PTE Academic Speaking: Question Types, Format & Preparation Tips
The PTE Academic test evaluates both speaking and writing skills in a combined section. The design and structure of the questions are such that they assess both skill sets simultaneously. As a result, this section typically takes more time compared to others.
For better clarity and ease of preparation, we’ve covered the PTE Academic Speaking section in a dedicated blog, discussing its question types, format, scoring method, and preparation strategies. Similarly, the writing section is detailed in a separate blog post.
PTE Academic Speaking Section: An Overview
- The PTE Academic exam features between 53 to 74 questions spread across 20 distinct question types within the speaking and writing, reading, and listening sections.Â
- The speaking section remains consistent in both the at-home and test centre formats, with no changes in structure or difficulty level.Â
- This section lasts between 54 to 67 minutes and includes 7 different types of tasks.Â
- A detailed table below outlines the key features of the PTE Academic Speaking section.
| Features | PTE Academic Speaking Section |
| Types of Questions | 7 |
| Total Questions | Varies depending on the difficulty level and progress of the test taker |
| Time Duration | 54-67 Minutes |
| Text Sources | Academic journals University level textbooks Research papers |
Pattern of PTE Academic Speaking Section
- The Speaking section of the PTE Academic test is the first component and is designed to assess a candidate’s proficiency in speaking and writing English effectively within academic contexts.
- It is the longest section of the exam, lasting between 54 to 67 minutes.
- The tasks use academic-style English similar to what one might encounter in university settings.Â
- This section includes 7 different task types, each varying in complexity.
Formatting of Questions
- In the Speaking section of the PTE Academic test, the exact number of questions is not fixed, as it varies based on the candidate’s performance and the adaptive nature of the exam.Â
- However, to help future test takers understand the structure better, we have outlined the original question formats.Â
- It’s important to note that candidates get only one chance to record their responses.Â
- Additionally, the way prompts are presented—and how responses are to be given—varies depending on the specific task type.
| Question/Task Type | Task | Skill Assessed | Time Duration to Take Prompts | Time Duration to Respond |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Personal Introduction | Read the prompt and prepare to respond | Speaking & Listening | 25 seconds | 30 seconds |
| Read Aloud | Text appears on the screen | Reading & Speaking | 30-40 seconds | Varies |
| Repeat Sentence | Repeat the sentence after listening to its recording | Listening & Speaking | 3-9 seconds | 15 seconds |
| Describe an Image | Describe the image that appears on the screen | Speaking | Varies | 40 seconds |
| Re-Tell Lecture | Retell the lecture after listening to and watching it | Listening & Speaking | 90 seconds | 40 seconds |
| Essay | Write an essay in about 200-300 words | Writing | - | 20 minutes |
| Answer Short Question | Answer questions in short words | Listening & Speaking | 3-9 seconds | 10 seconds |
| Summarise Written Text | Write a one-sentence summary of the passage | Reading & Writing | - | 10 minutes |
How to Answer Questions in the PTE Academic Speaking Section?
Below is a breakdown of how test takers should approach and respond to each task type in the PTE Academic Speaking and Writing section:
Read Aloud
- Test takers are presented with a short written text to read aloud.
- They have 30–40 seconds to speak the text clearly.
- A tone will signal when to begin. Start speaking without rushing.
- Complete the response before the progress bar reaches the end.
Repeat Sentences
- A sentence (3–9 seconds long) is played.
- The microphone opens immediately after playback.
- Test takers must repeat the sentence exactly as they heard it.
- Finish before the progress bar ends; no second attempts.
Describe an Image
- Test takers get 25 seconds to observe and prepare for the image shown.
- After a tone, they must start describing the image clearly and concisely.
- Finish speaking before the progress bar finishes.
Re-tell Lecture
- Test takers listen to or watch a lecture and take notes if needed.
- After the lecture, they have 10 seconds to prepare.
- Upon hearing the tone, they must re-tell the lecture content in their own words.
- Speak before the bar ends; clarity and structure matter.
Essay
- Candidates write a 200–300 word argumentative essay in response to a given prompt (usually 2–3 sentences long).
- Total time allowed: 20 minutes.
- Stay within the word limit; structure your ideas logically.
Answer Short Questions
- A short audio prompt (3–9 seconds) is played.
- Test takers must respond briefly—usually with a word or a phrase.
- Time to answer: 10 seconds.
- Responses must be accurate and concise.
Summarise Written Text
- A passage (up to 300 words) is presented.
- Test takers must write a single-sentence summary of the text.
- Time limit: 10 minutes.
- The summary should include the main idea and key points in no more than 75 words.
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What Skills Are Evaluated in the PTE Academic Speaking Section?
The speaking part of the PTE academic test assesses the following skills in a test taker.
- Organisation & Ideas Development
- Summarisation & Fulfillment
- Vocabulary
- Pronunciation & Clarity
- Grammar & Sentence Structure
- Listening Comprehension
- Fluency & Clearance
General Strategies to Answer PTE Academic Speaking Questions
To perform well in the PTE Academic Speaking section, candidates should follow a structured preparation approach. Here are some effective strategies
- Familiarise yourself with the question types, timing, and structure of the speaking section.
- Know what skills each task evaluates so you can tailor your responses accordingly.
- Strengthen your grammar to form correct sentence structures.
- Expand your vocabulary to use a variety of words while describing, summarising, or expressing opinions.
- Practice speaking clearly and with proper emphasis on syllables and words.
- Focus on rhythm and the natural flow of speech to ensure clarity.
- For tasks like re-telling lectures or summarising written text, the ability to capture key points quickly is crucial.
- Use bullet points and shorthand while listening to audio content
- Practice with the official PTE Academic Test Kit and sample speaking prompts.
- Simulate exam conditions while practising to build confidence and time management skills.
Key Takeaways by AdmitX
The Speaking and Writing parts of the PTE Academic test are conducted together and must be completed within 54 to 67 minutes. This combined section assesses the test taker’s ability to organise and summarise information, pronounce sentences clearly, and present cohesive and structured responses.
To prepare effectively, candidates should focus on building strong grammar, expanding their vocabulary, and practising summarisation techniques on a daily basis. These are the foundational skills for success in this section.
FAQs
What are the question types in the PTE academic speaking and writing section?
There are 8 question types in the PTE academic speaking and writing section. These are personal introductions, read-aloud, repeat sentences, describing an image, retelling lectures, writing an essay, answering short questions, and summarising written text.
How can I strengthen my speaking skills for the PTE exam?
To strengthen your speaking skills, you need to be involved in day-to-day conversation in the English language with your family and friends, which will help you build confidence. Apart from that, listening to English news, podcasts, and video articles can help you understand intonation, vocabulary, and pronunciation.Â
How many questions are there in the PTE academic speaking and writing section?
There is no specified number of questions in the PTE academic listening section because it differs depending on the test taker and the format of the test. However, test takers can expect to face around 15-20 questions.Â
What score can be considered good in the PTE academic exam?
A PTE score of 65 or higher is generally considered good for fulfilling the English language proficiency requirements for various global universities and visa applications.
What PTE score is required by Australian universities?
Depending on the university and course, the PTE requirements for Australian universities might vary. For undergraduate programs, a score of 55-65 is considered good, while for master’s degree courses, 60+ score can be required.
