The Fill in the Blanks task in the Listening section tests your ability to follow an audio recording and type the missing words into a transcript. You will see a passage with several blanks, and while listening to the recording, you need to identify the exact words that are missing.
The words must be spelled correctly. Even if you hear the correct word, a spelling mistake can make the answer incorrect.
Fill in the Blanks Scoring
According to Pearson's official PTE Core scoring guide, each blank is scored separately, so you can still receive partial credit even if you miss one or two words.
| Criteria | What It Measures | Scoring Range |
|---|---|---|
| Blanks | Whether each missing word is typed correctly | 1 point for each correct answer; 0 for each incorrect answer |
Task Format
You will hear the recording once. While listening, follow the transcript on the screen and write down the missing words as accurately as possible.
| Part | Format |
|---|---|
| Number of questions | Usually 2–3 questions |
| Task | Listen to the audio and type the missing words |
| Skills assessed | Listening and Writing |
| Scoring | Partial credit for each correct blank |
A Simple Strategy to Use
- Preview the passage before the audio starts.
- Follow the transcript while listening.
- Write the missing words quickly on your notepad.
- Type the answers after the audio ends.
- Check spelling before moving on.
Do not try to type every answer while listening if it makes you lose track of the recording.
Example Question
Let's take this Listening: Fill in the Blanks example and use it throughout the guide.
You will hear a recording. Type the missing words in each blank.
Mount Everest, the tallest mountain on Earth, stands at 8,849 meters above sea level. Climbing it requires months of (1), including physical training and (2) acclimatization to high altitudes. The journey to the summit is dangerous, with risks such as (3) cold, avalanches, and altitude sickness. Despite these challenges, reaching the peak remains a (4) achievement for mountaineers worldwide.
Step 1: Preview the Transcript
Before the audio starts, quickly skim the passage. In this example, the topic is Mount Everest and the difficulty of climbing it.
You should also notice that there are four blanks. The missing words are likely to describe preparation, altitude adjustment, danger, and achievement.
Step 2: Follow the Text During Playback
When the audio starts, keep your eyes on the transcript and follow the speaker carefully. The blanks appear in these phrases:
- months of (1)
- (2) acclimatization
- (3) cold
- a (4) achievement
These surrounding words help you predict the type of word you need.
Step 3: Capture the Exact Missing Words
Write the missing words quickly as you hear them. Do not replace them with synonyms.
For this example:
- Blank 1: months of preparation → preparation
- Blank 2: gradual acclimatization → gradual
- Blank 3: extreme cold → extreme
- Blank 4: a monumental achievement → monumental
Step 4: Type the Answers After Listening
After the audio ends, transfer your notes into the blanks carefully. Check the spelling of longer words such as preparation and monumental.
Step 5: Review Before Submitting
Read the completed passage once to make sure the words fit naturally and are spelled correctly.
Mount Everest, the tallest mountain on Earth, stands at 8,849 meters above sea level. Climbing it requires months of (1)preparation, including physical training and (2)gradual acclimatization to high altitudes. The journey to the summit is dangerous, with risks such as (3)extreme cold, avalanches, and altitude sickness. Despite these challenges, reaching the peak remains a (4)monumental achievement for mountaineers worldwide.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
-
Typing while losing track of the audio
If you focus too much on typing, you may miss the next blank.
Follow the transcript and write quick notes first if needed. -
Using synonyms instead of exact words
A similar word may fit the meaning but still be wrong.
Type the exact word you hear in the recording. -
Missing word endings
Singular, plural, and verb endings matter.
Listen carefully for endings such as -s, -ed, and -ing. -
Making spelling mistakes
A misspelled word can score zero even if you heard it correctly.
Check spelling before submitting. -
Getting stuck on one blank
If you miss one answer, do not stop following the recording.
Move on and focus on the remaining blanks. -
Ignoring context clues
The words around the blank can help you understand what type of word is missing.
Use grammar and meaning to support your listening.
Practice more PTE Core Listening: Fill in the Blanks questions to improve your ability to follow spoken text, catch exact missing words, and type accurate answers under test conditions.
