The PTE exam evaluates your Reading, Writing, Listening, and Speaking skills. It is important that you practice all these sections carefully if you want to score high. However, some question types might feel challenging in the listening section. For example, the PTE Summarize Spoken Text task may seem challenging initially, but it becomes much more manageable with the right strategies and regular practice.
This task tests your ability to listen to the audio and summarize the spoken text in 50 to 70 (PTE Academic) 20 to 30 (PTE Core) words summary. In this blog, we will discuss some essential strategies, practical tips, and how to develop your own summarized spoken text template to achieve your target score.
What Is Summarize Spoken Text In PTE Exam?
The PTE Summarize Spoken Text task is part of the Listening section in the PTE exam. You will be required to listen to an audio clip and write a summary of the key points. Your summary should follow word limit and should accurately reflect the content of the audio.
| PTE Academic | ||
| Task: Write a 50–70 word summary after listening to the audio. | ||
| Prompt | Skills Assessed | Time To Answer |
| 60–90 seconds | Listening and writing | Not applicable |
| PTE Core | ||
| Task: Write a 20-30 word summary after listening to the audio. | ||
| Prompt | Skills Assessed | Time To Answer |
| 45-75 seconds | Listening and writing | 8 minutes |
This task is designed to test your listening, comprehension, and writing skills simultaneously. The key to scoring well lies in understanding the structure, summarizing effectively, and mastering the scoring criteria.
PTE Score Format for Summarize Spoken Text
Before diving into strategies, it’s essential to understand how the task is scored. The PTE scoring system for Summarize Spoken Text evaluates your summary on the following 5 criteria:
Content:
Your response should capture the main idea of the audio clip. If that is not in the summary, you will not get any score in any of the 5 factors. You’ll score higher if your summary includes main points rather than minor details or irrelevant information.
Form:
The word count matters! If your summary is under 50 or over 70 words (for PTE Academic) & under 20 or over 30 words (for PTE Core), you will not get any score in the other five factors. Ensure your sentence structure is correct and stays within the word limit.
Grammar:
Correct grammar is crucial for a high score. Any errors in verb tenses, subject-verb agreement, or punctuation will result in a lower score.
Vocabulary:
Use appropriate vocabulary and synonyms to paraphrase effectively.
Spelling:
Spelling errors can affect your score. Be sure to proofread your summary before submitting it.
Note:
- Partial credit scoring applies to Summaries spoken text, so try to attempt the question. For no response or irrelevant response, no credit will be given.
- This question type contributes your scores to Listening & Writing section in PTE.
Easy Tips & Strategies to Score High In Summarize Spoken Text
1. Active Listening Is Key
To summarize well, you need to understand the audio’s key points. For active listening, you need to focus on the most important ideas while ignoring less relevant details. While listening, pay attention to:
- Main topic or theme
- Keep a check on arguments or facts mentioned
- Do not miss the conclusion
| Tip |
| For active preparation of listening skills, you must listen to podcasts or news programs. As various topics are discussed in the segment, you can try to pick out important details quickly while listening to them and try summarizing them for practice. |
2. Take Short Notes
While listening, take quick and short notes. Write down keywords or short phrases that capture the essence of the speaker’s points. Do not write full sentences, as this will slow you down. Here’s a simple method to take notes effectively:
- Main Idea: Write down the core theme.
- Key Points: Jot down the speaker’s main points and supporting details.
- Conclusion: Capture the final thought or take away from the audio.
3. Paraphrase the Audio
There are also cut, copy & paste buttons, which you can use when writing your summary. But, instead of copying words directly from the audio, use your own words to summarize the key points. Paraphrasing shows that you understand English well and can rephrase information. Here’s how you can paraphrase:
- Audio sentence: “Physical exercise is important for maintaining good health.”
- Your Paraphrase: “The speaker emphasizes the importance of physical activity for staying healthy.”
| Tip |
| Practice paraphrasing sentences from articles or audio materials. This will help you prepare for Summarize Spoken Text tasks. |
4. Stick to the Word Limit
The word limit for Summarize Spoken Text is 50 to 70 (PTE Academic) 20 to 30 (PTE Core) words; going outside this range will result in losing points. Therefore, make sure your sentence is neither too short nor too long. Aim for clarity and conciseness by keeping it in range.
5. Practice Grammar & Vocabulary
To improve your score, focus on using correct grammar and appropriate vocabulary. Common grammar mistakes include incorrect verb tenses, subject-verb agreement issues, or incorrect use of punctuation.
For vocabulary: Avoid using the same words repeatedly. Practice using synonyms to enrich your summary without changing the meaning. For example, use “enhance” instead of “improve” or “crucial” instead of “important.”
6. Practice Regularly
Regular practice is the only way to master the Summarize Spoken Text task. Use practice platforms like Gurully to understand the real exam environment. With mock tests, you can improve your timing, note-taking, and paraphrasing skills, all while receiving feedback on your summaries.
