PTE Essay Writing 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: In the PTE 'Write Essay' task, what is the minimum word count required to avoid a penalty?
- 100 words
- 150 words
- 200 words
- 250 words (Correct answer)
Correct answer: 250 words
The PTE Write Essay task requires a minimum of 200–300 words, and responses under 200 words lose points; the target band is 200–300 words with 200 being the floor.
Question 2: Which PTE essay score dimension specifically evaluates whether your argument is logically organized and easy to follow?
- Vocabulary Range
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy
- Discourse Coherence (Correct answer)
- Spelling
Correct answer: Discourse Coherence
Discourse Coherence assesses how logically and clearly ideas are organized, linked, and presented throughout the essay.
Question 3: When writing a PTE argumentative essay, where should your thesis statement ideally appear?
- In the first body paragraph
- At the end of the conclusion
- In the introduction paragraph (Correct answer)
- In the second body paragraph
Correct answer: In the introduction paragraph
The thesis statement should appear in the introduction to clearly state your position before you develop supporting arguments.
Question 4: A student writes: 'There are many reasons why education is important, I will discuss them.' What is the main weakness of this sentence?
- It uses the first person
- It contains a comma splice (Correct answer)
- It is too short
- It uses passive voice
Correct answer: It contains a comma splice
Joining two independent clauses with only a comma creates a comma splice, which is a grammatical error that lowers the score.
Question 5: In PTE essay scoring, what does the 'Vocabulary Range' criterion reward?
- Using as many words as possible
- Using diverse, precise, and contextually appropriate word choices (Correct answer)
- Avoiding complex vocabulary to ensure clarity
- Repeating key terms for emphasis
Correct answer: Using diverse, precise, and contextually appropriate word choices
Vocabulary Range rewards the use of varied, accurate, and contextually suitable words rather than repetition or unnecessary complexity.
Question 6: Which transitional phrase best introduces a contrasting idea in a PTE essay?
- Furthermore
- In addition
- Nevertheless (Correct answer)
- Similarly
Correct answer: Nevertheless
'Nevertheless' signals a contrast or concession, making it appropriate for introducing an opposing point or counterargument.
Question 7: A PTE essay prompt says 'Discuss both views and give your own opinion.' Which structure is most appropriate?
- State one view only and argue for it strongly
- Present both views in separate paragraphs, then state your opinion (Correct answer)
- Write only your personal opinion with no reference to other views
- Present both views in the introduction and skip body paragraphs
Correct answer: Present both views in separate paragraphs, then state your opinion
This prompt type requires balanced coverage of both perspectives in body paragraphs before you clearly state and support your own opinion.
PTE Essay Writing 2
In the PTE 'Write Essay' task, what is the minimum word count required to avoid a penalty?