Retell Lecture PTE: Best Strategies, Templates & Sample Answers to Score High

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Updated on Mar 25, 2025, 08:37

Every year, over 1.2 million people take the PTE exam, making it one of the most popular English proficiency tests out there. One of the trickiest parts is the Retell Lecture task in the speaking section.

 

Many test-takers find this task challenging, but with the right strategies and regular practice, you can improve and increase your score. This article covers the Retell Lecture task, why it matters, and the best strategies to succeed.

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1. What is Retell Lecture in PTE?

The Retell Lecture PTE exam checks how well you can listen to a lecture and summarise it in your own words.

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2. Retell Lecture PTE Format & Scoring Criteria

The Retell Lecture PTE task section usually includes 3 to 4 Retell Lecture questions, though the exact number may vary based on the test format.

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3. How to Prepare for Retell Lecture in PTE?

The Retell Lecture PTE task can be difficult because you need to listen carefully, understand quickly, and speak clearly in a short time.

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4. Sample Answers for Retell Lecture PTE

The Retell Lecture PTE task requires a clear, structured response that summarises key points fluently.

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5. Common Mistakes to Avoid in Retell Lecture PTE

The Retell Lecture task in PTE is challenging due to time pressure and common mistakes like poor note-taking, hesitation, or mispronunciations.

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6. Best Tips to Improve Your Retell Lecture Score

Scoring well in the Retell Lecture PTE task requires strong listening, note-taking, and fluent speaking.

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1.

What is Retell Lecture in PTE?

The Retell Lecture PTE exam checks how well you can listen to a lecture and summarise it in your own words. It tests both listening and speaking skills, requiring you to recognise the core ideas and key details while speaking clearly. You'll hear a lecture lasting 60 to 90 seconds and get a short time to prepare before responding.

 

Your goal is to retell the lecture accurately, covering the main topic, key points, and examples. This task assesses how well you comprehend spoken information, organise your thoughts quickly, and present them fluently.

 

Doing well in this task can improve your overall speaking score. That's why it's important to understand why it matters and how it affects your assessment.

 

Why is Retell Lecture important in PTE?

 

PTE Retell Lecture

 

Doing well in the Retell Lecture task improves both your listening and speaking scores, helping you get a PTE result. It also trains you to summarise important points clearly, which is useful for studies and work.

 

The Retell Lecture task in the PTE exam helps in:

 

  • Testing Listening Skills: Checks how well you understand and remember spoken information.
  • Measuring Quick Thinking: Evaluates how fast you can process and organise what you hear.
  • Assessing Speaking Skills: Focuses on fluency, pronunciation, and clarity in your response.
  • Checking Summarisation Ability: Requires you to identify key points and supporting details.
  • Showing Communication Skills: Tests how well you explain complex ideas clearly.
  • Academic Settings: Proves your ability to listen, process, and express ideas in English.
     

Understanding why Retell Lecture matters is just the first step. To perform well, you also need to know how the task is structured, how your response is scored, and how many retell lecture questions are in PTE.

2.

Retell Lecture PTE Format & Scoring Criteria

The Retell Lecture PTE task section usually includes 3 to 4 Retell Lecture questions, though the exact number may vary based on the test format. Knowing the PTE Retell Lecture format task helps you understand what to expect

 

Below is a quick overview of the Retell Lecture PTE task format:
 

Component Key Details
Audio Type Lecture on academic topics with key points, examples, and supporting details
Duration 60 to 90 seconds of lecture audio
Preparation Time 10 seconds after the lecture ends
Response Time 40 seconds to retell the lecture
Task Requirement Summarise the main ideas and key details accurately
Scoring Criteria Fluency, content accuracy, pronunciation, and clarity

 

Also Read: Minimum PTE Score Required For UK 2025

 

Understanding how to do a Retell Lecture in PTE is just the first step. To score well, it's important to know what the examiners look for in your response.

 

Scoring Criteria for Retell Lecture PTE

 

The Retell Lecture PTE task is scored based on four main factors: content, fluency, pronunciation, and oral presentation. Each one helps assess how well you understand and explain the lecture. To get a high score, your response should include the main ideas, be spoken smoothly, and have clear pronunciation.

 

Below is the scoring breakdown of the Retell Lecture PTE task format.
 

Criteria Score Range Key Details
Content 0 - 5 points Summarise key points accurately without unnecessary details
Fluency 0 - 3 points Speak smoothly with a natural flow and minimal hesitations
Pronunciation 0 - 3 points Pronounce words clearly with correct stress and intonation
Vocabulary & Grammar 0 - 3 points Use accurate and varied PTE Retell Lecture e2language with minimal mistakes.

 

Understanding the scoring criteria is just one part of the process. To do well in the Retell Lecture task, you need effective preparation strategies.

