Blogs 
Leap Digest 
Events 
About Us 
What Is the Pie Chart Task in PTE Describe Image?
The Pie Chart PTE task in the Describe Image section is designed to test how well you can describe data presented visually. In this task, you will be given a pie chart in PTE, divided into several segments, each representing a different category or proportion of data. Your goal is to interpret the chart and explain it clearly within a short time frame.
How do Pie Charts Appear in the Describe Image Task?
Pie charts in the PTE describe image pie chart tasks typically display data as circular graphs, with each segment representing a percentage or proportion of a whole. You’ll encounter charts showing different types of data, such as percentages of a population, distribution of resources, or survey results.
The data will be broken down into categories, and you’ll need to identify the most important trends, like the largest and smallest sections. Knowing how to describe a pie chart vocabulary PTE is key to scoring well, so it’s essential to pay close attention to each segment’s value, label, and title.
Pie Chart PTE Format & Scoring Guide
In the Pie Chart PTE describe image task, you will be presented with a pie chart that visually represents data divided into segments.
Each segment corresponds to a different category or proportion, typically shown as a percentage or value.
Here’s what to expect in the Pie chart PTE task.
Scoring Criteria for Pie Chart Description
Your performance in the PTE Pie Chart describe image task is evaluated based on three main criteria: Content, Fluency, and Pronunciation. Each criterion is rated on a scale of 0-5, and the combined score contributes to your overall speaking score.
How to Describe a Pie Chart in PTE?
To better explain a pie chart in PTE, start by forming an overall understanding by reading the title. This will help you gain a clearer grasp of the main subject and improve your scores in the PTE pie chart task.
Next, review the statistics and any accompanying notes. These will clarify which segment represents the greatest percentage or number, as well as the segment with the lowest value.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to answering a pie chart.
1. Introduction (First few seconds of your 40-second response)
Start your analysis by introducing the chart, title, and main subject. For instance, Start by stating the type of chart: "This is a pie chart..." and give a brief overview: "...which illustrates the distribution of [topic]."
2. Main Body (Majority of your response)
Focus on the segment with the highest and lowest percentage or number. Use comparative language like “A Significantly higher than B” or “A is almost equal to. B” to state differences. Other than this, describe the largest and smallest sections in detail and mention other significant portions.
3. Conclusion (Last few seconds)
Draw a concise conclusion in 1 or 2 sentences. Start with phrases like "Overall, the pie chart demonstrates that [main trend/conclusion]." You can also say “In conclusion” and “To conclude” or words such as “Finally” and “Or eventually.”
Pro Tip
- Try to link different data by using transitional words, such as “meanwhile,” “in the meantime,” “although,” “furthermore,” “however,” etc.
- Avoid complex vocabulary or sentence structures that could lead to errors or hesitations.
- Minimise "um," "uh," or long pauses. Practice speaking continuously.
- Prioritise the most important information and avoid getting bogged down in minor details.
PTE Pie Chart Templates & Sample Answers
The Pie chart task in the PTE test requires you to analyse and describe data presented in a circular chart. This type of question evaluates your ability to interpret proportions, compare different segments, and summarise key trends.
LeapScholar offers full-length PTE reading practice tests that replicate real exam conditions, helping you improve your score. Download the PTE Pie Chart template and test samples today!
Sample PTE Pie Chart Questions & Model Answers
An important part of the PTE exams is describing the PTE chart, which can have a significant impact on the overall score. PTE exam preparation will help you score good marks on the pie chart questions.
Here are some PTE pie chart questions with their model answers; let’s have a look at them:
PTE Pie Chart Template 1
Question: “Percentage of US Homeless by Race/Ethnicity”
Answer:
This pie chart illustrates US homelessness by race/ethnicity. White non-Hispanic individuals and Black non-Hispanic individuals represent the largest portions, at 40.6% and 39.6%, respectively. Hispanic individuals make up 10.9%, Native Americans comprise 7.9%, and those categorized as "Other" account for 1.0% of the homeless population in the US. The data highlights a disproportionate representation of Black and White non-Hispanic individuals in the homeless population.
PTE Pie Chart Template 2
Question: “Preferred Mode of Commuting.”
Answer:
This chart shows the preferred mode of commuting. The most popular choice is the Metro, favoured by 42% of people. Following that, 24% prefer to bike, and 23% use a car. The local bus is the least preferred option, with only 11% choosing it. The Metro clearly stands out as the dominant mode of transportation among the options presented.
