Original BandLadder material
Along the way you get worked examples with the key words marked, before-and-after fixes that show why the first version loses marks, a one-page visual summary, a quick check to test yourself and a recap of the rules to remember. Each card holds one idea, so you can read it on a phone between practice sessions.
Reading it online is free: create a free BandLadder account and the whole lesson opens in our study reader, on the web and in the app. Downloading the PDF to keep needs a plan; the free reader has every card.
The first 3 of 8 cards
the first Academic vs Core myth
Many learners think PTE Core is PTE Academic with a new name. Pearson's two Score Guides list different tasks, limits and skill credit.
Core is the same test, so my Academic notes will do.the myth
Core has 19 task types to Academic's 22, and the limits move.
figures from Pearson's Score Guides
| In the test | Academic | Core |
|---|---|---|
| Task types | 22 | 19 |
| Questions | 65–75 | 52–67 |
| Longest test | 2 h 15 min | 2 h |
| Speaking + Writing | 76–84 min | 50–65 min |
| Reading | 23–30 min | 27–37 min |
| Listening | 31–39 min | 22–37 min |
Times are ranges: no test hits every maximum.
22 − 4 + 1 = 19
| Task | Only in | Counts for |
|---|---|---|
| Retell Lecture | Academic | Listening + Speaking |
| Summarize Group Discussion | Academic | Listening + Speaking |
| Write Essay | Academic | Writing |
| Highlight Correct Summary | Academic | Listening + Reading |
| Write Email | Core | Writing |
The other 18 task types run on both tracks.
Card 4 of 8 onwards
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Questions
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The PDF download comes with any BandLadder plan. Free accounts read the lesson online in the study reader, on the web and in the app.
The BandLadder team wrote and checked it. It is original BandLadder material, not copied from books or other websites, and its exam facts are checked against the official IELTS and PTE pages.
Both versions of the test: it covers what they share and says where they differ.
IELTS is a registered trademark of the University of Cambridge, the British Council and IDP Education Australia. PTE is a trademark of Pearson. BandLadder is not affiliated with either.
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