PTE Reading Multiple Choice, Multiple Answer (MCMA) task, the single most important thing to understand is that you lose one mark for every wrong option you select. For a target score of 50–60, your strategy must be defensive, not aggressive.
Exam Facts and Scoring
Knowing exactly how this task is scored is the first step to protecting your marks.
- Question Count: You will typically see 1–2 of these questions in the Reading section.
- Scoring Rule: You earn +1 point for each correct answer, but you get −1 point for each incorrect answer. The lowest score you can get on a single question is 0. This means choosing one correct and one wrong option results in a net score of zero.
- Reading Weight: This task accounts for approximately 5% of your overall Reading score, making it a relatively low-weight item.
Tips for a Target Score of 50–60
To avoid losing hard-earned points, you need a strict approach.
- The "100% Certainty" Golden Rule: Only select an option if you can point to the exact sentence in the text that proves it is true. If you are only "fairly sure" or "it looks right," leave it unchecked. Guessing is dangerous here.
- Match Meaning, Not Words: Do not select an option just because it repeats words from the passage. The correct option usually uses synonyms or paraphrases the text. Check if the meaning of the option matches the text.
- Watch for Traps:
- "Contested" or "Unproven" Claims: If the text says a cause is "contested" or "not yet firmly established," do not select an option that states it as a confirmed fact.
- Absolute Language: Be wary of options using words like "all," "always," "never," or "only." Academic texts rarely support such absolute claims.
- Scope Inflation: If the text mentions a detail affecting a small group, do not select an option that generalizes it to everyone.
📝 Practice Sample Sets with Explanations
Here are two practice sets to demonstrate the strategy.
Practice Set 1
Public libraries in many countries have been reclassified in local government accounts from cultural services to community infrastructure. The change is administrative but not trivial: infrastructure budgets are protected in a way that cultural budgets are not, and several authorities that had scheduled branch closures reversed them within two years of the reclassification. Whether the reclassification caused the reversals is contested.
Library use itself continued to change. Book lending fell across the decade while computer use, study space bookings and attendance at organised sessions rose. One consequence is that the traditional measure of a library's value — items issued — now understates its use, and authorities that still report only issues are reporting decline in services that are busier than before.
Q: According to the passage, which of the following statements are true?
- A. Infrastructure budgets receive more protection than cultural budgets.
- B. The reclassification caused the closure reversals.
- C. Book lending declined over the decade.
- D. Items issued now understates how much libraries are used.
- E. Library visitor numbers have fallen overall.
- F. All authorities have adopted new measures of library use.
Answers: A, C, D
Reasoning:
- A (Correct): Stated directly: "infrastructure budgets are protected in a way that cultural budgets are not".
- B (Wrong): The text explicitly says "Whether the reclassification caused the reversals is contested." This means it is not confirmed. Selecting this costs you a point.
- C (Correct): Stated directly: "Book lending fell across the decade".
- D (Correct): Stated directly: "items issued — now understates its use".
- E (Wrong): The text says lending fell but computer use and attendance rose. It does not say overall visitor numbers fell. This is a scope inflation trap.
- F (Wrong): The text says "authorities that still report only issues," implying some have not adopted new measures. "All" is an absolute that contradicts the text.
Practice Set 2
Microplastic pollution has emerged as one of the 21st century's most pervasive environmental threats. These particles, smaller than 5mm, infiltrate marine ecosystems through cosmetic products, synthetic clothing fibers, and degraded plastic waste. Studies reveal microplastics in 90% of table salt samples, bottled water, and even human bloodstreams. Marine life ingests these particles, causing intestinal blockages and toxin accumulation that travels up the food chain.
Q: According to the passage, which are sources of microplastic pollution?
- A. Industrial chemical spills
- B. Beauty and personal care products
- C. Agricultural runoff
- D. Clothing made from synthetic materials
- E. Decomposed plastic items
Answers: B, D, E
Reasoning:
- The passage explicitly lists three sources: "cosmetic products" (matches B), "synthetic clothing fibers" (matches D), and "degraded plastic waste" (matches E).
- Options A and C are not mentioned in the text. Selecting them would result in a penalty.
PTE Reading Multiple Choice, Multiple Answer (MCMA) – 10 New Practice Sets
Below are 10 new PTE Reading Multiple Choice, Multiple Answer (MCMA) practice sets with answers and detailed reasoning.
Set 1
Urban heat islands occur when cities replace natural land cover with dense pavement, buildings, and other infrastructure that absorbs and re-emits heat. The effect can raise daytime temperatures by 1–7°C compared with surrounding rural areas. Mitigation strategies include planting street trees, installing green roofs, and using reflective "cool" pavements. These measures reduce heat absorption and increase evaporative cooling. However, their effectiveness varies with local climate, and in arid cities where water is scarce, tree planting may strain already limited water supplies.
Q: According to the passage, which of the following are mentioned as urban heat island mitigation strategies?
- A. Planting street trees
- B. Installing green roofs
- C. Building taller skyscrapers
- D. Using reflective cool pavements
- E. Increasing road width
Answer: A, B, D
Reason: The passage directly lists "planting street trees" (A), "installing green roofs" (B), and "using reflective 'cool' pavements" (D). C and E are never mentioned. Do not select options just because they sound like plausible urban planning measures—only select what the text supports.
Set 2
The Green Revolution of the mid-20th century dramatically increased agricultural yields through high-yielding crop varieties, chemical fertilisers, and expanded irrigation. These advances saved millions from famine, particularly in South Asia. However, critics point to environmental costs: soil degradation, water depletion, and reduced crop diversity. Whether the benefits outweighed these costs remains debated among researchers.
Q: According to the passage, which of the following were components of the Green Revolution?
- A. High-yielding crop varieties
- B. Organic farming methods
- C. Chemical fertilisers
- D. Expanded irrigation
- E. Genetic modification of livestock
Answer: A, C, D
Reason: The passage explicitly lists "high-yielding crop varieties" (A), "chemical fertilisers" (C), and "expanded irrigation" (D). B (organic farming) is the opposite of chemical-based methods. E (GM livestock) is never mentioned. Note the passage also says the debate about benefits vs. costs "remains debated"—so any option claiming benefits definitively outweighed costs would be wrong.
