Summarize spoken text

Introduction

The Summarize spoken text (PTE) is a task that tests your ability to actively listen to an audio recording of 60-90 seconds and summarize the main points in your words.

There are a total of 1 to 2 Summarize spoken text tasks in the exam. Each task has a response time of 10 minutes. These tasks are timed individually so completing the task in less than 10 minutes will not add extra time for the other listening tasks.

Please memorize the mind map given at the top, these activities need to be followed in the mentioned sequence. It is essential for success.

Critical stuff

• Take notes while listening to the recording.
• Avoid noting every word of the audio as it is impossible to note everything.
• Identify and note the topic, keywords, and key points related to the audio.
• Ensure to use correct punctuation.
• Write a grammatically correct summary.
• Avoid spelling mistakes.
• Remain within the word limit of 50 to 70 words.
• Click next once finished.

The Sequence of steps for the Summarize spoken text task

1. A timer counts down 12 seconds.
2. An audio recording of 60-90 words plays.
3. Utilize this time to take notes. Your performance in this task depends on your note-taking ability.
4. Listen actively and identify the topic or the central idea about the audio.
5. Note down the key words – It is critical to include keywords from the audio into your summary so that the PTE software recognizes them as the correct content.
6. Note the key points mentioned in the audio.
7. Once the recording stops read through and plan your summary.
8. Your Summary should have an introduction and a body.
9. Introduction– Identify the topic and write it as below:- The speaker was discussing/talking about + topic.
10. Body– The body should have all the key points you noted down while listening to the audio. Also, include the keywords in the body of your summary. You will need to form sentences to incorporate the points and the keywords.
11. Ensure to use correct grammar and spelling while summarizing.
12. Stay within the word limit of 50 to 70 words.
13. Check your summary and correct any spelling or grammatical mistakes. I have benefitted a lot and self-corrected mistakes using this strategy.
14. Use correct punctuation. The first alphabet of the first word of your summary, the first letter after a full stop and the first alphabet of Proper nouns should be capitalized. End sentences with a full stop and use commas for pauses between sentences.
15. Click next once finished.