Reorder Paragraphs in the PTE Reading section checks your ability to identify logical flow, coherence, and connections between ideas. Let’s explore key strategies along with three practice examples explained in detail.

Top Tips for Reorder Paragraphs

1. Find the Opening Sentence: It usually introduces a topic and does not refer back to something earlier.
2. Look for Pronouns: Words like “this, these, he, she, it” point back to something mentioned before → not the first sentence.
3. Check for Chronology: Dates, sequence markers (first, then, later) suggest order.
4. Identify Logical Links: Cause → effect, problem → solution, general → example.

Example 1

A. As a result, communication became faster and more reliable across long distances.
B. The invention of the telegraph revolutionized the way information was transmitted.
C. Before the telegraph, messages often took days or even weeks to reach their destination.
D. This breakthrough laid the foundation for future technological advancements in communication.

Correct Order: C → B → A → D

Detailed Explanation

1. Sentence C: Introduces the background problem (slow communication). It is independent and does not refer back to anything → makes a good starting point.
2. Sentence B: Presents the solution — the invention of the telegraph. Logically, the solution follows the problem.
3. Sentence A: Begins with “As a result,” which clearly connects to the invention in Sentence B. It shows the immediate effect (faster communication).
4. Sentence D: Refers to “this breakthrough,” pointing back to the telegraph mentioned earlier. It serves as a concluding remark highlighting long-term impact.

Example 2

A. They provide habitats for countless marine species and protect coastlines from erosion.
B. Coral reefs are often referred to as the “rainforests of the sea.”
C. Unfortunately, climate change and human activities are threatening their survival.
D. Their biodiversity and ecological importance make them vital to the health of the oceans.

Correct Order: B → A → D → C

Detailed Explanation

1. Sentence B: Defines coral reefs with a metaphor. This is the natural introduction to the topic.
2. Sentence A: Uses pronoun “They,” which refers back to coral reefs in Sentence B. It adds supporting details (habitats, protection of coastlines).
3. Sentence D: Extends the argument by stressing importance — biodiversity and vital role. It fits smoothly after A as it continues the positive description.
4. Sentence C: Introduces contrast with “Unfortunately,” highlighting threats to reefs. It is best placed at the end as a concluding problem statement.

Example 3

A. For instance, the Industrial Revolution led to rapid urbanization and significant lifestyle changes.
B. Historical events often shape societies in profound ways, influencing culture, politics, and economy.
C. These transformations demonstrate how external factors can redefine human progress over time.
D. Such changes were not without challenges, as overcrowding and poor living conditions became common.

Correct Order: B → A → D → C

Detailed Explanation

1. Sentence B: Provides a general statement about historical events shaping society. It works as the introduction since it sets the broad context.
2. Sentence A: Gives a specific example — the Industrial Revolution — which supports the general idea in Sentence B.
3. Sentence D: Begins with “Such changes,” referring to the Industrial Revolution mentioned in Sentence A. It explains the challenges that followed.
4. Sentence C: Concludes by generalizing again, showing that these transformations illustrate a broader truth about human progress. It ties the passage back to the introduction.

Final Strategy

In PTE Reorder Paragraphs, always look for a clear introduction, trace pronoun references, and connect cause-effect or general-example ideas. Remember, the goal is to arrange sentences into a logical and coherent passage — just like building a mini essay. The more you practice with different examples, the quicker you’ll spot patterns in the exam.