Ace PTE Describe Image: Score 90/90 with Proven Strategies

Updated on Jun 21,2025

Many PTE test-takers find the Describe Image section a straightforward way to boost their overall score. While Describe Image doesn't directly contribute marks to other modules, performing well is crucial for maintaining fluency and clarity, which can positively impact your speaking score. This blog post will guide you through a simple yet effective strategy to achieve a perfect 90/90 score in PTE Describe Image by focusing on a template and effective delivery.

Key Points for PTE Describe Image Success

Focus on fluency and clarity over extensive content.

Use a simple, adaptable template.

Identify key elements in the image: title, elements, and numbers.

Maintain a consistent speaking pace.

Practice regularly to improve response time.

Mastering PTE Describe Image for a Perfect Score

The Importance of Describe Image in PTE Speaking

The Describe Image task in the PTE speaking section requires you to describe an image in 40 seconds after a 25-Second preparation time. Although it doesn't directly affect other modules, it greatly influences your speaking score by showcasing your fluency, pronunciation, and ability to organize thoughts coherently. A well-delivered Describe Image can set a positive tone for the rest of the speaking section. Mastering this task involves more than just identifying elements in the image; it's about presenting those elements in a structured and articulate manner. By focusing on a template, you can ensure that you cover all the necessary aspects without getting bogged down in unnecessary details. Practice regularly to refine your technique and improve your confidence.

Remember to maintain Clarity in your pronunciation and a steady pace throughout your response. This will significantly enhance your chances of scoring high in this section and boosting your overall PTE score.

Understanding the Scoring Criteria for PTE Describe Image

The PTE Describe Image is scored based on several key criteria:

  • Fluency: This refers to the smoothness and naturalness of your speech. Pauses, hesitations, and false starts can negatively impact your fluency score. Aim for a consistent pace and avoid unnecessary breaks.
  • Pronunciation: Clear and accurate pronunciation is essential for effective communication. Practice pronouncing words correctly and focus on proper intonation and stress Patterns.
  • Content: This assesses whether you have adequately covered the key elements in the image. While it's not about providing exhaustive details, ensure you identify the main topic, significant trends, and Relevant data points.

Remember, even if you don't mention every single detail in the image, maintaining fluency and pronunciation can still secure you a high score. Focus on delivering a well-structured response that hits the main points.

By balancing these elements, you can maximize your score in the Describe Image task.

The Power of a Simple Template for PTE Describe Image

Using a template is one of the most effective strategies for PTE Describe Image. A template provides a structure that helps you organize your thoughts and ensures you cover all the essential aspects of the image within the given time. A good template should include an introduction, a description of key elements, and a conclusion.

For example, a simple template could be:

  1. Introduction: "The given image provides information about [topic of the image]."
  2. Key Elements: "There are different elements in this image, which are [list of elements]."
  3. Trends/Data: "One of the elements is [maximum/minimum] and another is [another element]. There are different trends in the image."
  4. Conclusion: "To sum up, the image is informative."

This template is adaptable and can be used for various types of images, including graphs, charts, maps, and diagrams.

The key is to practice using the template until it becomes Second Nature. This will allow you to quickly fill in the blanks with relevant information from the image and deliver a Fluent, coherent response.

Template Adaptability: Key to Success

Tailoring Templates to Different Image Types

The beauty of a well-structured template lies in its adaptability. Whether you encounter a line graph, pie Chart, or a complex Diagram, the core framework remains the same. The key is to identify the crucial elements that define each image type and slot them into your template. This section provides specific adaptations for common image types in the PTE Describe Image task.

  • Bar Graphs:
    • Essential Elements: Identify the title, axes (X and Y), and the categories being compared. Look for maximum and minimum values or significant differences between bars.
    • Template Adaptation: “The image illustrates [topic from title]. The x-axis represents [X-axis label], while the y-axis represents [Y-axis label]. The highest bar is at [maximum value], and the lowest bar is at [minimum value]. The image provides useful information."
  • Pie Charts:
    • Essential Elements: Determine the categories represented by each slice and their respective percentages. Identify the largest and smallest slices.
    • Template Adaptation: “The pie chart shows [topic from title]. The largest slice represents [category with highest percentage], accounting for [percentage]. The smallest slice is [category with lowest percentage], at [percentage]. Overall, the chart gives a clear view of [summary of what the chart shows]."
  • Process Diagrams:
    • Essential Elements: Trace the flow from start to finish. Note the key steps or stages in the process. Focus on the sequential order.
    • Template Adaptation: “The diagram illustrates the process of [process being shown]. The process begins with [first step], followed by [second step]. The key steps are [list key steps]. The diagram provides a useful visual representation of the process."
  • Maps:
    • Essential Elements: Identify the locations, landmarks, or geographical features shown on the map. Note any specific routes or Spatial relationships.
    • Template Adaptation: “The map shows [location shown]. Key landmarks include [list landmarks]. The map highlights [specific routes or relationships]. The map offers a helpful overview of the area."

