PTE Respond to a Situation template (2026)
The new August-2025 speaking task explained — timing, what's expected, and a reliable response structure.
How it works
Introduced on 7 August 2025. You get about 10 seconds to read the situation, 10 seconds of audio, 10 seconds to prepare, then 40 seconds to respond appropriately.
Template
- Acknowledge: state the situation briefly ("I understand that…").
- Respond: address it directly — apologise, request, explain or suggest, as the situation needs.
- Add detail: one reason or next step.
- Close politely.
You're scored on appropriateness and fluency — sound natural and polite, and cover the key point the situation asks for.
Frequently asked questions
What is Respond to a Situation?
A new (Aug 2025) speaking task where you read/hear a short real-life situation and speak an appropriate response for 40 seconds.
How much time do I get?
Roughly 10s to read, 10s audio, 10s to prepare, then 40s to record.
How is it scored?
On appropriateness of the response, oral fluency and pronunciation.
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