Line Graph PTE: Describe Image Task with Tips & Examples

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Updated on Mar 25, 2025, 07:28

The line graph PTE task may seem challenging at first, but with the right approach, you can master it with ease. In this task, you must analyse and describe the visual data presented. As part of the PTE describe image section, it is considered one of the most demanding in the PTE speaking exam, assessing both speaking and writing skills.

 

To score well, quickly identify key trends, use precise vocabulary, and maintain fluency. This guide will help you excel with expert tips, structured approaches, and practice questions with sample answers.

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1. What is the Line Graph PTE?

The PTE describe image section tests your ability to analyse and explain visual information within a certain time limit.

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2. How do you Describe a Line Graph in PTE?

In the PTE Describe Image task, line graphs frequently appear in academic contexts.

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3. Sample Answer for Line Graph PTE

As mentioned earlier, you’ll have limited time to analyse and respond to the line graph in the PTE Describe Image task.

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4. Scoring Criteria for Line Graph PTE

To score well in the PTE Describe Image task, your response must be clear, structured, and fluent.

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5. Best Strategies to Improve Your Line Graph PTE Response

If you want to ace your line graph PTE task, focusing on the right vocabulary and key points is essential.

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1.

What is the Line Graph PTE?

The PTE describe image section tests your ability to analyse and explain visual information within a certain time limit. Among various image types, line graph PTE requires you to recognise trends, key data points, and patterns effectively.

 

Here are the Key Highlights of the Line Graph PTE.
 

Aspects Details
Task Analyse and Describe a Line Graph
Time Limit
  • 25-sec Preparation
  • 40-sec Response
    		•
    Skills Tested
  • Interpretation
  • Fluency
  • Vocabulary
    		•
    Challenges
  • Quick Analysis
  • Clear Explanation
    		•
    Scoring
  • Content
  • Pronunciation
  • Coherence
    		•

     

    Why is Line Graph PTE Important?

     

    The Line graph PTE task is crucial as it evaluates your ability to interpret and explain visual data clearly. Here’s why this task matters.

     

    • Improves Fluency: It improves your ability to speak clearly and coherently.
    • Boost Pronunciation: It helps you to refine your pronunciation and spoken clarity.
    • Expand Vocabulary: Encourages you to use precise and varied vocabulary.
    • Strengthen Sentence Structure: Develop well-structured and grammatically correct responses.

     

    Also Read: PTE Exam Preparation

    2.

    How do you Describe a Line Graph in PTE?

    Line Graph PTE

     

    In the PTE Describe Image task, line graphs frequently appear in academic contexts. To improve your vocabulary and achieve a higher speaking score, it's important to follow a structured approach when describing them.

     

    Begin by stating the graph’s title and drawing attention to key elements. Emphasise the lines and the x-axis in the line graph PTE, as they highlight the main trends and data variations.

     

    Here's how to break down the steps.

    Step 1: Analysing the Key Trends & Patterns

    Before speaking, analyse the PTE line graph with answers by focusing on the following.

     

    • The title and axes (X and Y-axis labels).
    • The highest and lowest points.
    • Increasing, decreasing, and fluctuating trends.
    • Any sharp spikes or drops.

     

    Additionally, it's important to recognise the type of line graph, as this influences how you interpret the data.

     

    • Single Line Graph: Tracks only one variable over time, making it the simplest form.
    • Parallel Line Graph: Displays two variables that never meet and remain at equal distances.
    • Multiple Line Graph: Represents multiple dependent variables against a single independent variable.
    Step 2: Structuring Your Response Effectively

    A well-structured PTE line graph template follows this format.

     

    • Introduction: Mention the topic of the graph. For example, The line graph illustrates the population growth in three major cities from 2000 to 2020.
    • Overview: Describe the general trend. For example, Overall, the population in all three cities showed an upward trend, with City A experiencing the highest growth.
    • Details: Highlight key figures and patterns. For example, City A’s population rose sharply from 500,000 in 2000 to 1.2 million in 2020, whereas City B's increased gradually from 600,000 to 900,000.
    • Conclusion: Summarise the main trend briefly. For example, In summary, the data indicates a steady rise in urban populations over the two decades, with City A growing the fastest.
    Step 3: Using Appropriate Vocabulary for Line Graphs

    To excel in PTE, describe the image line graphs using a relevant vocabulary.