Set 3
The human microbiome — the community of bacteria, fungi, and viruses living in and on the body — has become a major focus of medical research. Studies link microbiome composition to digestive health, immune function, and even mental health through the gut-brain axis. Antibiotic use, diet, and birth method all influence which microbes colonise the body. However, the causal direction of many microbiome-health correlations is not yet established, and probiotics sold commercially are not tightly regulated.
Q: According to the passage, which factors influence the human microbiome?
- A. Antibiotic use
- B. Diet
- C. Birth method
- D. Vaccination history
- E. Blood type
Answer: A, B, C
Reason: The passage directly lists "Antibiotic use" (A), "diet" (B), and "birth method" (C) as influences. D and E are never mentioned. Also note the passage says "the causal direction... is not yet established"—so any option claiming the microbiome definitively causes a specific health outcome would be wrong.
Set 4
The collapse of the Rapa Nui (Easter Island) civilisation is often cited as a cautionary tale of ecological overshoot: the story goes that islanders deforested their land, triggering societal collapse. Recent archaeological evidence challenges this narrative. Pollen analysis and tool studies suggest the population never grew large enough to cause widespread deforestation and that the islanders adapted sustainably to environmental constraints. What actually caused the civilisation's decline, scholars now argue, was European contact and disease, not self-inflicted ecological disaster.
Q: According to the passage, which of the following are supported by recent archaeological evidence?
- A. The islanders deforested their land completely.
- B. The population never grew large enough to cause widespread deforestation.
- C. The islanders adapted sustainably to environmental constraints.
- D. European contact and disease contributed to the civilisation's decline.
- E. The civilisation collapsed before European arrival.
Answer: B, C, D
Reason: The passage states recent evidence suggests the population "never grew large enough to cause widespread deforestation" (B), that islanders "adapted sustainably" (C), and that "European contact and disease" caused decline (D). A is the old narrative being challenged—wrong. E contradicts the passage, which says European contact caused decline, meaning the civilisation was still present when Europeans arrived.
Set 5
Sleep researchers distinguish between sleep duration and sleep quality. Duration refers to total time asleep, while quality involves the proportion of time spent in deep and REM stages. Studies show that sleep quality predicts cognitive performance better than duration does. However, most wearable devices measure duration accurately but estimate sleep stages poorly. This means users relying on wearables for stage data may be misled about their actual sleep quality.
Q: According to the passage, which of the following statements are true?
- A. Sleep quality predicts cognitive performance better than duration.
- B. Wearable devices measure sleep stages accurately.
- C. Most wearables measure duration accurately.
- D. Users relying on wearables for stage data may be misled.
- E. Sleep duration is irrelevant to cognitive performance.
Answer: A, C, D
Reason: The passage states quality "predicts cognitive performance better than duration does" (A), wearables "measure duration accurately" (C), and users "may be misled about their actual sleep quality" (D). B contradicts "estimate sleep stages poorly." E is too absolute—duration is not irrelevant, just less predictive than quality.
Set 6
The "tragedy of the commons" describes how shared resources are depleted when individuals act in their own interest. Elinor Ostrom's research challenged this model by documenting communities that successfully managed shared resources for centuries through locally devised rules and monitoring systems. Her work showed that neither pure privatisation nor central government control is always necessary; self-governance can work under certain conditions. These conditions include clear boundaries, graduated sanctions, and low-cost conflict resolution.
Q: According to the passage, which of the following are conditions for successful self-governance of shared resources?
- A. Clear boundaries
- B. Graduated sanctions
- C. Central government control
- D. Low-cost conflict resolution
- E. Full privatisation
Answer: A, B, D
Reason: The passage lists "clear boundaries" (A), "graduated sanctions" (B), and "low-cost conflict resolution" (D). C and E are the alternatives Ostrom's work showed are "not always necessary"—they are not conditions for self-governance.
Set 7
The "Mozart effect" — the claim that listening to classical music boosts intelligence — originated from a 1993 study of 36 college students that found a small, temporary improvement in spatial reasoning tasks. The effect was never claimed to be permanent or to apply to general intelligence. Nonetheless, media coverage exaggerated the findings, and a commercial industry of baby Mozart products emerged. Subsequent meta-analyses found no evidence that listening to Mozart raises intelligence.
Q: According to the passage, which of the following statements are true?
- A. The original study found a permanent increase in general intelligence.
- B. The original study found a small, temporary improvement in spatial reasoning.
- C. Media coverage exaggerated the findings.
- D. Subsequent meta-analyses found no evidence that Mozart raises intelligence.
- E. The original study involved thousands of participants.
Answer: B, C, D
Reason: The passage states the study found "a small, temporary improvement in spatial reasoning tasks" (B), "media coverage exaggerated the findings" (C), and "meta-analyses found no evidence" (D). A contradicts "never claimed to be permanent or to apply to general intelligence." E contradicts "36 college students."
Set 8
Remote work has changed urban economies in complex ways. Office districts have seen reduced weekday foot traffic, hurting cafes and restaurants that depended on commuters. Residential neighbourhoods, by contrast, have seen increased local spending. Cities with diversified economies have adapted more easily than those dependent on a single industry. However, the long-term effects remain uncertain, as some companies are now requiring employees to return to the office part-time.
Q: According to the passage, which of the following are effects of remote work on urban economies?
- A. Reduced weekday foot traffic in office districts
- B. Increased local spending in residential neighbourhoods
- C. Complete abandonment of office buildings
- D. Cities with diversified economies have adapted more easily
- E. All companies have permanently adopted remote work
Answer: A, B, D
Reason: The passage states office districts saw "reduced weekday foot traffic" (A), residential areas saw "increased local spending" (B), and diversified cities "adapted more easily" (D). C is too absolute—the passage never says office buildings were completely abandoned. E contradicts "some companies are now requiring employees to return."
