PTE Speaking Tips
PTE Describe Image: Simple Template That Scores Consistently
Describe Image looks difficult at first, but in reality it’s a structure game. Most students lose marks not because they don’t understand the image, but because they panic and lose control of fluency.
If you follow a fixed structure and stay calm, this task becomes very predictable.
The biggest mistake students make
The most common mistake in Describe Image is trying to describe everything in the image. Students jump between numbers, labels, and trends, which breaks fluency and causes hesitation.
Remember: PTE does not reward full description — it rewards clear spoken English.
What PTE is actually scoring in Describe Image
Describe Image mainly tests:
Fluency
Pronunciation
Basic content relevance
Grammar and vocabulary matter, but fluency matters more.
If you speak smoothly with a clear structure, your score stays safe even if you miss small details.
How long should you speak?
Aim for 30–35 seconds
Do not stop too early
Do not rush
It’s better to repeat a safe phrase than to pause or hesitate.
My advice as a PTE trainer
As a PTE trainer, I always tell students:
Fluency beats accuracy in Describe Image.
If you feel stuck, keep speaking with safe language. Silence hurts your score more than repetition.
Describe Image quick tips
Start speaking immediately
Focus on one main trend
Avoid reading numbers one by one
Do not self-correct while speaking
Keep your tone steady and confident
PTE Retell Lecture: Template That Protects Your Fluency
Retell Lecture feels stressful because students try to remember everything. The truth is, you do not need full recall — you need structured recall.
This task is about summarising spoken content clearly, not repeating the lecture word-for-word.
The most common mistake students make
Students panic when they miss information during the lecture. This leads to:
Long pauses
Broken sentences
Loss of fluency
Missing a point is fine. Losing fluency is not.
What PTE looks for in Retell Lecture
Retell Lecture focuses on:
Fluency
Pronunciation
Logical flow of ideas
Content accuracy matters, but fluency carries more weight.
How long should you speak?
Speak for 35–40 seconds
Do not stop early
Keep sentences simple and connected
Note-taking tip that actually works
Do not write full sentences.
Instead, note:
Topic
2 keywords
One example or outcome
This is enough to build a fluent response.
My advice as a PTE trainer
As a PTE trainer, I always tell students:
Retell Lecture is not a memory test — it’s a speaking test.
Speak confidently, even if details are missing. A smooth response scores better than a perfect but broken one.
Retell Lecture quick tips
Focus on topic + two points
Ignore small details
Do not pause to “think”
Use simple linking words
Keep speaking until time ends