PTE Describe Image template (2026): method, sample & tips
A simple, repeatable structure for Describe Image — plus a worked sample and what the scorer rewards.
The 25s / 40s method
You get ~25 seconds to prepare and ~40 seconds to speak. Keep talking smoothly for the full time — fluency is worth more than squeezing in every number.
Template
- Open: "The image is a [bar chart / map / process] showing…"
- Key features: "The most notable points are… and…" (2–3 details).
- Compare / trend: "Compared with…, it is clear that…" or "Overall the trend is…"
- Close: "In summary, the image highlights…"
Worked sample
"The image is a bar chart showing coffee consumption across four countries. The most notable points are that Country A leads clearly, while Country D is lowest. Compared with A, the others are markedly lower. Overall, the chart highlights a wide gap between the top and bottom countries."
What's scored
Content (did you describe the right things), Oral Fluency (smooth, steady pace) and Pronunciation. Avoid long pauses and restarts.
Frequently asked questions
How long do I get for Describe Image?
About 25 seconds to prepare and 40 seconds to speak. Start speaking before the mic times out — fluency matters more than covering every detail.
What should a Describe Image answer include?
One opening sentence stating what the image shows, two or three key features or data points, one comparison or trend, and a short closing line.
Does Describe Image affect my Reading score too?
Speaking tasks feed Speaking and, via oral fluency and pronunciation, contribute to your overall spoken ability. Content, fluency and pronunciation are all scored.
Are memorised templates okay?
A light structure helps you speak fluently, but read the actual image — generic, off-topic sentences hurt your Content score. Adapt the template to what you see.
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