Are you gearing up for the write from dictation task of the listening section of the PTE exam? Struggling to improve your accuracy and speed? Look no further! In this blog, we’ll provide you with essential PTE write from dictation tips, proven hacks, and a variety of practice questions to help you ace this crucial part of the PTE exam.
Whether you are a beginner or looking to refine your existing skills, our comprehensive guide will equip you with everything you need to succeed. Let’s dive into the PTE Write From Dictation task and take your preparation to the next level!
What is PTE Write from Dictation Task?
| Task | After listening to a recording of a sentence, type the sentence. |
| Prompt Length | 3-5 Seconds |
| Skills Assessed | Listening & Writing |
| Time To Answer | Not Applicable |
How To Answer The Question:
For this question of PTE exam format, you will hear a short sentence and need to type it into the response box at the bottom of the screen.
The audio will play automatically; you can only listen to it once.
Be sure to check your spelling before submitting.
Note: You can take notes on the erasable noteboard during the audio.
How Scoring is Done in PTE Write from Dictation
In the Write from Dictation task, your score depends on how well you listen to a sentence, remember it, and write it exactly as you hear it, with correct spelling. Scoring is based on a partial credit system, where partial credit is given for each word spelled correctly.
Here’s how scoring works:
- Accuracy of Words: Your response must include all the words from the sentence and only those words.
- Correct Spelling: You get full points if every word is correct and spelled properly. If there are mistakes, you’ll receive partial credit based on the number of correct words.
| Scoring | |
| 1 | Each correct word is spelled correctly |
| 0 | Each incorrect or misspelled word |
✅ PTE Write from Dictation Tips & Tricks
💡Listen Actively:
- Sharpen your listening skills by focusing on individual words and their pronunciation. This helps you catch every word, even in fast-paced sentences.
- Regularly listen to native speakers through podcasts, audiobooks, and videos to familiarize yourself with accents and variations in speech patterns.
Hack: Pause frequently while listening and summarize what you heard in your own words to ensure comprehension and retention.
💡Use Note-Taking Strategies:
- Develop an efficient shorthand system to capture keywords or phrases quickly while listening. For instance, write abbreviations for longer words or focus on unique terms.
- Practice note-taking under timed conditions to ensure you can do it swiftly during the exam.
Hack: Before starting a dictation, quickly review the key concepts or topics related to the sentences to improve context-based note-taking.
💡Improve Your Memory
- Work on improving your short-term memory by listening to sentences and repeating them immediately before writing.
- Use memory-enhancing techniques like chunking—breaking down sentences into smaller, manageable parts for better recall.
Hack: Create mental “hooks” by associating specific words or phrases with visual or emotional cues to strengthen memory retention.
💡Practice Typing Speed
- Enhance your typing skills to ensure you can record sentences quickly and accurately within the allotted time.
- Use online typing practice tools like Typing.com or Keybr to build speed and precision.
Hack: While typing, use a two-finger method initially to build muscle memory for common phrases before progressing to a full touch-typing approach.
💡Focus on Spelling and Grammar
- Pay attention to commonly misspelled words and frequently used phrases in academic English.
- Familiarize yourself with proper punctuation rules—like capitalizing the first word and ending sentences with appropriate punctuation marks.
Hack: After reviewing your errors, create flashcards of commonly confused words or tricky grammar rules and quiz yourself regularly.
💡Simulate Test Conditions
- Practice in a quiet environment, mimicking the real test conditions to get used to concentrating under pressure.
- Use a timer for each practice session to develop time management skills and test your ability to respond quickly.
Hack: Use a stopwatch or phone timer for every practice session, gradually decreasing the time allowed as you improve.
💡Practice with a Wide Range of Sentences
- Expose yourself to sentences of varying lengths and complexities. Start with simpler sentences and gradually progress to more complex ones.
- Access question banks or practice books specifically designed for PTE Write from Dictation tasks.
Hack: Highlight complex or unfamiliar words in practice sentences and revisit them to improve understanding and usage.
💡Review Incorrect Answers
- After every practice session, review your mistakes to identify patterns in errors—be it spelling, missed words, or incorrect grammar.
- Focus on improving your weak areas by practicing similar sentences repeatedly until you master them.
Hack: Create mini quizzes from your mistakes and test yourself on those areas to strengthen weak points.
💡Use Voice Recording for Practice
- Record sentences in your voice or download audio clips to practice. Write from Dictation tasks at home.
- Play back recordings and transcribe them to simulate the test. This technique improves your listening and writing coordination.
Hack: After transcribing a recording, compare it with a sample answer to see where you can improve both accuracy and fluency.
Mistakes to Avoid ❌
Overthinking
- Do not second-guess every word you write. Trust your notes and memory, as overanalyzing can lead to unnecessary errors.
Not Reviewing Work
- Take a few seconds to review your response. Before moving to the next question, check for typos, missing words, or grammar issues.
Writing Extra Words
- Stick to what you hear. Adding extra words to make the sentence sound logical will not help you.
Relying Solely on Memory
- Combine memory with effective note-taking to ensure you do not miss key details.
Also Read: PTE Essay Writing Template – Ace Your PTE Academic Exam!!
👉 PTE Write from Dictation Template
Listen Carefully:
- Listen to the audio carefully, as it plays only once.
Take Notes:
- Utilize the erasable note board to jot down key points or spellings you are unsure of.
Type Your Response:
- Type the sentence into the response box without pausing or breaking the flow.
Check Spelling:
- Ensure that there are no spelling errors before submitting your answer.
Practice Question & Answers For Write From Dictation
Here are some predictive questions that might appear in your PTE exam. So go through them and practice for scoring high.
Audio 1:
Transcript :
It is important to plan your study time carefully.
Audio 2:
Transcript:
The library is a quiet place to study, research, and find resources.
Audio 3:
Transcript:
Students must submit assignments online through the university’s learning platform.
Audio 4:
Transcript:
Students must observe lab safety regulations at all times.
Audio 5:
Transcript:
They were struggling last year to make their service pay.
Audio 6:
Transcript:
The department works closely with its partners in the business community.
Also Read: PTE Academic Score Update – Human Verification For Describe Image & Retell Lecture
Master Write from Dictation Through Mock Test Practice:
Elevate your dictation skills with Gurully’s dynamic online practice platform. Practice on full-length mock tests that mirror the real exam experience, helping you identify your strengths and areas for improvement. Dive into section-wise tests and refine your skills with question-specific practice. Plus, explore prediction files for a more focused and efficient practice session. Access your training anytime, anywhere, with our mobile app for on-the-go practice.
Conclusion:
The PTE Write from Dictation task is an essential section that evaluates both listening and writing skills. Success in this task relies on accurately transcribing sentences while focusing on correct spelling, grammar, and punctuation. Candidates can boost their performance by actively listening, utilizing note-taking strategies, improving memory, and enhancing typing speed.
Simulating test conditions and reviewing mistakes are crucial steps in mastering this section. With consistent practice and the application of effective techniques, test-takers can enhance their overall score.