 

Read Next: Minimum PTE Score Required For Australia 2025

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.

How to Prepare for Retell Lecture in PTE?

The Retell Lecture PTE task can be difficult because you need to listen carefully, understand quickly, and speak clearly in a short time. Since this task affects both your listening and speaking scores, doing well can increase your overall results.

 

Below are the steps to prepare for the Retell Lecture in PTE:

 

  • Listen Actively & Identify Key Points: Pay attention to the main ideas in the PTE Listening Retell Lecture. Listen for the topic, important points, and key details. Try to remember them by taking quick notes or writing down keywords.
  • Structure Your Response Using a Template: Use a simple structure to retell the lecture by starting with a short introduction that states the main idea or topic. Then, discuss the main points with key details or examples. Finally, wrap up with a brief summary of the most important takeaway or final point.
  • Speak Clearly and Maintain Fluency: When retelling, speak clearly at a natural pace with as few pauses as possible. Take deep breaths to stay calm, and don't rush your speech.
  • Practice with Real PTE Retell Lecture Questions: Practice with real Retell Lecture PTE questions by listening to different lectures and retelling them using the steps above. Record yourself, then listen to the playback to check your fluency, pronunciation, and content.

 

By following these steps, you'll build the skills to handle the Retell Lecture task in PTE successfully. The more you practice PTE Retell Lecture with answers, the better you'll get at summarising and presenting key ideas clearly and fluently.

 

Practising is essential for improving performance, but reviewing examples can help you see what a strong response looks like.

 

Also Read: Minimum PTE Score For Canada 2025

4.

Sample Answers for Retell Lecture PTE

The Retell Lecture PTE task requires a clear, structured response that summarises key points fluently. Reviewing sample answers helps you identify important details, organise your response, and improve your score.

 

You can download more sample questions and practice with the PTE Retell Lecture with Answers PDF. Click here to get it.
 

Below are PTE Retell Lecture sample answers to help you prepare effectively:

Sample Example 1: Academic Lecture Sample Response

Lecture Topic: The Importance of Emotional Intelligence in Education

 

Sample Answer: The lecture explored the importance of emotional intelligence (EQ) in education, emphasising its value for students and teachers. The speaker explained that EQ helps students regulate their emotions, enhance their learning experience, and strengthen relationships with peers and teachers. 

 

A high EQ allows educators to better understand and address students' needs, encouraging a supportive and effective classroom environment. The lecture concluded that incorporating emotional intelligence into the curriculum can lead to enhanced academic performance and social development for students.

Sample Example 2: Scientific Lecture Sample Response

Lecture Topic: The Role of Photosynthesis in Plant Growth

 

Sample Answer: The lecture covered the process of photosynthesis and its essential role in plant growth. The speaker explained that photosynthesis allows plants to convert sunlight into energy, enabling their development. Plants capture sunlight through their leaves and combine carbon dioxide and water to produce glucose and oxygen. The glucose provides energy for their growth.

 

The speaker also highlighted that photosynthesis is vital for the entire ecosystem and helps maintain atmospheric oxygen levels. In conclusion, the lecture emphasised that photosynthesis is a fundamental process for sustaining life on Earth.

Sample Example 3: Business-Related Lecture Sample Response

Lecture Topic: Effective Leadership Strategies for Small Businesses

 

Sample Answer: The lecture explored key leadership strategies for small business success. The speaker emphasised that strong leadership is essential for motivating employees, fostering innovation, and building a positive company culture. A key takeaway was that leaders should lead by example and set clear expectations for their teams.

 

Effective communication was also highlighted as a crucial strategy for building trust and keeping employees aligned with company goals. Additionally, the speaker stressed the importance of adaptability and openness to feedback, especially in a business’s early stages. The lecture concluded by reinforcing that strong leadership is crucial for long-term business success.

Sample Example 4: The Effect of Climate Change on Biodiversity

Lecture Topic: The Impact of Climate Change on Ecosystems and Species Survival

 

Sample Answer: The lecture explored key leadership strategies for small business success. The speaker emphasised that strong leadership is essential for motivating employees, fostering innovation, and building a positive company culture. A key takeaway was that leaders should lead by example and set clear expectations for their teams.

 

Effective communication was also highlighted as a crucial strategy for building trust and keeping employees aligned with company goals. Additionally, the speaker stressed the importance of adaptability and openness to feedback, especially in a business’s early stages. The lecture concluded by reinforcing that strong leadership is crucial for long-term business success.

Sample Example 5: The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare

Lecture Topic: Advancements and Challenges of Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare

 

Sample Answer: The lecture examined the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in healthcare, focusing on its applications in diagnosis, treatment, and patient care. AI-driven systems enhance early disease detection, personalise treatments, and support medical research.