PTE Pie Chart Template 3
Question: “Percentage of Population of Countries in the European Union”
Answer:
This chart depicts the population of European Union countries in 2007, shown as percentages. Germany holds the largest share at 29.7%. Following Germany are France at 16.6% and the United Kingdom at 12.8%. Italy and Spain have similar percentages, 12.3% and 11.9% respectively. Poland represents 9%, and all other 21 countries combined make up 7.7%. Germany clearly dominated the EU population distribution in 2007.
PTE Pie Chart Template 4
Question: “Percentage of Pets That 30 Students Liked”
Answer:
This pie chart shows the pets liked by 30 students in a survey. The clear favourite is dogs, with 53.3% of students preferring them. Other pets not specifically listed make up 26.7%. Cats and Hamsters are tied at 6.7% each. Interestingly, 6.7% of students said they like all the pet options. Dogs are overwhelmingly the most popular pet choice among these students.
PTE Pie Chart Template 5
Question: “Percentage of Activities Enjoyed by People in 5th Grade at Harpeth Hall”
Answer:
This pie chart shows what 5th graders at Harpeth Hall like to do on snow days. The most popular activity is watching TV, at 43%. Sledding, playing, and reading are tied at 14% each. Sitting by the fire is preferred by 11%, and only 3% of students chose sleeping. Clearly, watching TV is the favourite snow day activity among these 5th graders.
Practice Exercises for PTE Pie Charts
Practising with a variety of PTE Pie Chart questions is key to mastering this task and improving your speed and accuracy. Regular practice will help you develop the skills needed to interpret and describe pie charts effectively within the given time limit. Below are some practice exercises that will help you prepare for the PTE Pie Chart Describe Image task.
Practice Exercise 1: Global Population Distribution by Continent
Look at a pie chart that shows the distribution of the global population across different continents. Identify the largest and smallest segments and describe the overall distribution.
Key Points to Focus On:
- Largest and smallest segments
- Proportions between continents
- Major trends (e.g., higher populations in Asia, lower populations in Antarctica)
Practice Exercise 2: Market Share of Car Brands in 2025
A pie chart shows the market share of car brands in 2025. Focus on identifying the leading car brands and comparing their shares. Describe the percentage differences between the largest and smallest shares.
Key Points to Focus On:
- Identify the leading brands by percentage
- Compare and contrast the data
- Summarise the overall trend in the market share distribution
Practice Exercise 3: Distribution of Monthly Household Expenses
The pie chart displays a household's monthly expenditure breakdown. Pay attention to categories like rent, utilities, food, and entertainment. Describe the largest expense category and note how it compares to other categories.
Key Points to Focus On:
- Proportions of different expenses
- Comparison between major expense categories
- The overall trend in how the budget is allocated
By regularly giving mock tests and PTE practice tests, you'll become more adept at identifying trends, understanding data relationships, and describing pie charts in a clear and structured way.
Best Strategies for Scoring High in PTE Pie Chart Describe Image
Responding to pie chart questions can help you increase your PTE scores. The tips below can help you answer Pie chart questions in PTE.
- Begin with the Title: Read the title first, as it provides the context and overall topic of the pie chart. This should be your starting point.
- Interpret Data Representation: Make sure you understand what each segment represents. Accurate interpretation of each segment helps you deliver a precise and comprehensive description. Pay close attention to legends and numerical values.
- Recognising Patterns and Relationships: If applicable, identify trends or patterns in the data, such as a steady increase or decrease. Articulating these trends demonstrates a deeper understanding of the data's narrative and improves your response.
- Pre-Speech Summarisation: Before speaking, mentally summarise the key information you want to convey. Pre-speech summarisation facilitates a structured and coherent delivery, preventing rambling or omitting critical details.
- Fluent Delivery: Maintain fluency while delivering your speech. Fluent articulation, with clear pronunciation, shows confidence and increases the overall impact of your response.
- Concise Conclusion: Finish with a brief, summarising statement that encloses the main point of the pie chart. This shows that you have understood the overall message of the image.
Also Read: PTE Reading Tips and Tricks
Overall, pie chart PTE is an essential part of the speaking & writing section that needs better representation. You can easily excel in this task by updating yourself with helpful tips and samples.
To further improve your PTE preparation and achieve your desired score, explore the comprehensive resources and expert guidance available at Leap Scholar. Visit the website today!
