Multiple Choice, Multiple Answers Questions (PTE Academic Reading Tutorial – Quantum Computing Explained)
What are Multiple Choice, Multiple Answers Questions?
In this PTE Academic reading question type, you must read a passage and answer by selecting all correct answers from several options. There may be more than one correct answer—and there may be traps! Mastering this type builds your critical reading, attention to detail, and logic.
In this PTE Academic reading question type, you must read a passage and answer by selecting all correct answers from several options. There may be more than one correct answer—and there may be traps! Mastering this type builds your critical reading, attention to detail, and logic.
How to Answer Multiple Choice, Multiple Answers Questions – Step by Step
1
Read the Question Carefully:
Understand what information you’re being asked to find. Notice if you are asked about facts, inferences, definitions, or main ideas.
Example: “Which statements about quantum computing are true according to the passage?”
Understand what information you’re being asked to find. Notice if you are asked about facts, inferences, definitions, or main ideas.
Example: “Which statements about quantum computing are true according to the passage?”
2
Preview the Options:
Quickly look over all the answer choices. This will guide your reading, helping you notice keywords, details, or arguments related to quantum computing.
Quickly look over all the answer choices. This will guide your reading, helping you notice keywords, details, or arguments related to quantum computing.
3
Skim the Passage for Overall Meaning:
Read the passage quickly to get a general understanding—don’t focus on every detail yet. Identify the main topic, the author’s approach, and the general flow.
Read the passage quickly to get a general understanding—don’t focus on every detail yet. Identify the main topic, the author’s approach, and the general flow.
4
Scan for Key Information:
Return to the passage and scan for keywords, numbers, and details mentioned in the options. Mark or note where you find possible answers.
Return to the passage and scan for keywords, numbers, and details mentioned in the options. Mark or note where you find possible answers.
5
Analyse Each Option Separately:
Ask: Is this option fully supported by the passage? Does the passage confirm this, or does it contradict or ignore it? Don’t rely on outside knowledge.
Ask: Is this option fully supported by the passage? Does the passage confirm this, or does it contradict or ignore it? Don’t rely on outside knowledge.
6
Eliminate the Clearly Wrong Answers:
Rule out options that are not mentioned, are contradicted, or don’t match the text. Distractors may be partially true or based on common misconceptions.
Rule out options that are not mentioned, are contradicted, or don’t match the text. Distractors may be partially true or based on common misconceptions.
7
Be Careful with Half-True Options:
Don’t select an answer unless all parts of the option are directly supported by the passage. Many wrong options sound partly correct.
Don’t select an answer unless all parts of the option are directly supported by the passage. Many wrong options sound partly correct.
8
Beware of Extreme Language:
Distractors often include words like “always,” “never,” or “only.” The passage will rarely be this absolute, so check the text carefully.
Distractors often include words like “always,” “never,” or “only.” The passage will rarely be this absolute, so check the text carefully.
9
Select ALL Supported Answers:
Make sure you’ve chosen every correct option. Multiple answers may be right, and leaving one out can cost marks.
Make sure you’ve chosen every correct option. Multiple answers may be right, and leaving one out can cost marks.
10
Review Before Submitting:
Double-check each answer. Is every one fully supported by the text? Did you avoid using your own background knowledge?
Double-check each answer. Is every one fully supported by the text? Did you avoid using your own background knowledge?
11
Base Everything on the Passage:
Only the text matters. Even if you know something about quantum computing, don’t use outside facts—only use what’s written.
Only the text matters. Even if you know something about quantum computing, don’t use outside facts—only use what’s written.
12
Avoid Guessing Randomly:
Remember, there is negative marking for incorrect choices in this question type. If you’re unsure and can’t find evidence, it’s better to leave it unselected.
Remember, there is negative marking for incorrect choices in this question type. If you’re unsure and can’t find evidence, it’s better to leave it unselected.
Example Question:
Sample Question:
“Which of the following are true about quantum computers according to the passage?”
Choices:
(A) They use bits that can only be 0 or 1.
(B) They use quantum bits that can represent multiple states at once.
(C) They always outperform classical computers in every task.
(D) Quantum computing is still an emerging field.
Correct Answers: (B) and (D)
Explanation: The passage supports options (B) and (D) directly. Option (A) describes classical, not quantum computers; (C) is not supported, as quantum computers are not superior in every task.