 

The speaker noted that AI improves hospital efficiency and minimises human error. However, concerns regarding data privacy and ethical challenges were also discussed. The lecture concluded that AI holds significant potential to transform healthcare when used responsibly.

Sample Example 6: The Evolution of Human Language

Lecture Topic: The Development and Transformation of Human Language Over Time

 

Sample Answer: The lecture explored the evolution of human language, explaining how communication developed over time. The speaker discussed how early humans used gestures and sounds before forming structured languages. The development of writing further enhanced communication, allowing knowledge to be passed across generations. The lecture emphasised that language continues to evolve, influenced by technology, culture, and globalisation.

Sample Example 7: The Economic Impact of Globalisation

Lecture Topic: The Influence of Globalisation on Economic Growth and Markets

 

Sample Answer: The lecture examined the economic impact of globalisation, stating that it increases trade, job opportunities, and innovation. The speaker noted that globalisation allows businesses to expand internationally, but it also creates challenges like income inequality and job displacement. The lecture emphasised the importance of policies that ensure fair trade and economic stability.

Sample Example 8: The Psychology of Decision-Making

Lecture Topic: Cognitive Processes and Factors Influencing Decision-Making

 

Sample Answer: The lecture discussed the psychology of decision-making, explaining how emotions, biases, and reasoning influence choices. The speaker mentioned concepts like cognitive biases and rational thinking, highlighting how individuals sometimes make irrational decisions due to emotions. The lecture concluded that understanding these psychological factors can help people make better and more informed decisions.

Sample Example 9: The Benefits of Renewable Energy

Lecture Topic: Sustainability and Advantages of Renewable Energy Sources

 

Sample Answer: The lecture discussed the benefits of renewable energy, emphasising its role in reducing dependence on fossil fuels and lowering carbon emissions. The speaker explained that solar, wind, and hydro energy are sustainable and environmentally friendly alternatives. Additionally, renewable energy sources create jobs and contribute to energy security. The lecture concluded that investing in renewable energy is essential for a sustainable future.

Sample Example 10: The Importance of Sleep for Cognitive Function

Lecture Topic: The Role of Sleep in Brain Health and Cognitive Performance

 

Sample Answer: The lecture focused on the importance of sleep for cognitive function, explaining how sleep enhances memory, learning, and problem-solving skills. The speaker mentioned that sleep deprivation leads to reduced concentration, poor decision-making, and health issues. 

 

Scientific research suggests that deep sleep is essential for brain restoration. The lecture concluded that maintaining a healthy sleep schedule improves overall cognitive performance and well-being.
5.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in Retell Lecture PTE

The Retell Lecture task in PTE is challenging due to time pressure and common mistakes like poor note-taking, hesitation, or mispronunciations. Avoiding these errors can improve fluency and boost your score.

 

Below are the common mistakes to avoid in Retell Lecture PTE and their effective solutions:

 

  • Speaking Too Fast or Too Slow: To avoid this, maintain a steady, natural pace, speaking clearly and confidently while allowing enough time to express your thoughts. Regular practice can help you find the right balance.
  • Missing Key Details from the Lecture: While listening, write down keywords or phrases that highlight the main ideas and details. There’s no need for full sentences—just simple keywords will do. This helps you organise your response better and ensures you don't miss important information.
  • Pausing Too Much or Hesitating While Speaking: Stay calm and don’t overthink your response. Use the 10-second preparation time to organise your thoughts and speak confidently with fewer pauses. If you struggle, keep going with a smooth flow instead of adding unnecessary pauses or filler words like "um" or "ah."

 

Recognising and learning to avoid these mistakes can help you give clear, well-structured, and high-scoring responses in the Retell Lecture PTE task. However, to truly improve your score, you need the right strategies.

 

Also Read: PTE Practice Test 2025

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!
6.

Best Tips to Improve Your Retell Lecture Score

Tips to Improve Retell Lecture Score

 

Scoring well in the Retell Lecture PTE task requires strong listening, note-taking, and fluent speaking. Using smart strategies like shorthand and smooth delivery can improve your performance.

 

Below are the best PTE Retell Lecture tips and tricks to help you perform better and improve your overall score:

 

  • Effective Note-Taking: Write down key points, such as the main theme, arguments, and examples. Use shortcuts (e.g., "ex") to save time. Listen for phrases signalling topic changes, like "On the other hand" or "In conclusion." Practice to improve speed and accuracy.
  • Speak Fluently with Proper Intonation: Retell lectures aloud, speaking clearly and smoothly. Avoid speaking too fast or too slow. Record yourself to spot pauses or unclear pronunciation. Use varied tones to highlight key points and keep your response engaging.
  • Use Linking Words for Better Flow: Connect ideas with words like "Moreover," "However," and "For example." Avoid jumping between points, and use linking words strategically to keep your response clear and structured.
  • Focus on Content Accuracy: Your response should capture the main ideas, not minor details. It should also reflect the lecture's key arguments. Stay focused to avoid missing important information.
  • Practice with Real PTE Questions: Practice the PTE Academic Retell Lecture under timed conditions with real PTE questions. Record and review your responses for fluency, pronunciation, and accuracy. Seek feedback and track progress to improve consistently.

