How it's scored
You are scored on content (key features and data you mention), oral fluency, and pronunciation. Fluency carries a lot of weight, so speaking continuously for the full 40 seconds matters more than covering every detail.
Strategy & template
- 1Open with a fixed sentence: "The image shows / illustrates …" to start instantly.
- 2State the two or three most obvious features — highest, lowest, biggest change, or overall trend.
- 3Use the middle to add one or two specific data points.
- 4Close with a fixed summary line so you never trail into silence.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Trying to describe every data point and running out of time.
- Long pauses while deciding what to say — use the template to keep talking.
- Reading numbers without any overview of the trend.
Frequently asked questions
Is a Describe Image template allowed in PTE?
Yes. Fixed opening and closing sentences are a normal, effective strategy. They keep you fluent; just fill the middle with real features from the image.
How much of the image should I describe?
Cover the two or three most important features and one or two data points. Continuous, fluent speech for 40 seconds scores better than cramming in every detail.
Practise Describe Image
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