Set 9
The transition from hunter-gatherer to agricultural societies is often described as a straightforward improvement in human welfare. Archaeological evidence complicates this view. Skeletal remains from early farming communities show increased rates of tooth decay, nutritional deficiencies, and infectious disease compared with hunter-gatherer remains. Agriculture did support larger populations, but individual health may have declined. Some scholars argue the transition was driven by necessity rather than choice, as rising populations pressured food supplies.
Q: According to the passage, which of the following are supported by archaeological evidence about early farming communities?
- A. Increased rates of tooth decay
- B. Improved individual health compared with hunter-gatherers
- C. Nutritional deficiencies
- D. Increased rates of infectious disease
- E. Complete absence of disease
Answer: A, C, D
Reason: The passage lists "increased rates of tooth decay" (A), "nutritional deficiencies" (C), and "infectious disease" (D). B contradicts the evidence—individual health "may have declined." E is an extreme absolute not supported.
Set 10
The "overton window" describes the range of policies politically acceptable to the mainstream population at a given time. The concept was developed by Joseph Overton at the Mackinac Center. Policies outside the window are considered fringe or radical; those inside are considered mainstream. The window can shift over time as public opinion, media coverage, and advocacy change. However, the window does not shift automatically—organised efforts are usually required to move ideas from fringe to mainstream.
Q: According to the passage, which of the following statements about the Overton window are true?
- A. It describes the range of politically acceptable policies at a given time.
- B. Policies outside the window are considered fringe or radical.
- C. The window never changes.
- D. The window can shift as public opinion changes.
- E. The window shifts automatically without any effort.
Answer: A, B, D
Reason: The passage defines the window as "the range of policies politically acceptable to the mainstream population at a given time" (A), says outside policies are "considered fringe or radical" (B), and that it "can shift over time" (D). C contradicts "can shift." E contradicts "does not shift automatically—organised efforts are usually required."
PTE
Reading Multiple Choice, Multiple Answer (MCMA) – 20 New Practice Sets
Set 1
Urban
farming has grown rapidly in cities worldwide. It includes rooftop gardens, community allotments, and vertical indoor farms. Advocates argue
it reduces food miles, improves access to fresh produce, and builds community cohesion. Critics
note that urban land is expensive,
yields are often lower than rural farms,
and vertical farms consume significant
electricity. Whether urban
farming can meaningfully contribute to food security remains debated.
Q: According to the passage, which of the following
are benefits of urban farming cited by advocates?
- A. Reduced food miles
- B. Improved access to fresh
produce
- C. Lower electricity
consumption
- D. Building community cohesion
- E. Higher yields than rural
farms
Answer: A, B, D
Reason:
The passage lists "reduces food miles" (A), "improves access to
fresh produce" (B), and "builds community cohesion" (D) as
advocate claims. C contradicts "vertical farms consume significant
electricity." E contradicts "yields are often lower than rural farms."
Set 2
The
Antarctic ice sheet holds about
60% of the world's fresh water. Scientists monitor it using satellite altimetry, gravity measurements, and radar sounding. West Antarctica is losing ice faster than
East Antarctica, and the
Thwaites Glacier is particularly unstable. Complete collapse would raise sea levels by several metres, though
this would unfold over centuries, not
decades.
Q: According to the passage, which methods are used
to monitor the Antarctic ice sheet?
- A. Satellite altimetry
- B. Gravity measurements
- C. Radar sounding
- D. Deep-sea drilling
- E. Seismic reflection
Answer: A, B, C
Reason:
The passage directly lists "satellite altimetry" (A), "gravity
measurements" (B), and "radar sounding" (C). D and E are never
mentioned—do not select methods that sound scientific but are absent from the
text.
Set 3
The
placebo effect occurs when a
patient improves after receiving an inert treatment. It is driven by expectation, conditioning, and the
therapeutic context—including the bedside manner of the clinician. Placebo effects are strongest for subjective outcomes such as pain
and nausea, and weaker for objective
measures such as tumour size. Some
researchers argue that placebo effects are real physiological phenomena,
not merely reporting biases.
Q: According to the passage, which factors
contribute to the placebo effect?
- A. Patient expectation
- B. Conditioning
- C. The clinician's bedside
manner
- D. Genetic predisposition
- E. The cost of the treatment
Answer: A, B, C
Reason:
The passage states the effect is driven by "expectation" (A),
"conditioning" (B), and "the therapeutic context—including the
bedside manner of the clinician" (C). D and E are never mentioned. Be
careful not to import outside knowledge.
Set 4
Standardised testing in education has been criticised on several grounds. Critics argue that
tests narrow the curriculum, encourage teaching to the test, and disadvantage students whose first language is
not the test language. Defenders counter that tests provide comparable data across schools,
hold institutions accountable,
and identify achievement gaps. Most researchers agree that tests should be
one of several measures, not the sole criterion.
Q: According to the passage, which of the following
are criticisms of standardised testing?
- A. Narrowing the curriculum
- B. Encouraging teaching to the
test
- C. Providing comparable data
across schools
- D. Disadvantaging students
whose first language is not the test language
- E. Holding institutions
accountable
Answer: A, B, D
Reason:
The passage lists "narrow the curriculum" (A), "encourage
teaching to the test" (B), and "disadvantage students whose first
language is not the test language" (D) as criticisms. C and E are
defenders' arguments, not criticisms.
Set 5
The
Silk Road was not a single road
but a network of trade routes connecting East Asia, Central Asia, the Middle East, and Europe. It
facilitated the exchange of goods,
technologies, religions, and diseases. Silk was a major
export from China, while horses,
glassware, and wool were traded eastward. The Black Death is believed to have spread along these routes in
the 14th century.
Q: According to the passage, which of the following
were exchanged along the Silk Road?
