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4. PTE Academic Reading Practice: The Human Genome Project – Multiple Choice, Single Answer [Complete Tutorial + Interactive Exercises]
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August 4, 2025
![Boost your PTE Academic Reading score with this comprehensive tutorial on Multiple Choice, Single Answer questions! Practice with an authentic passage about the Human Genome Project, step-by-step strategies, detailed answer explanations, vocabulary and phrase analysis, and two interactive exercises. Perfect for real PTE exam preparation—improve your comprehension, expand your academic vocabulary, and build confidence with LingExam’s expert-designed practice module. - PTE Academic Reading Practice: The Human Genome Project – Multiple Choice, Single Answer [Complete Tutorial + Interactive Exercises] - LingExam Language Academy - Lingexam.com](https://lingexam.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Article-Thumbnail-15.jpg)
Multiple Choice, Single Answer Questions (PTE Academic Reading Tutorial – The Human Genome Project)
What are Multiple Choice, Single Answer Questions?
In this PTE Academic reading question type, you are presented with a passage and must select the one best answer to a question from several options. There is only one correct answer for each question. Mastering this type improves your attention to detail, inference skills, and overall reading comprehension!
In this PTE Academic reading question type, you are presented with a passage and must select the one best answer to a question from several options. There is only one correct answer for each question. Mastering this type improves your attention to detail, inference skills, and overall reading comprehension!
How to Answer Multiple Choice, Single Answer Questions – Step by Step
1
Read the Question Carefully:
Before examining the answer options, make sure you understand exactly what the question is asking. Is it about the main idea, a specific detail, an inference, or a cause-and-effect relationship?
Example: “According to the passage, what was the main goal of the Human Genome Project?”
Before examining the answer options, make sure you understand exactly what the question is asking. Is it about the main idea, a specific detail, an inference, or a cause-and-effect relationship?
Example: “According to the passage, what was the main goal of the Human Genome Project?”
2
Skim the Passage for Keywords:
Search for important words, phrases, or numbers from the question within the passage. Pay special attention to synonyms or paraphrased expressions that may connect the question to the text.
Search for important words, phrases, or numbers from the question within the passage. Pay special attention to synonyms or paraphrased expressions that may connect the question to the text.
3
Read Every Answer Option Carefully:
Do not select the first answer that appears correct. Evaluate each choice thoughtfully, as distractors can be tricky or closely related to the passage but not fully correct.
Do not select the first answer that appears correct. Evaluate each choice thoughtfully, as distractors can be tricky or closely related to the passage but not fully correct.
4
Eliminate Clearly Wrong Choices:
Remove answers that are directly contradicted by the passage, irrelevant to the question, or contain extreme or absolute language not supported by the text.
Remove answers that are directly contradicted by the passage, irrelevant to the question, or contain extreme or absolute language not supported by the text.
5
Match Each Option to Evidence in the Passage:
For every remaining choice, find supporting information in the text. The answer must be based on explicit evidence from the passage.
For every remaining choice, find supporting information in the text. The answer must be based on explicit evidence from the passage.
6
Beware of Subtle Distractors:
PTE questions often use options that are nearly correct or use similar vocabulary. Look out for choices that are only partly true or take details out of context.
PTE questions often use options that are nearly correct or use similar vocabulary. Look out for choices that are only partly true or take details out of context.
7
Avoid Extreme or Absolute Words:
Unless the passage itself is absolute, options with words like “always,” “never,” or “all” are rarely correct.
Unless the passage itself is absolute, options with words like “always,” “never,” or “all” are rarely correct.
8
Check That Your Choice Answers the Question Exactly:
After selecting your answer, reread the question and confirm that your choice addresses what is actually being asked.
After selecting your answer, reread the question and confirm that your choice addresses what is actually being asked.
9
Base Your Answer on the Passage, Not Your Prior Knowledge:
Even if you know about the topic, your answer must come from information in the text, not from outside knowledge.
Even if you know about the topic, your answer must come from information in the text, not from outside knowledge.
10
Decide with Confidence and Move On:
Once you’ve followed the steps above and found textual evidence, make your choice confidently. Don’t change your answer unless you discover a clear error.
Once you’ve followed the steps above and found textual evidence, make your choice confidently. Don’t change your answer unless you discover a clear error.
Example Question:
Sample Question:
“What was the primary purpose of the Human Genome Project according to the passage?”
Choices:
(A) To cure all genetic diseases
(B) To map and understand all human genes
(C) To create new species
(D) To clone human beings
Correct Answer: (B) To map and understand all human genes
Explanation: The passage states that the main goal was to identify and map every gene in the human genome, not to cure all diseases or create new species. Cloning humans was not the purpose.
