Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 30 October 2026
What you are given
The Test Taker Handbook says the administrator assigns you a computer with headphones and a built-in microphone, plus an erasable whiteboard and two pens. Pearson's test day page describes the booth as having a computer, QWERTY keyboard, audio headset, chair, and a notepad and pencil; either way, the note-taking materials are provided and stay in the room.
Books and notes are on the list of items not allowed in the test room, and personal belongings go into a locker you cannot open until the test is over (test centre rules).
The rules for note-taking
From the handbook and the malpractice policy:
| Rule | Detail |
|---|---|
| Before the test starts | Do not write anything; writing on the whiteboard early is listed as malpractice |
| Board full | Raise your hand and you will be given a new one |
| Pen not working | Raise your hand; the administrator brings a replacement |
| During the test | The board and pens must not leave the test room |
| After the test | Return the board and pens |
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Why notes matter in PTE
The handbook says you cannot replay the audio or video clips, you cannot re-record a spoken response, and you cannot go back to earlier questions. Notes are how you hold on to details from a lecture or recording until you answer.
Practise writing short notes while you listen, then check them against the scoring rules in our Summarize Spoken Text scoring criteria guide.
Pearson updates its policies from time to time. Check the linked page before you act. This guide is general information, not official PTE advice.
Frequently asked questions
Can I bring my own pen or paper to PTE?+
No. Books and notes are not allowed in the test room, personal items go in a locker, and Pearson provides the pens and board.
Is writing on the whiteboard before the test cheating?+
Pearson's malpractice policy lists writing on the whiteboard before the test starts as malpractice.
What if I run out of space on the PTE whiteboard?+
Raise your hand and the administrator will give you a new one.
Can I keep my PTE notes after the test?+
No. The board and pens stay in the test room and are returned at the end.
Keep reading
Related
- PTE test day rules
- PTE Summarize Spoken Text scoring
- PTE exam pattern 2026
- Free PTE mock test
- All 3112 guides
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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