Summarize Written Text Practice: 10+ Examples & Strategies to Score High in PTE Writing

Just one error in grammar can affect your score in the PTE Summarize Written Text (SWT) question immensely. In order to score a full 90/90, you need not only be able to read the passage, but also learn how to summarize a complicated piece of academic writing in a single correct sentence. For this purpose, the guide below will give you everything you need, including templates and techniques of top scorers.

No matter whether you have difficulties in keeping within the word limit of 75 or in identifying key ideas, this guide will definitely help you overcome your problems. We will analyze how to write high-scoring sentences, what is good about certain templates and work on 10 real-life examples. 

Common Challenges Students Face During Summarize Written Text Practice

Identifying the Main Points

The main problem here is that students tend to concentrate on secondary information such as supporting details, examples, or statistics. When you include a lot of secondary information in your summary, there is simply no space left for the primary points. This problem negatively affects your Content score, which is assessed within the 0-2 range. As soon as you receive 0 on Content, everything else gets an automatic zero.

Grammar Mistakes in Complex/Compound Sentences

When trying to combine several points in one sentence, you have to use complex and compound structures. At the same time, this approach makes you susceptible to comma splices, run-ons, and even subject-verb agreement problems. Pearson’s automated grading system detects any grammar error easily. One mistake of using a wrong relative pronoun or comma will result in losing your Grammar score instantly.

Problems with Time Management

The ten-minute time frame becomes too long until you find yourself trying to make sense out of an especially difficult paragraph. Many learners take eight minutes to read through and write their work, which leaves them less than two minutes to proofread and correct any mistake. In the absence of a well-defined time limit, it is quite possible that you may end up sending in grammatically incorrect text, which would lose you valuable marks.

Problem with Vocabulary Usage

Over-reliance on exact words from the passage may give an impression of a lack of effort and an attempt at a copy-pasting task. On the other hand, when you try using complex academic vocabulary words without really knowing how to use them, the result is usually very unnatural.

Proven Strategy for Summarize Written Text Practice

To achieve a perfect score of 90/90, you need an organized and repeatable approach. The following four steps will help you get the correct information, put it into proper format, and make sure you have no mistakes before submitting the summary.

Step 1 – Reading the Passage Effectively

It is not necessary for you to read every single word equally carefully. Take your first 1.5-2 minutes to skim the whole passage and understand its general idea. Focus on the beginning and end of the passage because authors tend to put their thesis statement in these parts. Pay particular attention to such transition words as “however,” “consequently,” “therefore,” “in contrast.”

Step 2 – Extracting Key Ideas

Take a scratch paper and write down the main topic sentence of every paragraph. You can ignore statistics, percentages, parentheses, and personal names unless they play an important role in the whole theory. It is important to identify 2-3 major key ideas representing the main message of the author.

[Main Idea A] + [Logical Connector] + [Main Idea B] = Perfect SWT Sentence

Step 3 – Write One Strong Sentence

With your main ideas in place, now combine them using appropriate co-ordinating conjunctions (and, but, or, so) or subordinating conjunctions (although, because, while, which). Make your sentence construction both simple yet varied. Try to keep your sentence between 35 and 65 words, so you fall well within the 5- to 75-words limit imposed.

Step 4 – Proofread Your Work

Use the last 2 minutes of your time to go through your sentence in detail. Make sure that your sentence begins with a capital letter and ends with a full stop (period). Ensure that every verb agrees with its subject and look for typos in your writing. This small step of proofreading often differentiates between a 65-scorer and a 79+scorer.

A 4-step strategy to extract key ideas, write the perfect complex sentence, and score a 90/90

Best Summarize Written Text Templates That Actually Work

Adhering to a proper template will keep you well organized in your writing and help avoid writing more than one sentence unintentionally. An excellent template will have logical links between various aspects of the passage.

Here are four templates that you can be sure will always yield good results depending on the type of paragraph structure.

Cause-and-Effect Template

This structure will be useful whenever the source material highlights the causes of some particular phenomenon and elaborates on its effects. It uses although to introduce a concession and which to add a relative clause, creating a high-scoring complex sentence.

Although [Main Point A] is driven by various factors, it ultimately leads to [Main Point B], which significantly influences [Main Point C].

Problem Solution Template

This is the template to use where there is a problem or a crisis that is discussed in the passage and how it is solved. It gives you a contrasting opening using “although” and a smooth transition into the solution through “mitigate”.

