PTE Describe Image: Template, Tips & Scoring
Describe Image asks you to describe a visual — a bar chart, line graph, pie chart, map, or picture — in about 40 seconds of speaking. Many candidates fear it, but a simple repeatable template removes the panic: you do not need to mention every detail, just deliver a fluent, structured description of the main features.
How Describe Image works
An image appears with about 25 seconds of preparation time, then the recording starts and you speak for up to 40 seconds. You usually face six to seven images of varying types.
A reliable four-part template
- 1Introduction: 'The image illustrates information about ___.'
- 2Overview: 'It is clear that ___ has the highest value, while ___ is the lowest.'
- 3Detail: 'In addition, ___ shows a notable ___ compared with ___.'
- 4Conclusion: 'Overall, the image presents key insights about ___.'
Fluency outweighs completeness
You do not need every data point. A smooth, structured 35–40 second description covering the main features scores higher than a detailed but hesitant one. Keep talking until the timer ends.
How Describe Image is scored
- Content — mentioning the key elements of the image: the main trend, the highest and lowest points, and a relevant detail.
- Oral Fluency — speaking continuously with no long pauses; this is where the template protects your score.
- Pronunciation — clear, intelligible delivery of your description.
Because fluency is so heavily weighted, the biggest risk is freezing or trailing into silence. The template guarantees you always have a next sentence to say, which keeps your fluency score high even on an unfamiliar image.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Spending too long describing one data point and running out of things to say.
- Long 'um' pauses while deciding what to mention next.
- Reading every number on the chart instead of summarising the trend.
- Stopping early — always speak for at least 35 seconds.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to mention every detail in Describe Image?
No. Cover the main trend, the highest and lowest points, and one or two notable details. A fluent description of the key features scores better than an exhaustive but hesitant one.
How long should I speak in Describe Image?
Aim to speak for 35–40 seconds without long gaps. A four-part template — introduction, overview, detail, conclusion — naturally fills the time and keeps you fluent.
Can I use a memorised template for Describe Image?
Yes — a light structural template keeps you fluent and on time. Just fill it with the real content from the specific image rather than reciting generic, empty phrases.
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