Understanding the Select Missing Word Task in PTE Academic, UKVI & Core
The Select Missing Word task is part of the PTE Listening section. It checks how well we read context, predict meaning, and spot
logical links in spoken text. We listen closely to an audio clip and pick the word or
phrase that completes the final sentence. Building this skill strengthens our
listening and prediction, useful in study and in daily conversation.
What is the Select Missing Word Task?
In this task, we listen to an audio recording, 20 to 70 seconds long, that cuts off at the end. Our goal is to choose the option that finishes the sentence in a way that fits the context.
What Skills are Tested in This Task?
- Predicting the meaning from context
- Understanding the logical flow of the audio
- Anticipating the best conclusions based on the authors’ tone
You can only hear the recording once, so focused listening and quick decision-making are critical.
What are the Features of This Task?
- Here, the audio will be played only once
- You can expect around 1–2 tasks per exam
- There will be only one correct option in this task
- This will contribute only to the Listening skill
Types of Audio in the Select Missing Word PTE Task
The recordings are typically sourced from academic or informational contexts and use a formal or neutral tone. They can include:
Lectures or Presentations
Listen for the key point, argument, or conclusion.
Sample topics we cover: science research, economic patterns, cultural studies, from lab benches to market charts to street festivals.
Explanatory or instructional talks
Focus on steps, processes, and clear conclusions.
Sample topics we cover: teaching methods, new technology, and business strategies.
Narratives or Stories
Pay attention to the sequence of events and anticipated outcomes.
Example topics: Historical events, Biographical accounts, Social issues
Select Missing Word
Sample Question 1:
Sample Question 2:
Sample Question 3:
Tips for acing the PTE Summarize Spoken Text
Listen for Tone and Context
Pay attention to the speaker’s tone, which often signals the direction or conclusion of the statement.
Identify Clue Words
Look for transitional words or phrases that indicate what the missing word might logically be.
Predict Before Checking Options
Before reviewing the answer options, try to predict what type of word (noun, verb, adjective) would logically complete the sentence.
Avoid Distractors
Eliminate options that don’t align with the context or tone of the audio.
How to Effectively Tackle Select Missing Words in the PTE
What are the strategies that can be used to crack this task?
Step-by-Step Strategy
Skimming the provided options first
Getting a sense of possible endings based on the audio
Listening for hints
Focusing on the authors’ tone and connecting words
Predicting before choosing
Mentally completing the sentences while listening to the audio
Eliminating Distractors
Removing illogical or off-topic choices
By familiarizing yourself with various audio types and practicing regularly, you can gain
confidence in tackling the Select Missing Word effectively, ultimately boosting your PTE Academic, UKVI, or Core score.
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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 1–2 tasks in the listening section.
Do spellings really matter in the scoring of this task?
No, since this is just a listening task, options will already be provided
What kind of words will usually be missing from the audio?
Usually, a noun, verb, or phrase is missing at the end of the audio.
Does this impact multiple skills while being scored?
No, this will contribute to listening only.