Although [The Problem/Crisis] remains a major threat to the society at large, the implementation of [Solution A] and [Solution B] represents an effective way to mitigate its impact.

Comparison Template

Here is another template for comparing two different perspectives, two different technologies, eras of history, or even scientific theories. This structure makes the comparison explicit by presenting a parallel argument (some scientists… Others think).

While some scientists believe that [Perspective A] has a certain edge over the other one, others think that [Perspective B] is plagued by important drawbacks.

General Academic Template

Here is your ultimate, all-around fallback solution. It can be used effectively for virtually any piece of information, scientific or historical. The word “thereby suggesting” helps you easily link up the main evidence with the author’s final idea.

The above passage indicates that [Main Point A] greatly affects [Main Point B] and thus it is evident that [Main Point C] is important for the further development.

10 High-Scoring Summarize Written Text Examples with Analysis

Example 1

The increase in global temperatures has led to more frequent and severe weather events, posing a significant threat to ecosystems and human societies. One of the major impacts of climate change is the rise in sea levels, which results from the melting of polar ice caps and glaciers. Coastal areas are particularly vulnerable, as they face higher risks of flooding, storm surges, and erosion. Additionally, the warming atmosphere can hold more moisture, leading to intense and unpredictable precipitation patterns. This variability can cause both severe droughts and devastating floods, affecting agricultural productivity and water resources.

The effects of climate change are widespread, influencing not only the environment but also the socio-economic stability of communities. For example, changing weather patterns can disrupt food supply chains, increase the prevalence of diseases, and force people to migrate from their homes. To mitigate these effects, countries are investing in adaptive infrastructure, developing early warning systems, and implementing policies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The collaboration between governments, scientists, and communities is crucial to building resilience against the adverse impacts of climate change. By taking proactive measures, societies can better prepare for the challenges posed by a changing climate and work towards a more sustainable future.

Answer: Climate change has increased global temperatures and caused rising sea levels, extreme weather events, disruptions to ecosystems and socio-economic systems, prompting countries to invest in adaptation measures, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and strengthen cooperation among governments, scientists, and communities to build resilience and achieve a more sustainable future.

Example 2

The discovery of CRISPR-Cas9 has revolutionized the field of genetics, providing scientists with a powerful tool for editing genes with unprecedented precision. This technology allows for the targeted modification of DNA, enabling researchers to correct genetic defects, study gene function, and develop new therapies for a range of diseases. The potential applications of CRISPR are vast, including the treatment of genetic disorders such as cystic fibrosis and sickle cell anemia, as well as the enhancement of agricultural crops for better yield and disease resistance. Despite its promise, the use of CRISPR also raises ethical questions and concerns about unintended consequences.

The possibility of off-target effects, where unintended parts of the genome are edited, poses risks to safety. Furthermore, the prospect of gene editing in human embryos brings up debates about the moral implications and the potential for creating “designer babies.” These concerns highlight the need for rigorous scientific research and ethical considerations. As the technology advances, it is crucial to establish clear ethical guidelines and regulatory oversight to ensure that CRISPR is used responsibly and for the benefit of society. Engaging in public discourse and involving a broad range of stakeholders, including ethicists, policymakers, and the general public, will help navigate the complexities and ensure that the benefits of CRISPR are realized without compromising ethical standards.

Answer: The discovery of CRISPR-Cas9 has transformed genetics by enabling precise gene editing for medical and agricultural applications, but its potential risks, including off-target effects and ethical concerns about human embryo editing, require rigorous research, clear regulations, and broad public engagement to ensure the technology is used responsibly and benefits society.

Example 3

The integration of renewable energy sources into the power grid is essential for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and combating climate change. Renewable energy technologies, such as solar, wind, and hydropower, offer a sustainable alternative to fossil fuels. These sources are abundant and produce little to no emissions during operation. The transition to renewable energy, however, presents several technical and economic challenges. One of the primary issues is the intermittent nature of renewable energy generation. Solar and wind power depend on weather conditions, which can be unpredictable and variable. This intermittency requires the development of advanced energy storage solutions and grid management technologies to ensure a stable and reliable power supply.

