Write From Dictation PTE Practice with Free Tools
When it comes to the PTE Academic test, one of the most scoring yet challenging tasks is Write From Dictation (WFD). It tests not just your listening and writing abilities but also your focus, spelling, and short-term memory. If you master this section, you can significantly boost your Listening and Writing scores.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about Write From Dictation, including its format, scoring criteria, top preparation strategies, and — most importantly — the best free tools to practice and improve effectively.
What is Write From Dictation in PTE?
Write From Dictation is the last task in the Listening section of the PTE Academic exam.
You will hear a short sentence (usually between 5–15 words) and must type exactly what you hear in the response box.
Sounds simple? It’s not.
This question tests multiple skills at once:
Listening comprehension
Memory retention
Spelling and capitalization
Typing accuracy
Each correct word contributes to your score, so even if you miss one or two, you can still earn partial marks.
How Scoring Works in Write From Dictation
PTE scoring is based on word-level accuracy. Here’s how it’s calculated:
Criteria | Scoring Description |
Content | You must type all words correctly in the correct order. |
Form | Proper use of capitalization and spacing matters. |
Spelling | Each misspelled word is marked incorrect. |
Partial Credit | You earn marks for each correct word in sequence. |
👉 Example:
If the sentence is: “Students are encouraged to participate in cultural activities.”
And your answer is: “Students are encourage to participate cultural activities.”
You’ll still get partial marks for all correct words in the right sequence.
Why Write From Dictation Is Important
Even though each WFD question may seem small, it carries high weightage in both Listening and Writing scores.
Here’s why mastering it is crucial:
Each correct word adds up to your total score.
It helps strengthen listening concentration.
It improves grammar and spelling naturally.
You can achieve 8+ Band (79+ PTE Score) with consistent WFD practice.
How Many Write From Dictation Questions Appear in PTE?
Typically, you’ll get 3 to 4 Write From Dictation questions in the exam.
Each question contributes to:
Listening: about 10–12 marks
Writing: about 6–8 marks
That’s why even a single mistake can cost you a few points — so every word counts!
Effective Strategy for Write From Dictation
Let’s go step by step on how to master this task.
1. Listen Attentively — Only Once
You’ll hear the sentence only one time. Pay close attention from the start to the end. Avoid translating or overthinking.
2. Focus on Keywords
Try to identify nouns, verbs, adjectives, and connectors. These are usually the backbone of the sentence.
3. Use Note-Taking Techniques
Use abbreviations or phonetic notes quickly. For example:
Sentence: “Environmental pollution is a growing global concern.”
Notes: env polu grow glob conrn
Then reconstruct the sentence using logic.
4. Practice Short-Term Memory
Try memorizing chunks of 4–5 words instead of individual words. This technique improves recall.
5. Review Before Submitting
Check for:
Capitalization (first letter should be capital)
Spelling mistakes
Missing words or extra spaces
Proper punctuation (not required in WFD but good for typing habit)
Free Tools to Practice Write From Dictation
Now let’s explore the best free tools and resources you can use to prepare for this task effectively.
1. Gurully Free PTE Practice Platform
Why it’s great:
Offers Write From Dictation practice with instant AI scoring
Includes real exam-like audio quality
Free mock tests and section-wise tests available
Detailed feedback report highlighting errors and accuracy percentage
👉 You can sign up for free and start practicing WFD questions instantly.
2. PTE Tools Free WFD Practice
Features:
Free question bank updated frequently
Ability to repeat questions for revision
Tracks performance and accuracy per attempt
3. E2 Test Prep (YouTube Channel)
🔗 E2 PTE YouTube Channel
Why it helps:
Real exam-style dictation videos
Expert tips for improving listening and memory skills
Free daily practice sessions
4. PTEStudy.net
What you get:
Over 500+ Write From Dictation questions
Ability to filter by difficulty and frequency
Includes transcription and correct answers for self-check
5. Listening Dictation Apps (Mobile Practice)
You can also use free dictation apps available on Google Play or App Store:
“PTE Write From Dictation Practice” app
“Listen and Write – Dictation Training”
These allow you to practice anywhere and anytime, even while commuting.
Daily Practice Plan (30-Minute Routine)
Here’s a quick, effective daily schedule to strengthen your WFD skills:
Time | Activity | Tools |
5 min | Warm up your listening by watching English news or TED Talks | YouTube / BBC |
10 min | Practice 10 WFD sentences | Gurully / PTE Tools |
10 min | Review and analyze mistakes | Gurully AI feedback |
5 min | Revise difficult words and spellings | Flashcards or notebook |
- In just 30 minutes a day, you’ll start noticing major improvements in your accuracy and memory.
Common Mistakes in Write From Dictation
Avoid these common pitfalls:
Incorrect spelling: Even one typo can lose you a mark.
Word order errors: Words must be in the exact same sequence as spoken.
Missing small words: Articles and prepositions (“a”, “the”, “of”, etc.) matter.
Typing errors: Extra spaces or missing capitalization can lower your score.
Not practicing with audio: Reading text-only WFD lists won’t help your listening skill.
Expert Tips to Improve Your WFD Performance
Listen to English content daily: Podcasts, YouTube videos, and news reports improve your ear for accents.
Use dictation practice daily: Replay, write, and compare.
Focus on pronunciation patterns: Understanding stress and intonation helps catch difficult words.
Expand vocabulary: The more words you recognize, the easier it becomes to recall sentences.
Use repetition drills: Write the same sentence multiple times to build accuracy.
Write From Dictation Practice Examples
Try these sentences and check your accuracy:
The library will close early on public holidays.
Economic policies vary according to political ideologies.
The professor will distribute the reading list tomorrow.
Students are advised to submit their reports by Friday.
New research indicates a link between diet and mood.
👉 Practice writing them from audio using the free tools mentioned above!
Useful Resources
Here are a few additional resources for effective practice:
Conclusion
Write From Dictation might seem like a small section of the PTE test, but it can make a huge difference in your overall score. With consistent practice, proper listening habits, and the help of free online tools like Gurully, you can easily master it.
Remember — practice smart, not just hard.
Focus on accuracy, build your vocabulary, and train your memory daily.
Before you know it, you’ll be confidently typing every sentence perfectly in the PTE exam
Also Read:
-PTE Dictation Words 2026 – Must-Know WFD Practice List
-PTE Repeat Sentence Tips & 2026 Sample Questions
-Know 10 Best PTE Institutes in Chandigarh – Start Your Prep For 2026