Struggling with the PTE Reading section? You’re not alone. Many test-takers find the Reading module one of the most challenging parts of the Pearson Test of English (PTE), especially when it comes to Fill in the Blanks and Reorder Paragraphs. The pressure of time, vocabulary complexity, and understanding of grammar all come into play.
But don’t worry — this guide breaks down exactly how to master these tricky tasks with smart strategies and consistent practice.
Understanding the PTE Reading Section
Before jumping into the tips, let’s understand the structure. The PTE Reading section is designed to evaluate how well you comprehend academic English. It includes multiple item types, but Fill in the Blanks (Reading & Writing) and Reorder Paragraphs are two tasks that significantly impact your overall score.
📘Fill in the Blanks (Reading & Writing): What It Tests
This task assesses both your reading and writing skills. You’re presented with a passage with several gaps, and a list of options to choose the correct word for each blank.
✅ Tips to Master Fill in the Blanks
1. Read the Entire Passage First
- Skimming the full paragraph before selecting answers helps you grasp the context. Don’t jump straight to filling gaps without understanding the theme.
2. Look for Collocations
- PTE often tests your knowledge of common word pairings. Phrases like “make a decision” or “take a risk” are examples. Learn frequent English collocations to improve accuracy.
3. Grammar is Your Friend
- Check for subject-verb agreement, verb forms, prepositions, and determiners. Sometimes, just understanding grammatical rules will point you to the right choice.
4. Use Elimination Tactics
- Cross out options that clearly don’t fit grammatically or semantically. Narrowing choices boosts your chances, even if you’re unsure.
5. Build Vocabulary the Smart Way
- Focus on academic and high-frequency words. Use tools like vocabulary apps, flashcards, or even read editorials to expand your word bank.
📚Reorder Paragraphs: How to Tackle It
This task tests your ability to organize text logically. You’ll be given jumbled sentences and must rearrange them to form a coherent paragraph.
✅ Tips to Master Reorder Paragraphs
1. Identify the Topic Sentence
Usually, this sentence introduces the main idea and can stand alone. Look for statements that don’t refer to previous content.
2. Spot Logical Connectors
Words like “however,” “therefore,” “in addition,” and pronouns like “this,” “these,” or “such” can help determine sequence and relationships between sentences.
3. Use Chronological and Cause-Effect Clues
Some paragraphs follow a timeline or a logical flow. Look for time indicators or cause-effect phrases like “as a result” or “due to.”
4. Group Related Ideas
Try to mentally group sentences that discuss the same sub-topic. They usually belong close together.
5. Practice with Real Exam Samples
The more you practice, the better you understand how native-level English structures flow. Use authentic materials or PTE mock tests for this.
🧩Bonus: General Reading Section Tips
- Manage Time Wisely – You don’t get extra time per question, so avoid spending too long on one task.
- Practice Daily – Build a consistent habit of reading newspapers, articles, or essays to strengthen comprehension.
- Use PTE Mock Tests – Practice in real test conditions helps reduce anxiety and build familiarity with the test format.
Final Thoughts
Cracking the PTE Reading section doesn’t require memorizing the entire dictionary. What you need is a focused approach, understanding of question patterns, and targeted practice — especially for Fill in the Blanks and Reorder Paragraphs. With the right strategy and tools like The PTE Guru’s expert-led mock tests, you’ll be on your way to that 79+ score in no time.
