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Used for global university applications, Australian & New Zealand visas (immigration, work), and UK work or student visa applications.
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Used for global university applications, professional registration, migration to Australia, New Zealand, Canada, and the UK, and for work or student visa applications.
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PTE Academic / UKVI
Used for global university applications, Australian & New Zealand visas (immigration, work), and UK work or student visa applications.
PTE Core
Used for Canadian immigration or work visa applications
IELTS
New
Used for global university applications, professional registration, migration to Australia, New Zealand, Canada, and the UK, and for work or student visa applications.
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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

In this task, you will see a text displayed on the screen. You are required to read the text aloud clearly and naturally. You will have 35 seconds to complete your reading, so focus on maintaining clarity, proper pronunciation, and a natural flow.