrong answers.

 

How Pronunciation & Fluency Affect Your Score?

 

Poor pronunciation or hesitant speech can significantly reduce your score. For example, if you say "libary" instead of "library" or speak in a choppy, hesitant manner, it can lower your pronunciation and fluency score in the PTE.

 

Practising with PTE academic short answer questions practice tests can help refine your pronunciation and fluency.

Pay Attention and Dissect the Sentence

Listening well is imperative for success. Awareness of the sentence structure, keywords, and intonation will help keep the sentence from moving. Once the sentence approaches its end, you can break it into smaller constructs in your mind to facilitate memorisation.

Use Mnemonics for Easily Recalled and Easily Remembered Sentences

Mnemonic devices store and recall the more challenging parts of a complicated sentence. One helpful strategy is to connect the words to previous experience or to use acronyms you have developed in common daily objects. Example: For a sentence like "The economy is experiencing a steady recovery," your 3 acronyms could be E (Economy), S (Steady), and R (Recovery). 

Improve Pronunciation & Speaking Fluency
  • Practice Common Word Patterns – Identifying frequently occurring phrases and practising them can improve pronunciation.
  • Speak Naturally – Avoid robotic speech; aim for a smooth and natural tone instead.
  • Record and Self-Evaluate – Listening to your speech can highlight areas that need improvement.
Daily Drills for Improving Sentence Retention

Here are some PTE repeat sentence practice for you to improve your score: 

 

  • Shadowing Technique – Listen to a sentence and immediately repeat it while trying to match the speaker’s intonation and rhythm.
  • Chunking Method – Break long sentences into smaller segments and memorise them sequentially.
  • Writing & Repeating – Write down the sentence after hearing it and then practice repeating it.
  • Listening to Podcasts – Regularly listening to English podcasts can improve listening skills and sentence retention.
  • Using Speech-to-Text Apps – Record responses using speech recognition software to analyse accuracy.
3.

List of PTE Short Answer Questions & Sample Answers

Practising with PTE short answer questions is one of the best ways to prepare for the PTE Short Answer exam. Familiarising yourself with common topics and understanding how to frame concise, accurate responses can significantly boost your confidence.

PTE Latest Short Answer Questions (2025)

Keeping up with the most recent PTE Short Answer Questions is essential to prepare well. Here are 10 sample PTE short answer questions for your reference:

 

Question Answer
What is the capital of Australia? Canberra
Who wrote "Romeo and Juliet"? William Shakespeare
What gas do plants absorb from the air during photosynthesis? Carbon Dioxide
What do we call the person who cares for teeth and oral health? Dentist
What is the largest mammal? Blue Whale
In which direction does the sun rise? East
How many wheels does a tricycle have? Three
What is the name of the story you wrote about yourself? Autobiography
What is the name of the organ responsible for pumping blood in the human body? Heart
Whose job is to cook food at restaurants? Chef
PTE Short Answer Questions (2024 - 2023)
Question Answer
What is the term for the money people pay to the government to support public services? Tax
Which of the following is not a real form of transportation: hoverboard, submarine, or spaceship? Hoverboard
How many sides does a hexagon have? Six
What do you call a doctor who specializes in treating children? Paediatrician
What is the name of a person who acts in a play or movie? Actor/Actress
If the temperature is rising, is it increasing or decreasing? Increasing
What is the name of the punctuation mark that shows the end of a question? Question mark
Is solar energy or coal a renewable energy source? Solar energy
Which planet is known as the "Red Planet"? Mars
What is the opposite of fast? Slow

 

Also Read: PTE Exam Practice Test
4.

How to Answer PTE Short Answer Questions Effectively?

When your mind is racing, finding the right words or deciding what to speak is challenging. Learn how to tackle PTE Short Answer Questions effectively with quick key strategies to improve accuracy and confidence.

Key Strategies to Answer Short Questions Quickly
Strategies to Answer PTE Short Questions

 

The PTE Short Answer Questions are designed to evaluate your listening, comprehension, and ability to provide a concise response. Given that you only have 10 seconds to answer after hearing the question, it's crucial to think quickly and articulate your thoughts clearly.

