PTE Re-tell Lecture template (2026): notes & structure
A note-taking method and a simple spoken structure for the 40-second re-tell.
How it works
You hear a lecture (about 60–90 seconds), get ~10 seconds to prepare, then speak for 40 seconds retelling it in your own words.
Note-taking
Jot the topic, 3–4 keywords, and any example or conclusion. Don't write full sentences — capture triggers you can speak from.
Template
- Open: "The lecture was about…"
- Points: "The speaker explained… and mentioned…" (2–3 keywords).
- Detail/example: "For example…"
- Close: "In conclusion, the lecture highlighted…"
Content and Oral Fluency dominate. Even if you miss detail, keep speaking for the full 40 seconds with a clear structure.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the Re-tell Lecture answer?
You speak for 40 seconds after about 10 seconds of preparation.
Should I take notes?
Yes — a few keywords and the conclusion are enough to speak fluently for 40 seconds.
What is scored?
Content (key ideas), Oral Fluency and Pronunciation.
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