How to Master PTE Describe Image!

Bhargavee Sisodia

08 Jul 2024

The Pearson Test of English (PTE) comprehensively measures multiple forms of communication using the English Language. Out of all of the tasks in the speaking section, the “Describe Image” task can be considered one of the most important. This section kind of tests your ability to make a description of an image that you are shown in less than 60 seconds.

In this article, the PTE “Describe Image” task has been discussed in detail providing the reader with an understanding of the task as well as possible strategies and techniques. We will discuss all the basics starting with the overview of the format and going all the way explaining how to work with various types of images and how to combine them with appropriate templates.

What is the Describe Image Task in PTE?

In the course of the PTE speaking test, the Describe Image task gives you an image you have to describe; you could be presented with a graph, chart, diagram, process flow, map, or picture, among others. There will be 25 seconds of preparation wherein you need to examine the picture that is displayed on your screen and think of the right words to use in your description. Next, within 40 seconds, you will have to provide an oral report of the essentials regarding the image as well as the information that this or that object communicates.

Importance of the Describe Image Task

The Describe Image task plays a significant role in evaluating your English speaking skills in the PTE. It assesses your ability to:

• Analyze visual information: One has to realize what is important about the image and get an idea as to what information is conveyed through it.
• Organize your thoughts: You must develop your description to be well-structured and clear so as not to confuse the reader.
• Speak fluently: Speak well and fluently within the allotted time for presenting ideas and arguments.
• Use appropriate vocabulary: Ensure that the appropriate language about the category of the presented picture is used.
• Describe visually represented information: Coherently, describe what is depicted in the given image, whether it is data, trend or process.

Key Elements of a High-Scoring Response

To achieve a high score in the Describe Image task, focus on incorporating the following elements:

• Accuracy: Describe what is depicted in the picture: the people, objects, animals, plants, environment, etc.
• Completeness: Contains every piece of data that may be considered crucial and all the fundamental characteristics.
• Clarity: Express ideas and opinions coherently and, when speaking, in the proper language, with good grammar, and correct pronunciation.
• Organization: Categorize your description and, first of all, provide general information and, secondly, add some additional information.
• Vocabulary: Include a great number of words that correspond to the type of the image.

Different Types of Images in PTE Describe the Image

The Describe Image task can present you with various types of visuals. Here's how to tackle each type effectively:

Pie Charts PTE

• Look at the diagram below and note down all the sections and the labels placed at the sectors of the pie chart.
• State the general category or area of interest demonstrated by the pie chart.
• It will be necessary to state the percentage or proportion of each section.
• If there are any big sections and little sections in the structure described above, emphasise them.

Pie Chart Example:

This pie chart displays the proportion of energy consumption of a house. The largest segment goes to “Electronics” with 35% of the response. Other considerable parts are “Lighting,” which amounts to 20% and “Appliances” which account for 25%.

• Example: In the given pie chart, there are the proportions of various energy sources in a country: The biggest portion is the use of fossil fuels which makes up 45 % of the total and this proves that this country relies on traditional energy sources.

Bar Graphs PTE

• Describe the categories represented on the horizontal axis (x-axis).
• Explain the units or values on the vertical axis (y-axis).
• Compare and contrast the values of different bars.
• Mention any trends or patterns observed in the data (e.g., increasing, decreasing, or remaining constant).

Bar Graph Example:

The bar graph depicts the customers’ satisfaction level with various mobile phone brands. In the above table, we have the brands in the x-axis including Brand A, Brand B and Brand C while the y-axis represents the satisfaction level out of the rating of 5. Therefore the analysis shows that while Brand C is the most favourably viewed brand with an average perceived value of 3.4, Brand B has the highest value at 4. 5 while Brand C has the lowest value of the frail attribute at 3. 2. Finally, looking at the three brands, customers look more content with Brand B and Brand A as compared to Brand C.

REMEMBER- Identify patterns and trends: Look for patterns or trends in the data represented by the bars. Is there a steady increase, a sharp decline, or a fluctuation? Mention these observations.

• Example: “The bar graph illustrates the sales figures of different electronic products over the past year. We can see a steady increase in sales for smartphones, reaching a peak in the final quarter. Conversely, sales of tablets have remained relatively constant throughout the year.”