 

  • Listen Carefully: Focus on the central question without distractions.
  • Think Fast: Formulate a short, clear answer within seconds.
  • Use Keywords: Often, the question contains keywords that hint at the answer.
  • Keep It Concise: Provide clear, direct answers using one or a few words. Avoid fillers like "um" or "I think," as they waste valuable time.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even if you've prepped extensively for the PTE, it's easy to make mistakes, particularly in the short answer sections. Knowing these typical slip-ups and how to avoid them can improve your score.

 

  • Overthinking: Trust your instincts and avoid hesitation.
  • Incorrect Pronunciation: Practice common words from PTE short answer question practice resources.
  • Silence: Always attempt to answer; leaving it blank results in zero points.
  • Time Management: Remember the time allotted for each question and practice answering within 10 seconds to adapt to the pressure of the test day.

 

After all, you will naturally want the best results after investing in the PTE exam. Want to know more about the fees? Check out our detailed guide on PTE Exam Fees 2025!

Best Study Plan to Improve Your Accuracy
Best Study Plan to Improve PTE Short Answer Score

 

A well-structured study plan can sharpen your accuracy, enabling you to answer questions with both confidence and correctness. Let's explore the best methods for enhancing your precision and mastering the short answer section.

 

  • Daily Practice: Allocate time for PTE's short answer questions that were repeated from previous tests.
  • Use PDFs: Refer to PTE short answer question PDF downloads for self-practice.
  • Track Progress: Evaluate your pronunciation and clarity using speaking apps.
  • Review and Feedback: After each practice session, review your mistakes and understand why they occurred.
  • Simulate Real Test Conditions: Take full-length mock exams under timed conditions to build confidence.
5.

PTE Short Answer Questions Practice Materials

PTE short answer questions, practice materials, and online tests are designed to help you respond quickly and accurately. These tests not only help you to achieve accuracy but also help you gain confidence.

Online Practice Tests for Short Answer Questions

Practising with online tests is one of the most effective ways to prepare for PTE Short Answer Questions. Here are some reliable platforms offering PTE Short Answer Question practice tests:

 

  • Leap Scholar offer specialised PTE answer short question practice sessions with instant feedback.
  • E2Language offers structured PTE preparation with real-time feedback.
  • Apeuni PTE provides mobile-friendly mock tests with exam-level difficulty.
  • PTE Academic Official gives access to authentic materials and sample questions.
  • YouTube Channels like E2Language tutorials can help you with tips and strategies.

 

Also Read: PTE Reading Practice Test

Best Resources for PTE Speaking Practice

Finding the right resources is key to excelling in the PTE Speaking section. PTE Score 80 Course provides that extra boost to get you across the line.

 

Key features of the LeapScholar PTE Score 80 Course include:

 

  • Interactive Practice Tests: Simulate actual exam conditions.
  • Expert Guidance: Learn proven strategies from certified instructors.
  • Personalised Feedback: Get insights on pronunciation, fluency, and vocabulary.
  • Flexible Learning: Access study materials anytime, anywhere.

 

Read Next: PTE Books
6.

Expert Tips to Score High in PTE Short Answer Questions

Scoring high in PTE Short Answer Questions requires more than knowing the correct answer. It’s about thinking quickly, speaking clearly, and managing time effectively. Follow these expert tips to refine your technique and boost your score in this critical section.

Time Management Tips for Answering Quickly

Getting a handle on your time is vital to do well on the PTE Short Answer Questions. If you keep your cool and stay focused, you can answer faster and more accurately. Here are some handy tips to help you respond quickly and with confidence.

 

  • Staying calm and listening attentively will help you respond clearly.
  • Avoid pausing or using filler words like "um" or "uh," as these can lower your fluency score.
  • Practice under timed conditions by answering questions within the 10-second limit to build speed and accuracy.
  • Focus on Keywords, as this strategy works well for factual and general knowledge questions.
  • Think Fast, Speak Clear allows you to respond promptly.

 

Also Read: PTE Exam Preparation

How to Improve Pronunciation & Clarity?
How to Improve Pronunciation & Clarity

 

Improving your pronunciation and clarity is essential. These simple practices can help you spot errors, refine your speech, and boost confidence.

