The PTE essay task gives you 20 minutes and 200 to 300 words. That is not much room for error. Most candidates fail not because their English is weak — but because they do not recognise the essay type, apply the wrong structure, or run out of time trying to figure out what to write. This guide covers every PTE essay type in detail — with structures, templates, and examples — so you always know exactly what to write from the first second of your 20 minutes.
How PTE Essay Writing is Scored
Your essay is scored by AI across five criteria:- Content (2 marks) — Does your essay directly address the topic? Is your position clear and developed?
- Form (2 marks) — Is your essay between 200 and 300 words? Correct length is a basic requirement.
- Grammar (2 marks) — Do you use a range of grammatical structures accurately?
- Vocabulary (2 marks) — Do you use varied, accurate, and appropriately formal vocabulary?
- Spelling (2 marks) — Are all words spelled correctly? British and American spellings are both accepted — but you must be consistent.
The 5 PTE Essay Types — And How to Identify Them
Every PTE essay question belongs to one of five types. Identifying the type in the first 30 seconds tells you exactly which structure to use.- Type 1 — Agree or Disagree: "Do you agree or disagree with the following statement?"
- Type 2 — Discuss Both Views: "Some people think X. Others think Y. Discuss both views and give your opinion."
- Type 3 — Advantages and Disadvantages: "What are the advantages and disadvantages of X?"
- Type 4 — Problem and Solution: "What are the causes of X? What solutions can you suggest?"
- Type 5 — Two-Part Question: "Why is X happening? Is this a positive or negative development?"
Type 1: Agree or Disagree Essay
This is the most common PTE essay type. You are given a statement and asked whether you agree or disagree. Key rule: Pick one side and stay on it. Do not sit in the middle. The AI scores content on whether you have a clear, developed position.Structure:
- Paragraph 1 — Introduction: Paraphrase the statement. Clearly state your position — agree or disagree.
- Paragraph 2 — Main Reason: Your strongest argument supporting your position. Explain and give one example.
- Paragraph 3 — Second Reason or Counter-argument: A second supporting point, OR acknowledge the opposite view and explain why your position is still stronger.
- Paragraph 4 — Conclusion: Restate your position in different words. Give a final recommendation or observation.
Template:
"It is often argued that [paraphrase the statement]. This essay completely agrees with / strongly disagrees with this view for the following reasons. To begin with, [main reason + explanation]. For instance, [example that supports this point]. This clearly demonstrates that [link back to your position]. Furthermore, while some may argue that [opposing view], this perspective overlooks the fact that [your counter-argument]. Therefore, [restate why your position is stronger]. In conclusion, [restate your position in new words]. It is recommended that [final thought or action]."Example question:
"Universities should accept equal numbers of male and female students in every subject. Do you agree or disagree?" Strong introduction: "The idea that universities should maintain gender balance across all disciplines has gained significant attention in recent years. This essay strongly agrees with this view, arguing that equal representation leads to more balanced academic environments and reduces long-standing occupational inequality."Type 2: Discuss Both Views Essay
This type asks you to present two opposing perspectives and then give your own opinion. The most common mistake here is forgetting to give your own opinion at the end. Key rule: Discuss both views fairly — then clearly state which view you personally support and why.Structure:
- Paragraph 1 — Introduction: Introduce the debate. State that this essay will discuss both views before giving a personal opinion.
- Paragraph 2 — View 1: Explain the first perspective with one supporting reason or example.
- Paragraph 3 — View 2: Explain the second perspective with one supporting reason or example.
- Paragraph 4 — Conclusion + Your Opinion: Summarise both views. Clearly state which view you support and why.
Template:
"There is ongoing debate about whether [topic]. While some people believe [View 1], others argue that [View 2]. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting a personal viewpoint. Those who support [View 1] argue that [reason + example]. This suggests that [implication]. On the other hand, proponents of [View 2] contend that [reason + example]. From this perspective, [implication]. In conclusion, while both views have merit, this essay sides with [your chosen view] because [reason]. Ultimately, [final thought]."Example question:
"Some people believe that technology has made our lives more complicated. Others think it has made life simpler. Discuss both views and give your opinion."Type 3: Advantages and Disadvantages Essay
This type asks you to objectively present both the positive and negative sides of a topic. Some questions also ask: "Do the advantages outweigh the disadvantages?" — if so, you must give your opinion on which side is stronger. Key rule: Give equal space to both sides unless the question asks which outweighs the other. If it does — give your verdict in the conclusion.Structure:
- Paragraph 1 — Introduction: Introduce the topic. State that this essay will examine both advantages and disadvantages.
- Paragraph 2 — Advantages: Two clear advantages with brief explanations.
- Paragraph 3 — Disadvantages: Two clear disadvantages with brief explanations.
- Paragraph 4 — Conclusion: Summarise both sides. If asked, state which outweighs the other with a brief reason.
