The Select Missing Word task tests your ability to understand the overall meaning of an audio recording and choose the best option to complete the final missing word or phrase.
You will hear a recording, but the last part will be replaced by a beep. Your task is to predict the missing ending based on the context, grammar, and logical flow of the audio.
Select Missing Word Scoring
Based on Pearson's official PTE Core scoring guide, there is no negative marking for this question type, so always choose an answer.
| Criteria | What It Measures | Scoring Range |
|---|---|---|
| Response | Whether you select the correct missing word or phrase | 1 point for the correct answer; 0 for an incorrect answer |
Task Format
The missing part comes at the end of the recording. Because of this, the final sentence is especially important.
| Part | Format |
|---|---|
| Number of questions | Usually 1–2 questions |
| Audio length | About 20–70 seconds |
| Task | Choose the option that best completes the recording |
| Skills assessed | Listening |
A Simple Strategy to Use
- Preview the options before the audio starts.
- Listen for the main topic and tone.
- Pay close attention to the final sentence before the beep.
- Use grammar and context to eliminate wrong answers.
- Choose quickly and move on.
Do not spend too long after the audio ends. In most cases, your first logical choice is better than overthinking.
Example Question
Let's take this Select Missing Word example and use it throughout the guide.
You will hear a recording. At the end of the recording, the last word or group of words has been replaced by a beep. Select the correct option to complete the recording.
Audio Transcript
The CN Tower, located in Toronto, Canada, stands as an iconic symbol of architectural achievement. Rising 553 meters into the sky, it showcases the city's skyline and serves as a marvel of modern engineering. Completed in 1976, it was the world's tallest freestanding structure for over three decades. Its construction pushed the boundaries of what was possible at the time, involving thousands of workers and innovative building techniques to withstand wind, weather, and time. Inside, the tower houses a revolving restaurant, glass floor panels, and even edge-walk experiences for the adventurous. Visitors flock to its observation deck for breathtaking views of the city, making it a top destination for...
Options
Step 1: Preview the Options
Before the audio starts, quickly scan the options. In this example, the choices are:
- recreation
- agriculture
- conservatory
- industry
This helps you predict the topic. The options suggest that the audio may end by describing the CN Tower as a destination for a particular purpose.
Step 2: Listen for the Main Context
As you listen, focus on the overall meaning of the recording. In this example, the audio describes the CN Tower as:
- an iconic landmark in Toronto
- a major engineering achievement
- a place with a restaurant, glass floor, and edge-walk experiences
- a site where visitors go for city views
The general context is tourism, sightseeing, and visitor experiences.
Step 3: Pay Attention to the Words Before the Beep
The final words before the beep are:
making it a top destination for...
This phrase needs a noun that logically explains why people visit the CN Tower.
The best option should match the idea of visitors, views, and enjoyable activities.
Step 4: Eliminate Wrong Options
Now compare each option with the context.
Correct. The CN Tower is described as a tourist attraction where visitors enjoy views and experiences, so "recreation" fits the context.
Incorrect. The audio does not mention farming, crops, or agricultural activity.
Incorrect. A conservatory usually refers to a glass building for plants or a school for music or arts. It does not fit the sentence or the CN Tower context.
Incorrect. Although the tower is an engineering achievement, the final sentence focuses on visitors and tourism, not industry.
Step 5: Finalize Quickly
After the audio ends, choose the option that best completes the meaning. Do not spend too long reviewing, because this is usually a quick-response listening task.
For this example, the correct answer is:
Common Mistakes to Avoid
-
Focusing only on individual words
One word from the audio may connect to an option, but the full meaning matters more.
Listen to the overall message and final sentence. -
Ignoring the final sentence
The words before the beep usually give the strongest clue.
Pay extra attention near the end of the recording. -
Choosing a word that fits the topic but not the sentence
An option may be related to the subject but grammatically or logically wrong.
Check whether the option completes the final phrase naturally. -
Missing contrast words
Words like "however," "despite," and "on the other hand" can change the direction of the ending.
Listen for changes in tone or meaning. -
Spending too long after the audio ends
Overthinking can waste time and create confusion.
Choose the most logical answer and move on. -
Leaving the question unanswered
There is no negative marking for this task.
Always select one option, even if you are unsure.
Practice more PTE Core Select Missing Word questions to improve your ability to follow spoken context, predict logical endings, and select the most suitable final word or phrase.