“Which of the following are true about quantum computers according to the passage?”
Choices:
(A) They use bits that can only be 0 or 1.
(B) They use quantum bits that can represent multiple states at once.
(C) They always outperform classical computers in every task.
(D) Quantum computing is still an emerging field.
Correct Answers: (B) and (D)
Explanation: The passage supports options (B) and (D) directly. Option (A) describes classical, not quantum computers; (C) is not supported, as quantum computers are not superior in every task.
Reading Passage: Quantum Computing Explained
Paragraph 1:
Quantum computing is an innovative area of technology that aims to harness the unique properties of quantum mechanics to solve certain problems much faster than traditional computers. Unlike classical computers, which use bits to represent either a 0 or a 1, quantum computers use qubits. Qubits can exist in a state of 0, 1, or both simultaneously, due to a phenomenon known as superposition. This allows quantum computers to process enormous amounts of information at the same time, making them potentially far more powerful for particular complex tasks.
Quantum computing is an innovative area of technology that aims to harness the unique properties of quantum mechanics to solve certain problems much faster than traditional computers. Unlike classical computers, which use bits to represent either a 0 or a 1, quantum computers use qubits. Qubits can exist in a state of 0, 1, or both simultaneously, due to a phenomenon known as superposition. This allows quantum computers to process enormous amounts of information at the same time, making them potentially far more powerful for particular complex tasks.
Paragraph 2:
The potential of quantum computing is already attracting interest from researchers, governments, and businesses around the world. Quantum computers are not yet widely available, but prototypes have demonstrated their ability to perform calculations that would be practically impossible for even the most advanced supercomputers. These breakthroughs include factoring large numbers and simulating molecular structures—tasks with significant implications for cybersecurity, medicine, and materials science. However, many experts caution that quantum computing is still in its infancy and faces substantial technical challenges. Building stable qubits and minimizing errors caused by environmental interference remain significant hurdles.
The potential of quantum computing is already attracting interest from researchers, governments, and businesses around the world. Quantum computers are not yet widely available, but prototypes have demonstrated their ability to perform calculations that would be practically impossible for even the most advanced supercomputers. These breakthroughs include factoring large numbers and simulating molecular structures—tasks with significant implications for cybersecurity, medicine, and materials science. However, many experts caution that quantum computing is still in its infancy and faces substantial technical challenges. Building stable qubits and minimizing errors caused by environmental interference remain significant hurdles.
Paragraph 3:
Despite these obstacles, progress in quantum computing continues at a rapid pace. As the technology develops, it is expected to complement, rather than entirely replace, classical computing. The future impact of quantum computers may depend on how societies address issues of accessibility, security, and ethical use. Ultimately, quantum computing represents not just a technological leap, but also a profound shift in how information can be processed and understood.
Despite these obstacles, progress in quantum computing continues at a rapid pace. As the technology develops, it is expected to complement, rather than entirely replace, classical computing. The future impact of quantum computers may depend on how societies address issues of accessibility, security, and ethical use. Ultimately, quantum computing represents not just a technological leap, but also a profound shift in how information can be processed and understood.
Multiple Choice, Multiple Answers Questions
Read the passage carefully. Select all correct answers to the question below. When you submit, you will instantly see a detailed step-by-step explanation for every choice!
Answer Key & Step-by-Step Explanation
See exactly how to answer this PTE Academic question type. Review the step-by-step explanation for each option below. Click “Submit Answers” above to reveal this feedback instantly.
Correct Answer: (A)
Quantum computers use qubits that can represent both 0 and 1 at the same time.
Step 1: Carefully read the option and identify its main claim: quantum computers use qubits, and those qubits can represent both 0 and 1 at the same time.
Step 2: Scan the passage for information on how quantum computers differ from classical ones. In Paragraph 1, it clearly states: "Qubits can exist in a state of 0, 1, or both simultaneously, due to a phenomenon known as superposition."
Step 3: This is a central feature of quantum computing, distinguishing it from classical computing, where bits are either 0 or 1, never both.
Step 4: The language "both simultaneously" in the passage matches the wording "represent both 0 and 1 at the same time" in the option.
Step 5: There is no part of this option that is incorrect or misleading. It is entirely supported by the text.