- A. Goods
- B. Technologies
- C. Religions
- D. Diseases
- E. Gunpowder weapons
Answer: A, B, C, D
Reason:
The passage explicitly states the Silk Road facilitated exchange of
"goods" (A), "technologies" (B), "religions" (C),
and "diseases" (D). E (gunpowder weapons) is never mentioned, even
though gunpowder did historically travel the Silk Road—PTE only tests what the
passage says.
Set 6
Coral bleaching
occurs when corals expel the symbiotic algae living in their tissues, turning
white. The primary cause is prolonged
elevated sea temperatures, though ocean acidification, pollution,
and sedimentation also
contribute. Bleached corals are not
dead and can recover if conditions improve within weeks. However, repeated bleaching events reduce recovery
chances, and some reefs have
shifted permanently to algae-dominated states.
Q: According to the passage, which factors
contribute to coral bleaching?
- A. Prolonged elevated sea
temperatures
- B. Ocean acidification
- C. Pollution
- D. Sedimentation
- E. Excessive rainfall
Answer: A, B, C, D
Reason:
The passage lists "prolonged elevated sea temperatures" (A),
"ocean acidification" (B), "pollution" (C), and
"sedimentation" (D). E is not mentioned. Note also: "Bleached
corals are not dead"—so any option claiming bleaching equals death would
be wrong.
Set 7
Ancient Egyptian mummification involved several stages: removal of internal organs, dessication with natron salt, anointing with oils, and wrapping
in linen. The heart was usually
left in place because Egyptians believed it was needed for the afterlife
judgment. The brain was typically
discarded. Only wealthy
Egyptians could afford full mummification; poorer people received
simpler treatments.
Q: According to the passage, which of the following
were stages of Egyptian mummification?
- A. Removal of internal organs
- B. Dessication with natron salt
- C. Removal of the heart
- D. Anointing with oils
- E. Wrapping in linen
Answer: A, B, D, E
Reason:
The passage lists "removal of internal organs" (A), "dessication
with natron salt" (B), "anointing with oils" (D), and
"wrapping in linen" (E). C is wrong—the passage says "The heart
was usually left in place."
Set 8
Growth mindset,
the belief that abilities can be developed through effort, has been widely
promoted in education. Original studies
reported substantial effects on academic achievement. However, large-scale replication studies found much
smaller effects, and some found
no effect at all. Critics argue
the concept has been oversimplified in schools, where it is often
reduced to praising effort regardless of outcome. Proponents maintain that the underlying idea remains valuable even
if interventions are poorly implemented.
Q: According to the passage, which of the following
are criticisms of growth mindset interventions?
- A. Large-scale replications
found smaller effects than original studies
- B. Some replications found no
effect at all
- C. The concept has been
oversimplified in schools
- D. It is often reduced to
praising effort regardless of outcome
- E. The underlying idea has no
value whatsoever
Answer: A, B, C, D
Reason:
The passage reports "much smaller effects" (A), "no effect at
all" (B), "oversimplified" (C), and "reduced to praising
effort regardless of outcome" (D). E contradicts proponents who
"maintain that the underlying idea remains valuable."
Set 9
The
human eye contains two types of
photoreceptors: rods and cones. Rods are highly sensitive to light and enable vision in dim
conditions, but do not detect colour.
Cones detect colour and provide
sharp central vision, but require
brighter light. The fovea, at
the centre of the retina, contains only cones. Most colour blindness results from malfunctioning cones, while night blindness often involves rod
dysfunction.
Q: According to the passage, which of the following
statements about rods and cones are true?
- A. Rods are highly sensitive to
light
- B. Cones detect colour
- C. Rods provide sharp central
vision
- D. The fovea contains only
cones
- E. Cones enable vision in dim
conditions
Answer: A, B, D
Reason:
The passage states "Rods are highly sensitive to light" (A),
"Cones detect colour" (B), and "The fovea... contains only
cones" (D). C is wrong—cones, not rods, provide sharp central vision. E is
wrong—rods, not cones, enable dim-light vision.
Set 10
Microfinance
provides small loans to people excluded from formal banking. Early proponents
claimed it would eliminate poverty,
empower women, and spur entrepreneurship. Rigorous randomised studies found modest
average effects on income and consumption. Some borrowers benefited substantially, while others fell into debt traps. The consensus now is that microfinance is
useful but not a silver bullet.
Q: According to the passage, which of the following
were early claims about microfinance?
- A. It would eliminate poverty
- B. It would empower women
- C. It would spur
entrepreneurship
- D. It would cause debt traps
- E. It would have only modest
effects
Answer: A, B, C
Reason:
The passage states early proponents claimed it would "eliminate
poverty" (A), "empower women" (B), and "spur
entrepreneurship" (C). D and E are findings from later studies, not early
claims.
Set 11
The
bystander effect describes how
individuals are less likely to help in an emergency when others are present. Darley and Latané's 1968 experiments
demonstrated this in laboratory settings. Explanations include diffusion of responsibility, pluralistic ignorance, and fear of embarrassment. Recent research suggests the effect may be
weaker in real-world emergencies than laboratory studies indicated, and some analyses of CCTV footage found no
evidence of it.
Q: According to the passage, which of the following
are explanations for the bystander effect?
- A. Diffusion of responsibility
- B. Pluralistic ignorance
- C. Fear of embarrassment
- D. Genetic predisposition to
selfishness
- E. Lack of education
Answer: A, B, C
Reason:
The passage lists "diffusion of responsibility" (A), "pluralistic
ignorance" (B), and "fear of embarrassment" (C). D and E are not
mentioned. Also note the passage says recent research suggests the effect
"may be weaker in real-world emergencies"—so any option claiming it
is universally strong would be wrong.
Set 12
Volcanoes
affect global climate primarily through sulphur
dioxide emissions, which form aerosols
in the stratosphere that reflect
sunlight and cool the surface.
The 1815 Tambora eruption caused
the "year without a summer" in 1816. However, the cooling is temporary, lasting one to three years, because aerosols eventually settle. Volcanic CO₂ emissions are negligible
compared with human emissions.
