Unofficial practice. We wrote these questions to match the official PTE Academic task types and timings. They are not real exam questions, and points shown are practice feedback, not a PTE score. For an official estimate, use Pearson's scored practice tests.
How to choose the right word
- Grammar first: does the gap need a noun, verb, adjective or adverb? Cross out options that don't fit.
- Then meaning: read the whole sentence, and the one after it.
- Then collocation: which word naturally goes with its neighbours? (take responsibility, not make responsibility.)
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Answers, explanations and transcripts
Finish the test first, then open each section to check your answers. Every answer has an explanation.
reading-fib
Answer key (8 answers)
| # | Question | Answer | Why |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Coral reefs cover less than one per cent of the ocean floor, yet they ___ | support | Look at the words around each gap: reefs 'support' species, corals 'expel' algae (they push them out), and recovery depends on conditions improving 'quickly'. |
| 2 | …of all marine species. Rising water temperatures can cause corals to ___ | expel | Look at the words around each gap: reefs 'support' species, corals 'expel' algae (they push them out), and recovery depends on conditions improving 'quickly'. |
| 3 | …food, a process known as bleaching. If conditions return to normal ___ | quickly | Look at the words around each gap: reefs 'support' species, corals 'expel' algae (they push them out), and recovery depends on conditions improving 'quickly'. |
| 4 | …post them online. Supporters argue that this gives students greater ___ | flexibility | 'Greater flexibility' is a strong collocation. 'However' signals the contrast with critics. 'In person' is a fixed phrase. |
| 5 | particularly those who work part-time. Critics, ___ | however | 'Greater flexibility' is a strong collocation. 'However' signals the contrast with critics. 'In person' is a fixed phrase. |
| 6 | …are available, and that students miss the chance to ask questions in ___ | person | 'Greater flexibility' is a strong collocation. 'However' signals the contrast with critics. 'In person' is a fixed phrase. |
| 7 | …Australia were often funded by mechanics' institutes, which aimed to ___ | provide | 'Provide ... with access' and 'take responsibility for' are common academic collocations. |
| 8 | …with access to books and lectures. Over time, local councils took ___ | responsibility | 'Provide ... with access' and 'take responsibility for' are common academic collocations. |
Frequently asked questions
How is PTE Fill in the Blanks scored?
One point for each correct blank. Reading & Writing Fill in the Blanks counts towards both reading and writing.
How can I get better at Fill in the Blanks?
Learn collocations (word partners) and grammar clues around each gap. Our collocation flashcards help a lot.
How long should I spend on each question?
About a minute or a little more. Don't let one question eat into the time for the rest of the section.