PTE Core · Listening · L1
PTE Core Listening: Summarize Spoken Text
Summarize Spoken Text plays a recording of about 45 to 75 seconds once. You then have 8 minutes to write a summary of 20 to 30 words. It is the first task in PTE Core Listening and checks whether you caught the main point and key details, and whether you can write them clearly.
- Items per test
- 1–2
- Recording
- About 45–75 seconds, played once
- Time to write
- 8 minutes
- Length
- 20–30 words
- Skills
- Listening and writing
How it works
- 1The recording plays once; take notes as you listen.
- 2When it ends, an 8-minute timer and a text box appear.
- 3Write the main point and one or two key details in 20–30 words.
- 4Check the word count, grammar and spelling before moving on.
Sample task
Original sample · not from an official test
You hear a building manager explaining that the lifts will be replaced over six weeks, one lift at a time, starting next Monday. Residents with mobility needs can ask for help moving shopping, and deliveries should use the rear entrance during the work.
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Outline: The lifts will be replaced one at a time over six weeks from Monday, with help available for residents with mobility needs and deliveries redirected to the rear entrance.
At 30 words, the summary covers what is happening, when and the two practical arrangements. It leaves out minor wording and stays within the word limit.
Tips that work
- Note keywords only: who, what, when and any changes or instructions. Full sentences in your notes slow you down.
- Write your summary from your notes, not from memory of exact phrases.
- The 20–30 word range is tight. Draft, then cut extra adjectives and repetition.
- Use the spare minutes to fix spelling, since spelling affects your written score.
Common mistakes
- Using PTE Academic's longer word target instead of PTE Core's 20–30 words.
- Writing only the first thing the speaker said and missing the conclusion.
Questions candidates ask
How many words should a PTE Core spoken summary have?
Between 20 and 30 words. This is shorter than the PTE Academic version, so plan for a compact answer.
Can I replay the recording?
No. The recording plays once, so good notes are essential.
Does EnglishHub mark my summary?
Yes. Each submission gets AI feedback on content, form and language.
Other PTE Core Listening tasks
PTE Core overviewPTE Core Listening: all partsPTE Core full mock testsPTE Core articles on the blog