| Mistakes to Avoid | |
| Writing Too Much or Too Little | Always stay within the 50 to 70 (PTE Academic) 20 to 30 (PTE Core) word limit. Writing more or less can negatively affect your score. |
| Focusing on Irrelevant Details | Summarize the key points, not the minor details. This will help keep your summary clear and concise. |
| Poor Grammar or Spelling | Grammar and spelling errors will reduce your score. Make sure to proofread your summary before submitting it. |
| Not Paraphrasing | Avoid copying phrases directly from the audio. Paraphrasing is key to demonstrating your language proficiency. |
PTE Summarize Spoken Text Template:
1. Start with the main topic:
“The speaker talked about (Topic Sentence)”
2. Highlight key supporting points:
“Furthermore, he/she mentioned that (Keyword 1)”
“Additionally, he/she discussed (Keyword 2)”
3. Conclude with the overall message:
“Lastly, he/she suggested (Keyword 3)”
Note: Additional verbs/connectors you can use in the answer are Described, Highlighted, Thought, Seemed, Believed
PTE Summarize Spoken Text Sample Question & Answer
PTE Academic:
Audio:
Audio Transcript:
Ladies and gentlemen, today we discuss the ongoing digital revolution and the complexities it brings to our society. The digital revolution has brought unprecedented connectivity. With the rise of the internet and social media, people worldwide can easily communicate and share information, facilitating global collaboration. However, this connectivity also poses significant challenges. Misinformation and fake news spread rapidly in the digital age, threatening our understanding of reality and undermining trust in institutions. Furthermore, privacy concerns have escalated. As technology advances, personal data becomes increasingly vulnerable to exploitation, necessitating stricter regulations to safeguard individuals’ rights. In conclusion, the digital revolution offers immense opportunities for progress but also presents considerable challenges. It is our responsibility to harness its potential while addressing issues like misinformation and data privacy, ensuring a more informed and secure digital future for all.
Summary:
The digital revolution (Topic Sentence) has enabled unprecedented global connectivity, facilitating communication and collaboration(Keyword 1). However, it also brings challenges such as the rapid spread of misinformation, which undermines trust in institutions, and escalating privacy concerns due to data vulnerability(Keyword 2). While the digital landscape offers significant opportunities for progress, addressing issues like misinformation and data privacy is essential for a secure digital future for all(Keyword 3).
Audio:
Audio Transcript:
There is a lot that we can do to change mindsets, but here are three things that any of us can do to instill a growth mindset in ourselves and in those around us. First, recognize that the growth mindset is not only beneficial but it is also supported by science. Neuroscience shows that the brain changes and becomes more capable when we work hard to improve ourselves. Second, learn and teach others about how to develop our abilities. Learn about deliberate practice and what makes for effective effort. When we understand how to develop our abilities, we strengthen our conviction that we are in charge of them. And third, listen for your fixed mindset voice, and when you hear it, talk back with a growth mindset voice. If you hear, “I can’t do it,” add, “Yet.” My request to you today is that you share this knowledge about the growth mindset with your family, friends, and schools so that all of us can go and fulfill our potential.
Summary:
To instill a growth mindset(Topic Sentence) , we can take three key actions: First, recognize that a growth mindset is scientifically supported, as the brain can change with effort(Keyword 1). Second, learn about deliberate practice to effectively develop our abilities(Keyword 2). Lastly, challenge fixed mindset thoughts by countering them with growth-oriented affirmations, such as adding “Yet” to “I can’t do it”(Keyword 3). Share this knowledge with others to help everyone reach their potential.
PTE Core:
Audio:
Audio Transcript:
In today’s rapidly changing world, it’s crucial to recognize the significant contributions of women in leadership roles. Gender diversity in positions of power not only promotes equity but also drives innovation and progress. One compelling argument for the importance of women in leadership is the diversity of perspectives they bring. Women often approach problem-solving and decision-making differently, adding valuable insights to organizations and fostering creativity. Furthermore, women in leadership serve as role models and mentors for the next generation. Their success inspires young girls and women to pursue their ambitions and break down gender barriers across various fields. As we move forward, it’s essential to continue advocating for and promoting women in leadership roles. By embracing gender diversity at all levels of society, we can create more inclusive, equitable, and dynamic environments that benefit us all.
Summary:
Women in leadership (Topic Sentence) enhance gender diversity(Keyword 1), drive innovation, and inspire future generations(Keyword 2). Their unique perspectives foster creativity and serve as vital role models, promoting inclusivity and equity in society(Keyword 3).
Audio:
Audio Transcript:
Democracy, at its heart, is about the power of the people. It’s a system where governance is based on the collective decision of its citizens, often exercised through free and fair elections. Key to democracy is the rule of law, ensuring that all individuals, including leaders, are accountable to the laws. Equally important is the protection of fundamental human rights, ensuring freedom of speech, assembly, and religion. However, today’s democratic societies face numerous challenges. The rise of misinformation and digital manipulation poses a threat to informed decision-making, a cornerstone of democratic processes. Populism and polarization are also undermining the ethos of consensus-building and inclusive governance. Moreover, the challenge of ensuring true representation in a diverse society remains. Democracy must evolve to represent all segments of society fairly, addressing issues of marginalization and ensuring that every voice is heard.
Summary:
Democracy (Topic Sentence) empowers citizens through collective decision-making(Keyword 1), emphasizing rule of law and human rights(Keyword 2). However, it faces challenges like misinformation, populism, polarization, and the need for true representation in diverse societies(Keyword 3).
For practicing PTE summarize written text, you can use Gurully’s online practice platform. You will get a section-wise test along with question-wise practice to strengthen your preparation. To practice easily, you can also download our Free PTE Practice application. Get a full-length mock test with accurate AI scoring and practice to achieve your target score.
Conclusion:
To score high in PTE exam you must focus on all the sections. To master the PTE Summarize Spoken Text task requires a combination of effective strategies and consistent practice. By focusing on active listening, taking concise notes, paraphrasing, and adhering to the word limit, you can significantly improve your performance. Utilizing templates for structure and refining your grammar and vocabulary will further boost your chances of scoring high.
