PTE Reading: Multiple Choice, Multiple Answers (MC–MA) – Useful Tips
1. Read the question first
- MC–MA asks: “Which
TWO/THREE statements are correct?”
- Knowing what
you are looking for helps you identify keywords.
2. Do NOT read every option first
- Options can
confuse you.
- Read the passage
first, identify the main idea, then check the options.
3. Use the “True–True Match” method
Select an option
ONLY if:
- It is directly
stated in the passage (word-for-word OR meaning-for-meaning).
- No
assumption, no extra knowledge.
4. Eliminate distractors
Wrong options are
usually:
- Extreme words
(always, never, completely)
- Ideas not
mentioned
- Opposite of the text
- General
statements
not supported by evidence
5. Avoid selecting half-true statements
A statement can
appear correct but contain one wrong element → it becomes incorrect.
6. Focus on synonyms
PTE rarely repeats
the same words.
Example:
- “increase” =
“rise”, “grow”, “escalate”
- “essential”
= “crucial”, “important”
7. Penalty scoring
Selecting a wrong
answer gives negative marks.
So:
- If unsure,
choose fewer answers.
- Zero wrong
answers = safer score.
8. Time management
Spend 1–1.5
minutes per question.
Don’t overthink.
15 PTE
MC–MA Sample Questions with Answers + Explanations
PASSAGE 1
Scientists studying the deep ocean have
recently discovered several new species of crustaceans near hydrothermal vents.
These species survive in extreme temperatures and complete darkness. Unlike
most marine organisms, they depend on chemosynthesis rather than sunlight.
However, researchers still lack detailed information about their population
size, reproductive patterns, and long-term survival.
Which TWO statements are correct?
A. The newly
found species live in conditions with no sunlight.
B. Scientists have a clear understanding of how these species reproduce.
C. The organisms rely on chemical processes for energy.
D. Researchers have fully determined their long-term survival.
E. These species are commonly found throughout all ocean regions.
Correct Answers: A, C
Reasons
- A: “complete
darkness” → correct.
- C: “depend on
chemosynthesis” → chemical energy → correct.
- B: Passage
says scientists lack information about reproduction → wrong.
- D: Passage
says they lack information about long-term survival → wrong.
- E: Found only
“near hydrothermal vents,” not “all ocean regions” → wrong.
PASSAGE 2
Over the last decade, electric scooters have
become popular in many cities. They are considered a convenient alternative for
short distances. However, critics argue that improper parking and reckless
riding often create safety hazards for pedestrians. Many local governments are
now setting regulations to maintain public safety.
Which TWO statements are correct?
A. Electric
scooters are mainly used for long-distance travel.
B. Some people believe scooters cause problems for pedestrians.
C. Governments are trying to regulate scooter usage.
D. Electric scooters have declined in popularity recently.
E. All cities have banned electric scooters.
Correct Answers: B, C
PASSAGE 3
The Sahara Desert is expanding southward
partly due to climate change and unsustainable farming practices. As rainfall
decreases, fertile land gradually turns into desert. Many communities struggle
to maintain agriculture, forcing families to migrate to other regions in search
of resources.
Which TWO statements are correct?
A. Reduced
rainfall is one cause of the Sahara’s expansion.
B. Farming practices have no effect on desertification.
C. Some families are relocating because farming is becoming difficult.
D. The Sahara is shrinking because of climate change.
E. Most communities are improving their agricultural systems.
Correct Answers: A, C
PASSAGE 4
Recent studies show that consuming meals high
in fiber improves digestion and helps maintain stable blood sugar levels.
However, nutritionists warn that suddenly increasing fiber intake may lead to
bloating. They advise introducing high-fiber foods gradually over several
weeks.
Which TWO statements are correct?
A. Fiber helps
regulate blood sugar.
B. Increasing fiber suddenly can cause discomfort.
C. Nutritionists recommend avoiding fiber altogether.
D. Studies show fiber has no effect on digestion.
E. Nutritionists encourage gradual changes in diet.
Correct Answers: A, B, E
(If the
question requires TWO, pick the two most strongly stated: A & B. If
THREE allowed, A B E.)
PASSAGE 5
Wild bees play a crucial role in pollinating
crops. Unfortunately, habitat loss and pesticide exposure have significantly
reduced their populations. Some farms have begun creating “pollinator gardens”
to provide safe environments for bees and attract them back to agricultural
areas.
Which TWO statements are correct?
A. Bee
populations are decreasing because of pesticides.
B. Wild bees do not contribute to crop pollination.
C. Some farms are taking steps to restore bee habitats.
D. Habitat loss has no influence on bee survival.
E. Pollinator gardens are harmful to bee populations.
Correct Answers: A, C
PASSAGE 6
Historically, libraries served as quiet spaces
for reading. Today, many libraries offer digital equipment, group study rooms,
and community workshops. Although these changes have modernized library
services, some visitors still prefer silent reading environments.
Which TWO statements are correct?
