By Score Smart Team · 2026-02-04
The PTE Describe Image task is one of the most challenging yet highest-scoring opportunities in the Speaking section. Whether you're facing bar graphs, line charts, pie diagrams, maps, or process flowcharts—mastering this task can dramatically boost your overall PTE score.
What is PTE Describe Image?
Describe Image is part of the PTE Speaking section where you're shown a visual—such as a graph, chart, diagram, map, or picture—and must describe it aloud.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Preparation Time | 25 seconds |
| Speaking Time | 40 seconds maximum |
| Number of Questions | 3-4 images (occasionally 5-6) |
| Scoring Contribution | Speaking + Listening |
Types of Images You'll Encounter
- Bar Graphs – Compare categories or show changes over time
- Line Graphs – Show trends and changes over time periods
- Pie Charts – Display proportions and percentages
- Tables – Present data in rows and columns
- Flowcharts/Processes – Show steps or stages
- Maps – Geographical information or changes
- Pictures/Photographs – Real-world scenes or objects
Scoring Criteria
| Criteria | Max Points | What It Measures |
|---|---|---|
| Content | 5 | Accurate description of visual elements |
| Oral Fluency | 5 | Smooth, natural rhythm without hesitation |
| Pronunciation | 5 | Clear vowel/consonant sounds, stress patterns |
Universal Template Structure
Use this structure for any image type:
- Introduction (3-5 seconds): "This [image type] presents/illustrates/shows [topic]..."
- Not practicing with timed mock tests
- Trying to listen again (you can't go back!)
- Losing concentration towards the end of the test
- Key Features (8-10 seconds): Describe 2-3 main data points or features
- Extremes (5-7 seconds): Mention highest/lowest, maximum/minimum
- Additional Observations (5-7 seconds): Trends, comparisons, patterns
- Conclusion (3-5 seconds): "In conclusion, this [image] clearly demonstrates..."
Practice Tips for Better Time Management
Useful Vocabulary
For Trends:
- Increased, decreased, rose, fell, remained stable
- Fluctuated, peaked, reached a low point
- Gradually, sharply, significantly, slightly
For Comparisons:
- Higher than, lower than, similar to
- In contrast, on the other hand, whereas
- The majority, the minority, approximately
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- ❌ Staying silent for more than 3 seconds
- ❌ Speaking for less than 25 seconds
- ❌ Trying to describe every detail
- ❌ Using "um," "uh," and other filler words
- ❌ Speaking too fast or too slow
The TITLE Method
Use this acronym to structure your response:
- T – Type & Topic: Identify the image type and main topic
- I – Information: Describe key data points
- T – Trends & Extremes: Mention highest, lowest, increases, decreases
- L – Links & Comparisons: Draw comparisons between categories
- E – End with Summary: Conclude with the main takeaway
Practice Schedule
| Week | Focus Area | Daily Practice |
|---|---|---|
| Week 1 | Bar & Line Graphs | 5-6 images |
| Week 2 | Pie Charts & Tables | 5-6 images |
| Week 3 | Flowcharts, Maps & Diagrams | 5-6 images |
| Week 4 | Mixed Practice | 8-10 random images |
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