Step 6: If you left this option unchecked, it suggests a misunderstanding of the core concept of quantum superposition as explained in the passage.
Step 7: Therefore, (A) is fully correct and must be selected.
Incorrect: (B)
All technical barriers to practical quantum computing have already been overcome.
Step 1: Notice the extreme language: "all technical barriers...have already been overcome."
Step 2: Scan Paragraph 2, where it says "quantum computing is still in its infancy and faces substantial technical challenges. Building stable qubits and minimizing errors caused by environmental interference remain significant hurdles."
Step 3: The passage emphasizes that technical problems still exist and that the technology is not fully developed.
Step 4: This option is directly contradicted by the passage and is a classic example of a distractor using absolute or unrealistic claims.
Step 5: If you selected this option, you may have relied on outside knowledge or assumed too much progress in the field.
Step 6: Only use the information from the passage itself: the text clearly says there are still major challenges.
Step 7: Therefore, (B) is incorrect and should not be selected.
Correct Answer: (C)
Quantum computing could be especially important in fields like medicine and cybersecurity.
Step 1: Identify the claim: quantum computing is important in medicine and cybersecurity.
Step 2: Refer to Paragraph 2: "These breakthroughs include factoring large numbers and simulating molecular structures—tasks with significant implications for cybersecurity, medicine, and materials science."
Step 3: The passage explicitly names these fields as areas where quantum computing could have a major impact.
Step 4: "Significant implications" can be interpreted as "could be especially important," so the answer matches the passage closely.
Step 5: The wording is cautious ("could be"), which fits the tentative nature of the passage.
Step 6: There is no information in the passage that contradicts this statement.
Step 7: If you skipped this, you may have overlooked key detail sentences in Paragraph 2.
Step 8: (C) is fully supported and must be selected.
Incorrect: (D)
Quantum computers are expected to completely replace classical computers in the near future.
Step 1: The main claim here is that quantum computers will "completely replace" classical computers "in the near future."
Step 2: Scan Paragraph 3: "As the technology develops, it is expected to complement, rather than entirely replace, classical computing."
Step 3: The passage explicitly says quantum computers will not completely replace classical computers.
Step 4: The phrase "in the near future" is not supported anywhere in the passage; in fact, the text repeatedly calls quantum computing a field in its infancy.
Step 5: This option is an example of an extreme and unsupported distractor.
Step 6: If you selected this option, you may have confused future potential with current or near-term reality.
Step 7: This is a typical exam trap—avoid options with extreme predictions unless the passage directly states them.
Step 8: (D) is not supported and should not be selected.
Correct Answer: (E)
Quantum computing is still in an early stage and not yet widely available.
Step 1: Focus on the key ideas: "early stage" and "not yet widely available."
Step 2: Paragraph 2 states: "Quantum computers are not yet widely available, but prototypes have demonstrated their ability to perform calculations..." and also calls quantum computing "still in its infancy."
Step 3: The phrase "infancy" means an early stage of development, directly supporting the option.
Step 4: There is no evidence anywhere in the passage to contradict these points.
Step 5: This is a straightforward, clearly supported answer.
Step 6: If you did not select this, you may have missed the global context or assumed quantum computers are already common.
Step 7: (E) is fully supported and must be selected.
How to Use the Step-by-Step Strategy:
Step 1: Always check each option word-for-word against the text, avoiding your own background knowledge.
Step 2: Be wary of extreme, absolute, or speculative options unless they match the passage exactly.
Step 3: Look for paraphrasing—the correct answer may use synonyms or slightly different words.
Step 4: In this question, the correct answers are (A), (C), and (E).
Step 5: If you carefully compare each statement to the text, you will always find full evidence for correct options.
10 Hardest Words from the Passage & Questions
Master these advanced words from the passage and questions! Each card includes phonetics, grammar, word patterns, clear definition, example, synonyms, and typical mistakes.
(Hover over each card for a beautiful blue glow!)
(Hover over each card for a beautiful blue glow!)
quantum
/ˈkwɒn.təm/ (BrE) /ˈkwɑːn.təm/ (AmE)
Part of Speech:
noun (countable), adjective
Word Pattern:
quantum physics / quantum computer / quantum leap
Definition:
In physics, the smallest amount of a physical quantity that can exist independently. Used to describe the subatomic scale or the advanced computing field based on quantum mechanics.
