Most candidates think writing essays is one of the most difficult tasks of the PTE exam.

Therefore, PTE essay writing tips are must-known for all PTE test takers.

These tips will give you a general idea of how to arrange time, what and how to write, and what not to do during the section.

Check out the following guide by LUME Test for more info.

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Key Takeaways

• PTE essay writing tests your written communication skills, analytical skills, and ability to express opinions in English.
• The task requires candidates to identify proper essay types and use the correct format.
• Things that they should not do during the test will be revealed in the last section.

Related:

• PTE exam mock tests with answers
• PTE study plan
• PTE Writing overview

Overview of PTE Essay Writing 

This task belongs to the Speaking and Writing section, and it’s designed to assess candidates’ writing skills.

Test takers need to show a wide range of vocabulary and grammar knowledge, as well as critical thinking and the ability to transform it into a coherent piece of writing.

You’ll have 20 minutes to write an essay of 200-300 words on the given topic.

There will be 1-2 questions in this task.

Before getting to the PTE essay writing tips, it’s necessary to know the scoring criteria to see what you should focus on:

Criteria	Maximum score
Content	3
Formal requirement	2
Development, structure, and coherence	2
General linguistic range	2
Grammar	2
Vocabulary range	2
Spelling	2

PTE Essay Writing Tips 

Following the below PTE essay writing tips will help you ace the task:

Quickly Think About The Topic

Before starting your task, you need to read the prompt carefully (at least 2 times) to understand it properly and get important information.

Let’s think about what you’ve already known about it, your intended opinion or solution, etc.

Identify The Essay Type

There are different types of essays requiring appropriate format for each.

Candidates need to practice a lot before the real test to train their skills in identifying and using the proper format.

Four common types of essays are: 

• Argumentative/Agree or Disagree: In this type, candidates will read two opinions and need to choose one side to stand for, write the reasons for it, and provide supporting examples.
• Discussion/Advantages and Disadvantages: Test takers need to write about the pros and cons of one specific topic.
• Problem-Solution: The prompt will present a problem and ask candidates to write about what they will do (solution) for the issue.
• Opinion: In this type, you’ll be given a topic and need to present your opinion or point of view. 

Use Proper Essay Structure

The basic structure should include an introduction, 2 body paragraphs, and a conclusion.

Depending on the types of essays you face in the test, the 2 body parts can be 2 opposite ideas or 2 pieces of evidence supporting one opinion. 

Keep It Simple 

Though you’re asked to write in an academic style, it’s not necessary to always apply too complicated words and structures (only in the case you’re familiar with them).

The essay should flow well with word diversity and structure harmony.  

Yet, when you’re unsure, you’d better stick with words and grammar you know well.

Include Example

Use something strong and verified, such as facts and examples, to back up your ideas. 

It will make your work sound logical and professional. 

Plus, you can easily reach the required word count with examples. 

Keep Track Of Time

Time management plays an important role in writing essays. 

You should spare time smartly and keep track of it to ensure task completion.

Many students write immediately without planning and write until the last moment without proofreading. It’s a huge mistake. 

If you don’t spend some time generating ideas, you may get stuck while proceeding with the task.

And with no time for reviewing, you’ll miss your chance to fix typing, grammar, and other unwanted silly mistakes. 

Here’s how you should spare your time:

• You should spend 2 minutes reading, selecting the main points, and planning what to write.
• The next 15 minutes are to transform your idea into proper written form.
• Then, ensure you have the last 2-3 minutes to review your work. 

Know Your Weaknesses

It’s good if you know your grammar weaknesses and are always alert to mistakes you may make.

In other words, you should write your essay as carefully as possible. 

Always Proofread

As mentioned above, the last 2-3 minutes are necessary for proofreading.

You need to check for dictation, grammar structures, word count, punctuation, and capitalization.  

What Should You Avoid In PTE Essay Writing? 

• Don’t Write Immediately

The first thing you should avoid in writing is to start writing immediately. You’d better spend some time comprehending the prompt, noting down important points, and quickly managing your essay. It will help you save time later.

• Don’t Repeat Words

Paraphrasing and using synonyms are necessary to avoid repeating words and create interesting content. 

You’ll receive a good point by showing diverse and appropriate vocabulary.

• Don’t Use Note/ Bullet Form

Academic style and full sentences are criteria in the PTE test. Using bullet points will affect your mark. 

• Don’t Try To Reach The Word Limit By All Means

You need to follow the word count requirement, but not by all means, as extending an essay for the sake of length may lower your writing quality.

• Don’t Have Enough Practice

It’s always better to practice before sitting the PTE exam. Not having enough time to prepare will confuse you while writing. 

Conclusion 

Applying the above PTE essay writing tips will increase your score significantly.

They may seem overwhelming at first, but if you keep practicing, you’ll get familiar with all types of essays in the task and can complete them well.

Want to FINALLY Pass the PTE Test And Achieve Your Goals? Get Your FREE Lume Account Today to Unlock… ✅ 10,000+ PRACTICE QUESTIONS with detailed answers ✅ FREE MOCK TESTS with fast & accurate AI scoring ✅ Get BETTER SCORES with a PERSONALIZED study plan GET YOUR FREE ACCOUNT NOW (Limited seats available!)