The two writing tasks in Part 1
- Write Essay20 minutes, 200–300 words, argumentative
- Summarize Written Text10 minutes, one sentence of 5–75 words
Writing is also scored in other tasks: Summarize Spoken Text, Fill in the Blanks (type in) and Write from Dictation all count towards your writing score.
Free writing tools
- PTE word counter: pick a task and it warns you before a length mistake costs marks.
- Spelling consistency checker: catches mixed Australian and American spelling.
- Typing speed test: PTE is typed, so slow typing eats into your planning time.
Rules that can give you zero
| Task | Zero if… |
|---|---|
| Write Essay | under 120 or over 380 words, or off-topic |
| Summarize Written Text | under 5 or over 75 words, or the topic is misunderstood |
| Summarize Spoken Text | under 40 or over 100 words, or the topic is misunderstood |
These come from Pearson's official task descriptions. Always check the latest official format.