Q: According to the passage, which of the following
are effects of volcanic eruptions on climate?
- A. Sulphur dioxide forms
stratospheric aerosols
- B. Aerosols reflect sunlight
- C. Surface cooling
- D. Permanent global cooling
- E. Significant CO₂ contribution
to global warming
Answer: A, B, C
Reason:
The passage describes SO₂ forming aerosols (A), aerosols reflecting sunlight
(B), and surface cooling (C). D contradicts "cooling is temporary." E
contradicts "Volcanic CO₂ emissions are negligible."
Set 13
The
Dunning-Kruger effect describes
how people with low ability at a task overestimate
their competence, while experts
tend to underestimate theirs. Original
research involved grammar and logic tests. Some statisticians argue the effect may be partly a statistical artefact
rather than a purely psychological phenomenon. Regardless of the debate, the effect is widely cited in education and
management.
Q: According to the passage, which of the following
statements about the Dunning-Kruger effect are true?
- A. People with low ability
overestimate their competence
- B. Experts tend to
underestimate theirs
- C. Original research involved
grammar and logic tests
- D. Some statisticians argue it
may be partly a statistical artefact
- E. The effect has been
definitively proven to be purely psychological
Answer: A, B, C, D
Reason:
The passage states low-ability people "overestimate their competence"
(A), experts "tend to underestimate theirs" (B), original research
used "grammar and logic tests" (C), and some statisticians argue it
"may be partly a statistical artefact" (D). E contradicts this
debate—the effect is not "definitively proven to be purely
psychological."
Set 14
Coral reef restoration
projects use several methods: coral
gardening (growing fragments in nurseries), larval seeding (collecting and raising coral larvae), and artificial reef structures. Success rates vary widely depending on
species, water conditions, and local threats. Restoration is expensive, and critics argue it may distract from the more urgent task of reducing
emissions. Proponents see it as
a complementary tool, not a substitute for climate action.
Q: According to the passage, which methods are used
in coral reef restoration?
- A. Coral gardening
- B. Larval seeding
- C. Artificial reef structures
- D. Deep-sea coral
transplantation
- E. Genetic modification of
corals
Answer: A, B, C
Reason:
The passage lists "coral gardening" (A), "larval seeding"
(B), and "artificial reef structures" (C). D and E are never
mentioned. Do not select plausible-sounding methods absent from the text.
Set 15
The
digital divide refers to gaps in
access to technology and internet. It exists between rich and poor, urban and
rural, and young and old.
The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted these
gaps as education and work moved online. Some governments responded with device distribution and broadband
subsidies. However, access alone
does not close the divide—digital
literacy training is also needed.
Q: According to the passage, which of the following
are dimensions of the digital divide?
- A. Rich vs. poor
- B. Urban vs. rural
- C. Young vs. old
- D. Male vs. female
- E. Coastal vs. inland
Answer: A, B, C
Reason:
The passage states the divide exists between "rich and poor" (A),
"urban and rural" (B), and "young and old" (C). D and E are
never mentioned, even though other divides may exist in reality.
Set 16
Nuclear fusion
differs from nuclear fission.
Fusion combines light nuclei,
while fission splits heavy nuclei.
Fusion produces more energy per unit
mass and generates less
long-lived radioactive waste. However, fusion requires extremely high temperatures and pressures, and no commercial fusion reactor exists yet.
ITER, an international project, aims to
demonstrate feasibility.
Q: According to the passage, which of the following
are advantages of fusion over fission?
- A. Produces more energy per
unit mass
- B. Generates less long-lived
radioactive waste
- C. Requires lower temperatures
- D. Uses simpler technology
- E. Commercial reactors already
exist
Answer: A, B
Reason:
The passage states fusion "produces more energy per unit mass" (A)
and "generates less long-lived radioactive waste" (B). C contradicts
"extremely high temperatures." D is not claimed. E contradicts
"no commercial fusion reactor exists yet."
Set 17
Behavioural economics
challenges the assumption that people are perfectly rational. It documents loss aversion, anchoring, and present
bias. These biases affect
financial decisions, health choices, and consumer behaviour. Some governments have created "nudge
units" to apply these insights to policy. Critics warn that nudges can be manipulative and may not work as well outside laboratory
settings.
Q: According to the passage, which of the following
are concepts from behavioural economics?
- A. Loss aversion
- B. Anchoring
- C. Present bias
- D. Perfect rationality
- E. Supply and demand
equilibrium
Answer: A, B, C
Reason:
The passage lists "loss aversion" (A), "anchoring" (B), and
"present bias" (C). D is the assumption behavioural economics
challenges. E is a neoclassical concept not mentioned.
Set 18
Ocean acidification
is caused by absorption of CO₂,
which forms carbonic acid and lowers pH. It threatens shell-forming organisms such as corals, molluscs, and some
plankton. These organisms
struggle to build calcium carbonate shells in more acidic water. Food webs depending on them may be disrupted.
Unlike climate change, acidification is
not reversible on human timescales.
Q: According to the passage, which organisms are
threatened by ocean acidification?
- A. Corals
- B. Molluscs
- C. Some plankton
- D. Large fish
- E. Marine mammals
Answer: A, B, C
Reason:
The passage lists "corals" (A), "molluscs" (B), and
"some plankton" (C) as shell-forming organisms threatened. D and E
are never mentioned. Note also: acidification is "not reversible on human
timescales."
Set 19
Ancient Greek theatre
originated from religious festivals
honouring Dionysus. It included tragedy,
comedy, and satyr plays. Performances took place in outdoor amphitheatres with acoustic design that allowed audiences of
thousands to hear. Actors wore
masks, and all roles were played
by men. The chorus commented on
the action and provided
background.
Q: According to the passage, which of the following
are features of ancient Greek theatre?
- A. Originated from religious
festivals
- B. Included tragedy and comedy
- C. Performances in outdoor
amphitheatres
- D. Actors wore masks
- E. Women played the leading
roles
Answer: A, B, C, D
Reason:
The passage states it originated from "religious festivals" (A),
included "tragedy," "comedy," and "satyr plays"
(B), took place in "outdoor amphitheatres" (C), and "actors wore
masks" (D). E contradicts "all roles were played by men."