Economic factors also play a significant role in the adoption of renewable energy. While the costs of renewable energy technologies have decreased substantially over the past decade, initial investment and infrastructure development can still be high. Government policies and incentives are crucial in promoting the deployment of renewable energy. Subsidies, tax credits, and feed-in tariffs can help offset the costs and encourage investment in renewable projects. Additionally, international cooperation and knowledge sharing are vital for advancing renewable energy technologies and addressing global energy challenges. By overcoming these obstacles, the transition to a renewable energy future can be accelerated, contributing to environmental sustainability and energy security.

Answer: The integration of renewable energy is essential for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and achieving sustainability, but challenges such as intermittent power generation, high initial costs, and infrastructure requirements necessitate advanced storage technologies, supportive government policies, and international cooperation to accelerate the transition to a secure and sustainable energy future.

Example 4

In recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in ancient herbal medicine, an age-old practice that dates back centuries in various cultures and regions. This revival not only sheds light on historical remedies but also offers new insights into modern healthcare.

Historically, different nations and tribes have cultivated a wealth of herbal knowledge passed down through generations. These herbal remedies were often rooted in the local environment and shaped by cultural traditions. However, with the advent of modern medicine, many of these traditional practices were overshadowed and forgotten.

Recent research has rekindled interest in these age-old herbal remedies. Scientists and herbalists are delving into historical texts, collaborating with indigenous communities, and conducting studies to rediscover the medicinal properties of these plants. What they have found is a treasure trove of potential treatments for various ailments.

One remarkable example is the use of Artemisia annua, or sweet wormwood, in treating malaria. This plant has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine. In the modern era, scientists have identified the active compound artemisinin, which is now a cornerstone in the fight against malaria.

This renaissance of ancient herbal medicine is not limited to a single culture or region. It extends to indigenous tribes in various parts of the world, revealing the potential for sustainable and culturally relevant healthcare solutions.

In conclusion, the revival of ancient herbal medicine offers a bridge between history and modern science, showcasing the valuable insights and remedies that traditional cultures have passed down for generations. This reconnection with the past holds promise to enrich our understanding of healthcare and explore new avenues for treatment in the 21st century.

Answer: The resurgence of interest in ancient herbal medicine has led scientists to rediscover traditional remedies and collaborate with indigenous communities, revealing valuable treatments such as artemisinin for malaria and demonstrating that historical herbal knowledge can contribute to sustainable, culturally relevant, and innovative healthcare solutions in modern medicine.

Example 5

By far the most popular and most consumed drink in the world is water, but it may come as no surprise that the second most popular beverage is tea. Although tea was originally grown only in certain parts of Asia – in countries such as China, Burma and India – it is now a key export product in more than 50 countries around the globe. Countries that grow tea, however, need to have the right tropical climate, which includes up to 200 centimeters of rainfall per year to encourage fast growth, and temperatures that range from ten to 35 degrees centigrade. They also need to have quite specific geographical features, such as high altitudes to promote the flavor and taste of the tea, and land that can offer plenty of shade in the form of other trees and vegetation to keep the plants cool and fresh. Together these conditions contribute to the production of the wide range of high-quality teas that are in such huge demand among the world’s consumers. There is green tea, jasmine tea, earl grey tea, peppermint tea, tea to help you sleep, tea to promote healing and tea to relieve stress; but above all, tea is a social drink that seems to suit the palates and consumption habits of human beings in general.

Answer: Tea is the world’s second most consumed beverage after water and, although it originated in Asia, it is now produced in over 50 countries that possess suitable tropical climates and geographical conditions, enabling the cultivation of diverse high-quality teas that are valued both for their health benefits and their role as a popular social drink.

Example 6

With all the discussions about protecting the earth and saving the planet, it is easy to forget that we also need to preserve the many species of fish that live in the oceans. In developed countries, much larger quantities of fish are consumed than was the case a century ago when fish only featured on the menu once a week. These days, fish has become a popular healthy alternative to meat and this has created a demand for species such as cod, mackerel and tuna that far outstrips the demands of the previous generation. Throughout the world too, increasing consumption during the past 30 years has meant that the shallow parts of the ocean have been overfished in an effort to supply homes, shops and restaurants with the quantities of fish that they require. Yet despite the sophisticated fishing techniques of today, catches are smaller than they were a century or more ago. What is more, boats are having to drop their nets much deeper into the oceans and the fish they are coming up with are smaller and weigh less than they used to. While government controls have had some effect on fish stocks, the future does not offer a promising picture. Experts predict large-scale extinctions and an irreversibly damaging effect on entire ecosystems, unless greater efforts are made to conserve fish stocks and prevent overfishing in the world’s waters. 

