30 Type a Writing Sample Practice Questions with Answers | PTE Express

PTE Express is a short, one-hour English test for students who want to study abroad. In the Type a Writing Sample task, you read a question and write a short answer in two minutes. You give your opinion with reasons and examples. This task is not scored. It collects a short writing sample for universities to review, so it does not change your Writing score. This post has 30 PTE Express Type a Writing Sample practice questions, each with a full sample answer. Use the model paragraphs to see how to give a clear opinion with reasons and an example.

Question 1

Some small shops stay open later in the evening so busy customers can visit after daytime responsibilities. Do you think longer opening hours are helpful for a neighborhood? Explain your opinion with reasons and examples.

Sample answer

Yes, I think longer opening hours are helpful for a neighborhood. Many people work during the day and only have free time in the evening, so late shops let them buy food, medicine, or other daily items without rushing. For example, a person who finishes work at seven can still pick up groceries on the way home. Longer hours can also make the area feel safer and more lively, because the streets are not empty at night. For these reasons, I believe evening opening hours bring real benefits to local people.

Question 2

Some people prefer to exercise at home instead of joining a sports class. Which do you think is better? Explain your opinion with reasons and examples.

Sample answer

In my opinion, joining a sports class is better than exercising at home. A class gives structure and a fixed time, so it is easier to stay motivated and not skip sessions. Training with other people also makes the activity more enjoyable. For example, when I joined a weekly swimming class, I attended every week because my friends expected me, while at home I often found excuses to stop early. A good instructor can also correct mistakes and prevent injuries. For these reasons, I believe a sports class produces more consistent results than exercising alone.

Question 3

Some people prefer buying second-hand furniture for their home, while others prefer buying new furniture. Which choice do you think is better? Explain your opinion with reasons and examples.

Sample answer

I believe buying second-hand furniture is the better choice for most homes. It costs far less than new furniture, so people can furnish a whole room without spending too much money. Older pieces are often well made and very durable. For example, when I moved into my first apartment, I bought a solid wooden table from a second-hand shop for a small price, and it still looks good years later. Choosing used items also reduces waste. Overall, second-hand furniture saves money and is kinder to the environment.

Question 4

Some people carry a reusable water bottle every day, while others buy a drink only when they need one. Which habit do you think is better? Explain your opinion with reasons and examples.

Sample answer

Yes, I think carrying a reusable water bottle every day is the better habit. It saves money, because you do not have to buy a new drink every time you feel thirsty. It is also better for the environment, since fewer plastic bottles end up as rubbish. For example, I started taking a refillable bottle to work, and within a month I had stopped buying bottled water completely and felt much healthier. A reusable bottle also reminds you to drink enough during the day. Overall, this small habit brings clear benefits.

Question 5

Some laundry shops send customers a short message when their clothes are ready to pick up. Do you think this is a good service? Explain your opinion with reasons and examples.

Sample answer

In my opinion, sending a short message when clothes are ready is a very good service. It saves the customer time, because people do not have to guess or make a wasted trip to the shop. It also shows that the business respects its customers. For example, a busy worker can wait for the text and collect the clothes on the way home instead of visiting twice. This kind of message also reduces the number of forgotten orders left in the shop. For these reasons, I believe it is a helpful and considerate service.

Question 6

Some colleges provide small lockers where students can leave books or sports clothes during the day. Do you think this is a useful service? Explain your opinion with reasons and examples.

Sample answer

Yes, I think small lockers for students are a very useful service. Students often carry heavy books, a laptop, and sports clothes, so a locker lets them leave these items safely instead of carrying everything all day. This makes moving between classes much easier. For example, a student with a gym session in the afternoon can store sports clothes in the morning and pick them up later without going home. Lockers also reduce the risk of losing belongings. Overall, lockers make daily college life more comfortable and organized.

Question 7

Some neighborhoods add distance markers on walking paths so people can see how far they have walked. Do you think this is useful? Explain your opinion with reasons and examples.

Sample answer

I believe distance markers on walking paths are useful for a neighborhood. They let people measure exactly how far they have walked, which helps them set clear goals and track their progress. This can encourage people to exercise more often. For example, someone trying to walk three kilometers a day can use the markers to know when the goal is reached, instead of guessing. The markers also make a route feel more interesting and motivating. Overall, this simple feature supports a healthier and more active community.

Question 8

Some people prefer to exercise in the morning before starting their daily responsibilities. Do you think morning exercise is better than exercising later in the day? Explain your opinion with reasons and examples.

