PTE Writing Essay Guide 2025: Tips, Template & 79+ Sample

 

PTE Writing Essay: Complete Guide with Tips, Template & Solved Example for a 79+ Score

The PTE Academic Writing section can be a game-changer for your overall score. While many test-takers in Australia find the essay writing task intimidating, the truth is — once you understand the format, structure, and strategy, scoring 79+ becomes absolutely achievable.

In this detailed guide, you’ll learn how to write a high-scoring PTE essay, the most common mistakes students make, and a universal template that you can confidently use in the exam. Plus, you’ll get a solved example essay based on real PTE topics.

If you’re preparing for the full test, you can also check out our detailed guides on other modules — such as Understanding PTE Academic Reading and PTE Re-Order Paragraphs: Tips and Strategy — to strengthen your overall performance.

If you’re aiming to study, work, or apply for PR in Australia, mastering this skill is non-negotiable. And if you’re serious about achieving your target score, you should definitely check out this complete PTE Academic preparation guide — available on Amazon Australia here.

Get your copy on Amazon UK here:
👉 Ace the PTE Academic Exam with Confidence

Understanding the PTE Essay Task

The PTE Writing Essay appears in the Writing section and usually comes after Summarize Written Text. You’ll get 20 minutes to write a 200–300 word essay on an academic or general topic.

Task format:

• Time: 20 minutes

• Word limit: 200–300 words

• Prompt type: Argument, opinion, or problem-solution

You’ll see a statement or question like:

"Do you think the government should invest more in public transport than in road infrastructure? Give your opinion."

Your goal is to express a clear opinion, support it with logical arguments, and structure your essay using correct grammar, vocabulary, and coherence.

Scoring Criteria

Your PTE essay is AI-scored (automated scoring system by Pearson). That means it checks your essay based on five key parameters:

1. Content (3 points): How well you address the topic and support your argument.

2. Form (2 points): Word count within 200–300 words.

3. Development, Structure, and Coherence (2 points): Logical flow of ideas and paragraph structure.

4. Grammar (2 points): Accuracy and variety of sentence structures.

5. General Linguistic Range (2 points): Use of vocabulary and academic expressions.

So, even if your ideas are simple, you can score high if your structure and language are strong.

Do’s and Don’ts for PTE Essays

✅ Do’s:

1. Stick to one clear opinion.
   PTE essays are not about balancing both sides. Pick a side and support it strongly.

2. Use 4–5 paragraphs.
   Keep your essay clean: Introduction, 2 body paragraphs, and a short conclusion.

3. Follow a consistent template.
   Using a tested template helps you maintain structure and coherence even under pressure.

4. Include transition words.
   Use connectors like Moreover, However, Therefore, In conclusion to make your writing smooth.

5. Check grammar and spelling.
   Small errors reduce your grammar score significantly. Always leave 2 minutes to proofread.

6. Use simple yet formal English.
   Avoid fancy or complex vocabulary if you’re unsure about correctness.

7. Keep sentences balanced.
   Combine simple and complex sentences to sound natural.

❌ Don’ts:

1. Don’t exceed 300 words or go below 200.
   The AI penalizes essays that don’t follow the word range.

2. Don’t copy from the question prompt.
   The system detects copied text. Always paraphrase the topic in your introduction.

3. Don’t write informal phrases.
   Avoid words like “I think,” “you know,” “a lot of,” or “stuff.” Keep it academic.

4. Don’t use bullet points or headings.
   Your essay must be written in paragraph form.

5. Don’t go off-topic.
   Every idea must connect directly to the essay question.

Universal Template for PTE Essay (79+ Ready)

Here’s a universal essay template you can adapt to almost any topic in the PTE exam. This structure ensures coherence, clarity, and proper organization.

Paragraph 1: Introduction

• Paraphrase the topic in your own words.

• Clearly state your opinion.

• Mention briefly what your main points will be.

