PTE · READING TASK GUIDE

PTE Reading & Writing: Fill in the Blanks

Overview

A text appears with gaps. Choose the best word for each gap from a dropdown list.

Timing & Volume

Items per test: 5–6
Text length: up to 300 words
Skills: Reading + Writing

Samples from PTE Practice

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Asteroids

A new study has revealed the presence of water molecules on the surface of two asteroids in the main belt between Mars and Jupiter. This discovery challenges the previous that these asteroids were completely dry and could explain the origin and distribution of water in our solar system. The study, published in The Planetary Science Journal, used data from the SOFIA airborne telescope, detected water signatures on Iris and Massalia, two silicate-rich asteroids. The amount of water was to that found on the lunar surface by the same telescope in 2020. The finding of water on these asteroids suggests that they formed far enough from the sun to avoid losing their water due to heat. It also supports the theory that asteroids may have water and other elements to early Earth through impacts. The researchers plan to use the James Webb Space Telescope to look for water on more asteroids and understand their composition and history.

Bad Day

You all have those days when nothing seems to go right. You oversleep, miss your train, spill coffee on your shirt, and face one obstacle after. You feel like the universe is conspiring against you and you wonder why you are so unlucky. But don't despair. There are ways to bounce back from a bad day and your luck around. The first step is to acknowledge and embrace the reality of your situation, without resisting or it. Accepting your feelings and emotions can reduce your stress and suffering, and help you on. The next step is to examine what went wrong and focus on what you can change and control, and take proactive steps to prevent or mitigate future problems. The final step is to yourself with kindness and compassion. Do something that makes you happy and relaxed, such as reading a book, taking a bath, or listening to music. Self-care can help you recharge and reset, and prepare you for a better tomorrow.

Federal Government System

A federal government system is a form of political organization in which power is divided between a central authority and constituent political units, such as states or provinces. This system allows for a balance of power, enabling the central government to national-level responsibilities like defense, foreign policy, and monetary regulation, the smaller units manage more localized affairs, such as education, transportation, and public health. The division of powers is constitutionally established, ensuring that each level of government has a degree of and can make decisions within its jurisdiction. This setup aims to combine the strengths of a unified nation with the flexibility and cultural responsiveness of more localized governance, allowing for diverse regions within a country to maintain a degree of self-rule while contributing to the unity and function of the nation. The United States, Canada, and Australia are examples of countries with federal systems, each with its unique way of balancing powers between the national and state or provincial governments.

Tips That Boost Scores

  • Use grammar and collocations to decide the best word choice.
  • Read the full sentence before selecting the option.
  • Check the overall tone and meaning of the paragraph before confirming.

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Kirill O'Nayd, PTE Expert

Written by Kirill O'Nayd

PTE expert and educator at TestSucceed.

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