Sample answer

Yes, I think morning exercise is better than exercising later in the day. Doing it early means the task is finished before work or study begins, so there is no risk of running out of time or energy in the evening. It also gives you energy for the rest of the day. For example, when I started running before breakfast, I felt more awake at work and never cancelled my sessions because of a busy schedule. Morning exercise also helps me sleep better at night. Overall, exercising early is the more reliable choice.

Question 9

Some people prefer to send a handwritten card to thank someone, while others prefer to send a short digital message. Which way of saying thank you do you think is better? Explain your opinion with reasons and examples.

Sample answer

Personally, I think a handwritten card is the better way to thank someone. Writing by hand takes time and effort, so the person can see that you truly cared, while a quick digital message often feels rushed and easily forgotten. A card is also something physical that the receiver can keep and read again later. For instance, when my aunt sent me a card after I helped her move, I kept it on my desk for months and smiled every time I saw it. In short, a handwritten card carries more meaning than a fast message on a screen.

Question 10

Some public libraries lend everyday items, such as umbrellas or reusable shopping bags, in addition to books. Do you think this is a useful service? Explain your opinion with reasons and examples.

Sample answer

From my point of view, lending everyday items like umbrellas or reusable bags is a very useful service. Many people visit libraries without planning ahead, so having these items available saves them money and reduces waste from buying things they only need once. It also brings more people into the library, where they may borrow books too. For instance, a student caught in sudden rain could borrow an umbrella instead of buying a cheap one that quickly breaks and is thrown away. All in all, this small service helps the community and supports the environment at the same time.

Question 11

Some people like to learn a new skill by watching short videos, while others prefer to learn from a teacher in person. Which method do you think is better? Explain your opinion with reasons and examples.

Sample answer

I would say that learning from a teacher in person is the better method. A real teacher can watch what you are doing, correct your mistakes immediately, and answer questions that a fixed video cannot. Short videos are convenient, but they do not adapt to your specific problems. For instance, when I tried to learn swimming from videos, I kept repeating the same mistake with my breathing, but a coach fixed it in one lesson by simply watching me. In short, a teacher gives personal feedback that videos cannot match, which makes learning faster and more effective.

Question 12

Some people set aside a phone-free period each day for work or study, while others prefer to stay connected and reply to messages as they arrive. Which approach do you think is better for staying productive, and why?

Sample answer

Personally, I think setting aside a phone-free period each day is better for staying productive. Constant messages break your concentration, and every interruption makes it harder to return to deep work. A quiet block of time lets you finish difficult tasks much faster. For instance, when I study for an exam, I turn my phone off for two hours, and I complete more in that time than in a whole afternoon of checking notifications. Replying instantly may feel helpful, but most messages can wait. All in all, protecting focused time leads to better and quicker results.

Question 13

Some towns put free drinking water stations in busy public areas, while others expect people to bring their own water. Do you think public water stations are a good idea? Explain your opinion with reasons and examples.

Sample answer

From my point of view, free public water stations are a very good idea. They help people stay hydrated on hot days without spending money, and they cut down on plastic bottles that pollute the environment. They are especially useful for children, older people, and anyone exercising outdoors. For instance, in a busy park near my home, a new water station means joggers can refill their bottles instead of buying drinks wrapped in plastic. This keeps the area cleaner and saves money. In short, public water stations support both public health and the environment.

Question 14

When people move to a new street or building, some introduce themselves to neighbors soon, while others wait until they meet naturally. Which approach do you think is better? Explain your opinion with reasons and examples.

Sample answer

I would say that introducing yourself to neighbors soon after moving is the better approach. Meeting people early builds a friendly atmosphere and makes it easier to ask for help when you need it. If you wait for a natural meeting, weeks can pass and the first conversation may feel awkward. For instance, when I moved into my flat, I knocked on the next door and introduced myself, and that neighbor later watered my plants while I was away. All in all, a small early effort creates trust and turns strangers into people you can rely on.

Question 15

Some people prefer bright lighting in their home during most of the day, while others prefer softer lighting in the evening. Which kind of lighting do you think is better for a comfortable home? Explain your opinion with reasons and examples.