Set 20
Renewable energy
sources include solar, wind, hydro, geothermal,
and biomass. Solar and wind are intermittent,
depending on weather and time of day. Hydro
and geothermal are more consistent but geographically limited. Battery
storage is improving but remains
expensive. Grid integration is a
major challenge as renewables form a larger share of supply.
Q: According to the passage, which of the following
are renewable energy sources?
- A. Solar
- B. Wind
- C. Hydro
- D. Natural gas
- E. Geothermal
Answer: A, B, C, E
Reason:
The passage lists "solar" (A), "wind" (B),
"hydro" (C), "geothermal" (E), and "biomass." D
(natural gas) is a fossil fuel, not mentioned as renewable. Do not select it
based on outside knowledge—the passage does not list it.
PTE
Reading Multiple Choice, Multiple Answer (MCMA) – 25 New Practice Sets
Set 1
The
Greenland ice sheet is the
second-largest body of ice on Earth. It is losing mass at an accelerating rate
due to surface melting and iceberg calving. Meltwater can lubricate the base of the ice
sheet, potentially speeding its
flow toward the ocean. However, this
effect is complex and varies by region. Some areas show accelerated flow, while others do not.
Q: According to the passage, which factors
contribute to Greenland ice loss?
- A. Surface melting
- B. Iceberg calving
- C. Volcanic activity beneath
the ice
- D. Meltwater lubricating the
ice sheet base
- E. Reduced snowfall
Answer: A, B, D
Reason:
The passage lists "surface melting" (A) and "iceberg
calving" (B) as causes, and notes "meltwater can lubricate the
base" (D). C is never mentioned. E is not stated—the passage discusses
melting and flow, not snowfall changes.
Set 2
The
gut-brain axis is a
bidirectional communication system between the digestive tract and the central
nervous system. It involves the vagus
nerve, hormonal signalling,
and microbial metabolites. Stress can alter gut bacteria, and gut inflammation may affect mood. Some researchers suggest probiotics could
support mental health, though clinical
evidence remains preliminary.
Q: According to the passage, which components are
involved in the gut-brain axis?
- A. The vagus nerve
- B. Hormonal signalling
- C. Microbial metabolites
- D. Spinal reflexes
- E. Lymphatic vessels
Answer: A, B, C
Reason:
The passage lists "vagus nerve" (A), "hormonal signalling"
(B), and "microbial metabolites" (C). D and E are never mentioned.
Also note clinical evidence for probiotics "remains preliminary."
Set 3
Permafrost
is ground that remains frozen for at least two consecutive years. It covers
about a quarter of the Northern
Hemisphere's land area. As it thaws, stored organic carbon decomposes, releasing carbon dioxide and methane. This creates a feedback loop that amplifies warming. Thawing also damages infrastructure
such as roads and buildings.
Q: According to the passage, which are consequences
of permafrost thaw?
- A. Release of carbon dioxide
- B. Release of methane
- C. A feedback loop that
amplifies warming
- D. Damage to roads and
buildings
- E. Increased agricultural
productivity
Answer: A, B, C, D
Reason:
The passage lists CO₂ release (A), methane release (B), a feedback loop (C),
and infrastructure damage (D). E is never mentioned—do not assume thawing
benefits agriculture.
Set 4
The
Great Barrier Reef has
experienced mass bleaching events
in recent decades. The primary driver is marine heatwaves linked to climate change. Poor water quality, coastal
development, and crown-of-thorns
starfish outbreaks also stress the reef. Recovery between events takes a decade or more, but the frequency of bleaching has increased,
leaving insufficient time for recovery.
Q: According to the passage, which factors stress
the Great Barrier Reef?
- A. Marine heatwaves
- B. Poor water quality
- C. Coastal development
- D. Crown-of-thorns starfish outbreaks
- E. Tsunamis
Answer: A, B, C, D
Reason:
The passage lists all four: marine heatwaves (A), poor water quality (B),
coastal development (C), and starfish outbreaks (D). E is never mentioned.
Set 5
Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is a structured, short-term psychotherapy. It focuses on identifying unhelpful thought patterns
and changing behaviour. CBT is effective for anxiety, depression, and
insomnia, and can be delivered
in person or online. It requires
active patient participation, and results depend on consistent practice.
Q: According to the passage, which conditions is CBT
effective for?
- A. Anxiety
- B. Depression
- C. Insomnia
- D. Schizophrenia
- E. Dementia
Answer: A, B, C
Reason:
The passage explicitly lists anxiety (A), depression (B), and insomnia (C). D
and E are never mentioned.
Set 6
Universal grammar,
proposed by Noam Chomsky, suggests that humans
are born with an innate capacity for language. It argues that all languages share deep structural
principles. Evidence cited
includes the speed of language acquisition and the uniformity of developmental stages. Critics argue the theory underestimates cultural and environmental
influences and is difficult to
test empirically.
Q: According to the passage, which arguments support
universal grammar?
- A. Humans are born with innate
language capacity
- B. All languages share deep
structural principles
- C. Speed of language
acquisition
- D. Uniformity of developmental
stages
- E. Cultural influences
determine language structure
Answer: A, B, C, D
Reason:
The passage lists the innate capacity (A), shared structural principles (B),
speed of acquisition (C), and uniform stages (D) as supporting evidence. E is a
criticism, not support.
Set 7
Desalination
removes salt from seawater to produce fresh water. The dominant method is reverse osmosis, which forces water through semipermeable membranes.
Desalination is energy-intensive
and produces brine that can harm marine life if discharged poorly.
It is used widely in the Middle East
and increasingly in Australia and
California.
Q: According to the passage, which are features or
concerns of desalination?