(Nguồn: Practice Tests Plus with key PTE Academic)

Answer: The growing global demand for fish as a healthy alternative to meat has led to widespread overfishing, resulting in smaller catches, declining fish sizes, and threats to marine ecosystems, and experts warn that without stronger conservation measures and stricter controls, many fish species could face large-scale extinction and irreversible environmental damage.

Example 7

One of the many critiques of academic research that one runs across is that a lot of research done by a faculty at universities across America doesn’t ‘do’ anything: it doesn’t lead to some new product that can be marketed; it doesn’t create jobs; it doesn’t have an obvious social value. After all, people argue, do we really need studies that chart the maturation of catfish? Or that explore the nuances of a minor poet? What is all this for?

As a consequence of attitudes like these, many people – particularly politicians and business persons – argue that the research function should be stripped from academia, or at least those parts of academia that aren’t the major research institutions. Then universities wouldn’t need so many faculties, and costs could be contained.

Academics like me offer lots of standard objections to this line of thinking: that research keeps one fresh and up-to-date in the discipline; that the faculty often works with students on their research, thus providing students with invaluable training for their future careers and so on.

All of this is true, but I want to add a different point: the power of chance. In 1990, I took an appointment at the University of Alabama-Huntsville. I had a police officer student who invited me for a ride along. I went – ultimately many times. The book that emerged from the research project I established from that first ride was later included on a list of ‘must read’ books on public administration by the Government of Canada.

I have no problem with accountability. But if you had asked me what my purpose was when I took my first ride along, and you had demanded to know what use the research could be put to, I would have told you, ‘I have no idea’. (Nguồn: Practice Tests Plus with key PTE Academic)

Answer: Although many critics argue that academic research lacks practical value and should be reduced to cut costs, the author contends that research provides educational benefits and that seemingly purposeless studies can lead to unexpected and significant outcomes, demonstrating the importance of supporting academic inquiry and allowing room for chance discoveries.

Example 8

The resurgence of space exploration is capturing global attention, as nations and private companies embark on ambitious missions to the Moon, Mars, and beyond. This renewed interest in space is driven by advancements in technology, a spirit of international collaboration, and the tantalizing potential for scientific discovery. “We are entering a new era of space exploration, with opportunities to unlock the mysteries of the universe,” said NASA Administrator Bill Nelson. Recent milestones, such as the successful landing of NASA’s Perseverance rover on Mars and China’s Chang’e-5 mission returning lunar samples, underscore the rapid progress being made.

The potential benefits of this new space age are vast. Scientific research conducted in space can lead to breakthroughs in various fields, including medicine, materials science, and environmental monitoring. The unique conditions of space, such as microgravity, allow scientists to conduct experiments that are not possible on Earth. For example, space-based research has contributed to the development of advanced medical treatments and technologies, such as new drug formulations and improved medical imaging techniques.

Moreover, space exploration has significant economic implications. The burgeoning space industry is creating jobs and spurring innovation in sectors such as aerospace engineering, telecommunications, and robotics. “Space exploration is not just about discovery; it’s about economic growth and technological advancement,” stated Elon Musk, CEO of SpaceX. Private companies are playing a crucial role in this resurgence, with initiatives ranging from satellite deployment to ambitious plans for space tourism and colonization.

Despite the excitement, space exploration faces challenges, including the high costs and technical complexities of missions. There are also ethical and environmental considerations, such as the impact of space debris and the potential contamination of other celestial bodies. Addressing these challenges requires careful planning, international regulation, and sustained investment.

Answer: The resurgence of space exploration, driven by technological advances and international cooperation, is generating scientific discoveries and economic opportunities through missions to the Moon and Mars, but its long-term success depends on overcoming financial, technical, ethical, and environmental challenges through careful planning, regulation, and sustained investment.

Example 9

A recent scientific discovery has shed new light on the origins of life on Earth, sparking excitement and further research within the scientific community. Researchers from the University of Cambridge have discovered a previously unknown type of microbial life in deep-sea hydrothermal vents, which could provide critical clues about the conditions that led to the emergence of life. “This discovery opens up new possibilities for understanding how life began on our planet,” said Dr. Karen Lloyd, a microbiologist involved in the study.