Sample answer

Personally, I think softer lighting in the evening is better for a comfortable home. Bright light all day can feel harsh and tiring, especially after work, while gentle light helps the body relax and prepare for sleep. Soft lighting also makes a room feel warm and welcoming. For instance, when I switch off the strong ceiling light and turn on a small lamp after dinner, the room instantly feels calmer and I find it easier to rest. In short, soft evening lighting suits the way people actually live and unwind at home.

Question 16

Some people think a simple homemade gift is more meaningful than a gift bought from a store. Do you agree or disagree? Explain your opinion with reasons and examples.

Sample answer

I think a simple homemade gift is often more meaningful than something bought from a store. A handmade present shows that the giver spent time and effort thinking about the other person, and that care is what people remember. A store-bought item can feel quick or impersonal, even when it is expensive. As an example, my friend once knitted me a scarf in my favourite colour, and I still value it far more than any gift card I have received. For this reason, I believe the personal effort behind a homemade gift gives it real value.

Question 17

Some people like to save money for one expensive item, while others prefer to buy several smaller things when they can. Which habit do you think is better? Explain your opinion with reasons and examples.

Sample answer

My view is that saving money for one expensive item is the better habit. When people save toward a single goal, they spend more carefully and avoid wasting money on small things they do not really need. A bigger purchase usually lasts longer and brings more lasting satisfaction. As an example, instead of buying cheap headphones every few months, I saved for one good pair that I have used daily for three years. On balance, saving for one quality item builds discipline and gives better value than buying many smaller things on impulse.

Question 18

Some local sports clubs lend basic equipment to new members for their first few sessions. Do you think this is a good idea? Explain your opinion with reasons and examples.

Sample answer

I think lending basic equipment to new members for their first few sessions is a very good idea. Many beginners are not sure whether they will enjoy a sport, so they do not want to spend money on gear straight away. Borrowing equipment removes that barrier and lets them try the activity comfortably. As an example, a new tennis player can use a club racket for two or three sessions before deciding to buy one. For this reason, I believe this policy helps clubs attract more members and keeps the sport open to everyone.

Question 19

When taking a short trip, some people pack only one small bag, while others bring extra clothes and useful items. Which approach do you prefer? Explain your opinion with reasons and examples.

Sample answer

To me, packing only one small bag for a short trip is the better approach. A light bag is easier to carry, saves time at the airport or station, and forces you to focus on what you truly need. Carrying too many extra clothes usually creates stress and clutter. As an example, on a recent weekend trip I packed just one backpack, and I moved through the city quickly without worrying about heavy luggage. On balance, travelling light makes a short trip simpler and more enjoyable, so I prefer to bring only the essentials.

Question 20

Some cafes give customers a small discount when they bring their own cup. Do you think this is a good policy for cafes? Explain your opinion with reasons.

Sample answer

I think giving customers a small discount for bringing their own cup is a good policy for cafes. It encourages people to reuse cups instead of throwing away disposable ones, which reduces waste and helps the environment. The discount also rewards loyal customers and gives them a reason to return. As an example, a cafe near my office offers a small price cut for reusable cups, and many regular visitors now carry their own. For this reason, I believe this simple policy benefits both the business and the wider community.

Question 21

Some people prefer to buy groceries once a week, while others buy fresh food every few days. Which routine do you think is better? Give reasons and examples.

Sample answer

My view is that buying fresh food every few days is the better routine. Shopping more often means the food on your plate is fresher, tastes better, and is less likely to be wasted before it spoils. It also lets you decide meals based on what you actually feel like eating. As an example, when I buy vegetables every two or three days, almost nothing goes off in my fridge. On balance, frequent small shopping trips reduce waste and improve the quality of meals, so I prefer them to one large weekly shop.

Question 22

Some people prefer to do a few household chores every day, while others prefer to do most chores on one free day each week. Which approach do you think is better? Explain your opinion with reasons and examples.

Sample answer

To me, doing a few household chores every day is better than saving most of them for one free day. Spreading tasks across the week keeps the home tidy and stops jobs from piling up into something overwhelming. It also protects your day off, so you can actually rest. As an example, if I wash the dishes and tidy up each evening, my weekend stays free for friends and hobbies. For this reason, I believe small daily efforts are easier to manage and leave more time to enjoy life.

Question 23

Some people like to follow a recipe exactly when they cook, while others prefer to change ingredients based on what they have. Which approach do you think is better? Explain your opinion with reasons and examples.

