Listening: Multiple Choice, Multiple Answers Guide & Tips

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Written By Peter's PTE

The PTE Academic test is designed to assess various language skills, and one of the most challenging sections is Listening. Within the Listening section, Listening: Multiple Choice, Multiple Answers task presents a unique set of challenges. In this task, you’ll listen to an audio recording and then answer a multiple-choice question by selecting more than one response. However, beware of negative marking; choosing the wrong answers can penalize you. To help you master this task, we’ve prepared a comprehensive guide with expert tips.

Listening: Multiple Choice, Multiple Answers Format

In Listening: Multiple Choice, Multiple Answers, you are required to listen to an audio recording and then answer a multiple-choice question on the content or tone of the recording. The twist is that there can be more than one correct response. It’s essential to avoid negative marking, where selecting incorrect answers leads to a deduction of points.

The audio recording typically lasts between 40 to 90 seconds, and you must listen attentively as you’ll only hear it once. Your task is to select all the response options that you believe are correct from the list provided.

How Is It Scored?

To improve your performance in the Listening: Multiple Choice, Multiple Answers part of the PTE Listening test, Keep Mind These Scoring Factor –

Listening

  • 1 Score: Each correct response
  • -1 Score: Each incorrect response
  • 0 Score: Minimum score

Always Remember

  • You are only able to listen to the audio recording once. The audio begins to play automatically.
  • Select the options that best match the meaning of what you have heard. Don’t just choose an option because it has the same words or phrases as the recording.

Listening: Multiple Choice, Multiple Answers Practice Tips

Strategic Note-Taking

  • Capture main points and key details while listening to the audio
  • Use 7 second preview time to understand the question and identify keywords in response options

Shortlist as You Listen

  • Match words or phrases in the recording with response options to create a potential correct answer list
  • Double-check your choices after the audio ends to ensure alignment with the information

Consider All Options

  • Explore each response option systematically, as there can be multiple correct answers

Conclusion

The Listening: Multiple Choice, Multiple Answers in the PTE Academic Listening section is undoubtedly challenging. However, with the right strategies and effective time management, you can navigate this task successfully.

Regular practice with sample questions and audio recordings is a valuable way to hone your listening skills. Additionally, the skills you acquire while mastering this task are transferable to real-life situations where you need to analyze and interpret information from spoken sources. With dedication and the application of the expert tips provided, you can tackle this task with confidence and excel in the Listening module of the PTE Academic test. Best of luck on your PTE Academic journey!

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