Select Missing Word tests whether you can predict a recording’s final word or phrase from the meaning built before the beep. Follow the speaker’s argument, not just the last sentence.
Current task
Academic and Core use a 20 to 70 second recording played once. The final word or group of words is replaced by a beep, and you select one of three to five options. One answer is correct. Pearson Academic Listening format Pearson Core Listening format
Build a prediction before viewing choices
Track:
- topic and direction
- whether the speaker is concluding, contrasting or giving an example
- grammar immediately before the beep
- intonation that signals completion
Predict a rough meaning, then compare options. The exact words may differ from your prediction while serving the same function.
Original exercise
Hidden audio script: Ask another person or a text-to-speech tool to read this once while you keep the script hidden.
The town initially planned to replace the old footbridge. Engineers later found that its main structure remained sound, while only the surface boards and railings required work. Repairing those parts would cost less and preserve the bridge’s historic character. The council therefore decided to [BEEP].
Options:
A. replace the entire bridge immediately
B. repair the existing bridge
C. postpone repairs until traffic levels fall
D. preserve the bridge without changing its unsafe surface
Correct answer: B. Therefore introduces a decision based on the sound structure, lower cost and heritage value. The infinitive after decided to also requires a base verb phrase. A goes beyond the evidence because complete replacement was unnecessary. C introduces an unsupported postponement, while D leaves the required surface and railing work undone.
Use intonation carefully
Falling intonation may signal a completed conclusion, while continuing intonation can suggest another clause. For practice, ask a reader to say the final lead-in once with continuing intonation and once with a falling tone; identify the completion cue without viewing the options. Intonation supports meaning but should not override the argument.
If you miss a detail, retain the broad direction: replacement proposed, repair sufficient, repair cheaper, decision follows. This chain is enough to reject unrelated endings.
Rank evidence before choosing
Use meaning first: what idea must complete the argument? Then test grammar: which option fits the sentence form? Use intonation as supporting evidence for completion or continuation, not as the only clue.
If a speaker lists two problems and says “the most practical response is…”, expect a solution, not another problem. Eliminate options by function before comparing their individual words.
Academic candidates can also practise PTE Highlight Correct Summary. Core candidates can use PTE Listening Fill in the Blanks for another one-play listening drill. Browse Select Missing Word practice.
