The Answer Short Question task is a PTE Core Speaking question type that tests your ability to understand a simple spoken question and give a short, accurate answer.
You will hear a question only once. Your answer should usually be one word or a short phrase, not a full sentence. The goal is to respond quickly, clearly, and correctly.
Answer Short Question Scoring
| Criteria | What It Measures | Scoring Range |
|---|---|---|
| Vocabulary | Whether your answer uses the correct word or phrase for the question | 0 or 1 |
Task Format
| Part | Format |
|---|---|
| Number of questions | Usually 5–6 questions |
| Prompt | You hear one short question |
| Preparation time | Only a few seconds |
| Speaking time | 10 seconds |
The question plays automatically. After the question ends, answer as soon as possible. A short answer is enough.
A Simple Strategy to Use
For this task, keep your response simple:
- Listen for the key words in the question.
- Identify what type of answer is needed.
- Say one word or a short phrase clearly.
You do not need to explain your answer. In most cases, one word is the best response.
Example Question 1
Let's take this Answer Short Question example and use it throughout the guide.
You will hear a question. Please give a simple and short answer. Often just one or a few words is enough.
Question: What is the term for the money you pay to use a road or a bridge?
Step 1: Listen Carefully
The question asks for a specific term. The key words are:
- money you pay
- use a road
- use a bridge
These clues point to the word toll.
Step 2: Identify the Type of Answer Needed
The question asks, "What is the term...?" This means you need to give a vocabulary word, not an explanation.
The correct answer is:
Toll
Do not answer with a full sentence such as:
"You pay a toll to use a bridge."
That answer may be understandable, but it is too long for this question type.
Step 3: Answer Briefly and Clearly
Your answer should be short, direct, and clearly pronounced.
Best response:
Toll.
You do not need to repeat the question or add extra information.
Example Question 2
Here is one more example.
Question: What do we call a book that gives the meanings of words?
Key words:
- book
- meanings of words
The correct answer is:
Dictionary
This might be slightly tricky because test takers may think of "vocabulary," but the question asks for the book that explains word meanings.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
-
Giving long answers
Long sentences are unnecessary and may make your answer less direct.
Keep your response to one word or a short phrase. -
Repeating the question
Repeating the question wastes time and does not answer it directly.
Say only the answer. -
Hesitating too long
Waiting too long may cause you to lose the chance to answer clearly.
Respond as soon as you know the answer. -
Staying silent if unsure
Silence gives you no chance to get the point.
Make a quick guess if you are not sure. -
Using the wrong word form
A similar word may not answer the question correctly.
Listen carefully to whether the question needs a person, place, object, or action. -
Speaking unclearly
If your answer is not clear, it may not be recognized correctly.
Pronounce the word confidently and at a natural volume.
Practice more Answer Short Question items to sharpen your listening, build vocabulary recall, and respond quickly under test conditions.
