PTE Reading – Multiple Choice, Multiple Answer (MCMA)

PTE Reading – Multiple Choice, Multiple Answer (MCMA)

Number of Questions

·         1–2 questions in the Reading section

·         Each question is based on a short to medium-length passage

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Time Allocation

·         No fixed time limit per question

·         Reading section total time: 29–30 minutes

·         Recommended time per MCMA question: 2–3 minutes

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Question Type

·         You must select ALL correct options

·         Options: usually 5–7 choices

·         More than one answer may be correct

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Scoring Pattern (Very Important)

·         Partial credit applies

·         ✅ +1 for each correct option selected

·         ❌ −1 for each incorrect option selected

·         🔒 Minimum score per question = 0 (no negative total)

Do NOT guess blindly, as wrong choices reduce your score.

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Smart Tips & Strategies

1Read the Question First

Understand what you are looking for (main idea, cause, effect, opinion, fact).

2Skim the Passage Quickly

Focus on:

·         Topic sentence

·         Keywords

·         Repeated ideas

·         Conclusion

3Eliminate Clearly Wrong Options

Remove:

·         Extreme words (always, never, completely)

·         Ideas not mentioned in the passage

·         Opposite meanings

4Select Only When You Are Sure

✔ Choose an option only if it is clearly supported by the passage
✘ Avoid “almost correct” answers

5Aim for Accuracy, Not Quantity

·         Selecting 2 correct options is better than selecting 2 correct + 1 wrong

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

·         Choosing based on general knowledge

·         Selecting options with similar wording but different meaning

·         Rushing due to time pressure

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Final Exam Tip

If you are 100% sure of only one option, select only that one.
This maximizes your score and avoids penalties.

 

Sample 1

Urbanization has accelerated rapidly over the past few decades, particularly in developing countries. While cities provide better employment opportunities, education, and healthcare facilities, rapid population growth has placed immense pressure on infrastructure. Housing shortages, traffic congestion, pollution, and inadequate waste management are common problems. Governments are now focusing on sustainable urban planning to balance economic growth with environmental protection. Smart city initiatives, which integrate technology into public services, are seen as a potential solution to improve efficiency and quality of life.

Question

According to the passage, which of the following statements are true?

Options:
A. Urbanization has slowed down in recent years.
B. Cities offer better access to jobs and services.
C. Rapid urban growth creates infrastructure challenges.
D. Pollution and traffic congestion are urban problems.
E. Smart city projects aim to reduce quality of life.

 

Correct Answers: B, C, D

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Sample 2

Online education has transformed traditional learning systems by offering flexibility and accessibility. Students can now attend classes from anywhere in the world, often at a lower cost. However, critics argue that online learning reduces face-to-face interaction and requires strong self-discipline. Despite these concerns, many institutions are adopting blended learning models that combine digital tools with classroom teaching to enhance learning outcomes.

Question

What does the passage suggest about online education?

Options:
A. It allows students to study regardless of location.
B. It is more expensive than traditional education.
C. It may reduce direct social interaction.
D. Universities are completely abandoning classroom teaching.
E. Blended learning is becoming more common.

 

Correct Answers: A, C, E

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Sample 3

Automation and artificial intelligence are reshaping modern industries. Machines now perform repetitive tasks with greater speed and accuracy than humans. While this raises concerns about job losses, experts argue that new roles are emerging in technology-driven sectors. The challenge lies in reskilling workers so they can adapt to the changing job market and remain employable in the future.

Question

Which points are mentioned in the passage?

Options:
A. Automation improves efficiency.
B. All jobs will disappear due to machines.
C. New employment opportunities are being created.
D. Worker retraining is necessary.
E. Artificial intelligence has no impact on industries.

Correct Answers: A, C, D

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Sample 4

Social media platforms have changed how people interact and share information. They allow instant communication and global networking, but excessive use has been linked to reduced attention spans and mental health issues. Researchers suggest that setting time limits and promoting digital well-being can help users maintain a healthy balance between online and offline life.

Question

According to the passage, social media:

Options:
A. Enables global communication.
B. Has no negative effects on users.
C. Can affect mental health if overused.
D. Should be completely avoided.
E. Requires balanced usage.

 

Correct Answers: A, C, E

Sample 6

Renewable energy sources, such as solar, wind, and hydropower, are becoming increasingly important as the world seeks to reduce carbon emissions. Unlike fossil fuels, these sources do not produce greenhouse gases and are sustainable in the long term. However, the initial setup costs and dependency on weather conditions can be challenging for widespread adoption.

Question

Which statements are true according to the passage?

Options:
A. Solar and wind energy are renewable sources
B. Renewable energy produces greenhouse gases
C. Initial costs can be high for renewable energy
D. Fossil fuels are sustainable for the long term
E. Weather can affect renewable energy production

Correct Answers: A, C, E

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Sample 7

With the rise of social media and online services, digital privacy has become a major concern. Personal data, if misused, can lead to identity theft and financial loss. Governments and tech companies are implementing stricter regulations and security measures to protect user information. Users are also encouraged to use strong passwords and avoid sharing sensitive data online.