Line Graphs PTE

• Which variable or concept is represented on the vertical axis (y-axis)? What period or independent variable is represented on the horizontal axis(x-axis)?
• Explain the nature of the movement of the line (e.g., rising, falling or fluctuation ).
• Mark out any changes in the line, or levels of changes such as ups and downs or stability.
• When it is possible explain how the trends of different lines depicted in the graph are similar or different.

Line Graph Example:

This is a line graph showing the average monthly temperature of a city over the year. On the whole, the line increases, the minimum temperature being 10°C in January and the maximum – 28°C in July. There is a substantial drop in October to November period and then again a big decrease is seen at 5°C in December.

REMEMBER- Focus on key points: It means, do not attempt to qualify every data point which might be established on the line graph. However, one should concentrate more on specific milestones, for example, it is useful to mark the top, bottom or a flat line in the graph. Describe what these points might mean.

• Example: This particular type of line graph shown below, shows the tourist arrivals of a certain country for five years wherein the line fluctuates except that during the first three years, the rate of tourist arrivals was very high, lower down on the fourth year, but it has increased again on the fifth year and reached its highest record.

Processes and Diagrams PTE

• Provide an overall purpose or function of the above-depicted diagram.
• Describe them in terms of the various stages or steps through which the process passes through.
• Explain the order of things or the chronology of the steps involved.
• Therefore, it is recommended to use the transition words such as “first”, “then”, “next, “finally” to link the steps.

Process/Diagram Example:

The detailed process of recycling plastic bottles is described below with the help of this diagram. First, PET bottles which have been used are gathered and then taken through a sorting process to separate them. Then they are compressed directly and reduced to powdered form with smaller flake sizes. After that, the flakes are washed and melted into the pellet form. Last of all, the pellets are utilised to make new plastic products or other products.

• Example: "This diagram illustrates the process of recycling plastic bottles. The process begins with collecting used plastic bottles. These bottles are then sorted and transported to a recycling facility."

Maps and Locations PTE

• Locate the geographical place or area represented on the map.
• Enumerate the significant characteristics of the area shown on the map such as; cities, rivers, mountains, etc.
• If necessary, point the intent on the map (for example, depicting areas of interest for tourists, and ways of getting there).
• Indicate any direction or distance that may be observed from the map (if any).

Map Template:

This map illustrates a national park which has several pathways meant for hiking. It has a central feature in the form of a lake and the western side is marked by a mountain formation. In this map, several trails are indicated for most of the mapped areas with different lengths and levels of steepness. It appeared that the publication could be useful for tourists who decided to spend hiking in the park.

REMEMBER- Go beyond landmarks: Though it is possible to define what a landmark is, try to dig deeper, for instance, define what kind of map it is (it can be a tourist map or a transport one).

• Example: “This map appears to be a tourist map of a city. It highlights prominent landmarks like museums, historical sites, and major parks. Additionally, the map includes symbols indicating public transportation routes, making it helpful for navigating the city.”

Describe Image PTE Practice Resources

Enhance your Describe Image skills by utilizing these resources:

• Official PTE website: The official site of Pearson PTE contains information regarding the Describe Image task and sample questions.
• describe image PTE practice tests: ‘Describe Image’ can be easily practised on a wide range of online resources that provide PTE tests for efficient preparation. These tests enable you to practice on the actual tests and get feedback on the performance.
• describe image PTEtutorials: Search for the descriptions of the instructions, the algorithms, and the advice for solving the Describe Image task concerning different types of images.

Conclusion 

It is advised that a candidate start by learning how to complete the Describe Image task in PTE to excel in the speaking segment. This way, you can be confident that regardless of which image type you can come across in practice, that is pie charts, bar graphs, processes, or maps, you can describe them most effectively. As a starting point, use the schemes provided here but do not forget to adjust them to the characteristics of the picture. To improve Describe Image skills and be prepared for a PTE test, use the materials from the tutorials and practice tests. Bear in mind, with proper inspiration and approach methodically, the Describe Image task in PTE can be mastered by you and thus prove your worth in terms of your English communication skills.