How many mock tests should we take before our real PTE test?

Many candidates may ask this question because they are afraid they don’t have enough practice.

This article from LUME will help you answer this question.

Plus, we will reveal mistakes students usually make while taking mock tests and have time to turn your focus on the review.

Let’s start right away.

Key Takeaways

• A PTE mock test mimics the real test’s format and scoring system. 
• The number of mock tests you can take depends on your needs and skill levels. We will help you find out the ideal number in the next part!
• Though some factors can affect their accuracy, they are a great way to improve language skills and time management.
• Candidates would better skip testing and move to review when they have a consistent score, feel overwhelmed, and more.
• Mistakes to avoid while practicing will also be included in this article.

Related:

• FREE online PTE Academic practice
• PTE collocation list – why is it so important?
• PTE tips and tricks to get higher scores

What Is A PTE Mock Test? 

A PTE mock test is a practice version replicating the real one in length and format. It includes sections that assess your speaking, reading, listening, and writing skills.

Candidates can easily find these tests on online websites or at educational centers. By working with the practice version, students will get used to the format, know how to do each task, and manage time better. 

Like the actual version, mock tests also produce results that help you identify your weak points that need to be improved. It indicates whether your level is enough for a real test. If not, you can practice more to enhance your skills. 

How Accurate Is A PTE Mock Test?

Compared to a real PTE test, a mock test’s result can be different. This incorrectness happens due to many factors. 

Scoring system

Though the scoring criteria of a real PTE test have been published, some details remain unrevealed. Thus, a mock test may need to apply its own scoring system, which might be a little different from the real one.

Microphone’s quality

You should not underestimate this factor as it can affect your mock test result. Imagine you have a bad microphone quality; the system can’t recognize your answer, leading to misscoring. 

Internet connection

You may not notice, but your internet speed can slow down your mock test-taking process. So, it can affect the final result, too. 

Despite the above factors, taking mock tests before the real exam is a great method to practice your language and time management skills. 

How Many Mock Tests Should You Take Before The Real Test?

The answer depends on your knowledge, individual needs, learning styles, and time available for preparation.

In general, 3 mock tests are an average number for students to practice and make some improvements. For intense studying, you may need 6 to 10 tests. 

However, the number of mock tests is not the main thing. The more you practice may not indicate good preparation. 

Once you complete practice, you should read the score report to understand your performance. Write down your mistake, correct it, and make it better next time. 

Furthermore, if you have a limited time before the real exam, working with too many practice versions can be overwhelming and impossible. Focusing on a maximum of 3 tests, figuring out how to fix your mistakes, and improving your answers are keys to being ready and building confidence. 

6 Common Mistakes To Avoid When Taking PTE Mock Tests

To make your preparation time more effective, you should not:

• Skip preparation: You should build a solid foundation before starting a mock test. Only with some knowledge can you perform it effectively.
• Ignore test format and instructions: Don’t just start a task without reading the instructions carefully. It helps you familiarize yourself with the real format and avoid confusion.
• Skip answer review: As mentioned above, quality is better than quantity. Always read feedback, analyze your answer, and improve next time.
• Use unreliable materials: You should avoid outdated materials by using reliable sources from reliable platforms, such as the LUME Test, to guarantee the best result.
• Practice in a distracting or relaxing environment: Though it’s just a practice, you should do it properly, like a real exam would. Imagine how pressure the exam day is; avoid all distractions and focus on your mock tests. 
• Practice inconsistently: Inconsistent practice may become a challenge for your skills to shine. Practicing regularly can save you time and create better improvement. 

When To Stop Taking Mock Tests And Focus On Final Review

There are situations when you can shift your focus on the final review instead of taking practice versions:

• Consistent scores: Having similar scores after tests may indicate you’re already proficient or … have no changes. It’s time to stop and read all the feedback to figure out what more you can do for a better result.
• Target your weakness: Mock tests may not be useful if you can’t consolidate the knowledge and correct yourself. Stopping doing the tests for a while and focusing on other targeted exercises can be a better strategy.
• Feel overwhelmed: When you feel testing time is too much, it’s time to shift gears and pay attention to review skills and techniques. Or even relax. 
• No more new insights: If you find the tests bring no new insights or have no help for improvement, you may need another strategy than getting too many tests done without results. 
• The exam date is close: At this moment, you may want to skip new tests, refine your strategy, and get mentally prepared. 

Conclusion

How many mock tests should we take before our real PTE test?

The average number is 3, but it also depends on your knowledge, learning style, and exam time.

Mock tests are an appropriate approach to improve your language skills and prepare for your performance.

You can start by practicing with a FREE LUME account today!

(Read our Vietnamese version here)