Understanding the Highlight Correct Summary Task in PTE Academic, UKVI

In the PTE (Pearson Test of English) exam, the Highlight Correct Summary task is part of the Listening section. It checks how well we follow the audio, pick the main idea, and separate key points from extra details. We need to grasp the gist of a spoken text, then pick the most accurate summary from several choices. Getting good at this task strengthens our listening and reading skills, both for school and real life.

What is the Highlight Correct Summary Task?

In this task, you will listen to an audio recording (30–90 seconds long) and then select the summary, available from the multiple options that best represent the content of the audio from several options on the screen.

What are the skills analysed in this task?

  • Finding out the main ideas and supporting facts
  • Separating important vs unimportant sentences
  • Learning about the context and logical flow
You can only hear the recording once, so active listening and quick decision-making are essential.

What are the key features for this task?

  • Audio will be played only once, you cannot repeat it
  • You can expect 1–3 tasks per test in Listening section
  • This task contributes to both Listening and Reading skills
  • There will be only one correct summary per question
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Types of Audio in the Highlight Correct Summary PTE Task

The recordings often come from academic or informational contexts and use a neutral or formal tone. They can include:
Lectures or Presentations
Focus on key themes, arguments, and conclusions
Example topics: Climate change, Market analysis, Historical events
Narratives or Descriptions
Listen for the sequence of events or major points
Example topics: Scientific discoveries, Biographical accounts, Cultural practices
Explanatory or Instructional Talk
Identify processes, methods, or cause-effect explanations
Example topics: Business strategies, Educational methods, Scientific processes

Highlight Correct Summary

In this task, you will see a text displayed on the screen. You are required to read the text aloud clearly and naturally. You will have 35 seconds to complete your reading, so focus on maintaining clarity, proper pronunciation, and a natural flow.

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Tips for Acing the PTE: Highlight Correct Summary Task

Listen Actively for the Main Idea
Pay attention to the overall message rather than specific details. Focus on the speaker’s tone, key phrases, and concluding statements.
Take Quick Notes
Jot down keywords, main points, or transitions during the audio to help you remember the structure and key points.
Analyze the Options Carefully
Before selecting, read through each option to identify subtle differences in meaning and tone.
Avoid Distractors
Beware of options that include exaggerated or incorrect information not mentioned in the audio.

How to Effectively Tackle Highlight Correct Summary in PTE

Step-by-Step Strategy

Listen for Key Points and Transitions
Pay attention to opening statements, examples, and concluding remarks—they often indicate the main idea.
Eliminate Incorrect Options
Discard summaries that include information not mentioned in the audio or that misrepresent the content.
Review and Confirm
After listening, take a moment to review your notes and the options before making your final selection.
Listen for Key Points and Transitions
Pay attention to opening statements, examples, and concluding remarks—they often indicate the main idea.
Eliminate Incorrect Options
Discard summaries that include information not mentioned in the audio or that misrepresent the content.
Review and Confirm
After listening, take a moment to review your notes and the options before making your final selection.
By familiarizing yourself with various audio types and practicing regularly, you can gain confidence in tackling the Highlight Correct Summary effectively, ultimately boosting your PTE Academic or UKVI score.

Use full video for Highlight Correct Summary

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Learn more about other questions

Your Guide to Every Section of the PTE Exam

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Speaking
Read AloudRepeat SentenceDescribe ImageRe-Tell Lecture (Academic / UKVI)Answer Short QuestionRespond to a SituationSummarize Group Discussion (Academic / UKVI)
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Writing
Summarize Written TextWrite Essay
Write Email (Core)
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Reading
Fill in the Blanks (Drop Down)Multiple Choice, Multiple AnswersRe-order ParagraphsFill in the Blanks (Drag & Drop)Multiple Choice, Single Answer
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Listening
Summarize Spoken TextMultiple Choice, Multiple AnswersFill in the BlanksHighlight Correct SummaryMultiple Choice, Single AnswerSelect Missing WordHighlight Incorrect WordsWrite from Dictation

FAQs

Here are answers to some of the frequently asked questions.

It’s a listening task where you select the summary that best reflects the content of an audioclip.

You’ll typically encounter 1 to 3 Highlight Correct Summary questions.

No, the recording plays only once.

Focus on the main idea, tone, and purpose of the audio. Disregard minor details or distractors.

Yes—it contributes to both Listening and Reading scores in PTE Academic or UKVI.