Multiple Choice Single Answer: Overview and Tips | Listening Section for PTE PDF Download

Read the question and options before the audio starts

The initial advice in our PTE Listening Multiple Choice Single Answer tips and strategies is as follows: Take a moment to read the question and options before the audio commences! Before the audio begins, you have a brief period during which you can swiftly review the question and provided choices. This allows you to gain insight into the upcoming audio content and helps you identify what to listen for.

Keep an eye on options while listening to the audio

While listening, focus on comprehension, but simultaneously keep an eye on the options, as ultimately, you aim to match them with the audio. If feasible, attempt to narrow down a few options by the conclusion of the audio.

Take notes of important points

Note taking is absolutely essential in most listening questions. It is very difficult to understand and remember all the key points in an audio. Therefore, take notes to remember the main points. When the audio ends this will form the basis on which you will answer the question.

Validate all options one by one

Moving on to the next item on our list of PTE Listening Multiple Choice Single Answer Tips and Tricks: Confirm all options! Even if you believe you've identified the correct choice, take a few moments to review the other options. Frequently, questions feature a pair of options that are quite similar. By validating all options, you increase your chances of selecting the correct one.

Don’t spend too much time on any one question

After the audio has ended give yourself a fixed amount of time – 2 minutes or so to come up with the answer. If still confused after that time, make your best guess and then move to the next question.

Visualize while listening for better understanding

For every PTE Listening question, it's essential to engage in active listening with a concentration on comprehension. The most effective approach to understanding is to create a mental image and integrate the audio into that visualization. While we tend to forget what we read or hear, it's generally easier to recall what we visualize.

Practice with a variety of authentic audios every day

Within PTE Academic, various questions feature diverse types of audio. While all originate from academic contexts, certain recordings may involve male voices, others female voices, and accents can range from American to British. It's crucial to be adept at understanding various accents commonly encountered and to comprehend audios delivered at varying paces, whether slow or fast.

Answer based on the notes you have taken

Your final answer should primarily rely on the notes you've taken. While your understanding is also significant, strive to capture comprehensive notes whenever possible. This approach will facilitate the process of selecting the correct option.

Don’t use your general knowledge

Ground your response on the audio's content rather than your personal bias or general knowledge. Even if you possess information about the main topic discussed in the audio, you cannot utilize it to answer the question unless that specific point is explicitly mentioned.

Eliminate the wrong answers before finalizing your response

After pinpointing the correct option, take a few moments to consider the other choices. There's a possibility that you may discover a more fitting answer.