PTE RE-ORDER PARAGRAPH TIPS: A COMPLETE GUIDE
The Re-order Paragraph task in the PTE Academic exam tests your ability to logically arrange a jumbled set of sentences into a coherent and meaningful paragraph. This section assesses your understanding of cohesion, coherence, and paragraph structure. To perform well, you need strong reading skills, logical thinking, and a systematic approach.
Here are detailed tips to excel in this section:
1. Understand the Task Clearly
You are given 4-6 sentences in random order. Your job is to arrange these sentences to form a meaningful paragraph. The paragraph should be logically connected, grammatically correct, and maintain a clear flow of ideas.
PTE RE-ORDER PARAGRAPH TIPS
2. Look for the Topic Sentence or Introduction
Usually, the paragraph begins with a topic sentence or an introductory sentence that introduces the main idea. This sentence often:
• Mentions the subject or theme.
• Does not refer back to anything before.
• Is more general than the other sentences.
Look for clues like:
• Sentences that introduce a concept or situation.
• Sentences that do not contain pronouns referring back.
PTE RE-ORDER PARAGRAPH TIPS
Example:
If the paragraph is about “Benefits of exercise,” a sentence like “Exercise is essential for maintaining good health” is likely the first sentence.
3. Identify the Conclusion or Closing Sentence
The last sentence often:
• Summarizes the paragraph.
• Offers a concluding thought or final opinion.
• Might contain phrases like “In conclusion,” “Therefore,” or “Thus.”
If a sentence seems to wrap up the idea, place it last.
PTE RE-ORDER PARAGRAPH TIPS
4. Look for Pronoun and Connector Clues
• Pronouns like he, she, it, they, this, these, that, those often refer back to something mentioned earlier. Use these references to connect sentences.
• Connectors and transitional words such as however, moreover, therefore, but, firstly, finally, in addition guide the flow and order.
Example:
• “This problem” → refers to an issue explained earlier.
• “However” indicates a contrast or a shift.
PTE RE-ORDER PARAGRAPH TIPS
5. Check for Chronological or Logical Order
Some paragraphs describe processes or events in sequence. Look for time markers like:
• First, then, next, after that, finally.
• Dates or times indicating sequence.
If the paragraph is a story or process, arrange the sentences according to this timeline.
6. Group Related Sentences
Sometimes, two or more sentences share a common idea or detail. Group these sentences together. For example, if two sentences discuss causes, put them side by side before the effect or conclusion.
PTE RE-ORDER PARAGRAPH TIPS
7. Use Content Clues and Repetition
• Look for repeated keywords or synonyms.
• Words that indicate elaboration or example, such as for example, such as, including, help connect ideas.
• Sentences elaborating a particular point should follow that point.
8. Eliminate Options and Use Trial and Error
If you find multiple possible arrangements, test each by reading aloud or mentally to check if the paragraph sounds natural and logical. Avoid abrupt topic changes or sudden references.
PTE RE-ORDER PARAGRAPH TIPS
9. Practice Common Paragraph Types
Familiarize yourself with common paragraph types:
• Definition paragraphs.
• Cause and effect.
• Problem and solution.
• Compare and contrast.
• Chronological sequences.
Knowing these patterns helps you predict the flow.
PTE RE-ORDER PARAGRAPH TIPS
10. Improve Vocabulary and Grammar
Better vocabulary helps recognize synonyms and paraphrases. Grammar knowledge helps spot correct sentence connections, especially verb tenses and subject-verb agreement.
11. Manage Your Time Efficiently
You typically get around 40 seconds per question. Practice arranging paragraphs quickly but carefully. Don’t spend too long on a single question.
12. Tips for Using the PTE Interface
• Drag and drop sentences to reorder them.
• Start by placing the first and last sentences.
• Then fill in the middle sentences logically.
• Use keyboard shortcuts if available to speed up.
PTE RE-ORDER PARAGRAPH TIPS
13. Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Starting with a sentence that refers back to something not introduced yet.
• Ignoring pronoun references.
• Arranging sentences in a way that breaks logical flow.
• Missing transitional clues.
14. Practice Regularly
• Use PTE preparation books, online practice tests, and apps.
• Time yourself.
• Review explanations for correct answers.
• Focus on understanding why the correct order works.
Sample Approach for a Practice Question
PTE RE-ORDER PARAGRAPH TIPS
Given sentences:
A) Regular exercise improves cardiovascular health.
B) It also helps in reducing stress and anxiety.
C) Exercise is an essential part of a healthy lifestyle.
D) Therefore, doctors recommend at least 30 minutes of physical activity daily.
Step 1: Identify the introductory sentence: C) “Exercise is an essential part of a healthy lifestyle.”
Step 2: Follow with details: A) and B) explain benefits.
Step 3: Conclusion: D) summarizes with a recommendation.
Final order: C → A → B → D
The Re-order Paragraph task tests your ability to logically and grammatically organize information. Use the tips above, practice often, and develop an intuitive feel for paragraph flow. With consistent practice, you will improve your speed and accuracy and score well in this section of the PTE exam.
PTE RE-ORDER PARAGRAPH TIPS