     

    • Increase: rise, surge, grow, peak. For example, the sales figures surged from 10,000 units in January to 25,000 in March.
    • Decrease: drop, decline, fall, plummet. For example, Tourist arrivals plummeted from 50,000 in June to just 15,000 in August.
    • Fluctuation: varies, oscillates, fluctuates. For example, The stock market fluctuated between 5,000 and 5,500 points throughout the year.
    • Stability: remains constant or plateaus. For example, The unemployment rate remained constant at 5% between 2015 and 2018.
    Step 4: Speaking Fluently with Correct Intonation

    Your described image in PTE for line graph score depends on fluency and intonation. Avoid pauses, and maintain a natural rhythm. Use more transition words like "overall," "in contrast," "as seen," and "compared to."

     

    Also Read: PTE Reading Practice Test
    3.

    Sample Answer for Line Graph PTE

    As mentioned earlier, you’ll have limited time to analyse and respond to the line graph in the PTE Describe Image task. To help you prepare, here’s a structured sample answer using a combination of line graph examples for PTE, ensuring clarity, accuracy, and effective time management in your response.

    Example 1. Describing a Line Graph with Increasing Trends
    Line Graph with Increasing Trends

     

    The graph illustrates the sales figures from 2015 to 2025. Initially, the sales remained low at 10,000 units. However, a sharp increase occurred between 2017 and 2019, reaching 50,000 units. The trend continued upward, peaking at 90,000 units in 2025. Overall, the sales showed a significant upward trend over the years.

    Example 2. Describing a Line Graph with Fluctuating Trends
    Line Graph with Fluctuating Trends

     

    The graph represents temperature changes over 12 months. Initially, temperatures rose steadily from January to April. However, fluctuations occurred between May and September, with temperatures reaching a peak in July. After September, a steady decline was observed. Overall, the graph exhibits a fluctuating pattern with seasonal variations.

    Example 3. Describing a Line Graph with a Declining Trend
    Line Graph with a Declining Trend

     

    The graph illustrates the population growth rate from 2010 to 2020. It started at a high of 5% but declined sharply between 2012 and 2015. Although a slight recovery was seen in 2016, the trend continued downward, reaching 1% in 2020. Overall, the graph depicts a significant decline in population growth.

    Example 4: Describing a Line Graph with a Gradual Rise and Fall
    Line Graph with a Gradual Rise and Fall

     

    The graph displays unemployment rates from 2010 to 2020. The rates gradually increased from 5% in 2010 to 9% in 2015. However, after reaching a peak, the trend reversed, and unemployment steadily declined, settling at 4% in 2020. Overall, the graph demonstrates a gradual rise followed by a steady decline.

    Example 5: Describing a Line Graph with a Sudden Drop
    Line Graph with a Sudden Drop

     

    The graph shows stock market performance from 2018 to 2023. Initially, stock prices rose steadily, peaking in 2020. However, a sudden decline occurred in 2021, with values dropping by 40%. Despite minor fluctuations, the trend remained downward. The graph highlights a sharp market crash followed by instability.
    4.

    Scoring Criteria for Line Graph PTE

    To score well in the PTE Describe Image task, your response must be clear, structured, and fluent. The evaluation is based on multiple factors, including content accuracy, pronunciation, and coherence. 
     

    Here are the Scoring Criteria for Line Graphs in PTE.

     

    Criteria Score Range
    Content 0 - 5
    Pronunciation 0 - 5
    Oral Fluency 0 - 5


    You can also learn more about PTE score bands and scoring factors here.

    Essential Factors for Scoring High in PTE Line Graphs

    To achieve a high score in the PTE line graph task, it's crucial to focus on several essential factors that contribute to effective communication. Here’s a detailed breakdown of these factors.

     

    1. Speak Clearly and Confidently

     

    • Ensure your words are well-articulated and easy to understand.
    • Avoid mumbling or speaking too fast, as it can reduce clarity.
    Example: Instead of rushing through your response, practice slowing down your speech while maintaining fluency.