Example:
Quantum computing uses the principles of quantum mechanics.
Synonym: subatomic (in context), minimal unit
Common Mistake: Using “quantum” to mean “large” (it usually means “small” or “basic unit”).
superposition
/ˌsuː.pə.pəˈzɪʃ.ən/ (BrE) /ˌsuː.pɚ.pəˈzɪʃ.ən/ (AmE)
Part of Speech:
noun (uncountable)
Word Pattern:
superposition of states / quantum superposition
Definition:
A principle in quantum mechanics where a particle can be in two or more states at the same time until measured.
Example:
Qubits rely on superposition to process information.
Synonym: overlap (physics), combination
Common Mistake: Using “superposition” for non-scientific combinations (it is a technical term in quantum physics).
prototype
/ˈprəʊ.tə.taɪp/ (BrE) /ˈproʊ.t̬ə.taɪp/ (AmE)
Part of Speech:
noun (countable)
Word Pattern:
prototype for/of sth / build a prototype
Definition:
The first or preliminary version of a device, from which later versions are developed.
Example:
Several companies have developed quantum computer prototypes.
Synonym: model, original
Common Mistake: Confusing “prototype” with “product” (prototype is a test version, not for sale).
infancy
/ˈɪn.fən.si/ (BrE & AmE)
Part of Speech:
noun (uncountable)
Word Pattern:
in its infancy / at an early stage
Definition:
The early stage of development of something; the period when it is just beginning.
Example:
Quantum computing is still in its infancy.
Synonym: beginning, start
Common Mistake: Using “infancy” only for babies (here, it means an early phase of any development).
interference
/ˌɪn.təˈfɪə.rəns/ (BrE) /ˌɪn.t̬ɚˈfɪr.əns/ (AmE)
Part of Speech:
noun (uncountable)
Word Pattern:
interference from/with sth
Definition:
Unwanted involvement or effect that prevents a process from working perfectly; in physics, the disturbance from external sources.
Example:
Qubits are highly sensitive to environmental interference.
Synonym: disruption, disturbance
Common Mistake: Using “interference” only for people’s actions (it’s also a technical/scientific term).
harness
/ˈhɑː.nəs/ (BrE) /ˈhɑːr.nəs/ (AmE)
Part of Speech:
verb (harness sth)
Word Pattern:
harness energy/power/technology
Definition:
To control and use something for a purpose, especially power or natural resources.
Example:
Scientists aim to harness the properties of quantum mechanics.
Synonym: utilize, exploit
Common Mistake: Using “harness” only for horses or physical straps (it also means “make use of” in technology).
simultaneously
/ˌsɪm.əlˈteɪ.ni.əs.li/ (BrE & AmE)
Part of Speech:
adverb
Word Pattern:
do sth simultaneously / two things happen simultaneously
Definition:
At exactly the same time as something else.
Example:
Qubits can represent 0 and 1 simultaneously.
Synonym: at once, concurrently
Common Mistake: Using “simultaneously” when things happen one after another (must be at the same time).
phenomenon
/fəˈnɒm.ɪ.nən/ (BrE) /fəˈnɑː.mə.nɑːn/ (AmE)
Part of Speech:
noun (countable; plural: phenomena)
Word Pattern:
a phenomenon of/that / scientific phenomenon
Definition:
Something that happens or exists, especially something unusual or difficult to understand scientifically.
Example:
Superposition is a phenomenon unique to quantum physics.
Synonym: occurrence, event
Common Mistake: Saying “phenomenons” instead of “phenomena” for the plural.
implication
/ˌɪm.plɪˈkeɪ.ʃən/ (BrE & AmE)
Part of Speech:
noun (countable, usually plural)
Word Pattern:
implication of / implication for
Definition:
A possible effect or result of an action, event, or decision, especially one that is not immediately obvious.
Example:
Quantum computing has important implications for cybersecurity.
Synonym: consequence, outcome
Common Mistake: Using “implication” only for accusations or hints (it’s often about effects).
accessibility
/əkˌses.əˈbɪl.ə.ti/ (BrE & AmE)
Part of Speech:
noun (uncountable)
Word Pattern:
accessibility of/to sth / improve accessibility
Definition:
The quality of being easy to obtain, use, or reach.
