PTE Core Sample Questions:
Respond to a Situation

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The PTE Core is a computer-based English test designed to assess your general understanding and communication skills in reading, writing, speaking, and listening. It's ideal for individuals seeking migration or study opportunities in Canada where English proficiency is required. Lasting only two hours, the test offers several advantages: convenience, fast score turnaround, and accurate AI-powered scoring. With seven diverse speaking and writing tasks, multiple reading formats, and engaging audio recordings, PTE Core simulates real-world situations, ensuring a well-rounded evaluation of your English abilities. Whether you're a professional aiming for career advancement or a student pursuing further education, the PTE Core provides a reliable pathway to achieving your English language goals.

Respond to a Situation


This question asks you to listen to and read a scenario of a common situation. You then need to give a spoken response of what you would say in that situation. You will have 20 seconds to plan your response, and then 40 seconds to speak.
  • The audio will start playing by itself.
  • When the audio stops, you will have 20 seconds to get ready.
The recording status box will show a countdown until the microphone turns on. You will hear a short beep. After the beep, speak right away. Do not speak before the microphone turns on because your voice will not be captured.
  • You should speak clearly. There is no need to hurry.
  • Stop speaking before the progress bar reaches the end. The word “Recording” will switch to “Completed”.
  • You can only hear the audio once.
  • You can only record your response once.
Provided below are a few sample questions for you to understand & prepare:
Sample Question 1:
You are sick so you can’t attend the invitation for the movie. Your friend in the lunchroom is having coffee, inform him about the situation.
Sample Question 2:
You and your friends went to a local restaurant where you encountered several issues with the quality and service. The long wait times, small meal portions, and the coffee you ordered never arrived. Now, the manager is asking for your feedback after the meal. How would you respond to that?
Sample Question 3:
You're the manager of a shared kitchen in your office, and you've noticed that some employees are leaving dirty dishes in the sink and not cleaning up spills on the counters. This is causing unpleasant odors and attracting pests. You need to remind them of the importance of cleaning up for everyone's convenience and health. What would you say?
Sample Question 4:
You borrowed a book from your friend Anit, and she has asked for it back. You want to politely arrange its return and find a time that works for her to pick it up. What would you say to Anit to make the return easy and convenient for both of you?
Sample Question 5:
You’ve received a letter at your home that’s actually meant for your neighbor. What would you say when you go to return the letter and explain the mistake politely?
Sample Question 6:
You have a tutorial scheduled for 3 P.M. on Monday, but you’ve been selected to participate in an important competition at the same time. You need to inform your teacher and request a solution. What would you say?
Sample Question 7:
You have a roommate, but he usually does not clean the common areas. You cannot stand dirty common areas. You're going to talk to him. What are you going to say?
Sample Question 8:
You’ve invited a friend to dinner at your place. However, you’re unsure about their food preferences or dietary restrictions. You decide to call them, but they don’t answer. How would you leave a message asking about their food preferences to ensure you prepare something they would enjoy?
Sample Question 9:
You're attending a networking event. Explain how you would approach new people, initiate conversations, and exchange contact information.
Sample Question 10:
You are majoring in marketing and you are having an interview. The job needs somebody who have interactive skills, you have that set of skills. What do you say to convince them that you are suitable for the job?

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