     

    2. Avoid Hesitation and Long Pauses

     

    • Frequent pauses or filler words like "um" and "uh" can negatively impact your fluency score.
    • You need to structure your response in a way that it flows naturally.
    Example: Instead of, "Uh… the graph shows… um… a rise in sales," say, "The graph illustrates a steady rise in sales over time."

     

    3. Maintain a Natural Rhythm

     

    • Speak at a consistent pace, neither too fast nor too slow.
    • Emphasise key trends by adjusting your tone slightly.
    Example: When describing a sharp increase, raise your tone slightly to highlight the trend, e.g., "There is a significant surge in numbers from June to September."
    Vocabulary & Sentence Structure – Dos & Don’ts

    Expanding your vocabulary and structuring your sentences effectively can significantly improve your line graph PTE describe image score. By following the right approach, you can deliver clear, concise, and well-organised responses. 

     

    Here are some key do’s and don’ts to help you refine your descriptions.

     

    Do:

     

    • You need to use a diverse vocabulary relevant to line graphs.
    • Structure responses properly.
    • Example: Instead of saying, “The number increased a lot,” say, “The figure surged significantly.”
    • Alternative words: rise → surge, grow, climb; fall → drop, decline, plummet; fluctuate → oscillate, vary.

     

    Structure Responses Properly.

     

    • Example: Instead of saying, “The sales in January were low, and in February, they were high. Then in March, they dropped,” say, “Sales started at a low point in January, peaked in February, and declined again in March.

     

    Don’t:

     

    • Use overly complex sentences. For example, instead of saying, “The numerical representation exhibits a significant augmentation over a protracted duration,” say, “The graph shows a steady increase over time.”
    • Repeat words or phrases excessively. For example, instead of saying, “The price increased, then increased again, and later it increased more,” say, “The price rose initially, experienced another surge, and continued its upward trend.”

     

    Also Read: PTE Exam Practice test

    Common Mistakes to Avoid in PTE Line Graph

    Many test-takers attempt PTE line graph questions without knowing the right approach, which can lead to mistakes. To help you avoid this, follow these key steps for a well-structured response.

     

    • Study the Graph Carefully: Take your time to analyse the main elements, including numbers, years, and variables.
    • Identify Key Highlights: Look for the highest and lowest points, comparisons, and trends to include in your response.
    • Stay Calm & Speak Confidently: Keep your focus, speak clearly, and maintain fluency to improve pronunciation and coherence.
    5.

    Best Strategies to Improve Your Line Graph PTE Response

    Strategies to Improve Your Line Graph PTE

     

    If you want to ace your line graph PTE task, focusing on the right vocabulary and key points is essential. To guide you toward success, LeapScholar experts have shared proven strategies and techniques that will help you improve your performance, manage time efficiently, and approach the exam with confidence.

    Manage Time Effectively

    To score well in the line graph PTE, you need to manage your 40 seconds effectively. Breaking down your response into structured time slots will help you deliver a clear and concise answer.
     

    Here is the Time Breakdown for the Line Graph Task.
     

    Steps Time Allocation
    Analyse the Graph 5 seconds
    Give a Structured Response 30 seconds
    Conclude your Answer 5 seconds
    Using Transition Words to Enhance Clarity

    Using the right transition words can make your response more structured and easy to follow. Here are some effective ones to include in your answer.

     

    • "Initially"-To describe the starting point of the graph.
    • "Over time"- To highlight trends and changes.
    • "In contrast"- To compare different data points.
    • "Overall"- To summarise the key findings.

     

    Also Read: PTE reading tips and tricks

    Practising with Real Line Graph PTE Questions

    Consistent practice is essential for mastering the Describe Image task. The LeapScholar PTE Score 80 Course offers mock tests with instant AI scoring, helping you refine your skills in real test conditions. 

     

    Here’s how you can prepare effectively:

     

    • Use LeapScholar’s AI-powered mock tests to simulate real exam scenarios.
    • Get instant feedback on your responses to improve accuracy and fluency.
    • Practise different types of line graphs, including single-line, multiple-line, and parallel-line graphs, with expert guidance.

