PTE
Writing

PTE Summarize Written Text

Master PTE Summarize Written Text. Learn how to write a perfect 5–75 word single sentence that captures the main idea. Templates, examples and AI practice.

⏱ 10 minutes 📊 High ⭐ High (Writing + Reading)

What is PTE Summarize Written Text?

Summarize Written Text requires you to read a passage (up to 300 words) and write a ONE sentence summary of 5–75 words in 10 minutes. The entire response must be a grammatically correct single sentence. It contributes to Reading AND Writing scores.

Strategy & Tips

  1. Read the passage quickly (60–90 seconds) — identify the main argument and 1–2 supporting points.
  2. Your single sentence should follow: "[Main subject] [main verb] that/which [key supporting point], [second point if needed]."
  3. Use subordinate clauses to pack multiple ideas into one grammatical sentence.
  4. Aim for 35–55 words — too short loses content marks, too long risks grammatical errors.
  5. Check: is it grammatically one sentence? Does it end with one full stop only?
  6. Do NOT copy sentences directly from the passage — paraphrase the main idea.

How is it Scored?

  • Content — does it capture the main idea without trivial/irrelevant details?
  • Form — is it exactly ONE sentence (5–75 words)?
  • Grammar — is the sentence grammatically correct?
  • Vocabulary — appropriate academic word choice

Frequently Asked Questions

How many words can a PTE Summarize Written Text answer be?
Between 5 and 75 words — and the entire response must be a SINGLE sentence with one full stop at the end. Responses outside this range, or with multiple sentences, receive 0 for Form.
What is the best template for PTE Summarize Written Text?
The passage discusses [topic], explaining that [main point], while also noting that [supporting point], leading to the conclusion that [overall finding]. Adapt this structure to each specific passage.
Does Summarize Written Text affect the Reading score?
Yes — PTE Summarize Written Text contributes to both Writing AND Reading scores. This makes it one of the highest-value tasks alongside Read Aloud and Repeat Sentence.
How long does Summarize Written Text take?
You have 10 minutes per Summarize Written Text item. Most students can read the passage in 2 minutes and write a solid response in 5 minutes — leaving 3 minutes to proofread. Manage time carefully if multiple items appear.

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