HOW TO MANAGE TIME IN THE PTE READING
The PTE Academic Reading section is one of the most time-pressured parts of the test. With a time limit of 29 to 30 minutes, you must complete 5 different types of questions with varying levels of difficulty. Efficient time management is the key to performing well. This article provides practical strategies to help you use your time wisely and avoid common traps.
1. Understand the Format and Timing
The PTE Reading section includes the following tasks (order may vary):
1. Reading & Writing: Fill in the Blanks
2. Multiple Choice, Multiple Answers
3. Re-order Paragraphs
4. Fill in the Blanks (Drag and Drop)
5. Multiple Choice, Single Answer
HOW TO MANAGE TIME IN THE PTE READING
Total time for all these is 29–30 minutes, and there’s no individual time limit per question, meaning you control how long you spend on each.
2. Allocate Time Per Question Type
To avoid rushing at the end, it’s important to allocate approximate time per question:
| Task | Recommended Time |
| Reading & Writing: Fill Blanks | 2–2.5 mins per item |
| Multiple Choice (Multiple) | 1.5 mins per item |
| Re-order Paragraphs | 2 mins per item |
| Fill in the Blanks (Drag & Drop) | 1.5 mins per item |
| Multiple Choice (Single) | 1 min per item |
Keep a close eye on the timer and move on if a question takes too long.
3. Use Skimming and Scanning Techniques
– Skimming helps you understand the overall idea of the passage.
– Scanning helps you locate specific information or keywords quickly.
Don’t read the entire passage in detail. Train yourself to read smart, not slow.
HOW TO MANAGE TIME IN THE PTE READING
4. Don’t Waste Time on Multiple Choice (Multiple Answers)
This is a low-scoring question type, but it consumes a lot of time. Avoid overthinking. If you’re unsure, select your best guess and move on quickly. Spending too much time here can hurt your overall score.
5. Use Elimination Strategy
For multiple-choice questions, eliminate clearly wrong options first. This narrows down your choices and saves time. Often, spotting the distractors helps you arrive at the right answer faster.
HOW TO MANAGE TIME IN THE PTE READING
6. Master Re-order Paragraphs Efficiently
This task can be time-consuming, so:
– Identify opening and concluding sentences quickly.
– Look for linking words (e.g., however, therefore, meanwhile).
– Don’t waste time trying every combination—use logic to guide your guesses.
Spend no more than 2 minutes here, even if you’re unsure.
7. Practice Typing and Dragging Skills
Time can be lost just in dragging and dropping or typing answers. Practice using the PTE interface so your hand movements are quick and accurate. Every second counts.
HOW TO MANAGE TIME IN THE PTE READING
8. Don’t Go Back – Trust Your First Attempt
Since you can’t return to previous questions, make your best choice and move on. Avoid second-guessing yourself, especially if you’re running out of time.
9. Keep 1 Minute Buffer for the Final Question
Try to keep at least 1 minute for the last task—usually “Multiple Choice, Single Answer.” It’s easy but often rushed. A calm final answer can give you some last-minute points.
HOW TO MANAGE TIME IN THE PTE READING
10. Practice With Timed Mock Tests
No tip will help unless you practice under real test conditions. Take timed reading mock tests regularly. This helps develop a natural sense of pacing and builds confidence in managing time without stress.
PTE Reading is a test of speed, skill, and strategy. By allocating time wisely, practicing skimming/scanning, and avoiding time traps, you can maximize your score. Remember, it’s not about reading everything—it’s about reading smartly and quickly.
HOW TO MANAGE TIME IN THE PTE READING