Template:
"[Topic] has become increasingly prevalent in modern society. This essay will explore both the advantages and disadvantages of this development. There are several notable benefits to [topic]. Firstly, [advantage 1 + explanation]. Additionally, [advantage 2 + explanation]. These factors highlight the positive potential of [topic]. However, there are also significant drawbacks to consider. One major concern is [disadvantage 1 + explanation]. Moreover, [disadvantage 2 + explanation]. These issues raise important questions about [topic]. In conclusion, while [topic] offers clear benefits such as [brief summary of advantages], it also presents challenges including [brief summary of disadvantages]. On balance, [your verdict if required]."Example question:
"What are the advantages and disadvantages of working from home?"Type 4: Problem and Solution Essay
This type presents a problem and asks you to identify causes and suggest solutions. Some questions ask only for solutions — read carefully. Key rule: Be specific. Vague solutions like "the government should do something" score low on content. Name concrete, logical solutions.Structure:
- Paragraph 1 — Introduction: Introduce the problem. State that this essay will examine its causes and propose solutions.
- Paragraph 2 — Causes: Two main causes with brief explanations.
- Paragraph 3 — Solutions: Two specific, realistic solutions — one matching each cause where possible.
- Paragraph 4 — Conclusion: Summarise the problem and reinforce that the proposed solutions can address it effectively.
Template:
"[Problem] has emerged as a pressing issue in contemporary society. This essay will examine the primary causes of this problem and propose practical solutions to address it. There are two main reasons why [problem] has become so widespread. To begin with, [cause 1 + explanation]. Furthermore, [cause 2 + explanation]. These factors have collectively contributed to the severity of [problem]. Fortunately, there are effective measures that can be taken to resolve this issue. Firstly, [solution 1 — ideally addresses cause 1]. This would directly tackle [cause 1] by [explanation]. Secondly, [solution 2 — ideally addresses cause 2], which would help by [explanation]. In conclusion, [problem] is driven primarily by [summary of causes]. By implementing [summary of solutions], it is possible to significantly reduce its impact on society."Example question:
"In many cities, traffic congestion is a growing problem. What are the causes of this problem and what solutions can you suggest?"Type 5: Two-Part Question Essay
This type asks two distinct questions about the same topic — often a why question followed by a positive/negative judgement, or a cause followed by an effect. Key rule: Answer both questions clearly and in equal depth. Many candidates answer one well and barely touch the second — losing content marks.Structure:
- Paragraph 1 — Introduction: Introduce the topic. State that this essay will address both questions.
- Paragraph 2 — Answer to Question 1: Full explanation with example or reasoning.
- Paragraph 3 — Answer to Question 2: Full explanation with example or reasoning.
- Paragraph 4 — Conclusion: Summarise both answers clearly.
Template:
"[Topic] has become a subject of increasing discussion in recent times. This essay will address why [question 1 paraphrased] and whether [question 2 paraphrased]. Regarding the first question, [answer to Q1 + explanation + example]. This explains why [link back to Q1]. As for the second question, [answer to Q2 + explanation]. This development can be considered [positive/negative/both] because [reasoning]. In conclusion, [topic] is a complex issue. [Summary of Q1 answer]. Overall, this trend is [your final judgement on Q2]."Example question:
"More and more people are moving from rural areas to cities. Why is this happening? Is this a positive or negative development?"Vocabulary to Boost Your Essay Score
Use these words and phrases to replace weak, repetitive language: Instead of "good" → beneficial, advantageous, effective, valuable, constructive Instead of "bad" → detrimental, harmful, problematic, concerning, damaging Instead of "important" → crucial, significant, essential, critical, vital Instead of "shows" → demonstrates, illustrates, highlights, indicates, suggests Instead of "because" → since, as, given that, owing to the fact that, due to Sentence starters to vary your writing:- It is widely acknowledged that...
- A growing body of evidence suggests that...
- One of the most significant consequences of this is...
- This raises important questions about...
- From a broader perspective...
20-Minute Time Plan for Every Essay Type
- 0:00 to 2:00 — Read question. Identify essay type. Plan your four paragraphs (keywords only).
- 2:00 to 4:00 — Write introduction.
- 4:00 to 9:00 — Write body paragraph 1.
- 9:00 to 14:00 — Write body paragraph 2.
- 14:00 to 17:00 — Write conclusion.
- 17:00 to 20:00 — Review for spelling, grammar, and word count.
Most Common PTE Essay Mistakes
- ❌ Not identifying the essay type — leads to wrong structure and lost content marks
- ❌ Writing under 200 words — automatic zero on Form
- ❌ Copying words from the question directly — the AI detects this and penalises it
- ❌ Switching your opinion mid-essay — makes content incoherent
- ❌ Using informal language — contractions, slang, first-person opinions without formal framing
- ❌ Leaving no time to check spelling — one of the easiest marks to protect and the most commonly wasted
Conclusion
Every PTE essay question follows a predictable pattern. Once you can identify the type within 30 seconds and apply the correct structure automatically, the essay becomes a process — not a challenge. Memorise the five essay types. Practise each template at least three times before your exam. Time yourself strictly. Check spelling before submitting. The candidates who score 79+ in PTE Writing are not always the strongest writers — they are the most prepared ones...
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PTE Essay Writing, PTE Essay Types, PTE Agree Disagree Essay, PTE Discuss Both Views, PTE Advantages Disadvantages, PTE Problem Solution Essay, PTE Writing Tips, PTE Score 79, PTE Academic Writing, PTE Preparation 2024
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