The PTE Write Essay task is a critical component of the Speaking & Writing section where test-takers must compose a well-structured 200-300 word essay within 20 minutes. This comprehensive guide covers all essay types, proven templates, and scoring strategies to help you achieve your target PTE score.
What is PTE write essay task?
The PTE Write Essay task evaluates your ability to construct coherent arguments, organize ideas logically, and express yourself clearly in written English. You'll receive a prompt—typically 2-3 sentences—presenting a statement, question, or issue on a general topic. Your task is to respond with a well-reasoned essay that demonstrates your command of English grammar, vocabulary, and discourse structure.
Task format overview
The essay prompts cover diverse academic and social topics including education, technology, environment, business, health, and culture. Each prompt requires you to take a position, analyze perspectives, or propose solutions while maintaining formal academic tone throughout your response.
Consistent Format:
20 minutes total: Plan, write, and review your essay
200-300 words: Strict word count requirement
Goal: Deliver clear, structured argument with supporting evidence
The four-step SUCCESS strategy
Follow this proven four-step approach to maximize your essay score:
Step 1: Analyze the prompt (2 minutes)
Read the prompt carefully and identify:
Essay type: Argumentative, Discussion, Problem-Solution, or Opinion
Key requirements: What the prompt specifically asks you to address
Main concepts: Underline important keywords and phrases
Step 2: Plan your response (3 minutes)
Create a quick outline:
Decide your main position or thesis
Identify 2-3 key supporting points
Note specific examples you'll use
Plan your paragraph structure
Step 3: Write your essay (12 minutes)
Execute your plan with clear structure:
Introduction with thesis statement
2-3 body paragraphs with topic sentences
Each paragraph with explanation and example
Conclusion summarizing main points
Step 4: Review and refine (3 minutes)
Check for:
Word count (aim for 250-280 words for safety)
Grammar and spelling errors
Logical flow and coherence
Complete sentences and proper punctuation
Understanding essay types
The following are the four main essay types in PTE. Let's explore each with detailed strategies:
Argumentative essays (Agree/Disagree)
In argumentative essays, you're presented with a statement and must take a clear position—agree, disagree, or partially agree—and defend it with logical reasoning and evidence.
Template Structure:
Introduction: Paraphrase the topic + State your position clearly
Body Paragraph 1: Present your main argument with supporting details and examples
Body Paragraph 2: Address counterarguments or provide additional support
Conclusion: Restate your position and summarize key points
Sample Prompt:
"Some people believe that technology has made communication easier but less personal, while others argue that it helps us connect more effectively than ever before. Do you agree or disagree?"
High-Scoring Response (234 words - Click to reveal)
Technology has fundamentally transformed how humans communicate, and I strongly agree that while it has simplified communication, this convenience often comes at the expense of genuine personal connection. This essay will examine how digital communication sacrifices depth for efficiency.
The primary advantage of technology is its ability to facilitate instant communication across vast distances. Messaging apps, video calls, and social media platforms enable people to maintain relationships regardless of geographical barriers. However, these interactions frequently lack the emotional richness of face-to-face conversations. Text messages cannot convey subtle vocal tones, facial expressions, or body language that are crucial for meaningful communication. For instance, a simple 'okay' in a text message could express agreement, frustration, or indifference—context that would be immediately clear in person.
Furthermore, the ease of digital communication has created a culture of superficial interactions. People often substitute genuine conversations with brief messages, emojis, or social media likes. While we may have hundreds of online 'friends,' studies show that many individuals report feeling more isolated than previous generations. The convenience of sending a quick text has replaced the effort of meeting someone for coffee or having lengthy phone conversations that build deeper connections.
In conclusion, although technology has undeniably made communication more accessible and efficient, it has simultaneously diminished the personal quality of our interactions. The challenge for modern society is finding balance—leveraging technology's benefits while preserving the irreplaceable value of authentic, personal communication.
Practice similar argumentative essays with feedback
Discussion essays require you to objectively examine multiple perspectives on an issue before presenting your own viewpoint. Balance and fairness are crucial.
Template Structure:
Introduction: Introduce the topic + Indicate you'll discuss multiple perspectives
Body Paragraph 1: Present the first viewpoint with explanations and examples
Body Paragraph 2: Present the opposing viewpoint with equal depth
Body Paragraph 3 (optional): State your personal opinion with justification
Conclusion: Summarize both perspectives and your balanced view
Sample Prompt:
"Some people believe children should begin formal education as early as possible, while others argue that childhood should be preserved for play and exploration. Discuss both views and give your opinion."