Question

Which points are mentioned in the passage?

Options:
A. Digital privacy is increasingly important
B. Misuse of data can cause identity theft
C. Users should ignore password security
D. Regulations help protect personal data
E. Financial loss is a possible consequence

 

Correct Answers: A, B, D

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Sample 8

Deforestation is a critical environmental issue caused by logging, agriculture, and urban expansion. It results in loss of biodiversity, disruption of ecosystems, and contributes to climate change by releasing stored carbon. Conservation programs, reforestation, and sustainable land management are key solutions to mitigate these effects.

Question

Which of the following statements are correct?

Options:
A. Deforestation can disrupt ecosystems
B. It has no impact on climate change
C. Reforestation helps reduce the problem
D. Logging and agriculture are causes of deforestation
E. Sustainable land management is irrelevant

 

Correct Answers: A, C, D

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Sample 9

Artificial intelligence is increasingly used in education to personalize learning experiences. AI systems can track student performance, identify weaknesses, and suggest customized learning resources. While some educators worry about over-reliance on technology, AI can assist teachers rather than replace them, improving overall learning outcomes.

Question

According to the passage, which statements are true?

Options:
A. AI can replace teachers completely
B. AI personalizes learning for students
C. Over-reliance on AI can be a concern
D. AI tracks student performance
E. AI has no role in education

 

Correct Answers: B, C, D

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Sample 10

Pollution in oceans has become a significant threat to marine life and human health. Plastics, chemicals, and oil spills contaminate water and food chains. Governments and environmental organizations are working to reduce pollution through legislation, cleanup drives, and public awareness campaigns. Individuals can also contribute by reducing plastic use and properly disposing of waste.

Question

Which of the following are true according to the passage?

Options:
A. Ocean pollution affects marine life
B. Oil spills are a source of pollution
C. Individual actions cannot reduce pollution
D. Legislation can help combat ocean pollution
E. Plastics contribute to water contamination

 

Correct Answers: A, B, D

 

Sample 1 1

Climate change is one of the most pressing global challenges today. Rising temperatures have caused more frequent extreme weather events, including floods, heatwaves, and storms. Governments and organizations are working to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote renewable energy sources. Public awareness campaigns are also essential to encourage sustainable lifestyles and reduce individual carbon footprints.

Question

Which of the following are mentioned in the passage?

Options:
A. Rising temperatures cause extreme weather events
B. Renewable energy is a potential solution
C. Climate change has no effect on humans
D. Public awareness is important
E. Carbon footprints can be reduced by individuals

 

Correct Answers: A, B, D, E

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Sample 12

A balanced diet is essential for maintaining good health. Consuming a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins helps prevent chronic diseases such as diabetes and heart disease. Nutritionists also emphasize the importance of staying hydrated and limiting the intake of processed foods high in sugar and salt.

Question

According to the passage, which of the following statements are true?

Options:
A. A balanced diet reduces the risk of chronic diseases
B. Drinking water is not important for health
C. Processed foods should be limited
D. Whole grains are part of a healthy diet
E. Only proteins are necessary for good health

 

Correct Answers: A, C, D

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Sample 13

Space exploration has expanded humanity’s knowledge of the universe. Satellites monitor weather patterns and environmental changes on Earth, while robotic missions to Mars and other planets gather scientific data. Although space programs are expensive, the research contributes to technological innovations that benefit everyday life.

Question

Which points are discussed in the passage?

Options:
A. Space missions provide valuable scientific data
B. Satellites monitor Earth’s weather and environment
C. Space exploration has no practical benefits
D. Space programs are costly
E. Research leads to technological innovations

 

Correct Answers: A, B, D, E

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Sample 14

Online learning has become increasingly popular due to its flexibility and accessibility. Students can study from home, access digital libraries, and attend virtual lectures. However, critics argue that online education may reduce motivation and limit opportunities for social interaction. Blended learning, which combines online tools with in-person classes, is seen as an effective compromise.

Question

Which statements are supported by the passage?

Options:
A. Online learning allows flexible study options
B. Digital libraries are part of online learning
C. Online education eliminates all classroom interaction
D. Blended learning combines online and in-person classes
E. Reduced motivation can be a challenge

 

Correct Answers: A, B, D, E

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Sample 15

Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming healthcare by improving diagnostics, personalizing treatment plans, and predicting disease outbreaks. AI-powered tools can analyze large amounts of medical data faster than humans, helping doctors make more informed decisions. Despite these advantages, ethical concerns and data privacy issues must be addressed carefully.

Question

Which of the following are mentioned in the passage?

Options:
A. AI improves diagnostic accuracy
B. AI can predict disease outbreaks
C. AI has no impact on healthcare
D. Data privacy is a concern with AI
E. Ethical considerations are important

 

Correct Answers: A, B, D, E