Scoring 79+ on the Pearson Test of English (PTE) in your first attempt is totally possible — if you go in with the right mindset, strategy, and tools. Whether you’re aiming for permanent residency in Australia or admission to a top university at another destination, a high PTE score can open a lot of doors. But how exactly do you get there?
Let’s get straight to the point: the PTE is not about being perfect in English; it’s about understanding the test format, mastering time management, and using smart strategies.
1. Know the Test Format Like the Back of Your Hand
Before anything else, you need to be familiar with the four sections:
- Speaking & Writing
- Reading
- Listening
Each section is unique in how it evaluates your English skills. The PTE is also entirely computer-based — meaning you’re speaking into a microphone and typing answers without human feedback. So, practicing in a simulated environment is crucial.
A lot of test-takers underestimate just how tech-driven the PTE is. For example, in the Speaking section, clarity and fluency matter more than accent or vocabulary. You could be fluent in real life but still score low if you’re not pacing your answers correctly.
2. Focus More on High-Weight Questions
Not all PTE tasks are created equal. Some contribute more to your overall score across multiple sections. If you’re aiming for 79+, here’s where you should double down:
- Read Aloud – Affects both Speaking and Reading
- Repeat Sentence – Heavily impacts Listening and Speaking
- Describe Image – Crucial for Speaking
- Write Essay – Influences Writing and indirectly your grammar, vocab
- Fill in the Blanks (Reading) – Key for Reading
- Highlight Correct Summary / Multiple Choice (Listening) – Good scoring tasks if practiced right
Don’t waste equal time on all question types. Focus more on the ones that carry weight.
3. Build a 21-Day Study Plan
Even if you’re working full time or juggling college, a 3-week focused study plan is enough if you’re consistent.
Week 1: Learn + Practice
- Understand each task type
- Practice one task per day with feedback
- Take one full mock test
Week 2: Improve Weak Areas
- Analyze mock test scores
- Focus on your bottom three task types
- Daily practice + mini mock tests
Week 3: Final Push
- Take 3 full-length mock tests
- Practice Speaking aloud daily
- Review essay and summary templates
This plan assumes you’re putting in 2–3 hours daily. If you have more time, even better!
4. Don’t Memorize, Strategize
There’s a myth floating around in PTE circles: “Just memorize templates and you’ll be fine.” While templates help (especially in the essay and describe image), relying only on them without understanding the logic behind them can backfire.
Instead, understand why a template works. For example, in “Describe Image,” focus on how you’re structuring your observation: Introduction ? Key Trends ? Comparison ? Conclusion.
5. Practice with High-Quality Mock Tests
You can’t fix what you can’t measure. That’s why mock tests are your best friend in PTE prep.
But not just any mock test will do. Many free ones online are outdated or don’t reflect the actual difficulty level. Practice on a platform where mock tests mirror the real exam pattern and scoring system.
One platform that consistently delivers accurate scoring is Gurully’s PTE Mock Tests. The real-time scoring and question types are strikingly close to the actual exam. Many students have seen only a 5-10 point difference between their Gurully mock scores and their official PTE results. That level of accuracy gives you absolute confidence.
6. Record Yourself and Listen Back
This may feel awkward at first, but it’s a game-changer. Especially in tasks like “Repeat Sentence” and “Read Aloud.” When you play your recordings, you’ll notice:
- Hesitations
- Mispronunciations
- Lack of fluency
Fixing these is way more effective when you hear it yourself than when someone tells you.
7. Stay Calm on Test Day (This One’s Underrated)
PTE test centers can be noisy. You’ll hear others speaking at the same time. Don’t let that throw you off. Practice speaking in a slightly noisy environment. Use noise-canceling headphones if needed during practice. And on the test day, just focus on your mic and your rhythm.
Also, remember: your first 10 seconds in each task are gold. If you hesitate or restart, it can reduce your fluency score. Stay calm, take a deep breath, and go for it.
Final Thoughts
Scoring 79+ in your first PTE attempt is not about having native-level English — it’s about playing the game smart. With the right guidance, mock test platform like Gurully.com, and daily commitment, you can definitely do it.
If you’re serious about getting that 79+ badge, treat your PTE prep like a short-term project: limited time, high focus, maximum output. Best of luck — you’ve got this.
