Top Tips to Master Answer Short Question in the PTE Exam

The Answer Short Question exercise in the PTE Speaking module is short and easy, yet it works well. It measures how well you can understand a question and give a correct and fluent answer in one or two words.

Even if the questions are basic, a lot of people who take the test lose points because they hesitate, don’t say the words clearly, or provide the erroneous response. Let’s look at how you can easily conquer this activity and get full marks.

1. Pay Close Attention—Every Word Counts

You will hear a short question, usually just once. So, the most important thing is to listen actively. Concentrate on the type of question: who, what, where, how, or when.
✅ Don’t guess too quickly, though. Wait until the question is over, then answer it clearly and with confidence.

2. Talk about things that are common

Most of the questions are on things we know from ordinary life, not from school. Some common areas are:

General information (for example, what do bees make? Honey)

Knowing words (for example, what is the opposite of “cold”? → “hot”)

Prepare by going over common nouns, jobs, tools, and measurements. These are things that come up a lot in tests.

3. Speak clearly and with confidence

Your answer should be short, clear, and sure of itself. No extended breaks or words like “um” or “uh.” Say the response loudly and correctly, even if it’s just one word.
💡 Instead of mumbling “umm sun,” just say “Sun” clearly.

4. Keep It Short—Just One or Two Words

The name of the challenge says it all! Don’t write full sentences. A brief, straightforward answer is best.
❌ “The answer is a library.”
“Library.”

5. Practice to get better at quick reflexes

To do well, work on your reflexes for listening and speaking. Use PTE applications or YouTube practice videos and answer right away after you hear a question. You will talk more clearly in the real test if you think quickly.

 6. Expand Your Vocabulary and General Knowledge

Because this work needs common sense and vocabulary, make it a practice to acquire new words every day. Read short articles, listen to English podcasts, and write down useful verbs and nouns. This helps you remember replies right away and grows your response bank.

7. Don’t worry if you miss a question.

You might not always grasp the question. Don’t freeze or freak out; just move on to the next one. If your fluency and accuracy are good overall, losing one question won’t hurt.

Conclusion: Get advice from the pros

For PTE success with guidance, getting feedback from professionals is key.
Score Smart PTE is known as the greatest place to get ready for the PTE because it has AI-based practice tools, expert teachers, and individualized instruction that help students master every activity, including Answer Short Question, with confidence and accuracy.

👉 Train smart, talk smart, and score smart!