How to handle background noises at the PTE test center?

It can be tough to ace the PTE exam as you will need to summon all your focus and concentration while preparing for the test day. In this article, we will discuss some important tips on how to handle background noises at the PTE test center with utmost efficiency.

Not everyone is confident with the exam environment, as you can lose momentum anytime, leading to mistakes that ultimately affect your overall PTE exam score. Moreover, anything can be a distraction on test day, and background noises are one of those distractions you will likely want to avoid.

Possible causes and sources of noise at the PTE test center

Background noises at the PTE test center can be a major distraction while taking your PTE exam. Noise can be receptive to each individual differently as one might feel disturbed by the slightest and others might not. 

Following are some of the possible causes and sources of noise at the PTE test center:

1. Number of test takers

PTE test is done in a room full of numerous test takers busy with their tasks. Continuous humming and talking can be one of the major noise distractions. 

Furthermore, these noises may cause unnecessary stress and make you lose focus. 

2. Test venue

The test venue you select to take your exam plays an important role in deciding your score. You are in for a major distraction if your test venue is in a place with construction nearby or if vehicle sounds can be heard clearly.

Hence, we suggest that you choose your test venue wisely and with less noise and comparatively fewer test takers. You can practice handling background noises at the PTE test center beforehand.

3. Broken microphone

The PTE exam has diversified sections to test your English proficiency. If in case you happen to have a broken microphone, you will hear everything that is going on on the outside. 

Background noises on a broken microphone can cause a major blunder in your PTE score. Therefore, we suggest you check your microphone connectivity and usage before starting the test.

How background noises affect your PTE exam score

It would be best if you had your focus and concentration while performing your PTE exam. However, in a noisy environment, you will never be able to focus on your exam. 

You will be prone to stress, and your brain will start to function slowly, whereas lack of concentration will eventually lead to you struggling with simpler questions. Also, sections like Describe Image, Read Aloud, Repeat Sentence, and Retell Lecture requires your total attention, which you won’t be able to provide due to noise.

Eventually, you will be unnecessarily frustrated and commit more mistakes. Your delivery and communication skills will weaken, and as a result, you will score lower in your PTE exam.

How to handle background noises at the PTE test center 

Background noises are unavoidable in the PTE test center. Beyond doubt, you also cannot go and request other test candidates to shut up or whisper.

So, how can you handle background noises in the PTE test center? Following are some strategies you can perform to avoid noise.

1. Booking a smaller test venue

Cramped test centers will have more noise than that of a smaller test centers. You are highly suggested that you go for a smaller venue with few test takers.

Moreover, you can choose a date or time at your convenience, which most people won’t be choosing. It will be best if you prefer your time to be early in the morning.

2. Practicing your tests in a noisy environment beforehand

As you are now aware that you will not be taking the test alone, you will want to practice for your PTE exam with people around you, i.e., noise around you. This practice will help you not to lose focus on your test day.

No matter how many mock tests you have taken, you might lose focus due to noise. For that, you will need to practice in a noisy environment beforehand.

3. Improve your focus and concentration

Working on your concentration can be one of the best things to work on for any exam. Also, improving your concentration is vital to face the noises on the outside while taking your PTE exam.

There are various things you can try to improve your focus. For example, you can meditate or work on breathing exercises to improve your concentration and well-being.

If you are used to the noises around you, you can ace your PTE exam by achieving your desired score. 

Conclusion

In conclusion, we hope that you have learned how to handle background noises in the PTE test center with the strategies above. You must remember to not lose focus and succumb to distractions while answering your questions.

For more PTE course materials, online classes, and mock tests, you can visit CCLHUB.

At CCLHUB, you will have one-on-one training with experienced trainers with the latest learning resources.