PTE essay structure: a simple template for 200–300 words

The Write Essay task gives you 20 minutes to write 200–300 words on an argumentative topic. A simple, reliable structure lets you spend your time on ideas and accuracy instead of layout.

How it's scored

The essay is scored on content, form (200–300 words), development, structure and coherence, grammar, general linguistic range, vocabulary range and spelling. Staying inside the word range matters: too short or too long loses marks.

The 4-paragraph structure

1. Introduction (40–50 words): rephrase the topic and state your position clearly.
2. Body 1 (70–80 words): your first reason, explained, with a specific example.
3. Body 2 (70–80 words): your second reason, or the opposing view and why you disagree, with an example.
4. Conclusion (30–40 words): restate your position and summarise the two reasons.

Using your 20 minutes

• 3 minutes: plan your position, two reasons and two examples.
• 14 minutes: write.
• 3 minutes: check word count, spelling, subject–verb agreement and plurals.