High-Scoring Response (271 words - Click to reveal)
The optimal age for children to begin formal education remains a contentious debate in educational circles. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting a balanced viewpoint on this important issue.
Advocates for early formal education argue that children's brains are exceptionally receptive during early years, making this period ideal for developing foundational academic skills. Countries like Singapore and South Korea, which implement structured learning from age three, consistently rank highly in international assessments. Proponents contend that early literacy and numeracy instruction provides children with competitive advantages, establishing strong educational foundations that benefit them throughout their academic careers. Moreover, structured environments can teach valuable social skills like cooperation and discipline.
Conversely, supporters of play-based early childhood emphasize the importance of emotional and social development during formative years. They argue that excessive academic pressure can stifle creativity, natural curiosity, and love of learning. Research from Scandinavia, particularly Finland, demonstrates that children who begin formal education later often catch up academically while maintaining better mental health and stronger problem-solving abilities. Unstructured play allows children to develop imagination, resilience, and interpersonal skills that formal curricula may overlook.
In my opinion, a hybrid approach offers the most benefits. Children under five should engage primarily in play-based learning that incorporates educational elements naturally—learning numbers through games or developing language skills through storytelling. This approach respects developmental readiness while gently introducing academic concepts. Formal, structured education becomes more appropriate around age six when children have developed necessary concentration and self-regulation abilities.
In conclusion, while both approaches have merit, balancing play with age-appropriate learning activities provides children with the best foundation for both academic success and personal development.
Problem-solution essays require you to analyze a specific problem, explain its causes or effects, and propose practical solutions.
Template Structure:
Introduction: Introduce the problem + Indicate you'll discuss causes and solutions
Body Paragraph 1: Explain the problem and its causes or effects
Body Paragraph 2: Propose practical solutions with specific details
Conclusion: Emphasize the importance of addressing the problem
Sample Prompt:
"Traffic congestion has become a major problem in most cities worldwide. What are the causes of this issue, and what solutions can be implemented?"
High-Scoring Response (264 words - Click to reveal)
Urban traffic congestion has emerged as one of the most pressing challenges facing modern cities, affecting millions of commuters daily and hindering economic productivity. This essay will examine the root causes of this problem and propose viable solutions.
Several interconnected factors contribute to severe traffic congestion. Rapid urbanization has concentrated populations in city centers without corresponding infrastructure development. As more people migrate to urban areas for employment opportunities, road networks designed for smaller populations become overwhelmed. Additionally, increased vehicle ownership—often seen as a status symbol—has flooded streets with private cars. In many developing nations, public transportation systems remain inadequate, forcing residents to rely on personal vehicles. Poor urban planning, including insufficient parking facilities and inefficient road designs, further compounds these issues.
Addressing traffic congestion requires comprehensive, multi-faceted approaches. Governments should prioritize investment in efficient public transportation systems—expanding metro networks, improving bus services, and ensuring affordability and reliability. Singapore's integrated transit system demonstrates how accessible public transport can significantly reduce private vehicle usage. Furthermore, implementing congestion pricing, where drivers pay fees to enter busy zones during peak hours, has proven effective in cities like London and Stockholm. These charges discourage unnecessary driving while generating revenue for transportation improvements. Promoting flexible work arrangements, including remote work and staggered office hours, can distribute traffic more evenly throughout the day. Finally, developing pedestrian-friendly infrastructure and dedicated cycling lanes offers sustainable alternatives for short-distance travel.
In conclusion, while traffic congestion stems from complex urban development challenges, strategic investments in public transportation, smart pricing policies, and sustainable mobility options can substantially alleviate this problem, creating more livable and efficient cities.
Practice similar problem-solution essays with feedback
Opinion essays ask you to take a personal stance on an issue and justify your position with reasoning and examples.
Template Structure:
Introduction: Paraphrase the question + State your clear opinion
Body Paragraph 1: Present your first supporting reason with explanation and example
Body Paragraph 2: Present your second supporting reason with explanation and example
Conclusion: Reaffirm your opinion and summarize main arguments
Sample Prompt:
"In your opinion, should university education be free for all students?"
