PTE Describe Image Tips and Tricks | Speaking & Writing Section for PTE PDF Download

Understand what type of image you are dealing with

The initial step in our PTE Describe Image Tips and Tricks involves identifying the image type!

Understanding the nature of the image in your PTE Describe Image query is crucial for structuring your response effectively. Without this comprehension, constructing an appropriate response becomes challenging. Therefore, ascertain whether the image is a graph, and if so, determine the specific type of graph, or whether it's a chart, table, map, infographic, or another format. Include this information in your introductory statement.

Prepare a template and structure for most common types of images

Closely linked to the preceding tip, it is advisable to have predefined templates for common image types. While the exact template may not always be applicable, having a general structure in mind is essential. For instance, when dealing with a graph, focus on the axis and incorporate relevant information into your response. Similarly, address rankings and perform comparisons for tables.

Identify the key points in the image and note them down

Allocate approximately 25 seconds to grasp the image's key points. Use this time to note down essential details, allowing you to concentrate solely on speaking when the recording begins. While you don't need to transcribe your entire response in these 25 seconds, jot down the main points for a systematic delivery during your response.

Decide the order in which you will describe the points

Following the previous point, decide on the order in which you will articulate the key points. Opt for a natural flow, commencing with general information, delving into specifics, and concluding with any necessary comparisons or implications. Make this decision within the initial 25 seconds.

Always begin with an introduction!

In any explanation, whether in PTE Describe Image, retell lecture questions, or elsewhere, it's imperative to commence with an introduction. Provide an overview of the image to prepare the listener for the forthcoming details.

Don’t forget to make a conclusion!

Similar to starting with an introduction, ensure your response concludes with a summary. Discuss implications and reiterate the main points captured in the image.

Focus on key points not on all the details

Given the time constraint of 40 seconds, prioritize highlighting key points rather than attempting to cover all details. Concentrate on significant aspects like the highest, lowest, largest, smallest, or changes in trends.

Club similar points together

If confronted with numerous image details, streamline your response by grouping similar points in one sentence. For example, when addressing a bar graph with varying bar heights, consolidate information instead of discussing each bar individually.

Keep an eye on the timer and try to complete within the given time

Deliver a well-structured response encompassing introduction, key points, and conclusion. Should time become a concern, consolidate certain points and proceed to the conclusion.

Practice by studying graphs, images, etc. in newspapers and websites

Supplement your PTE Mock Test materials with everyday reading or internet browsing involving graphs, images, etc. This offers additional variety and a more engaging practice experience.

Learn the right vocabulary – words for comparison, contrast, amounts, trends

Familiarize yourself with relevant vocabulary for expressing comparisons, contrasts, amounts, and trends. Words such as "more than," "less than," "rose," "fell," "in contrast," "compared to," "highest," and "lowest" facilitate conveying information effectively.

Don’t hesitate and don’t get stuck anywhere in your response

Even when faced with a challenging image, provide a confident response, even if it is straightforward. Strive to incorporate all main points, but if complexities arise, present the information in a clear and simple manner, essentially narrating what is visible in front of you.