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PTE Describe Image: Structure & Template
PTE Describe Image is 40 seconds to analyse and describe a chart, map or photo. Here's a reusable template and worked examples.
The 40-second time limit and structure
You have one minute to view the image, but only 40 seconds to speak. The solution: spend 15 seconds observing and planning, then 35 seconds describing. The key is a tight, predictable structure so you do not ramble. A typical breakdown: opening (5 seconds), overview (10 seconds), key details (15 seconds), conclusion (5 seconds).
Opening and identifying the image type
Start by identifying what you see — a bar chart, line graph, pie chart, map, photograph. Spend 3–5 seconds here. Example: 'This is a bar chart showing sales trends over five years.' Clear identification helps you (and the scorer) understand what is coming.
Overview: the main message
Spend 8–10 seconds summarising the most important trend or pattern. For a chart: 'Sales increased from 2020 to 2024, with the steepest rise in 2022.' For a photo: 'The image shows a busy market with vendors and shoppers.' Examiners value candidates who quickly extract the gist.
Key details: the bulk of your response
Spend 15–20 seconds describing specific data points, colours, people, relationships. For a chart: 'In 2020, sales were 50 million. By 2024, they reached 150 million — a threefold increase.' For a photo: 'There are stalls selling fruit, vegetables and flowers. Shoppers are browsing and wearing traditional clothing.' Use specific observations, not vague descriptions.
Conclusion: brief wrap-up
Spend 3–5 seconds summarising the takeaway. Example: 'Overall, the chart demonstrates strong upward sales growth over the period' or 'This market scene captures the vibrancy of daily street commerce.' Keep it brief — you are running out of time.
Common traps and language tips
Avoid 'I see' repetition — use 'The chart shows', 'The data indicates', 'In the image'. Avoid 'um' and long pauses. Do not make up details you cannot see. Do not speculate beyond what the image shows. Use precise numbers and percentages from charts if visible, or approximations if not (about, roughly, approximately).
Frequently asked questions
- What if the image is blurry or hard to understand?
- Do your best to describe what you can see. If you are genuinely unable to interpret it, acknowledge that and describe what you observe (colours, shapes, general layout). The scorer will take into account visibility.
- Should I describe every detail in the image?
- No — prioritise key features and patterns. A well-organised, partial description (that hits the main points) scores better than a rambling, complete description.
- How much does Describe Image count in the PTE Speaking score?
- PTE combines all speaking tasks into one score. Describe Image is one of several tasks, so doing well here significantly helps your overall Speaking band.