A. Modern libraries
provide more than just books.
B. All visitors enjoy the newer, busier library environment.
C. Some people still prefer quiet spaces.
D. Libraries have stopped offering reading spaces.
E. Digital equipment is now part of many libraries.
Correct Answers: A, C, E
(If only two
required: A & C)
PASSAGE 7
In many countries, traditional crafts such as
pottery and hand-weaving are declining. Younger generations often choose
technology-based careers instead. Some governments sponsor training programs to
preserve these cultural skills and support local artisans.
Which TWO are correct?
A. Traditional
crafts are becoming less common.
B. Young people are increasingly interested in weaving.
C. Some governments try to protect cultural crafts.
D. Technology careers are less attractive to younger generations.
E. Training programs aim to support artisans.
Correct Answers: A, C, E
PASSAGE 8
The Himalayan region contains some of the
world’s fastest-melting glaciers. Rising temperatures are creating large
glacial lakes, increasing the risk of sudden floods. Scientists are monitoring
these areas closely to predict possible dangers.
Which TWO statements are correct?
A. Himalayan
glaciers are melting slowly.
B. Melting ice contributes to the formation of glacial lakes.
C. Scientists are observing these regions carefully.
D. Flood risks have decreased in recent years.
E. Temperature rise is affecting glacier melt.
Correct Answers: B, C, E
(Choose B &
C if only two allowed.)
PASSAGE 9
Artificial intelligence is transforming
customer service worldwide. Many companies now use chatbots to answer simple
questions instantly. Although they reduce workload for staff, customers
sometimes complain that chatbots cannot understand complex problems well.
Which TWO statements are correct?
A. AI chatbots
help handle basic customer inquiries.
B. Customers think chatbots solve all complex issues perfectly.
C. Chatbots reduce employee workload.
D. AI is rarely used in customer service.
E. Companies avoid using chatbots.
Correct Answers: A, C
PASSAGE 10
Renewable energy sources such as solar and
wind power have become more affordable over the past decade. As a result, many
households are installing rooftop solar panels. However, the initial set-up
cost remains high for low-income families.
Which TWO statements are correct?
A. Solar and wind
energy have become cheaper recently.
B. Most low-income families can easily afford solar panels.
C. Many homes use rooftop solar systems now.
D. Renewable energy has become more expensive.
E. Installation cost is still a challenge for some families.
Correct Answers: A, C, E
(If two
required → A & C OR A & E depending on wording. Most common: A & E)
PASSAGE 11
Modern smart phones include sensors that track
physical activity, such as steps and heart rate. These features motivate users
to exercise more regularly. Still, experts warn that sensor data is not always
accurate and should be interpreted carefully.
Which TWO statements are correct?
A. Smart phones
can record users’ physical activity.
B. Sensor data is always perfectly accurate.
C. Activity tracking encourages people to exercise.
D. Experts recommend ignoring Smart phone data completely.
E. Heart-rate monitoring is one of the features.
Correct Answers: A, C, E
PASSAGE 12
Urban noise pollution has increased due to
heavy traffic and construction. Long-term exposure can lead to stress and sleep
disturbances. Many cities are introducing noise-control measures such as
sound-blocking walls and quiet zoning areas.
Which TWO statements are correct?
A. Noise
pollution in cities is rising.
B. Short-term exposure is extremely harmful.
C. Noise can negatively affect health.
D. Cities are taking steps to reduce noise levels.
E. Traffic has no connection to noise pollution.
Correct Answers: A, C, D
PASSAGE 13
The popularity of online courses has surged in
recent years. Students value the flexibility to study at any time. However,
some learners struggle with self-discipline, leading to lower completion rates
compared to traditional classes.
Which TWO statements are correct?
A. Online
learning is becoming more popular.
B. Students dislike flexible study schedules.
C. Some learners have difficulty finishing online courses.
D. Online courses require less discipline.
E. Online classes have higher completion rates.
Correct Answers: A, C
PASSAGE 14
Researchers developed a biodegradable
packaging material made from seaweed. It decomposes much faster than plastic
and does not release harmful chemicals. Although still in early testing, it
shows potential for reducing plastic waste significantly.
Which TWO statements are correct?
A. Seaweed-based
packaging breaks down quickly.
B. The material releases toxic chemicals when decomposing.
C. It may help reduce plastic pollution.
D. It is already widely used in supermarkets.
E. Researchers are still testing it.
Correct Answers: A, C, E
PASSAGE 15
Some airlines are experimenting with
sustainable aviation fuel made from plants and waste products. This fuel
reduces carbon emissions but is currently more expensive than traditional jet
fuel. Experts believe costs will decrease as production technology improves.
Which TWO statements are correct?
A. Sustainable
fuel emits less carbon.
B. It is cheaper than traditional jet fuel.
C. Costs may fall with better technology.
D. Airlines refuse to try sustainable fuels.
E. The fuel is made only from petroleum.
Correct Answers: A, C
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