- A. Reverse osmosis is the
dominant method
- B. It is energy-intensive
- C. It produces brine
- D. Brine can harm marine life
- E. It requires no energy input
Answer: A, B, C, D
Reason:
The passage describes reverse osmosis (A), energy intensity (B), brine
production (C), and harm to marine life (D). E contradicts
"energy-intensive."
Set 8
The
placebo effect is stronger when the treatment is administered by a confident
clinician, the patient expects
benefit, and the intervention
appears medical. Placebo effects
are real physiological changes, not merely reporting bias. They are strongest for pain and nausea,
and weaker for objective outcomes like
tumour size.
Q: According to the passage, which factors
strengthen the placebo effect?
- A. Confident clinician
- B. Patient expectation of
benefit
- C. Intervention appears medical
- D. High treatment cost
- E. Objective outcome measures
Answer: A, B, C
Reason:
The passage lists the confident clinician (A), expectation (B), and medical
appearance (C). D is not mentioned. E weakens, not strengthens, the effect.
Set 9
Bitcoin
is a decentralised digital currency
that uses blockchain technology
to record transactions. Transactions
are verified by miners who solve computational
puzzles. Mining consumes large
amounts of electricity. Bitcoin
has no central bank or government backing, and its value is highly volatile.
Q: According to the passage, which are features of
Bitcoin?
- A. Decentralised digital
currency
- B. Uses blockchain technology
- C. Verified by miners solving
computational puzzles
- D. Backed by a central bank
- E. Low electricity consumption
Answer: A, B, C
Reason:
The passage lists decentralisation (A), blockchain (B), and mining verification
(C). D contradicts "no central bank or government backing." E
contradicts "consumes large amounts of electricity."
Set 10
Antibiotic resistance
arises when bacteria acquire genes that
neutralise antibiotics. Contributing factors include overprescription, routine use in livestock, and poor hospital sanitation. Resistant infections lengthen hospital stays
and increase mortality. New antibiotics are slow to develop,
and few pharmaceutical companies invest
in them.
Q: According to the passage, which factors
contribute to antibiotic resistance?
- A. Overprescription
- B. Routine use in livestock
- C. Poor hospital sanitation
- D. Increased antibiotic
research funding
- E. Reduced global travel
Answer: A, B, C
Reason:
The passage lists overprescription (A), livestock use (B), and hospital
sanitation (C). D and E are not mentioned as contributors.
Set 11
The
attention economy treats human
attention as a scarce resource. Platforms compete to maximise time spent, because advertising revenue depends on engagement. Algorithms amplify emotionally provocative content to increase engagement. Critics argue this creates perverse
incentives and may harm mental
health.
Q: According to the passage, which are features of
the attention economy?
- A. Attention is treated as
scarce
- B. Platforms compete for time
spent
- C. Advertising revenue depends
on engagement
- D. Algorithms amplify
provocative content
- E. Platforms prioritise user
wellbeing over revenue
Answer: A, B, C, D
Reason:
The passage lists all four features: scarce attention (A), competition for time
(B), revenue from engagement (C), and algorithmic amplification (D). E
contradicts the passage's emphasis on revenue incentives.
Set 12
Circadian rhythms
are internal 24-hour cycles that regulate sleep, hormones, body temperature, and metabolism. They are controlled by the suprachiasmatic nucleus
in the brain and synchronised by light
exposure. Shift work disrupts
these rhythms, increasing risk of cardiovascular disease and metabolic
disorders.
Q: According to the passage, which processes do
circadian rhythms regulate?
- A. Sleep
- B. Hormones
- C. Body temperature
- D. Metabolism
- E. Blood type
Answer: A, B, C, D
Reason:
The passage lists sleep (A), hormones (B), body temperature (C), and metabolism
(D). E is not mentioned and is biologically fixed, not rhythm-regulated.
Set 13
Vaccines
work by training the immune system
to recognise pathogens. They contain inactivated
or weakened pathogens, protein
subunits, or mRNA instructions.
Herd immunity protects those who cannot
be vaccinated. Vaccine hesitancy,
driven by misinformation and distrust, remains a major public health challenge.
Q: According to the passage, which are components or
types of vaccines?
- A. Inactivated or weakened
pathogens
- B. Protein subunits
- C. mRNA instructions
- D. Live fully virulent
pathogens
- E. Antibiotics
Answer: A, B, C
Reason:
The passage lists inactivated/weakened pathogens (A), protein subunits (B), and
mRNA (C). D contradicts "weakened" or "inactivated." E is
unrelated.
Set 14
Ocean currents
redistribute heat around the globe. The thermohaline
circulation is driven by differences
in temperature and salinity. It transports
warm water poleward and cold
water toward the equator. Melting
ice can disrupt this circulation by adding fresh water and reducing
salinity.
Q: According to the passage, what drives
thermohaline circulation?
- A. Differences in temperature
- B. Differences in salinity
- C. Wind patterns
- D. Tidal forces
- E. Lunar cycles
Answer: A, B
Reason:
The passage states it is "driven by differences in temperature and
salinity" (A, B). C, D, and E are never mentioned.
Set 15
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is characterised by differences
in social communication and restricted
or repetitive behaviours. Its
causes are not fully understood, but genetics play a significant role. Early intervention can improve outcomes. There is no evidence that vaccines cause autism.
Q: According to the passage, which statements about
ASD are true?
- A. Characterised by differences
in social communication
- B. Restricted or repetitive
behaviours
- C. Genetics play a significant
role
- D. Vaccines cause autism
- E. Early intervention can
improve outcomes
Answer: A, B, C, E
Reason:
The passage lists all four: social communication differences (A), repetitive
behaviours (B), genetic role (C), and early intervention benefits (E). D is
explicitly contradicted.
Set 16
Carbon capture and storage (CCS) captures CO₂ from power
plants and industrial processes,
then transports it to geological
formations for long-term storage.
CCS can reduce emissions from heavy
industry, but it is expensive
and energy-intensive. Some critics argue it prolongs fossil fuel
dependence.
Q: According to the passage, which are features or
concerns of CCS?
