Speaking can be one of the toughest parts of the PTE Academic exam, especially if you’re preparing for a PTE course to study, work, or settle in Australia. It’s completely normal to feel a bit nervous if English isn’t your first language. But here’s the good news: with the right approach and practice, anyone can boost their speaking score.
In this guide, we’ll share 10 practical tips to ace the PTE Speaking section. Plus, we’ll break down the latest PTE speaking format, explain how your performance is scored, and give you simple ways to sound confident and fluent on test day.
1. Understand the PTE Speaking Format First
Before you start your practice, firstly know what to expect.
The PTE Speaking section is the first part of the test and includes the following task types:
- Read Aloud
- Repeat Sentence
- Describe Image
- Re-tell Lecture
- Answer Short Question
So, how many questions are there in PTE Speaking? Typically, there are around 30–35 tasks across these five formats. However, the number may vary depending on the test set.
2. Train With a PTE Speaking Mock Test
Taking a full PTE speaking mock test under real test conditions helps you handle the pressure of the actual exam. It also gives you insights into how your voice, fluency, and pronunciation are scored.
Mock tests help:
- Build confidence
- Improve timing
- Familiarise you with automated scoring
Many students report that regular mock practice boosted their speaking scores more than grammar drills.
3. Don’t Aim for a Native Accent – Focus on Clarity
One myth among test takers is that sounding like a native speaker will earn you a higher score. In reality, PTE Academic speaking scores are based on:
- Oral fluency
- Pronunciation
- Content accuracy
Clarity matter more than accent. Your voice should be clear, natural, and steady. Avoid speaking too fast or too slowly.
4. Use Fillers Wisely
It’s okay to use natural-sounding fillers like “Well,” or “Let me see,” if you need a second to think. Just don’t overdo it. Overuse can hurt your oral fluency score, but used sparingly, it can make you sound more natural and confident.
5. Practice Daily With Describe Image Tasks
“Describe Image” is a section where many students lose marks. This task requires structure, not just speed.
Try using a format like:
- Introduction (What type of image is it?)
- Main Features (Trends, comparisons, extremes)
- Conclusion (Summary or insight)
For example:
“This bar chart compares the sales of four mobile brands. Samsung leads in 2023, while Nokia shows a decline. Overall, the trend indicates increasing dominance of newer brands.”
6. Strengthen Your Memory for “Repeat Sentence”
The “Repeat Sentence” task tests both your listening and short-term memory. A strong memory helps you retain sentences up to 15 words long.
- Use these methods:
- Chunking (grouping words)
- Visualization
- Shadowing technique (repeat immediately after hearing)
This is where a quality English language speaking course can provide expert techniques to improve retention and delivery.
7. Watch Your Microphone Placement
It may sound basic, but microphone issues can ruin your score. Make sure:
The mic is close, but not directly in front of your mouth.
You avoid breathing heavily into it.
You speak clearly without background noise.
In most test centres, you’ll get 10–40 seconds to record your answers. Every second counts, and poor audio quality can cost you.
8. Don’t Stay Silent – Speak Until the Timer Ends
In PTE Speaking, if you’re silent for more than 3 seconds, the microphone closes automatically. This can impact your oral fluency and content score. Keep speaking—even if you need to rephrase or repeat to fill the time.
9. Use Online Tools to Analyse Your Score
There are now AI-powered PTE tools that provide instant feedback on:
- Fluency
- Pronunciation
- Grammar
- Content
While enrolling in a PTE course is the most structured option, these tools are a great supplement. Combine them with PTE speaking practice to track improvement over time.
10. Get Expert Guidance with PTE Coaching Sydney
Sometimes, DIY prep has limits. If you’re aiming for high scores for university or visa purposes, expert help can make all the difference. A structured PTE coaching Sydney program gives you:
- Personalised feedback
- Strategy tips
- Real-time speaking correction
At the Boston Institute, our trainers provide real-world insights and techniques that help you speak more naturally, confidently, and within the test format.
Final Thoughts
To achieve high scores on PTE Speaking, it’s not only about grammar or vocabulary. It’s about strategy, clarity, and practice. Whether you’re taking a PTE academic speaking test or joining an English language speaking course, the right preparation can set you apart. If you’re a non-native speaker planning to study, work, or migrate to Australia, your speaking score plays a crucial role in your journey. Want expert support that makes your PTE Speaking prep smoother? Our team at the Boston Institute is here to help. With flexible classes, certified trainers, and real-time speaking feedback, we’ll get you ready with confidence.
FAQs: Student Questions Answered
Is PTE easier than IELTS?
Most students prefer PTE for speaking, particularly if they are more familiar with computers than with face-to-face interactions. It all, however, depends on the learning style.
Is it better to take IELTS or PTE?
Both are accepted for Australian migration. PTE provides faster results and complete computer-based testing, while IELTS provides both paper-based and computer-based versions.
What is easy – IELTS or PTE?
If you’re technology-savvy and well-handled in structured responses, PTE will be easier. However, if you handle free idea expression better, IELTS would be better for you.
Is one easier than the other – PTE or IELTS?
There is no general principle. PTE Speaking is less stressful to many because of no live examiner.