“What was the primary purpose of the Human Genome Project according to the passage?”
Choices:
(A) To cure all genetic diseases
(B) To map and understand all human genes
(C) To create new species
(D) To clone human beings
Correct Answer: (B) To map and understand all human genes
Explanation: The passage states that the main goal was to identify and map every gene in the human genome, not to cure all diseases or create new species. Cloning humans was not the purpose.
Reading Passage: The Human Genome Project
Paragraph 1:
The Human Genome Project was an international scientific effort completed in 2003. Its main objective was to identify and map all the genes in human DNA, providing a complete reference for medical research. By understanding the genetic code, scientists can better study inherited diseases and develop new treatments. The project’s findings have advanced genetics, medicine, and biotechnology worldwide. Although it did not immediately cure all genetic conditions, the Human Genome Project laid the foundation for future discoveries that may transform healthcare and help doctors offer more personalized approaches to diagnosis and therapy.
The Human Genome Project was an international scientific effort completed in 2003. Its main objective was to identify and map all the genes in human DNA, providing a complete reference for medical research. By understanding the genetic code, scientists can better study inherited diseases and develop new treatments. The project’s findings have advanced genetics, medicine, and biotechnology worldwide. Although it did not immediately cure all genetic conditions, the Human Genome Project laid the foundation for future discoveries that may transform healthcare and help doctors offer more personalized approaches to diagnosis and therapy.
Multiple Choice, Single Answer Question
Read the passage carefully. Choose the single best answer to the question below. When you select an answer, you will instantly see a detailed explanation!
Answer Key & Step-by-Step Explanation
Review the complete answer below. This step-by-step explanation shows exactly how to use the reading strategies from the tutorial on a real PTE Academic question.
Correct Answer: (B)
What was the main achievement of the Human Genome Project according to the passage?
Step 1: Carefully read the question to understand what it is asking. It asks about the main achievement—not future possibilities or related outcomes.
Step 2: Return to the passage and identify where the Human Genome Project’s achievement is mentioned. The first two sentences are crucial: “Its main objective was to identify and map all the genes in human DNA, providing a complete reference for medical research.”
Step 3: Now, look at each option. Option (A) claims it “immediately cured all genetic disorders,” but the passage explicitly says this did not happen. Eliminate (A).
Step 4: Option (C) says it “eliminated the need for further genetic research.” However, the passage states the project “laid the foundation for future discoveries.” So, genetic research continues—(C) is incorrect.
Step 5: Option (D) states it “replaced traditional medicine with biotechnology,” but the passage only mentions advances in medicine and biotechnology. There is no suggestion of total replacement—eliminate (D).
Step 6: Option (B) states the project “mapped and identified every gene in human DNA.” This matches the main objective described in the first part of the passage. The achievement is clear, direct, and explicitly supported.
Step 7: Check for distractors: some options sound impressive but are not based on the text (e.g., complete cures, ending research, replacing medicine). Only (B) is stated in the passage as the main achievement.
Step 8: Be sure not to choose answers based on prior knowledge—always base your answer strictly on the reading passage.
Step 9: The passage’s language is clear: the Human Genome Project “laid the foundation for future discoveries,” meaning it was a starting point, not an endpoint.
Step 10: To maximize your PTE score, always match each answer to direct evidence and eliminate anything not supported by the passage.
Step 11: Final check: Option (B) answers the question completely, based on explicit text. Select it with confidence and move on!
10 Hardest Words from the Passage & Question
Master these advanced words from the passage! Each entry includes phonetics, grammar, patterns, clear definition, example, synonyms, and learner mistakes.
(Hover over each card for a beautiful glow!)
(Hover over each card for a beautiful glow!)
genome
/ˈdʒiːnəʊm/ (BrE) /ˈdʒiːnoʊm/ (AmE)
Part of Speech:
noun (countable)
Word Pattern:
the human genome / genome of + noun
Definition:
All the genetic material in the cells of a living organism.
Example:
Scientists studied the human genome to understand inherited diseases. (Meaning: the entire set of human genes)
Synonym: genetic code
Common Mistake: Spelling as "genom" or confusing with "gene".
objective
/əbˈdʒɛktɪv/ (BrE) /əbˈdʒɛktɪv/ (AmE)
Part of Speech:
noun (countable), adjective
Word Pattern:
main/primary/objective + of
Definition:
The goal or purpose that someone aims to achieve.
Example:
The main objective of the project was to map all human genes. (Meaning: main goal)
Synonym: aim, goal, purpose
Common Mistake: Using "objective" as an adjective when a noun is needed (and vice versa).
identify
/aɪˈdɛntɪfaɪ/ (BrE) /aɪˈdɛntəˌfaɪ/ (AmE)
Part of Speech:
verb
Word Pattern:
identify + noun / identify as + noun
Definition:
To recognize and name someone or something.