- A. Captures CO₂ from power
plants
- B. Stores CO₂ in geological
formations
- C. Can reduce emissions from
heavy industry
- D. It is inexpensive
- E. Critics say it prolongs
fossil fuel dependence
Answer: A, B, C, E
Reason:
The passage lists capture from power plants (A), geological storage (B),
reduction in heavy industry (C), and the criticism (E). D contradicts "it
is expensive."
Set 17
Language acquisition
in children follows predictable stages:
babbling, one-word utterances, two-word combinations, and full sentences. Children acquire grammar without explicit
instruction. The critical period
hypothesis suggests language is
easiest to learn before puberty. Adults
can still learn languages, but often
with more effort and less native-like accent.
Q: According to the passage, which are stages of
language acquisition?
- A. Babbling
- B. One-word utterances
- C. Two-word combinations
- D. Full sentences
- E. Reading fluently
Answer: A, B, C, D
Reason:
The passage lists babbling (A), one-word (B), two-word (C), and full sentences
(D). E is not mentioned as a stage.
Set 18
Sleep deprivation
impairs attention, memory, and decision-making. Chronic
deprivation is linked to obesity,
diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. Teenagers need more sleep than adults,
yet school start times often prevent
adequate rest. Some districts
have delayed start times, with improved
attendance and academic performance.
Q: According to the passage, which are consequences
of sleep deprivation?
- A. Impaired attention
- B. Impaired memory
- C. Impaired decision-making
- D. Obesity
- E. Improved academic
performance
Answer: A, B, C, D
Reason:
The passage lists attention (A), memory (B), decision-making (C), and obesity
(D). E is a benefit of delayed start times, not a consequence of deprivation.
Set 19
Urbanisation
is the shift of population from rural to urban areas. It drives economic growth and improves access to services. However, rapid urbanisation can overwhelm
infrastructure, leading to slums,
traffic congestion, and pollution. Planned urbanisation can mitigate
these problems.
Q: According to the passage, which are potential
problems of rapid urbanisation?
- A. Slums
- B. Traffic congestion
- C. Pollution
- D. Improved access to services
- E. Economic growth
Answer: A, B, C
Reason:
The passage lists slums (A), congestion (B), and pollution (C). D and E are
benefits, not problems.
Set 20
Bioluminescence
is the production of light by living organisms. It occurs in fireflies, deep-sea fish, and some
fungi. The reaction involves luciferin
and luciferase. Functions include attracting mates, luring prey, and defence.
Q: According to the passage, which organisms exhibit
bioluminescence?
- A. Fireflies
- B. Deep-sea fish
- C. Some fungi
- D. Mammals
- E. Birds
Answer: A, B, C
Reason:
The passage lists fireflies (A), deep-sea fish (B), and some fungi (C). D and E
are not mentioned.
Set 21
Nudge theory
proposes that indirect suggestions
can influence behaviour without restricting choice. Examples include placing healthy food at eye level and default enrolment in pension schemes. Nudges are cheap and often effective, but critics warn they can be manipulative
and lack transparency.
Q: According to the passage, which are features or
criticisms of nudges?
- A. Influence behaviour without
restricting choice
- B. Healthy food placement
- C. Default pension enrolment
- D. They are expensive
- E. Critics warn they can be
manipulative
Answer: A, B, C, E
Reason:
The passage lists influence without restriction (A), food placement (B),
pension default (C), and the criticism (E). D contradicts "Nudges are
cheap."
Set 22
Volcanic eruptions
can cause short-term cooling by releasing sulphur dioxide that forms reflective aerosols. The 1815 Tambora eruption caused the year without a summer. Cooling lasts one to three years. Volcanic CO₂ emissions are negligible
compared with human emissions.
Q: According to the passage, which are effects of
volcanic eruptions?
- A. Short-term cooling
- B. Sulphur dioxide release
- C. Reflective aerosols
- D. Permanent cooling
- E. Significant CO₂ contribution
Answer: A, B, C
Reason:
The passage lists cooling (A), SO₂ (B), and aerosols (C). D contradicts
"one to three years." E contradicts "negligible."
Set 23
Microplastics
are plastic particles smaller than 5mm. They enter the environment through cosmetic products, synthetic clothing fibers, and degraded plastic waste. They are found
in table salt, bottled water, and human bloodstreams. Marine life ingests them, causing intestinal blockages and toxin accumulation.
Q: According to the passage, which are sources of
microplastics?
- A. Cosmetic products
- B. Synthetic clothing fibers
- C. Degraded plastic waste
- D. Agricultural pesticides
- E. Industrial solvents
Answer: A, B, C
Reason:
The passage lists cosmetic products (A), synthetic fibers (B), and degraded
waste (C). D and E are never mentioned.
Set 24
Telemedicine
delivers healthcare via video calls,
remote monitoring, and secure messaging. It improves access for rural patients and
reduces travel costs. However,
it requires reliable internet
and may not suit all conditions.
Regulatory and reimbursement issues
also limit adoption.
Q: According to the passage, which are benefits of
telemedicine?
- A. Improves access for rural
patients
- B. Reduces travel costs
- C. Requires reliable internet
- D. Suitable for all conditions
- E. Eliminates regulatory issues
Answer: A, B
Reason:
The passage lists rural access (A) and reduced travel costs (B). C is a
requirement, not a benefit. D contradicts "may not suit all
conditions." E contradicts "regulatory issues limit adoption."
Set 25
Soil erosion
is the removal of topsoil by wind,
water, and human activity. It reduces agricultural productivity and can cause desertification. Deforestation, overgrazing, and poor
farming practices accelerate erosion. Terracing, cover cropping,
and reforestation can reduce soil loss.
Q: According to the passage, which factors
accelerate soil erosion?
- A. Deforestation
- B. Overgrazing
- C. Poor farming practices
- D. Terracing
- E. Cover cropping
Answer: A, B, C
Reason:
The passage lists deforestation (A), overgrazing (B), and poor farming (C). D
and E are solutions, not causes.
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