Template:

The issue of [restate topic] has become increasingly relevant in today’s world. While some believe that [opposing view], I strongly agree/disagree that [your opinion]. This essay will discuss [main point 1] and [main point 2] to support my viewpoint.

Paragraph 2: First Supporting Argument

• Present your first reason.

• Explain it logically.

• Give a short example.

Template:

Firstly, [main reason]. This is because [explanation]. For example, [give a general example]. Therefore, it is evident that [restate your point].

Paragraph 3: Second Supporting Argument

• Present another reason or argument.

• Support it with logic and example.

Template:

Secondly, [second reason]. Moreover, [additional explanation]. For instance, [example]. Hence, this demonstrates that [conclusion of point].

Paragraph 4: Conclusion

• Restate your opinion in a new way.

• Summarize your two main points.

• Avoid adding new ideas.

Template:

In conclusion, it can be said that [summarize arguments]. Therefore, I firmly believe that [final opinion statement].

Example Solved PTE Essay (Model Answer)

Essay Question:

Some people believe that social media platforms have improved communication and relationships. Others think they have damaged personal interaction. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

Sample Answer:

The influence of social media on human communication has become a topic of debate in recent years. While it is true that social platforms have connected people across distances, I believe they have also weakened personal interaction and genuine relationships in significant ways.

Firstly, social media allows individuals to stay connected with family and friends globally. Applications like Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp enable instant sharing of photos, updates, and messages, which would have been impossible two decades ago. For example, international students in Australia can easily maintain emotional contact with their families back home through daily video calls and chats. Therefore, such tools have indeed enhanced communication efficiency.

However, this convenience often comes at the cost of face-to-face interaction. Many people spend excessive time online rather than engaging in real-life conversations. As a result, personal connections lose emotional depth. For instance, while someone may have thousands of online followers, they may still feel lonely in real life. Such digital dependency can reduce empathy, patience, and the ability to understand others beyond screens.

In conclusion, although social media has revolutionized the way we communicate, it has also created barriers to genuine human connection. Thus, I believe that while it offers numerous advantages, it must be used in moderation to maintain the quality of personal relationships.

Word Count: 267

✅ Why This Essay Scores 79+:

• Stays within 200–300 words

• Maintains a clear opinion

• Has logical structure and linking words

• Uses academic language

• Balances examples with explanation

Final Writing Tips for PTE Success

1. Practice typing quickly and accurately.
   PTE is a computer-based test — typing speed matters.

2. Time your essay writing practice.
   Always practice finishing within 18 minutes to leave 2 minutes for review.

3. Memorize your template but customize your examples.
   The AI detects repetition if every essay looks identical. Keep 20–30% variation.

4. Improve coherence using linking words:

   • Firstly, Furthermore, In addition, However, Therefore, Consequently, In conclusion

5. Don’t panic during brainstorming.
   Take 2 minutes before writing to decide your opinion and supporting points.

6. Focus on clarity, not complexity.
   Simple, clear English scores better than confusing advanced vocabulary.

Want to Boost Your PTE Writing Score Faster?

If you found this guide helpful, you’ll love the complete PTE Academic practice book designed for Australian students and professionals aiming for 65+, 79+, or even 90.

It includes:
✅ 4 Full-Length PTE Practice Tests
✅ Proven Writing & Speaking Templates
✅ Module-Wise Strategies & AI Scoring Insights

Get your copy on Amazon Australia here:
Ace the PTE Academic Exam with Confidence

Get your copy on Amazon UK here:
👉 Ace the PTE Academic Exam with Confidence

This book is perfect for self-study learners, PR applicants, and students preparing for the 2025 PTE Academic test in Australia.

Final Thought:

The secret to a high PTE Writing score isn’t about using big words — it’s about structure, clarity, and consistency. Stick to your plan, use the universal template, and practice using real exam-like questions.

To strengthen your overall PTE preparation, don’t miss our detailed guides on Understanding PTE Academic Reading and PTE Re-Order Paragraphs: Tips and Strategy.

With the right approach and guidance, you can master the PTE Essay and achieve your dream score.