Rules, comparisons and data

Can you change your answer in PTE?

Yes, while you are still on the question. Pearson's task pages explain how to deselect an option, pick another dropdown word, drag a word back out of a gap or move paragraph boxes. Once you click Next, the answer is final: the Test Taker Handbook says you cannot go back to previous questions to amend your answers. Spoken answers cannot be changed at all, because you record once.
  • Guide updated · 30 October 2026
  • 3 sections
  • PTE
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Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 30 October 2026

How to change an answer in each task

From Pearson's Reading and Listening format pages:

TaskHow to change it
Reading and Writing Fill in the Blanks (dropdown)Left-click a different option in the list
Reading Fill in the Blanks (drag and drop)Drag words between gaps, or drag a word back to the blue box
Reorder ParagraphsDrag boxes, or use the arrow buttons to move and re-order them
Multiple choice tasksLeft-click an option again to deselect it, or click a different option
Highlight Correct Summary, Select Missing WordClick your choice again to deselect it, then click another
Highlight Incorrect WordsClick a highlighted word again to deselect it
Typed answers (summaries, essay, dictation, Fill in the Blanks type-in)Edit the text; summaries and the essay also have cut, copy and paste buttons
Speaking tasksCannot be changed; each answer is recorded once

No going back after Next

The Test Taker Handbook says: 'You cannot go back to previous questions to amend your answers.' Pearson's Listening tips note that the next item does not start until you click Next, so you have a little time to review a Fill in the Blanks or Select Missing Word answer before moving on.

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Changing answers on negatively marked items

On Multiple Choice, Multiple Answers and Highlight Incorrect Words, each wrong selection costs a point, down to a minimum of zero (Score Guide). Deselecting a guess you are unsure of before you click Next can protect points you have already earned.

Frequently asked questions

Can I go back to a previous question in PTE?+

No. The handbook says you cannot go back to previous questions to amend your answers.

Can I change my answer after the audio ends?+

Yes, until you click Next. Pearson says the next listening item does not start until you do.

Can I change a spoken answer?+

No. You can record each spoken response only once.

Is there a review screen at the end of a section?+

Pearson's pages do not describe one, and the handbook rules out going back.

Keep reading

Related

Guide updated on 30 October 2026. Individual prices and policies may have earlier observation dates. Confirm current details on the linked official pages before you book or apply.

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