PTE Core Summarize Spoken Text Format & Practice Tips

This blog by PTE Magic explores the PTE Core Summarize Spoken Text format and scoring system and offers tips and tricks for PTE Core preparation. 

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Key Takeaways

• The PTE Core Summarize Spoken Text task evaluates your listening and writing skills.
• Your score is based on content, form, grammar, vocabulary, and spelling.
• At the end of this blog, you will find our top 10 most helpful tips we’ve gathered from our successful candidates.

Related:

• PTE Core Listening: Everything you need to know

PTE Core Summarize Spoken Text Format

In the PTE Core Summarize Spoken Text task, Pearson will play a recording and ask test-takers to write a 20-30-word summary of the recording. The audio lasts between 45 and 75 seconds, and you must complete your answer within 8 minutes.

First, listen to the recording, which will play automatically. You can only hear the audio once, so pay attention to the main ideas and key points. After listening, summarise what you have heard within 20-30 words. You can track your summary’s length by checking the word count at the bottom of your screen.

Additionally, use your time wisely since you only have 8 minutes to finish the task. If you finish the task and still have time, check your summary for errors or improvements.

How Is It Scored

The PTE Core Summarize Spoken Text task evaluates your score based on content, form, grammar, vocabulary, and spelling.

• Content: Your summary should mention the main idea of the text. In other words, you must include all the key points without mistaking the topic. If you misunderstand the idea, you will lose points for content. Test-takers who successfully summarise the main point and include supporting details will score the highest.
• Form: Your answer must stay within 20 to 30 words to receive full points for this criterion, otherwise your score will be lower. Remember, you will not receive any points for this factor if you write fewer than 5 or more than 40 words.
• Grammar: Test-takers must use correct grammar to receive all grammar points. It’s crucial to apply correct and clear sentences to convey your writing.  
• Vocabulary: Word choice is important for scoring vocabulary points. Your writing should include suitable words aligned with the given context and the academic setting.
• Spelling: Make sure to use a single spelling convention. For example, if you use American English, stick to it throughout the test. Mixing dialects in your response will lower your scores.

Best 10 Summarize Spoken Text Tips

Here are the top 10 most helpful tips we’ve gathered from our PTE Core successful candidates. Start applying these strategies in your practice today:

• Intense focus: Test-takers should listen carefully to the audio to grasp the main idea and supporting details for their summary.
• Note-taking: Quick notes are essential for your response. Write down key points, important terms, and any names or dates mentioned in the audio.
• Identify the main idea: Your summary must include the recording’s main idea or key topic. This would be your central focus to achieve high scores.
• Organise your answer: Start your summary with a clear sentence introducing the recording’s main theme. Then, follow with supporting details that you can include to convey your writing better.
• Paraphrase: Learn to rewrite the original content in your own words. This will avoid plagiarism, plus show your understanding of the context.
• Control your time: Spend your time wisely. Test-takers should use a certain amount of time to listen and write their summary while saving time for review.
• Manage word count: Ensure your summary falls within the required word count. Writing too short might exclude key details, while too long might include unnecessary information. Most importantly, you will lose your score for not staying within the recommended length.
• Enhance grammar and vocabulary: Good grammar and vocabulary boost your score. Remember to follow the tone of the original text and be consistent in your dialect. Moreover, a wide vocabulary can help paraphrase, which is essential in this task.
• Recheck before submitting: Ensure your summary is organised and easy to read. Complicated sentences will lower your scores, so pay attention.

Final Thoughts

As with any other PTE Core task, practice makes perfect. Newbie test-takers should understand the test format and scoring and then apply these tips to tackle this section. Try our mock tests today to master the PTE Core Summarize Spoken Text task!

Last updated on 13/07/2024

Moni PTE Magic

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!