Example:
Researchers aimed to identify all the genes in human DNA. (Meaning: find and name)
Synonym: recognize, detect
Common Mistake: Confusing with "identity" (noun).
inherited
/ɪnˈhɛrɪtɪd/ (BrE) /ɪnˈhɛrɪtɪd/ (AmE)
Part of Speech:
adjective, verb (past participle of "inherit")
Word Pattern:
inherited + noun (e.g., disease/trait)
Definition:
Describes traits or conditions passed from parents to offspring through genes.
Example:
Sickle cell anemia is an inherited disease. (Meaning: passed through genes)
Synonym: genetic, hereditary
Common Mistake: Using "inhered" or confusing with "inheritor."
reference
/ˈrɛfərəns/ (BrE) /ˈrɛfərəns/ (AmE)
Part of Speech:
noun (countable/uncountable), verb
Word Pattern:
reference for/to + noun / make reference to
Definition:
A source of information used for comparison or understanding.
Example:
The project created a reference for future genetic research. (Meaning: standard to compare to)
Synonym: resource, guide
Common Mistake: Using "refer" as a noun instead of "reference".
advance
/ədˈvɑːns/ (BrE) /ədˈvæns/ (AmE)
Part of Speech:
verb, noun
Word Pattern:
advance + in + noun / make advances in
Definition:
To move forward or improve in progress, knowledge, or development.
Example:
The findings advanced medicine and biotechnology. (Meaning: helped progress)
Synonym: develop, progress
Common Mistake: Using "advance" only for physical movement, not for progress in science.
biotechnology
/ˌbaɪəʊtɛkˈnɒlədʒi/ (BrE) /ˌbaɪoʊtɛkˈnɑːlədʒi/ (AmE)
Part of Speech:
noun (uncountable)
Word Pattern:
biotechnology in + field / biotechnology of + process
Definition:
The use of living systems or organisms to develop useful products.
Example:
Biotechnology has led to advances in disease treatment. (Meaning: using living things for technology)
Synonym: genetic engineering (in some contexts)
Common Mistake: Confusing "biotechnology" with general "technology" or IT.
foundation
/faʊnˈdeɪʃən/ (BrE) /faʊnˈdeɪʃən/ (AmE)
Part of Speech:
noun (countable/uncountable)
Word Pattern:
foundation for/of + noun / lay the foundation
Definition:
The base or starting point of something important, especially for further development.
Example:
The project laid the foundation for future research. (Meaning: starting point)
Synonym: basis, groundwork
Common Mistake: Using "foundation" only for buildings or charities.
personalized
/ˈpɜːsənəlaɪzd/ (BrE) /ˈpɝːsənəˌlaɪzd/ (AmE)
Part of Speech:
adjective (past participle of personalize)
Word Pattern:
personalized + noun (e.g., medicine, approach)
Definition:
Made or adapted for a particular individual or need.
Example:
Doctors offer personalized treatment based on genetics. (Meaning: customized for the person)
Synonym: customized, tailored
Common Mistake: Using "personal" for everything instead of "personalized" (which means custom-made).
therapy
/ˈθɛrəpi/ (BrE) /ˈθɛrəpi/ (AmE)
Part of Speech:
noun (countable/uncountable)
Word Pattern:
therapy for + noun / undergo therapy
Definition:
Treatment intended to relieve or heal a disorder.
Example:
New therapies were developed as a result of genetic discoveries. (Meaning: medical treatment)
Synonym: treatment, remedy
Common Mistake: Using "therapy" only for psychological counseling (it also means any medical treatment).
10 Hardest Phrases & Expressions from the Passage & Question
Unlock challenging expressions from the text! 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!)
Human Genome Project
/ˈhjuːmən ˈdʒiːnəʊm ˈprɒdʒɛkt/ (BrE) /ˈhjumən ˈdʒinoʊm ˈprɑːdʒɛkt/ (AmE)
Part of Speech:
noun phrase (proper noun)
Word Pattern:
the Human Genome Project
Definition:
A large international research program aimed at mapping all human genes.
Example:
The Human Genome Project was completed in 2003. (A major scientific project)
Synonym: genetic mapping initiative
Common Mistake: Writing as "human genome projects" (incorrect plural).
scientific effort
/ˌsaɪənˈtɪfɪk ˈɛfət/ (BrE) /ˌsaɪənˈtɪfɪk ˈɛfərt/ (AmE)
Part of Speech:
noun phrase
Word Pattern:
scientific effort + to + verb
Definition:
A project or activity done with scientific methods, usually by researchers working together.