Sample answer

In my view, changing ingredients based on what you have is the better approach. Cooking should be flexible, because a fixed recipe often calls for items that are out of season or missing from the kitchen, which wastes time and money. A good example is a tomato pasta sauce: if I have no fresh basil, I can use dried herbs or a little spinach and still make a tasty meal. Following a recipe exactly is useful when you are learning, but over time, adapting builds real skill and confidence. That is why I think adapting is the better choice.

Question 24

Some people like to learn simple new tasks by watching short videos, while others prefer reading written instructions. Which method do you think is better? Explain your opinion with reasons and examples.

Sample answer

I feel that watching short videos is the better method for learning simple new tasks. A video shows the exact movements and the correct order of steps, so it is easier to copy than a block of text. A good example is changing a bicycle tyre: a two-minute clip lets me pause, watch the hands, and repeat each step, while written instructions can be confusing without pictures. Reading is still helpful for detailed reference later, but for a quick practical skill, seeing it done is faster and clearer. In the end, short videos make simple tasks much easier to learn.

Question 25

Some people prefer to keep a small notebook for daily plans, while others prefer to use a phone app. Which method do you think is more helpful, and why?

Sample answer

For me, a phone app is the more helpful tool for daily plans. I always carry my phone, so I can add or check tasks anywhere without forgetting a paper notebook at home. An app can also send reminders and sync across devices, which a notebook cannot do. A good example is a doctor's appointment: the app alerts me an hour before, so I never miss it. A small notebook is pleasant to write in, but it cannot warn me about anything. That is why I think a phone app keeps my plans more reliable and organized.

Question 26

Some people like to play soft background music while doing simple tasks at home, while others prefer to work in silence. Which do you prefer? Explain your opinion with reasons and examples.

Sample answer

In my view, playing soft background music while doing simple tasks at home is a good choice. Gentle music makes repetitive jobs feel lighter and helps the time pass more pleasantly, so I stay motivated for longer. A good example is washing dishes or folding laundry: with calm music in the background, these chores feel relaxing instead of boring, and I finish them more quickly. I understand that silence helps some people focus, especially during difficult work that needs deep thinking. However, for easy household tasks, music improves my mood. In the end, I believe soft music makes simple chores more enjoyable.

Question 27

Some small bookshops place a shelf near the entrance with books recommended by staff. Do you think this helps customers choose what to read? Explain your opinion with reasons and examples.

Sample answer

In my view, a shelf of staff recommendations near the entrance really does help customers choose what to read. Many shoppers feel overwhelmed by large bookshops and do not know where to start, so a short, trusted list gives them a clear and easy place to begin. A good example is a reader who enjoys mysteries: a staff note saying which new crime novel is gripping can quickly point them to a book they will love. The staff know their stock well, so their advice feels personal. That is why I think these recommendation shelves are genuinely useful.

Question 28

Some apartment buildings have a shared shelf where residents can leave puzzles and board games for others to use. Do you think this is a good idea? Explain your opinion with reasons and examples.

Sample answer

I feel that a shared shelf for puzzles and board games is a very good idea. It lets neighbours enjoy games for free instead of buying expensive ones, and it gives items a second life rather than leaving them in a cupboard. A good example is a family with children who finish a jigsaw puzzle: they can pass it on and borrow a new one without any cost. The shelf can also help residents meet and talk, which builds a friendlier community. In the end, I believe this small idea brings real value to a building.

Question 29

A town can improve its bus stops by adding clearer route maps or by adding more seats. Which improvement would help passengers more? Explain your opinion.

Sample answer

In my view, adding clearer route maps would help passengers more than adding extra seats. A good map tells people which bus to take, where it goes, and how long they must wait, which removes confusion and prevents missed journeys. A good example is a visitor in an unfamiliar town: with a clear map at the stop, they can plan the right route immediately instead of asking strangers. Extra seats are comfortable, but they do not help someone who has boarded the wrong bus. That is why I think better route information is the more valuable improvement.

Question 30

Some people prefer to dry clothes outdoors when the weather is good, while others always dry clothes indoors. Which method do you think is better? Explain your opinion with reasons and examples.

Sample answer

I feel that drying clothes outdoors when the weather is good is the better method. Sunlight and fresh air dry clothes naturally and for free, while a dryer uses electricity and raises household bills. A good example is a sunny weekend: I can hang a full load of washing in the morning and have it dry by the afternoon, saving both money and energy. The sun also leaves clothes smelling fresh and helps remove some stains. Drying indoors is necessary on rainy days, but it is slower. In the end, I prefer to use good weather whenever I can.