 

If all this feels overwhelming, don't worry—you're not alone! LeapScholar's PTE Score 80 Course offers expert guidance, practice tests, and personalised feedback to help you master the Retell Lecture PTE task and help you confidently reach your target score.

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FAQs

Q. How to speak retell lecture PTE?

Ans. Listen carefully to the Retell Lecture PTE, take short notes on key points, and focus on the main idea and important details. When speaking, structure your response with an introduction, key points, and a conclusion while maintaining clarity, a steady pace, and minimal pauses. Keep it simple and use your own words for better fluency in the PTE Academic Retell Lecture.

Q. How to score 90 in retell lectures?

Ans. To score 90 in the Retell a Lecture PTE task, focus on fluency, pronunciation, and content by taking clear notes with keywords and short phrases. Practice speaking naturally at a good pace, avoiding hesitation and fillers like "um" or "uh." Use proper sentence structure, link ideas smoothly, and refine your skills by recording yourself. Analyse mistakes and improve through regular practice and mock tests in the PTE Smash Retell Lecture task.

Q. How many seconds for retell the lecture PTE?

Ans. In the PTE Retell Lecture task, use the 40 seconds wisely to summarise key points clearly and concisely. Maintain a steady pace, avoid rushing or speaking too slowly, and stay within the time limit while effectively covering the main ideas. Keep practising for the Retell Lecture PTE task.

Q. How can I improve my summarise spoken test in PTE?

Ans. To improve, practice listening to various lectures and summarising them in a structured way by quickly capturing the main points. Speak clearly, use linking words, and avoid unnecessary details. Record your responses, analyse them, and refine fluency and pronunciation through regular practice with feedback in the Retell Lecture PTE samples.

Q. How to get full marks in retell lecture in PTE?

Ans. To get full marks in the retell lecture in PTE, focus on content, fluency, and pronunciation by taking quick notes on key points and structuring your response logically. Speak in full sentences with linking words, maintain a natural pace, and avoid pauses or fillers. Practice with sample lectures, record yourself and refine fluency and clarity.

Q. What is the structure of a retell lecture PTE?

Ans. The ideal Retell Lecture PTE structure includes three parts: Introduction—briefly mention the topic; Key Points—summarise main ideas and supporting details; and Conclusion—wrap up with a final statement. For a smooth flow, keep sentences simple and connected using linking words like "first," "next," and "finally" and PTE Retell Lecture practice.

Q. How important is retell lecture in PTE?

Ans. Retell Lecture is crucial for the speaking section as it tests listening, fluency, pronunciation, and content understanding, directly impacting your overall score. Since it requires summarization skills and effective Retell Lecture PTE tips, excelling in this task also improves performance in other PTE sections, like summarising spoken and written texts.

Q. How can I speak well in PTE?

Ans. To speak well in PTE, focus on fluency, pronunciation, and clarity by avoiding hesitations and maintaining a steady pace. Improve pronunciation by listening to various accents and repeating sentences. Use simple words and structured responses, and practice regularly by recording yourself and taking mock tests to build confidence and enhance speaking skills.

Q. How to calculate PTE score?

Ans. PTE scoring is based on communicative skills (listening, reading, speaking, writing) and enabling skills (fluency, pronunciation, vocabulary, etc.), with each PTE Gold Retell Lecture task contributing to multiple sections. An automated system calculates the final score, which ranges from 10 to 90, evaluating accuracy, fluency, grammar, and content quality.

Q. How can I practice PTE speaking?

Ans. Practice by recording yourself on different topics, using PTE practice tests and mock exams. Focus on fluency, pronunciation, and clarity by listening to English news and repeating sentences. Join speaking groups or use AI-based speaking tools for feedback. Daily practice, following PTE Speaking Retell Lecture tips, and analysing mistakes will lead to significant improvement.

Q. How to improve retell lecture in PTE?

Ans. To improve retell lectures in PTE, practice listening to academic lectures, taking short notes, and structuring responses logically. Speak naturally, avoid long pauses, and use simple sentences with linking words to connect ideas. Record your responses, analyse weak points, and refine fluency and pronunciation through daily practice and using tips for Retell Lecture PTE.