By understanding these adaptations, you can quickly and effectively apply your template to any image you encounter in the PTE Describe Image task. Practice with various images to solidify your understanding and boost your confidence.

Step-by-Step Guide to PTE Describe Image Success

Step 1: Identify the Key Elements

During the 25-second preparation time, quickly identify the main topic of the image, the key elements, and any significant trends or data points. For a graph, this might include the title, axes labels, and maximum/minimum values.

For a map, identify the locations and any relevant landmarks or features. The goal is to Gather enough information to fill in your template effectively. Don't try to memorize every detail; focus on the most important aspects that will help you deliver a comprehensive description.

Step 2: Adapt Your Template

Once you have identified the key elements, adapt your template to fit the specific image. Replace the bracketed placeholders with the appropriate information. For example, if the image is a bar graph showing coffee and tea manufacturing sales, your introduction might be: "The given image provides information about British Columbia Coffee and Tea Manufacturing Sales Totals for 2018."

Then, list the different months (August, September, October, November, December) as the key elements. Finally, identify any trends or significant data points, such as the month with the highest or lowest sales. Practice adapting your template to different types of images to improve your flexibility and response time.

Step 3: Practice Delivery for Fluency

Practice delivering your response using the adapted template. Focus on maintaining a consistent pace and avoiding unnecessary pauses or hesitations. Speak clearly and pronounce each WORD correctly.

Record yourself and listen back to identify any areas for improvement. Pay attention to your fluency and pronunciation, and work on eliminating any filler words or phrases. The more you practice, the more natural and confident you will become.

Step 4: Sample Response Breakdown - Coffee and Tea Sales

Here is a breakdown of how to approach a sample image, such as the British Columbia Coffee and Tea Manufacturing Sales Totals 2018 graph:

  • Introduction: “The given image gives us information about Coffee and Tea Manufacturing.”
  • Elements: “There are different elements in this image, which are August, September, October, November, and December.”
  • Trends: “One of the elements is maximum and another is minimum. There are different trends in the image.” (Note: Can be adapted to include actual values if time allows).
  • Conclusion: “To sum up, the picture is informative.”

This simple approach prioritizes fluency and clear pronunciation while covering the essential aspects of the image.

Pros and Cons of Using Templates

👍 Pros

Provides structure and organization

Ensures key elements are covered

Reduces anxiety and improves confidence

Enhances fluency by providing a framework

👎 Cons

Can sound repetitive if not adapted well

May limit creativity

Requires practice to use effectively

Can become a crutch if relied on too heavily

Frequently Asked Questions

Does content matter in PTE Describe Image?
While content is a factor, fluency and pronunciation are more heavily weighted in PTE Describe Image. A clear, fluent description that hits the main points is better than a detailed but hesitant one. Focus on speaking smoothly and naturally, even if you don't cover every single detail in the image. Aim for a balanced approach, but prioritize fluency and pronunciation.
What is the best template for PTE Describe Image?
The best template is one that you can easily adapt to different types of images and that allows you to speak fluently. A simple introduction, key elements, trends, and conclusion structure works well for most images. The specific wording of the template is less important than your ability to deliver it smoothly and confidently. Experiment with different templates and choose one that suits your speaking style and helps you organize your thoughts effectively. Remember, the goal is to have a framework that you can quickly adapt to any image you encounter.

Related Questions

How can I improve my fluency in PTE Describe Image?
Improving fluency involves consistent practice and focusing on speaking smoothly without unnecessary pauses. Record yourself speaking and identify areas where you hesitate. Practice speaking on various topics to build confidence and familiarity with different vocabulary. Using a template can also help structure your thoughts, reducing pauses and improving flow. Additionally, try practicing tongue twisters to improve your pronunciation and articulation.
What should I do if I don't understand the image in PTE Describe Image?
If you don't understand the image, focus on describing what you can see, such as colors, shapes, and general trends. Use a simple template and avoid trying to interpret complex information. It's better to give a basic but fluent description than to stumble over incorrect interpretations. Remember, fluency and pronunciation are crucial, so prioritize those over detailed content. If possible, identify the type of image (e.g., graph, map, diagram) and use general vocabulary associated with that type.