How to Score High in PTE Listening
If you’re aiming for a high band score in the PTE Listening section, you need more than just good ears — you need smart strategy, time management, and consistent practice.
Here’s a complete guide to help you boost your PTE Listening score effectively.
Understanding the PTE Listening Section
The PTE Listening test lasts around 30–43 minutes and includes 8 different task types.
It checks how well you understand spoken English in academic and everyday contexts.
Listening tasks come after the Reading and Speaking sections, so staying focused till the end is crucial.
PTE Listening Task Types and Tips
1. Summarize Spoken Text
Skill tested: Listening + Writing
You’ll listen to a short audio and write a 50–70-word summary.
How to Score High in PTE Listening
Tips:
-Take brief notes using keywords.
-Use a simple structure like:
The lecture discussed [topic]. The speaker explained [main point] and emphasized [key detail].
-Focus on grammar, coherence, and spelling.
2. Multiple Choice, Multiple Answers
Tip: These have negative marking, so choose only the most accurate options.
If you’re unsure, pick one strong answer instead of guessing.
3. Fill in the Blanks (Listening)
Tip: Listen carefully and fill missing words in the transcript.
-Focus on collocations like “make a decision” or “take responsibility.”
-Spelling accuracy matters a lot here.
4. Highlight Correct Summary
Before the audio starts, quickly read all options.
Choose the one that best covers the main idea and tone of the speaker, not just one detail.
How to Score High in PTE Listening
5. Multiple Choice, Single Answer
Only one correct option.
Focus on the main point and speaker’s attitude rather than every word.
6. Select Missing Word
You’ll hear a beep at the end of the audio — your task is to choose the missing word or phrase.
Tip: Pay attention to the context and tone just before the beep.
7. Highlight Incorrect Words
The transcript will appear on screen, but some words differ from what’s spoken.
Tip: Follow the text with your cursor and click immediately when you hear a mismatch.
Avoid guessing, as wrong clicks lose marks.
8. Write from Dictation
This is the most scoring task in Listening.
You’ll hear a short sentence and must type it exactly as spoken.
How to Score High in PTE Listening
Tips:
-Break the sentence into small chunks mentally.
-Double-check spelling and punctuation.
-Each correct word gives marks for both Listening and Writing.
Smart Strategies to Boost Your Listening Score
1. Build concentration: Train yourself to stay alert for 40+ minutes.
2. Practice with quality headphones to simulate exam conditions.
3. Take quick notes — develop your own shorthand style.
Don’t panic if you miss a word; focus on the next.
Listen to multiple accents (Australian, British, American).
Manage your time wisely — focus more on high-scoring tasks.
Target Strategy for 79+ Score
-Aim for 100% accuracy in Write from Dictation
-Score 90%+ in Listening Fill in the Blanks
-Write structured answers in Summarize Spoken Text
-Avoid negative marking in Multiple Choice questions
How to Score High in PTE Listening
Final Words
Scoring high in PTE Listening isn’t just about understanding English — it’s about strategy, focus, and precision.
If you practice regularly, pay attention to details, and manage your time well, achieving your target score is completely possible.
Pro Tip:
Spend more time on Write from Dictation and Fill in the Blanks — these tasks carry the maximum weight in your final listening score.
How to Score High in PTE Listening