PET Reading Part 5

In PET Reading Part 5, you are given a choice of four words to insert into gaps. Here we give you techniques to help you feel more confident in the exam.
PET Reading Part 5
PET Reading Part 5

In this section of the PET Reading Paper, you'll read a short text (about 120-150 words) that has six gaps. Your job is to choose the correct word from four options provided for each gap. The focus is on understanding grammar, word forms, and context, so it’s important to think carefully about how each word fits into the sentence.

practise PET Reading Part 5 - MEANING & CONTEXT

use context - Mt. Vesuvius - The Project

more PET Reading Part 5 interactive practice - The Rat Race

The PET Reading Paper gives you 45 minutes for 6 parts, so you’ll want to spend around 5 minutes on Part 5. Don’t rush, but don’t spend too long on one question. If you’re unsure about a word, make your best guess and move on—you can always come back if you have time left.

Here is an example of Part 5

PET Reading Part 5

Study Tips for PET Exam

what makes part 5 tricky?

  • Understanding the words: if you don't know the meaning of the words, it will be difficult to choose the right one.
  • Context clues: sometimes, words may seem similar, but only one will make sense in the full sentence.
  • Limited time: with just under 10 minutes for six questions, time can feel tight.

how can I overcome these challenges?

  • Read the sentence carefully: pay attention to grammar clues like articles ("a", "an", "the") or plurals. If, for example, the article requires a singular noun and three of your choices are plurals, then you know that the fourth word must be correct, even if you do not know its meaning.
  • Look for clues: in the sentences that come directly before or after to help with the meaning.
  • Eliminate wrong options: to narrow down your choices.
  • Practise, practise, practise: the more practice you do, the easier it becomes to spot patterns, choose the right word, and stay inside the time limit.

practise PET Reading Part 5 - MEANING & CONTEXT

use context - Mt. Vesuvius - The Project

more PET Reading Part 5 interactive practice - The Rat Race

how can myenglishexams help?  

On our site, we offer plenty of practice exercises that mirror the actual PET exam, so you can build your skills step by step. We have detailed walkthroughs, plus interactive quizzes to help you get faster and more accurate. Whether you need help with vocabulary, grammar, or just getting used to the format, we’ve got you covered!

Are you ready? Let’s keep practising and ace this section of the test!