Example:
The future of quantum computing depends on its accessibility.
Synonym: availability, approachability
Common Mistake: Using “accessibility” only for physical access (it also means being easy to use or understand).
10 Hardest Phrases & Expressions from the Passage & Questions
Unlock challenging phrases and expressions from the passage and questions! See phonetics, grammar, patterns, definition, examples, synonyms, and common mistakes.
(Hover over each card for a soft blue glow!)
(Hover over each card for a soft blue glow!)
harness the unique properties
/ˈhɑːnɪs ðə juːˈniːk ˈprɒp.ətiz/ (BrE) /ˈhɑːrnɪs ðə juːˈniːk ˈprɑːp.ərtiz/ (AmE)
Part of Speech:
verb phrase
Word Pattern:
harness + adjective + noun (e.g., harness the unique properties)
Definition:
To make use of special or unusual features of something for a specific purpose.
Example:
Quantum computing aims to harness the unique properties of quantum mechanics.
Synonym: exploit distinctive features
Common Mistake: Using “harness” only in physical contexts or forgetting to use “of” after “properties.”
exist in a state of 0, 1, or both simultaneously
/ɪɡˈzɪst ɪn ə steɪt əv ˈzɪə.rəʊ, wʌn, ɔː bəʊθ ˌsɪm.əlˈteɪ.ni.əs.li/ (BrE) /ɪɡˈzɪst ɪn ə steɪt əv ˈzɪroʊ, wʌn, ɔːr boʊθ ˌsaɪ.məlˈteɪ.ni.əs.li/ (AmE)
Part of Speech:
verb phrase
Word Pattern:
exist in a state of + noun(s) + simultaneously
Definition:
To be in more than one possible condition at the same time, especially in a quantum context.
Example:
Qubits can exist in a state of 0, 1, or both simultaneously.
Synonym: be in multiple states at once
Common Mistake: Thinking “simultaneously” just means “quickly.”
solve certain problems much faster
/sɒlv ˈsɜː.tən ˈprɒb.ləmz mʌtʃ ˈfɑː.stər/ (BrE) /sɑːlv ˈsɝː.tən ˈprɑːb.ləmz mʌtʃ ˈfæ.stɚ/ (AmE)
Part of Speech:
verb phrase
Word Pattern:
solve + noun + much faster
Definition:
To find answers to specific tasks or challenges significantly more quickly than by traditional means.
Example:
Quantum computers can solve certain problems much faster than classical computers.
Synonym: complete specific tasks rapidly
Common Mistake: Assuming quantum computers are faster at every problem (they are faster only at certain types).
attracting interest from researchers
/əˈtræktɪŋ ˈɪn.trəst frəm rɪˈsɜː.tʃəz/ (BrE) /əˈtræktɪŋ ˈɪn.t̬ɚ.ɪst frəm rɪˈsɝː.tʃɚz/ (AmE)
Part of Speech:
verb phrase
Word Pattern:
attract(ing) interest from + group/person
Definition:
Causing scientists or academics to become involved or pay attention to something new.
Example:
The field is attracting interest from researchers worldwide.
Synonym: gaining attention
Common Mistake: Writing “interest from researchers is attracted” (incorrect passive structure).
practically impossible for even the most advanced supercomputers
/ˈpræk.tɪ.kli ɪmˈpɒs.ə.bəl fə ˈiː.vən ðə məʊst ədˈvɑːnst ˈsuː.pə.kəmˌpjuː.təz/ (BrE) /ˈpræk.tɪ.kli ɪmˈpɑː.sə.bəl fər ˈiː.vən ðə moʊst ədˈvænst ˈsuː.pɚ.kəmˌpjuː.tɚz/ (AmE)
Part of Speech:
adverb + adjective + for + noun phrase
Word Pattern:
practically impossible for + group/thing
Definition:
So difficult that almost no computer in existence can do it in a reasonable time.
Example:
Some calculations are practically impossible for even the most advanced supercomputers.
