The Speaking and Writing component of the PTE Academic test is one of the longest sections, lasting from 77 to 93 minutes. Within the Writing section, you’ll encounter two question types: Summarize Written Text (SWT) and Essay. While SWT is considered less challenging than Essay Writing, it can still consume valuable time if you lack the right strategies. Running out of time on SWT may hinder your ability to achieve a good Writing score. In this comprehensive guide, we provide you with tips and guidance to effectively tackle the SWT part of the PTE Writing test. By understanding the format, requirements, and applying these strategies, you can approach SWT with confidence and enhance your overall Writing performance.
Summarize Written Text Format
In the Summarize Written Text task, you will be presented with a paragraph conveying information. After reading the text, your task is to write a one-sentence summary. You will have 10 minutes to complete this task.
- Write a one-sentence summary after reading a text.
- You can write text up to 300 words.
- Time is 10 minutes.
- The summary should be a single sentence of no more than 75 words.
- The Word Count at the bottom of the screen counts the number of words you write. There are also cut, copy, and paste buttons which you may use while constructing your summary.
How Is It Scored?
To improve your performance in the SWT part of the PTE Writing test, Keep Mind These Scoring Factor –
Form
- 1 Score: Is written in one, single, complete sentence
- 0 Score: Not written in one single, complete sentence or contains fewer than 5 or more than 75 words. Summary is written in capital letters.
Content
- 2 Score: Provides a good summary of the text. All relevant aspects mentioned
- 1 Score: Provides a fair summary of the text but misses one or two
- 0 Score: Omits or misrepresents the main aspects of the text
Grammar
- 2 Score: Has correct grammatical structure
- 1 Score: Contains grammatical errors but with no hindrance to communication
- 0 Score: Has defective grammatical structure which could hinder communication
Vocabulary
- 2 Score: Has appropriate choice of words
- 1 Score: Contains lexical errors but with no hindrances to communication
- 0 Score: Has defective word choice which could hinder communication
Always Remember
- Use a complex or compound sentence to summarize the main point and briefly mention a supporting detail.
- Your response must be between 5 and 75 words so check the word count using the ‘Total Word Count’ counter below the response box
- Responses are scored as correct or incorrect based on word appropriateness.
- No credit for no response or an incorrect response.
- This question type does not assess listening and speaking skills.
Summarize Written Text Practice Tips
Summary Clarity & Word Count
- Include Main Points Within a Concise Sentence
- Avoid Introducing Personal Ideas
- Monitor the Word Count
- Your response should be between 5-75 words
Question-Centered Approach
- Address the Questions.
- Adopt a Two-Step Reading Approach.
Sentence Structure and Language Use:
- Utilize Synonyms and Avoid Copying the Entire Sentence.
- Avoid Using Phrases Like “The Paragraph Says/Tells.”
- Maintain Correct Grammar and Vocabulary.
- Practice Using Compound and Complex Sentences.
Conclusion
The Summarize Written Text task in the PTE Writing section may appear daunting at first, but with consistent practice and the right strategies, you can excel. Remember that brevity is key, and your one-sentence summary should encapsulate the main ideas of the passage. Additionally, focus on maintaining clarity, correct grammar, and precise vocabulary usage.
As you continue to practice and refine your skills, you’ll find that summarizing written text becomes a more manageable and even enjoyable task. Stay disciplined in adhering to the word count and practice crafting concise yet informative sentences. With these strategies in place, you’ll be better prepared to tackle the PTE Writing section with confidence and finesse.
By following the expert tips and guidelines outlined in this guide, you can enhance your proficiency in summarizing written text and significantly improve your PTE Writing score. So, go ahead, practice, and master the art of summarization in the PTE Academic test. Good luck!
