Types of Images in the Describe Image PTE Task
The exam can present a variety of image types for you to describe. Each type of image requires a different approach, so it’s important to familiarize yourself with the possible formats:
1. Graphs or Charts:
Bar Graphs:
These display data using rectangular bars representing different categories. The bars can be horizontal or vertical, and your job is to describe the trends, comparisons, and key data points.
Line Graphs:
Line graphs show trends over time, with lines connecting data points. When describing a line graph, focus on the overall trends, peaks, and troughs, and any noticeable changes or patterns.
2. Maps:
Maps often show geographical locations, routes, or distributions. When describing a map, highlight key landmarks, directions, and any notable patterns or differences.
3. Table:
Tables present data in rows and columns & are often used to compare different sets of information. For tables, summarize the key information by focusing on the highest and lowest values, trends across the table, and any significant figures.
4. Process Diagrams or Flowcharts:
These diagrams illustrate a process or sequence of events. Your task is to describe the process step by step, ensuring you cover the sequence logically and clearly.
5. Piechart:
A pie chart is a circular chart divided into sectors, each representing a proportion of the whole. Your description should include the largest and smallest segments, comparisons between segments, and any notable insights.
6. Pictures or Diagrams:
You might encounter images like photographs, illustrations, or diagrams that depict a process, scene, or object. In this case, describe the key features, layout, and any relevant details that capture the essence of the image.
Tips for acing the PTE Describe Image Practice task:
How to Effectively Describe an Image in PTE Using a Template
A structured approach can ensure clarity and precision when effectively describing an image in the PTE Speaking section. First, introduce the image by saying, “There is an interesting picture in front of me.” Then, move on to the key elements, observing details such as objects, people, or settings with phrases like, “By having a closer look, I can see a number of things in the image.” Start with the title: “The title is…” or mention that there’s no title provided. Identify interesting aspects, including words, shapes, and significant numbers like, “The image includes significant numbers/years/shapes such as…”. You can also point out any prominent colors: “There are beautiful colors like… and… is my favorite.”
For graphical images, it’s important to highlight both the extremes: “The graph gives information about the highest value like… and the lowest value which is…”. Summarize and conclude within 40 seconds, saying, “I cannot go into further details as my time is over, so I will click next. Thank you.”
This describe image pte template ensures that your description is organized and covers all major elements efficiently, helping you score well in the PTE Speaking section.
By familiarizing yourself with these types of images and practicing
regularly, you can gain confidence in tackling the Describe Image task
effectively, ultimately boosting your PTE Academic,
UKVI or
Core score.
FAQs
Here are answers to some of the frequently asked questions.
The Describe Image is the 3rd task in the Speaking part which requires test-takers to speak for 40 seconds about a given image. This image could be a graph, chart, diagram, map, or picture.
Typically, a test taker will encounter 3-4 Describe Image questions in the Speaking section of PTE Academic, UKVI, and Core.
The images can include bar charts, pie charts, line graphs, maps, process diagrams, flowcharts, and pictures of objects, landscapes, or people.
There will be a preparation time of 25 seconds to study the image before the recorder opens to record the test taker’s response.
Yes, using a template can help structure responses and ensure all necessary points are covered. However, it’s important to ensure the template is flexible and can be adapted to different types of images.
No, you cannot pause or restart the recording. Once the microphone opens, you need to speak continuously for the entire 40 seconds.
Yes, this task contributes to the Speaking score and therefore impacts the overall PTE score.