High-Scoring Response (255 words - Click to reveal)
The question of whether university education should be universally free generates passionate debate across societies. In my view, governments should provide free or heavily subsidized higher education to all qualified students, as this investment benefits both individuals and society as a whole.
Firstly, financial barriers should not determine access to higher education. Many talented students from low-income backgrounds possess the intellectual capability to excel academically but lack financial resources to pursue university degrees. When education depends on family wealth rather than merit and motivation, societies lose valuable contributions from bright minds. Countries like Germany and Norway, which offer free university education, demonstrate that removing financial obstacles creates more equitable opportunities and helps break cycles of poverty. These nations benefit from highly educated workforces without burdening graduates with crippling debt that delays major life decisions like homeownership or starting families.
Secondly, an educated population drives economic growth and social progress. University graduates typically earn higher incomes, pay more taxes, and contribute more substantially to their economies throughout their careers. They're also more likely to engage in civic activities and make informed decisions about societal issues. The return on investment in education manifests through innovation, entrepreneurship, and improved public health outcomes. When governments invest in free education, they're essentially investing in their nation's future productivity and competitiveness in the global economy.
In conclusion, while implementing free university education requires significant public investment, the long-term benefits—including social mobility, economic growth, and more equitable societies—far outweigh the costs. Governments should prioritize education funding as essential infrastructure for national development.
Correct spelling throughout (both US/UK English accepted)
Critical Scoring Note: If your essay receives 0 for Content (completely off-topic or irrelevant), all other traits automatically score 0. Similarly, if Form scores 0 (outside acceptable word count range of 120-380 words), the entire essay receives 0 across all criteria.
Content Scoring Details: Maximum content scores require addressing all parts of the prompt with relevant, well-developed ideas supported by appropriate examples and clear explanations.
Essential writing strategies
Time management mastery
The 20-minute breakdown:
Minutes 0-2: Read and analyze prompt, identify essay type
Minutes 2-5: Create outline, decide main points and examples
Minutes 5-17: Write your essay (approximately 20-25 words per minute)
Minutes 17-20: Review for errors, check word count, refine clarity
Pro tip: Aim to finish writing by minute 17 to ensure adequate proofreading time. This buffer allows you to catch spelling errors, grammatical mistakes, and awkward phrasing that could cost valuable points.
Word count strategy
Optimal range: 250-280 words provides the sweet spot—sufficient space to develop ideas thoroughly while staying comfortably within limits.
Critical boundaries:
Under 120 words: Automatic 0 for Form (and consequently all other criteria)
120-199 words: Partial credit for Form, but likely insufficient content development
200-300 words: Full Form credit if properly structured
301-380 words: Partial Form credit, but risky territory
Over 380 words: Automatic 0 for Form and all other criteria
Tracking tip: The PTE interface includes a real-time word counter. Glance at it periodically while writing but don't obsess over it—maintain your writing flow.
Paragraph structure excellence
Introduction (40-60 words):
Hook or general statement about the topic
Paraphrase the prompt in your own words
Clear thesis statement indicating your position
Brief preview of main points (optional)
Body Paragraphs (80-120 words each):
Topic sentence stating the main idea
Explanation expanding on the topic sentence
Specific example or evidence
Analysis connecting example to your argument
Transition sentence linking to next paragraph
Conclusion (40-60 words):
Restate thesis in different words
Summarize main supporting points
Final thought or broader implication
Strong closing sentence
Coherence and cohesion techniques
Linking words for addition:
Furthermore, Moreover, Additionally, In addition, Similarly, Likewise
Linking words for contrast:
However, Nevertheless, Conversely, On the other hand, Despite this, Although
Linking words for cause-effect:
Therefore, Consequently, As a result, Thus, Hence, For this reason
Linking words for examples:
For instance, For example, Such as, Specifically, To illustrate, Particularly
Pro tip: Use linking words naturally, not mechanically. Each paragraph should have at least one or two cohesive devices, but overusing them sounds artificial.
Advanced vocabulary strategies
Topic-specific vocabulary banks
Education topics:
Academic achievement, curriculum, pedagogy, literacy, cognitive development
Educational equity, learning outcomes, extracurricular activities, vocational training
"While it is true that... it is also important to consider..."
"Although some may argue... a closer examination reveals..."
"Despite these advantages... we must also acknowledge..."
Drawing conclusions:
"Taking these factors into account..."
"Given these considerations..."
"In light of the evidence presented..."
"Based on the arguments outlined..."
