The Write Essay task in PTE Academic gives you 20 minutes to write a 200-300 word essay on a given topic. While this might seem straightforward, many students struggle because they don't understand how the AI evaluates their writing. In this guide, we provide three battle-tested essay templates that consistently produce scores of 70+ on the writing module.
How the AI Scores Your Essay
The PTE writing AI evaluates your essay across seven criteria:
- Content (0-3): Does your essay address the topic?
- Form (0-2): Is it within 200-300 words? Outside this range receives 0.
- Development, Structure, and Coherence (0-2): Logically organized with clear paragraphs?
- General Linguistic Range (0-2): Variety of sentence structures?
- Grammar Usage and Mechanics (0-2): Accurate grammar?
- Vocabulary Range (0-2): Diverse and appropriate word choice?
- Spelling (0-2): All words spelled correctly?
The Golden Rules of PTE Essay Writing
- Always write 250-280 words. Under 200 or over 300 gets 0 for Form.
- Always write exactly 4 paragraphs: Introduction, Body 1, Body 2, Conclusion.
- Never copy words directly from the prompt. Always paraphrase.
- Use at least 3 different linking words.
- Check spelling before submitting.
Template 1: Agree/Disagree Essays
The most common essay type. You are given a statement and asked whether you agree or disagree.
Template Structure:
Paragraph 1 — Introduction (40-50 words): "[Paraphrase the topic]. This is a widely debated topic. I firmly [agree/disagree] with this statement, and this essay will discuss the key reasons."
Paragraph 2 — Body 1 (70-80 words): "Firstly, [main argument 1]. For example, [specific example]. This clearly demonstrates that [link back to position]. Furthermore, [supporting point]."
Paragraph 3 — Body 2 (70-80 words): "Secondly, [main argument 2]. To illustrate, [specific example]. Moreover, [additional detail]. Consequently, it is evident that [link back]."
Paragraph 4 — Conclusion (40-50 words): "In conclusion, I strongly [agree/disagree] that [restate topic]. It is recommended that [future-oriented statement]."
Template 2: Advantages/Disadvantages Essays
Introduction: "[Paraphrase topic]. While there are several benefits, there are also notable drawbacks. This essay examines both perspectives."
Body 1 (Advantages): "On one hand, [advantage 1]. For instance, [example]. Additionally, [advantage 2]."
Body 2 (Disadvantages): "On the other hand, [disadvantage 1]. For example, [evidence]. Moreover, [disadvantage 2]."
Conclusion: "In conclusion, while [topic] offers advantages such as [recap], the disadvantages cannot be overlooked."
Template 3: Problem/Solution Essays
Introduction: "[Describe the problem]. This issue has become increasingly prevalent. This essay will analyze causes and propose solutions."
Body 1 (Problem): "The main cause is [cause 1]. For instance, [example]. Furthermore, [cause 2] contributes significantly."
Body 2 (Solutions): "To address this, [solution 1] could be implemented. Additionally, [solution 2] would help mitigate [the problem]."
Conclusion: "In conclusion, [problem] is complex but through [solutions], significant progress can be made."
Power Vocabulary for PTE Essays
- "Important" → "crucial," "paramount," "significant," "pivotal"
- "Good" → "beneficial," "advantageous," "favorable"
- "Bad" → "detrimental," "adverse," "unfavorable"
- "Many" → "numerous," "a substantial number of"
- "Because" → "owing to," "on account of," "as a consequence of"
- "But" → "nevertheless," "however," "conversely"
- "Also" → "furthermore," "moreover," "additionally"
- "So" → "consequently," "therefore," "as a result"
Practice Writing with AI Feedback
PTE Shark's writing module lets you practice essays and get instant AI scoring across all seven criteria. See exactly where you're losing marks and adjust accordingly.