 

  • Record and listen to your answers.
  • Imitate native speakers using E2Language resources.
  • Use phonetics apps to fine-tune pronunciation.

 

Also Read: PTE Reading Tips and Tricks

Using Context Clues to Predict Answers

When uncertain, rely on context clues. For instance, if the question mentions planets, likely answers include Earth, Mars, or Jupiter.

 

Mastering the art of using context clues can significantly boost your chances of answering correctly, even when unsure. You can make informed guesses by focusing on keywords and the overall topic.

 

With these strategies at your disposal, it's time to explore the minimum PTE scores required to qualify for some top countries. After all, successfully cracking the exam is crucial to achieving your dream of moving abroad.


Let's look at the minimum scores required to qualify for a few of the top countries in the world:

 

 

Also Read: PTE score in bands

 

Mastering PTE Short Answer Questions requires consistent practice, strategic preparation, and focus on pronunciation and fluency. To further strengthen your preparation, join LeapScholar's PTE Score 80 Course, a step-by-step programme to help you reach your target score!

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FAQs

Q. What are the short answer questions in PTE?

Ans. PTE Short Answer Questions are part of the Speaking and Listening section of the PTE exam. You’ll hear a question or see an image, then respond with a brief answer. These questions assess your ability to understand and convey information concisely, typically requiring a one or two-word response.

Q. How many short answer questions are in PTE?

Ans. The PTE exam short answer questions section usually contains 10 to 12 questions. They evaluate your listening and speaking skills by testing how accurately you can respond to direct questions. The number may vary depending on the version of the test.

Q. Is PTE harder than IELTS?

Ans. PTE and IELTS differ in format, but PTE Short Answer Questions can be easier for some due to their automated scoring and clear structure. IELTS involves human examiners and more subjective assessments, while PTE relies on AI-based evaluation, which may appeal to those comfortable with technology.

Q. Can you fail the PTE exam?

Ans. PTE doesn’t have a traditional pass or fail. It provides a score ranging from 10 to 90. Low scores may limit opportunities, but you can retake the test. Performing well in PTE Short Answer Questions can positively impact your overall score.

Q. How do you answer short questions in PTE?

Ans. To tackle PTE Short Answer Questions effectively, listen carefully, comprehend the question, and respond concisely. Provide a one or two-word answer. Stay calm, maintain clear pronunciation, and avoid overthinking. Practice with sample PTE exam short answer questions for confidence.

Q. How do you increase your PTE score?

Ans. Boost your PTE score by enhancing all sections, especially the PTE Short Answer Questions. Improve listening, practice clear pronunciation, and expand your vocabulary. Use mock exams and time yourself when practising. Identifying weak areas and working on them can significantly improve your score.

Q. How are short answer questions scored in PTE?

Ans. PTE Short Answer Questions are scored based on accuracy and pronunciation. Correct answers receive points, while incorrect ones score zero. Clear and precise responses are essential. Unlike other sections, these questions have no partial scoring; it's all or nothing.

Q. Where can I find PTE answer short question PDFs?

Ans. You can access PDFs of the PTE exam short answer questions on educational platforms like E2Language, PTE Tutorials, and study forums. Many websites offer free and paid resources, practice questions, and mock tests to help you familiarise yourself with the question format.

Q. What are the best tips for answering short questions in PTE?

Ans. For success in PTE Short Answer Questions, listen attentively, respond promptly, and speak clearly. Avoid hesitating or giving lengthy answers. Practice using PTE exam short answer questions available in question banks or preparation guides to build accuracy and confidence.

Q. How Much Time Do I Have to Answer the Question?

Ans. You have about 10 seconds to respond to PTE Short Answer Questions. The microphone activates once the question finishes, and you must answer promptly. Delaying may result in the microphone closing, leading to no recorded response.

Q. How Long Should My Answer Be?

Ans. Your response should be brief for PTE Short Answer Questions, usually one or two words. Avoid unnecessary details. Clear, accurate answers are sufficient to earn points. Practicing PTE exam short answer questions can help you master concise responses.