Understanding the Highlight Incorrect Words Task in PTE Academic, UKVI & Core
The Highlight Incorrect Words task is a tough part of the PTE Listening section. We test how well we listen, read, and catch gaps between audio and text. We read the transcript as the audio plays, then mark words that do not match what we hear. With practice, we build sharper focus and better skill at spotting mistakes. These skills help us in school and in everyday communication.
What is the Highlight Incorrect Words Task?
Here in this task, you will have to listen to a 15-50 second audio from where you need to check out for the discrepancies from the audio and click on the incorrect words in the transcript which are different from the audio.
What are the Skills Analysed in This Task?
- Identifying the differences between audio and transcript
- Keeping focus on the text under time pressure
- Finding out the subtle changes in meaning or grammar
You can only hear the recording once, so attentive listening and quick responses are essential.
What are the Key Features of This Task?
- Here the audio will be played only once
- You can expect about 2–3 tasks per exam
- You can expect multiple incorrect words per transcript
- This contributes to both Listening + Reading skills
- These tasks do have negative marking for incorrect selection of the words
Types of Audio in the Highlight Incorrect Words PTE Task
The recordings usually come from academic or formal contexts and use a neutral or professional tone. They can include:
Lectures or Presentations
Pay attention to specific facts, data, or key arguments.
Example topics: Scientific studies, Business reports, Educational discussions
Narratives or Descriptions
Listen for descriptive details or chronological events.
Example topics: Historical events, Biographical accounts, Cultural analyses
Explanatory or Instructional Talk
Focus on processes, steps, or instructional content.
Example topics: Data analysis, Research methods, Business strategies
Highlight Incorrect Words
Sample Question 1:
Sample Question 2:
Sample Question 3:
Tips for Acing the PTE Highlight Incorrect Words Task
Listen and Read Simultaneously
Keep your eyes on the text while listening carefully to the audio.
Focus on Commonly Changed Words
Look out for words that may be altered in terms of tense, number, or meaning.
Avoid Guessing
Click only the words we know are wrong; wrong clicks can hurt our score.
Stay calm and focused
If we miss a word, keep going, and keep our attention on the current content.
How to Effectively Tackle Highlight Incorrect Words Task in the PTE
Step-by-Step Strategy
Listening & reading simultaneously
Stay focused with the audio
Clicking Immediately
Once you find a discrepancy, click it
Do not waste time in guessing your answers
Click when you are confident
Reviewing Quickly
Confirming selections after the audio ends before clicking ‘Next’
Use full video for Highlight Incorrect Words
Learn more about other questions
Your Guide to Every Section of the PTE Exam
Speaking
Reading
FAQs
Here are answers to some of the frequently asked questions.
If I miss something, can I replay the task audio?
No, you cannot replay it. This will be played only once
How many of these tasks can be expected in the real exam?
You will get about 2–3 tasks in the listening section
Is there a negative marking for this task?
Yes, this task has negative scoring but still the least marks will be zero
What kind of words will usually be missing from the audio?
Usually a noun, verbs, adjectives, numbers, dates are missing at the end of the audio
Should I click on the missing words from the audio?
No, you only need to click on the words which are spoken differently from the transcript.
Does this impact multiple skills while being scored?
Yes, this will contribute to listening and reading both skills.