The microbes, found in the extreme environments of the ocean floor, thrive in high-pressure, high-temperature conditions, similar to those believed to exist on early Earth. These findings support the hypothesis that life may have originated in such harsh environments, where the necessary chemical reactions could take place. The unique metabolic processes of these microbes also offer insights into the adaptability and resilience of life in extreme conditions.

This discovery has significant implications for the search for life beyond Earth. The existence of life in such extreme environments on our planet suggests that similar conditions on other celestial bodies, such as the subsurface oceans of Jupiter’s moon Europa or Saturn’s moon Enceladus, could potentially harbor life. “If life can thrive in the extreme conditions of Earth’s deep-sea vents, it raises the possibility that life might exist elsewhere in our solar system,” said Dr. Lloyd.

As researchers continue to study these newly discovered microbes, they hope to uncover more about the fundamental processes that sustain life and the potential for its existence in the universe. This breakthrough not only enhances our understanding of life’s origins on Earth but also fuels the quest to find life beyond our planet.

Answer: The discovery of a new type of microbe in deep-sea hydrothermal vents supports the theory that life originated in extreme environments on early Earth and suggests that similar conditions on other celestial bodies may harbor life, thereby advancing our understanding of life’s origins and guiding the search for extraterrestrial life.

Example 10

The issue of brain damage in American football has become a growing concern, with increasing evidence linking the sport to chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE). CTE is a degenerative brain disease found in individuals who have suffered repeated head impacts, leading to symptoms such as memory loss, confusion, aggression, and depression. “The risks associated with repeated head trauma in football are clear, and we must take action to protect athletes,” said Dr. Amy McPherson, a neuropathologist at Boston State University who has conducted extensive research on CTE.

Recent studies have revealed alarming rates of CTE among former professional football players. A 2017 study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found CTE in 87% of examined brains from deceased NFL players. These findings have prompted calls for better safety measures, including improved helmet technology, stricter concussion protocols, and changes to the rules of the game to minimize head impacts.

The National Football League (NFL) has responded by implementing several initiatives aimed at reducing brain injuries. These include rule changes to limit high-impact collisions, enhanced medical protocols for diagnosing and treating concussions, and funding for research on brain health. Despite these efforts, critics argue that more needs to be done to address the long-term risks faced by players. “While progress has been made, we must continue to prioritize player safety and health,” stated Tyson Keenan, Associate NFL Commissioner for Player Wellbeing and Safety.

The impact of CTE extends beyond professional athletes, affecting players at all levels of the sport, from youth leagues to college football. This has led to increased awareness and concern among parents, educators, and policymakers. Some schools and youth leagues are considering measures such as limiting contact practices and delaying the age at which children can begin playing tackle football.

Answer: Growing evidence linking repeated head impacts in American football to chronic traumatic encephalopathy has raised concerns about player safety, prompting calls for improved protective measures, stricter concussion protocols, rule changes, and greater efforts to protect athletes at all levels of the sport from long-term brain damage.

Mistakes That Lower Your Score

It is essential not to make simple mistakes during summarize written text practice since even one can ruin all your preparation efforts. Here are some common mistakes that you should avoid to get a good score.

• Using More Than One Sentence: Probably the most important thing is that the summary should consist of only one sentence. In case you write a second sentence after a full stop, your Form score will become 0 and you will lose your whole answer.
• Incorrect Use of Conjunctions: Do not use transition words such as however, therefore, furthermore and other with just a comma because it will be a run-on sentence. Use a semicolon and comma (for example, ; however,) or only coordinating conjunctions.
• Exceeding the Number of Words: If your answer is less than 5 words or more than 75 words, you will receive 0 for the task. Try to write from 35 to 65 words.
• Expressing Your Opinion: Remember, the point is to summarize the text, not analyze it. Do not include any expressions such as “I think”, “the author does not mention”, “in my opinion” and others.

Avoid these 4 critical Summarize Written Text mistakes that can instantly drop your PTE score to zero

How to Practice Summarize Written Text Effectively in 30 Days

Scoring a 79+ on your writing section requires consistent, structured practice. Here is a step-by-step 30-day plan converted into an actionable preparation schedule to help you build your skills and boost your confidence.

Conclusion

Getting good at the Summarize Written Text task comes down to structuring, accuracy, and regular practice. If you learn to concentrate on the key ideas, use templates, and make sure your grammar is right, then it is very easy to get perfect marks for writing.

To find out how well you do the task now, visit the PTE Magic website. You will be able to sign up for a free trial and begin practicing with the help of real exam questions.