Write from Dictation - PTE Listening Task
- Prompt Length: 3-5 seconds (Audio plays once)
- Skills Assessed: Listening and Writing (Integrated Scoring)
- Time to Answer: There is no individual timer for this question. It consumes time from the overall 30-43 minute Listening section. Important: Since WFD is the very last task, you must manage your time effectively in earlier questions to ensure you have enough time left to attempt these high-scoring questions.
- Task Instruction: You hear a short sentence. Type the sentence into the response box at the bottom of the screen.
- Scoring Criteria: Your score depends on your ability to understand and memorize the sentence, then write it down with the correct spelling and sequence. Each correct word counts towards your score.
How is the PTE Write from Dictation Task Scored?
The scoring for Write from Dictation is straightforward yet high-stakes: it is based on the number of correct words in your response. If you write every word correctly in the right sequence with correct spelling, you receive the maximum points. Partial credit applies if you miss words, but accuracy is key. This task contributes significantly to both your Listening and Writing scores.
PTE Write from Dictation Marking Criteria 2025:
To better understand the weightage of Write from Dictation in the latest 2-hour exam format, review the official guide or read our updated article on the PTE Score Distribution Chart 2025.Correct Word | +1 point for each correct word |
Incorrect/Missed | 0 points |
Minimum Score | 0 |
Write from Dictation Practice Schedule 2025
Achieving a high score in the Write from Dictation task is critical for a superior overall PTE result. In the real PTE exam, you will typically encounter 3 to 4 Write from Dictation tasks at the very end of the test. Since the Listening section is now tighter on time, speed and accuracy are vital. You should practice at least 30 to 40 questions daily. To practice online for free with updated materials, visit Best PTE Practice Apps and Websites 2025. You can also download the PTE Write from Dictation Prediction PDF 2025 to practice the most repeated questions.Write from Dictation Tips and Tricks (Updated)
- Focus on Audio: Listen to the recording with absolute concentration. Do not type while listening if it distracts you.
- Note-Taking Strategy: Use the erasable note board to write down initials of each word (e.g., "T b i o t t" for "The book is on the table"). This helps capture the sequence quickly.
- Capitalization & Punctuation: Always start the sentence with a Capital letter and end with a Full stop.
- Proofreading is Mandatory: Check for spelling errors rigorously. In WFD, a spelling mistake counts as a wrong word.
- Time Management (Critical): WFD is the last question in the Listening section. Many students fail to reach this section because they spend too much time on earlier tasks like Summarize Spoken Text. Ensure you leave at least 3-4 minutes for these final questions.
- Grammar Check: Use your knowledge of English Grammar Rules to reconstruct the sentence if you missed a word. Pay attention to plural markers ("s/es") and past tense markers ("d/ed").
- Vocabulary: Enhance your academic vocabulary to easily recognize words in the audio.
PTE Write from Dictation Extra Words Strategy (2025 Update)
In the Write from Dictation (WFD) task, your score is calculated solely based on the number of correct words matched in the sequence. A crucial advantage in the current PTE scoring algorithm is that there is No Negative Marking for extra words in this specific task.
If you are confused about a specific word—for example, whether it was "student" or "students", or "approve" or "approved"—the Extra Words Strategy suggests you write both variations (e.g., "student students") in your response. Since the computer only scans for the correct word and ignores the incorrect one without penalty, this method ensures you capture the mark. You can also include common functional words like "a", "the", "of", "in", or "for" if you suspect you missed them. However, ensure you type fast, as the shorter 2-hour exam format leaves less buffer time at the end of the Listening section. This trick is widely tested and remains effective in 2025. Share your exam experiences in the comments below!
If you are confused about a specific word—for example, whether it was "student" or "students", or "approve" or "approved"—the Extra Words Strategy suggests you write both variations (e.g., "student students") in your response. Since the computer only scans for the correct word and ignores the incorrect one without penalty, this method ensures you capture the mark. You can also include common functional words like "a", "the", "of", "in", or "for" if you suspect you missed them. However, ensure you type fast, as the shorter 2-hour exam format leaves less buffer time at the end of the Listening section. This trick is widely tested and remains effective in 2025. Share your exam experiences in the comments below!
PTE Guide App - 2025 Exam Preparation
PTE Guide App is your ultimate one-stop solution for the latest Pearson PTE exam preparation. Get the PTE Guide App to access updated study materials, mock tests, and strategies for the new 2-hour format. Whether you are a beginner looking for an introduction to PTE or an advanced student needing to book your exam, our guide covers every step.
Thank you for reading this updated article on the PTE Listening Write from Dictation task. We appreciate your support in sharing this resource with fellow PTE test-takers. Keep visiting PTEGuideApp.com regularly for the latest news, exam updates, and prediction files for the 2025 Pearson PTE test. We wish you the very best of luck in your PTE Academic examination! 👍
Thank you for reading this updated article on the PTE Listening Write from Dictation task. We appreciate your support in sharing this resource with fellow PTE test-takers. Keep visiting PTEGuideApp.com regularly for the latest news, exam updates, and prediction files for the 2025 Pearson PTE test. We wish you the very best of luck in your PTE Academic examination! 👍