     

    Let LeapScholar guide you to success! Gain expert support, a structured PTE line graph template, and hands-on practice with real PTE line graph samples to improve your fluency and accuracy. Join us today and boost your PTE score to the next level!

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    FAQs

    Q. How to describe a line graph in PTE?

    Ans. To describe a line graph PTE, begin with an introduction mentioning the title and axes. Then, you need to identify key trends like increases, decreases, or fluctuations. Compare data points, highlighting peaks, troughs, and patterns. Use precise vocabulary such as "sharp rise" or "gradual decline." Conclude with a brief summary of the overall trend for a structured response.

    Q. How many types of graphs are there in PTE?

    Ans. PTE features various types of graphs, including line graphs, bar charts, pie charts, tables, maps, and process diagrams. Each type requires a different strategy for analysis and description. Line graph PTE focuses on trends over time; bar charts compare categories and pie charts show proportions. Understanding these differences helps in structuring responses effectively using the PTE describe image template.

    Q. How to analyse a line graph?

    Ans. To analyse a line graph PTE, start by examining the title to understand the topic. Next, review the x-axis and y-axis labels to identify variables and units of measurement. Observe key trends, including upward or downward movements, fluctuations, and stable periods. Identify the highest and lowest points, compare data changes, and structure your response accordingly for clarity and accuracy.

    Q. How do you describe what you see in a graph?

    Ans. To describe what you see in a line graph PTE graph, start by giving an overview of the general trends, such as whether the data is increasing, decreasing, fluctuating, or remaining stable. Then, highlight key data points, including peaks, troughs, and significant changes. Finally, conclude with a brief summary that reinforces the overall trend and key observations.

    Q. What are the advantages of a line graph?

    Ans. Line graph PTE are advantageous because they effectively display trends over time, making it easy to observe increases, decreases, and fluctuations. They are useful for comparing multiple data sets and identifying patterns or correlations. Additionally, they provide a clear visual representation of long-term changes, helping in decision-making and data analysis across various fields like business, science, and economics.

    Q. How to describe a flow chart in PTE?

    Ans. To describe a flowchart in PTE, start by introducing the overall process it represents. Then, explain each step in sequential order, highlighting key actions or decisions. Use transition words like "first," "next," "then," and "finally" to ensure a smooth flow. Conclude with a brief summary of the process, emphasising its purpose or outcome.

    Q. How Many Types of Line Graphs Are There?

    Ans. There are three main types of line graphs. A single-line graph tracks only one variable over time, making it the simplest form. A parallel line graph displays two variables that never intersect and remain at equal distances. Lastly, a multiple-line graph represents multiple dependent variables against a single independent variable, allowing for better comparison.

    Q. How Much Time Will I Get to Attempt the Line Graph Question?

    Ans. In the line graph PTE, you will have 25 seconds to prepare and 40 seconds to speak. During the preparation time, quickly analyse the graph, identify key trends, and structure your response. In the speaking time, deliver a well-organised answer, covering the introduction, main trends, key data points, and a brief conclusion.

    Q. How to Attempt a Line Graph Answer?

    Ans. To effectively answer a line graph question, start by identifying key trends, such as increases, decreases, or fluctuations. Use transition words like “initially,” “over time,” or “in contrast” to maintain coherence. Structure your response with an introduction, key details, and a conclusion while ensuring fluency, clarity, and proper pronunciation.

    Q. What is the line graph in the PTE exam?

    Ans. A line graph PTE visually represents data trends over time and is a part of the describe image PTE line graph 2019 task. It requires candidates to analyse key trends, compare data points, and describe patterns clearly. Successfully explaining a line graph helps improve fluency, vocabulary, and structured response skills in the PTE speaking section.

    Q. How Much Time Will I Get to Attempt the Line Graph Question?

    Ans. In the PTE describe image task, you get 25 seconds to analyse the line graph and prepare your response. After this, you have 40 seconds to explain key trends, compare data points, and summarise the overall pattern. Moreover, managing your time effectively is crucial for delivering a well-structured and fluent response.