The PTE Highlight Correct Summary task evaluates both listening and reading skills by requiring test-takers to identify the paragraph that best captures the audio’s context.
The recording will last between 30 and 90 seconds and only play once. You will see several summaries, but only one is correct.
Choose your answer by clicking on a paragraph highlighted in yellow. Click on another summary or click the chosen paragraph again if you want to deselect your answer.
PTE Magic advises you to take notes for this task by using the erasable noteboard.
Sample: You will hear a recording. Click on the paragraph that best relates to the recording.
- Money and financial activity are crucial in our life. Many companies purchase stocks to raise their values and generate more money for their business.
- Money and technology are both developing at a fast speed and both can be gained and lost at any time. This is the reason why more and more companies participate in stock exchange.
- Thanks to the development of technology and communication, people can be informed of the financial news, including the latest updates on stock exchange and stock markets.
- With the development of technology, news about stock exchange and bankruptcy are spread at a fast pace. Thus more and companies can buy stocks to raise their value.
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Common Mistakes To Avoid
Making mistakes in this task is why your PTE Highlight Correct Summary score is low. Many test-takers fail to realise their mistakes, so PTE Magic has compiled the most common ones to help you be informed and prepare more effectively:
- Focusing on extra information: Some test-takers are distracted by small details. Candidates who focus on extra information, such as specific examples, are likely to miss the recording’s key ideas. Failing to identify the main topic will badly lower your PTE Highlight Correct Summary score.
- Struggling with note-taking: Test-takers who don’t write anything down or try to write everything down also lose track of the audio. Key transition words such as “however”, “therefore”, or “in conclusion” are helpful clues that help you follow the recording. Therefore, pay attention and note these words thoroughly.
- Choosing a misleading summary: Many solely choose options that include the words mentioned in the audio. This is the wrong approach because some options contain words from the recording but twist their meaning. Additionally, avoid options that highlight or overrate small points because they’re not the main theme of the audio.
- Relying on memory: The audio only plays once, so pay attention while listening. Many test-takers try to recall every word, which leads to forgetting the rest of the recording. This can result in choosing the wrong summary that doesn’t capture the main context.
- Not eliminating wrong answers: You will have a lower chance of getting the correct answer if you don’t eliminate wrong options. Avoid summaries that don’t include information from the audio or only mention parts of it.
- Misplacing your cursor: Many candidates lose valuable time by trying to find their cursor when the audio starts. This affects their performance and can lead to losing points. PTE Magic recommends keeping your cursor steady at the beginning of the text before the recording begins.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Can I Take Notes Effectively During The PTE Highlight Correct Summary Task?
Test-takers can use the provided erasable noteboard to write key points. Additionally, focus on key details rather than minor information. Follow crucial words such as “in conclusion” or “on the other hand” to track the context.
Why Is Cursor Placement Important In The PTE Highlight Correct Summary Task?
Misplacing your cursor will waste your time. Keep your cursor at the beginning of the text before the audio starts. This helps you choose your answer more quickly.
How Do I Select Answers For This Task?
Click on the paragraph that you believe is the most correct audio summary. Test-takers can select another option if they think it is more accurate. Simply click the chosen paragraph again to deselect your choice.
Why Should I Eliminate Wrong Answers?
Some summaries include similar words from the audio; however, their meaning is twisted to distract careless candidates. Eliminating wrong answers increases your chance of choosing the most accurate summary.
What Should I Avoid In The Highlight Correct Summary Task?
As mentioned earlier, pay attention to your cursor placement. Additionally, hesitation is another issue you need to avoid. If you spot an incorrect word, skip that option immediately. Tracking the wrong summary only wastes your time, so avoid this mistake.
Conclusion
Scoring well in the PTE Highlight Correct Summary task requires speed, accuracy, and good listening skills. Regular practice is crucial for achieving higher scores in the task; therefore, taking PTE Highlight Correct Summary practice questions, listening to English content, and reading summaries will strengthen your skills more effectively.
Last updated on 02/06/2025

My name is Moni, and I am a seasoned PTE teacher with over 6 years of experience. I have helped thousands of students overcome their struggles and achieve their desired scores. My passion for teaching and dedication to my student’s success drives me to continually improve my teaching methods and provide the best possible support. Join me on this journey toward PTE success!
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