In Summarize Spoken Text, you hear an audio clip lasting 60 to 90 seconds and must write a 50 to 70 word summary in 10 minutes. It tests both your listening and writing skills simultaneously, which is why many candidates find it challenging.
Listen actively, not passively. While the audio plays, do not just absorb the information — write down keywords. Note the main topic, key points, any numbers or dates mentioned, and the speaker's conclusion. Your notes are your raw material for the summary.
Use a note-taking shorthand. You do not have time to write full sentences while listening. Use abbreviations and symbols: "govt" for government, "↑" for increase, "esp" for especially, "→" for leads to. Develop your own shorthand system and practice it regularly.
Write the summary immediately after listening. Start writing while the information is fresh. Begin with a topic sentence: "The lecture discusses…" or "The speaker explains that…" Then add two to three supporting points from your notes. Keep each point to one sentence.
Stay within the word limit. The requirement is 50 to 70 words. Writing fewer than 50 words loses you content marks. Writing more than 70 words wastes time on other questions. Count quickly: five sentences of 10 to 14 words each hits the target perfectly.
Check grammar and spelling before moving on. You have 10 minutes total — use two minutes at the end to review. Subject-verb agreement, correct tense usage and accurate spelling all affect your score. A summary with good listening comprehension but poor grammar loses valuable marks.
Shaista includes Summarize Spoken Text practice in every PTE listening session at LEWS Academy. Students who master their personal shorthand system and practice timed summaries twice a week see noticeable score improvement within three weeks.
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