PTE Answer Short Question Practice Test
What Is an Answer Short Question in PTE?
Answer Short Question (ASQ) is the final task in the PTE Speaking section. In this task, you listen to a short audio question and respond with a brief spoken answer, usually in one to three words. This task tests both listening comprehension and speaking accuracy.
Key points:
There is no negative marking
Around 10–12 questions appear in one test
You hear the question only once
You get about 10 seconds to answer
Short, direct answers score best
Even though ASQ carries fewer marks compared to other speaking tasks, it can still improve your overall Speaking and Listening scores if answered correctly.
Format and Scoring
Feature | Details |
Questions per test | 10–12 |
Response time | Around 10 seconds |
Answer length | 1–3 words |
Marks | 1 mark per correct answer |
Negative marking | No |
The scoring is based purely on whether your spoken answer matches the correct response. Clear pronunciation is essential.
Sample PTE Answer Short Question Practice
Below are common types of PTE Answer Short Questions you may encounter in the exam.
General Knowledge and Daily Life
What do bees produce?
Answer: HoneyWhat is the capital of France?
Answer: ParisWhat do we call a doctor who treats children?
Answer: PediatricianWhich energy source is renewable, coal or solar?
Answer: Solar energyWhat is the largest mammal on Earth?
Answer: Blue whaleWhich gas do plants use for photosynthesis?
Answer: Carbon dioxideWhat do we call a baby dog?
Answer: PuppyWhat is the study of stars and planets called?
Answer: AstronomyHow many sides does a triangle have?
Answer: ThreeWhich organ pumps blood through the body?
Answer: Heart
These questions are representative of the most commonly repeated question patterns in the PTE exam.
Important Tips to Score High in Answering Short Questions
1. Focus on Keywords
Listen carefully for the main noun or concept in the question. Most ASQ answers are directly linked to one keyword.
Example:
Question: Which animal lives in the desert?
Keyword: Desert
Answer: Camel
2. Keep Your Answer Short
Never speak full sentences. Only say the exact answer. One word is often enough.
Incorrect: A camel lives in the desert
Correct: Camel
3. Respond Quickly
Do not wait too long. The microphone closes automatically if you delay your response.
4. Improve General Knowledge
Many ASQ questions come from:
Basic science
Geography
Daily life
Education
Health
Technology
Improving your general knowledge helps you respond more quickly.
5. Work on Pronunciation
The AI scoring system must clearly understand your answer. Speak naturally and avoid rushing.
6. Practice with Mock Tests
Timed practice improves reaction speed and confidence. Mock tests also help you recognize repeated question types.
Daily Practice Strategy
Practice 20–30 short questions daily
Answer aloud, not silently
Record yourself and check clarity
Review incorrect answers weekly
Focus on weak areas, such as science or geography terms
Consistency is more important than long study hours.
Do’s and Don’ts
Do
Listen carefully to the full question
Answer confidently and clearly
Keep responses short
Don’t
Use complete sentences
Overthink the answer
Stay silent if unsure (always attempt an answer)
Final Note
The Answer Short Question task is simple but highly scoring if practiced well. Regular exposure to common question patterns and clear pronunciation can help you score full marks consistently.
Here are the same free resources
PTE Answer Short Question_ Advanced Guide by Gurully.pdf
PTE free mock test - 80+