Synonym: nearly unachievable
Common Mistake: Using “practically impossible” to mean “completely impossible” (it means “almost,” not “absolutely”).
faces substantial technical challenges
/feɪsɪz səbˈstæn.ʃəl ˈtek.nɪ.kəl ˈtʃæl.ɪndʒɪz/ (BrE) /feɪsɪz səbˈstæn.ʃəl ˈtek.nɪ.kəl ˈtʃæl.ɪndʒɪz/ (AmE)
Part of Speech:
verb phrase
Word Pattern:
face(s) + adjective + noun (e.g., face substantial challenges)
Definition:
Experiences or encounters major or serious difficulties, especially relating to technology or science.
Example:
Quantum computing still faces substantial technical challenges.
Synonym: encounters serious difficulties
Common Mistake: Using “face” for “solve” (to face a challenge means to experience it, not necessarily to overcome it).
minimizing errors caused by environmental interference
/ˈmɪn.ɪ.maɪzɪŋ ˈɛr.ərz kɔːzd baɪ ɪnˌvaɪ.rənˈmen.tl ˌɪn.təˈfɪə.rəns/ (BrE) /ˈmɪn.əˌmaɪ.zɪŋ ˈɛr.ərz kɑːzd baɪ ɪnˌvaɪ.rənˈmen.t̬l ˌɪn.t̬ɚˈfɪr.əns/ (AmE)
Part of Speech:
verb phrase
Word Pattern:
minimize + noun + caused by + noun phrase
Definition:
Reducing the number or seriousness of mistakes that happen because of external environmental factors.
Example:
A key goal is minimizing errors caused by environmental interference.
Synonym: reduce mistakes due to outside influences
Common Mistake: Writing “minimize to zero” when it usually means “reduce as much as possible.”
complement, rather than entirely replace
/ˈkɒm.plɪ.ment ˈrɑː.ðə ðæn ɪnˈtaɪəli rɪˈpleɪs/ (BrE) /ˈkɑːm.plə.ment ˈræðər ðæn ɪnˈtaɪərli rɪˈpleɪs/ (AmE)
Part of Speech:
verb phrase, conjunction
Word Pattern:
complement, rather than entirely replace + noun
Definition:
To add to or improve something, instead of completely taking its place.
Example:
Quantum computers are expected to complement, rather than entirely replace, classical computers.
Synonym: supplement, not substitute
Common Mistake: Using “complement” as “compliment” (they have different meanings and spellings).
a profound shift in how information can be processed
/ə prəˈfaʊnd ʃɪft ɪn haʊ ˌɪn.fəˈmeɪ.ʃən kən bi ˈprəʊ.sest/ (BrE) /ə prəˈfaʊnd ʃɪft ɪn haʊ ˌɪn.fɚˈmeɪ.ʃən kæn bi ˈprɑː.sest/ (AmE)
Part of Speech:
noun phrase
Word Pattern:
a profound shift in + process/idea
Definition:
A deep and fundamental change in the way something is done or understood.
Example:
Quantum computing represents a profound shift in how information can be processed.
Synonym: a major transformation
Common Mistake: Using “profound” for minor changes (it means very significant).
ethical use
/ˈeθ.ɪ.kəl juːs/ (BrE) /ˈeθ.ɪ.kəl jus/ (AmE)
Part of Speech:
adjective + noun
Word Pattern:
ethical use of + technology/resource
Definition:
Applying or using something in a way that is morally right and responsible.
Example:
Society must consider the ethical use of quantum technology.
Synonym: responsible application
Common Mistake: Confusing “ethical” with “efficient” (ethical means morally correct, not fast or effective).
Interactive Exercise 1: Vocabulary & Phrase Practice
Test your understanding! Choose the best answer for each question. After every choice, you'll see a deep explanation to help you learn.
(Covers the hardest words and phrases from the passage and questions.)
(Covers the hardest words and phrases from the passage and questions.)
Interactive Exercise 2: Advanced Context Practice
Challenge yourself with 10 new questions! Each MCQ tests your understanding of context and usage for the hardest words and phrases.
(Instant answer key with deep explanations after each selection.)
(Instant answer key with deep explanations after each selection.)
Level Up Your Learning – Follow LingExam Language Academy!
Join the LingExam Language Academy community on Instagram, YouTube, and Telegram for the latest English test strategies, quizzes, and updates.
Click a logo below and follow us for more top PTE/IELTS/TOEFL resources! #NeverStopLearning
Let’s make English learning smarter, faster, and more interactive – together! 🚀