Common mistakes to avoid
Content Mistakes ❌
Going off-topic or misunderstanding the prompt
Providing generic statements without specific examples
Ignoring parts of the question (in Discussion essays, covering only one view)
Making unsupported claims without evidence or reasoning
Including irrelevant personal anecdotes
Structure Mistakes ❌
Missing introduction or conclusion
Writing single-paragraph essays
Including too many main points without developing them
Lack of clear topic sentences
Poor transitions between paragraphs
Language Mistakes ❌
Repetitive vocabulary and sentence structures
Informal language (contractions, slang, casual expressions)
Overly complex sentences that sacrifice clarity
Inconsistent verb tenses
Run-on sentences or sentence fragments
Form Mistakes ❌
Writing under 200 or over 300 words
Using bullet points instead of paragraphs
Writing in all capital letters
Excessively short sentences throughout
Missing essential essay components
Time Management Mistakes ❌
Spending too much time planning (over 5 minutes)
Not leaving time to proofread
Rushing through writing leading to errors
Getting stuck on perfect word choice instead of maintaining flow
Not monitoring word count during writing
The 2025 AI scoring update
As of 2025, PTE Academic has implemented hybrid scoring that combines AI and human evaluation for essay tasks:
AI evaluates:
Grammar accuracy
Spelling consistency
Formal requirements (word count)
Vocabulary range
Sentence structure variety
Human reviewers assess:
Content relevance and completeness
Logical development of ideas
Coherence and cohesion
Linguistic appropriateness
Overall essay quality
Important implication: The 2025 update specifically targets over-reliance on memorized templates. Human reviewers are trained to identify essays that use rigid templates without genuine engagement with the prompt. While templates provide useful structure, you must adapt them flexibly to each specific question and demonstrate original thinking.
What this means for you:
Focus on genuinely addressing the prompt
Use templates as guides, not scripts
Vary your language and examples
Demonstrate critical thinking
Avoid obviously memorized phrases that don't fit the context
Self-evaluation checklist
After each practice essay, ask yourself:
Content:
Did I directly address all parts of the prompt?
Are my arguments relevant and well-developed?
Did I include specific, appropriate examples?
Is my position clear throughout?
Structure:
Does my essay have a clear introduction, body, and conclusion?
Are my paragraphs logically organized?
Did I use effective transitions?
Does each paragraph focus on one main idea?
Language:
Did I use varied vocabulary appropriately?
Are my sentences grammatically correct?
Did I avoid repetition?
Is my spelling accurate?
Did I maintain formal tone?
Form:
Is my word count within 200-300 words?
Did I write in proper paragraph format?
Did I use complete sentences throughout?
The 2025 AI scoring update emphasizes authenticity over templates—focus on genuine analysis and flexible language to demonstrate your true English proficiency.
Frequently asked questions
LearnPTE platform advantage
Our Write Essay module provides extensive practice across all four essay types with diverse prompts reflecting actual test content. The platform delivers detailed AI-powered feedback on all seven scoring criteria, helping you identify specific areas for improvement. With our comprehensive scoring analysis, you'll understand exactly how your essays perform across content, structure, grammar, vocabulary, and spelling dimensions.
The LearnPTE essay feedback system breaks down your performance in each criterion, providing:
Content analysis: Evaluation of relevance, completeness, and argument strength
Structural assessment: Analysis of organization, coherence, and paragraph development
Language metrics: Grammar accuracy, vocabulary range, and linguistic sophistication
Form verification: Word count tracking and formatting compliance
Additionally, our platform includes:
Model essays: High-scoring examples for each essay type with detailed annotations
Personalized recommendations: Targeted advice based on your specific weaknesses
The key to essay success lies in understanding scoring criteria, developing flexible templates, and practicing consistently across diverse topics. While the 20-minute time constraint may seem challenging initially, with strategic preparation and regular practice, you'll transform essay writing from an intimidating task into a confident, high-scoring opportunity.
PTE essay success isn't about memorizing perfect essays—it's about developing the skills to analyze any prompt, organize your thoughts quickly, and express your ideas clearly and persuasively within the constraints.
— LearnPTE
Remember: PTE essay success isn't about memorizing perfect essays—it's about developing the skills to analyze any prompt, organize your thoughts quickly, and express your ideas clearly and persuasively within the constraints. Master these fundamentals, and essay writing becomes one of your strongest sections.
