Understanding The Summarize Spoken Text Task in PTE Academic & UKVI and PTE Core
The Summarize Spoken Text task appears in the PTE Listening section. It tests our listening and writing through a short summary of an audio. It
measures how well we follow academic spoken English. We find the main ideas and
express them clearly in writing. This skill helps in school and at work.
What is the Summarize Spoken Text Task?
- You have to listen to a 60–90 second audio which will be played once
- You need to write a short summary of about 50 and 70 words
- You will be provided 10 minutes for each question
- This task appears for 2–3 times in the Listening section
- This task contributes to both Listening and Writing scores
For PTE Core: You need to write about 20-30 words in 8 minutes.
There isn't a set amount of time for each question, but the task counts toward the
total Reading section time, which is about 29 to 30 minutes, so it's important to
use that time wisely.
What are the skills checked in this task?
- Active listening understanding skills
- Finding the main ideas and supporting information related to the lecture
- Utilizing proper grammar, vocabulary, and structure
- Arranging ideas logically in a proper flow
What are the Different Types of Audios That can be Expected in This Task?
Academic Lectures
Structured talks with an introduction, supporting points, and conclusions. Focus on the overall topic, examples, and the speaker’s main argument.
Example topics: Biology, History, Economics, Sociology
Informational Briefings
Clear, factual talks We track the order of ideas, the main facts, and cause and effect.
Sample themes: environmental shifts, medical studies, tech news
Analytical or explanatory talks
We look at ideas, links, and comparisons. Listen for contrasts, examples, and logic.
Sample themes: market patterns, policy reviews, theory talks
Summarize Spoken Text
Sample Question 1:
Sample Question 2:
Sample Question 3:
Tips for acing the PTE Summarize Spoken Text
Take quick, structured notes
Use short forms to grab key points, examples, and shifts while listening.
Focus on the main idea
Do not pack in every detail. Stick to the core topic and the speaker’s takeaway.
Use clear, formal language
Write in a concise, neutral tone. Skip personal views and slang.
Follow the word limit
Stay between 50 and 70 words. Too short or too long hurts your score.
Check grammar, spelling, and structure
Use correct punctuation and sentence flow. Avoid spelling slips.
How to Effectively Tackle Multiple Choice, Single Answer in the PTE
A clear plan helps us use time well and write strong summaries.
Step-by-Step Strategy
Note-taking
capture key points and shifts during the talk
Find the main theme
focus on the central idea
Draft a concise answer
use clear, formal language
Keep to the word limit
usually 50 to 70 words
Review and edit
fix grammar, spelling, and flow
Use full video for Summarize Spoken Text
Learn more about other questions
Your Guide to Every Section of the PTE Exam
Speaking
Reading
FAQs
Here are answers to some of the frequently asked questions.
How many of these summarized spoken texts can be expected in the real exam?
You can expect about 2-3 of these tasks in the Listening section
What is the normal audio length for the lecture during this task?
Usually around 60-90 seconds, where the audio will be played only once
Do we get time to write during the lecture?
Yes, you can take notes during the lecture which will be really helpful to organize your answer
What is the maximum time for this task?
You will get a maximum of 10 mins for each of this task
Does the grammar or spelling really matter in this task?
Definitely. Since this task also checks your writing skills, so yes, it does matter a lot.
Does this have any impact on my overall score?
Yes, since it contributes to both listening and writing scores, this can have a huge impact on your overall scores.