Example:
It was an international scientific effort to map human genes. (Work by scientists)
Synonym: research collaboration
Common Mistake: Using only "effort" without "scientific" for research contexts.
map all the genes
/mæp ɔːl ðə dʒiːnz/ (BrE) /mæp ɔl ðə dʒinz/ (AmE)
Part of Speech:
verb phrase
Word Pattern:
map + all/the + genes
Definition:
To find the location and details of every gene in DNA.
Example:
Scientists worked to map all the genes in human DNA. (Locate all genes)
Synonym: identify every gene
Common Mistake: Using "draw a map" instead of "map" as a verb for data.
genetic code
/dʒəˈnɛtɪk kəʊd/ (BrE) /dʒəˈnɛtɪk koʊd/ (AmE)
Part of Speech:
noun phrase
Word Pattern:
genetic code of + noun / the genetic code
Definition:
The information in DNA that determines traits in living things.
Example:
Understanding the genetic code helps study diseases. (DNA information)
Synonym: DNA sequence
Common Mistake: Saying "genetic codes" in plural (rarely pluralized).
develop new treatments
/dɪˈvɛləp njuː ˈtriːtmənts/ (BrE) /dɪˈvɛləp nu ˈtritmənts/ (AmE)
Part of Speech:
verb phrase
Word Pattern:
develop + new treatments for + noun
Definition:
To create new methods or medicines to cure or manage diseases.
Example:
Genetic knowledge can help develop new treatments. (Make new cures)
Synonym: create new therapies
Common Mistake: Writing "find" instead of "develop" when referring to innovation.
advance genetics
/ədˈvɑːns dʒəˈnɛtɪks/ (BrE) /ədˈvæns dʒəˈnɛtɪks/ (AmE)
Part of Speech:
verb phrase
Word Pattern:
advance + subject/field (e.g., genetics)
Definition:
To make progress or increase knowledge in the field of genetics.
Example:
The project helped advance genetics and medicine. (Progress in genetics)
Synonym: progress genetics
Common Mistake: Using "advance" only for time or moving forward physically.
laid the foundation
/leɪd ðə faʊnˈdeɪʃən/ (BrE) /leɪd ðə faʊnˈdeɪʃən/ (AmE)
Part of Speech:
verb phrase (past tense)
Word Pattern:
lay the foundation for + noun
Definition:
To provide the basic ideas or structure that future developments are built on.
Example:
The project laid the foundation for future discoveries. (Made future work possible)
Synonym: paved the way for
Common Mistake: Using "make the foundation" instead of "lay the foundation".
transform healthcare
/trænsˈfɔːm ˈhɛlθkeə/ (BrE) /trænsˈfɔrm ˈhɛlθker/ (AmE)
Part of Speech:
verb phrase
Word Pattern:
transform + noun
Definition:
To change healthcare in a significant or innovative way.
Example:
Genomics may transform healthcare in the future. (Greatly improve healthcare)
Synonym: revolutionize healthcare
Common Mistake: Using "transform" only for physical objects, not systems.
personalized approaches
/ˈpɜːsənəlaɪzd əˈprəʊtʃɪz/ (BrE) /ˈpɝːsənəˌlaɪzd əˈproʊtʃɪz/ (AmE)
Part of Speech:
adjective + noun (plural)
Word Pattern:
personalized approaches to + noun/verb-ing
Definition:
Ways of doing things that are tailored for an individual’s needs or characteristics.
Example:
Doctors can offer personalized approaches to treatment. (Custom methods)
Synonym: individualized methods
Common Mistake: Using "personal" instead of "personalized" when meaning "customized".
diagnosis and therapy
/daɪəɡˈnəʊsɪs ənd ˈθɛrəpi/ (BrE) /ˌdaɪəɡˈnoʊsɪs ənd ˈθɛrəpi/ (AmE)
Part of Speech:
noun phrase
Word Pattern:
diagnosis and therapy for + noun
Definition:
The process of identifying a disease and providing treatment for it.
Example:
New methods have improved diagnosis and therapy. (Finding and treating illness)
Synonym: detection and treatment
Common Mistake: Using "diagnose and therapy" (mixing verb and noun forms incorrectly).
Interactive Exercise 1: Vocabulary & Phrase Practice
Test your understanding! Choose the best answer for each question. After each choice, you'll get an instant, in-depth explanation.
(Covers all 10 hardest words and phrases from the passage!)
(Covers all 10 hardest words and phrases from the passage!)
Interactive Exercise 2: Words & Expressions in Context
Challenge yourself with new contexts! Each question practices a key word or phrase from the passage. Choose your answer and see a full explanation instantly.
(Covers the same 10 hardest items—now in new sentences!)
(Covers the same 10 hardest items—now in new sentences!)
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