Select Missing Word — Last 10 Seconds Rule

What is Select Missing Word?

You hear an audio clip that cuts off before the last word or phrase. Pick the option that completes the meaning. Tests Listening only.

Format & Timing

• Audio: 20–70 seconds, ends with a beep where the missing word would be
• Options: 4, one correct
• Time per question: ~1 minute

Scoring

• 1 point for correct answer. No negative marking.

The Last-10-Seconds Rule

The answer is determined by the LAST 10 seconds of audio — that's where the speaker sets up the missing conclusion. Pay extra attention there.

Strategy

1. Listen for tone shift near the end — speakers often slow down or emphasise as they approach the punchline.
2. After the beep, read all 4 options and predict which COMPLETES the sentence logically.
3. Eliminate options that contradict the audio — about 2 of 4 will.
4. Pick the option that grammatically AND logically fits.

Common Mistakes

• Focusing on the start of the audio — you miss the lead-up to the missing word.
• Picking based on a single keyword the speaker mentioned earlier.
• Not pre-reading options before the audio plays — gives you context.

Practice on ClearMyPTE

Drill in Listening practice. After the beep, immediately predict the missing phrase yourself BEFORE looking at options — trains anticipation.