Skip to content
Practise free

5 PTE Re-tell Lecture tips

You listen to a short lecture, sometimes with an image, then retell it in your own words.

Tips

  1. 1

    Notes in single words

    Write the topic, two or three key nouns and any number. Full sentences make you miss the next point.

  2. 2

    Listen for signposts

    Firstly, however and in conclusion mark the main points. Note what follows them.

  3. 3

    Start within three seconds

    Open with “The speaker was discussing…” while you look at your notes.

  4. 4

    Use the image

    If the lecture has an image, its title often names the topic.

  5. 5

    Finish with the conclusion

    Even a general conclusion (“the speaker emphasised its importance”) completes the structure.

Mistakes to avoid

  • Writing full sentences in your notes and missing the next point.
  • Long silences while searching for a detail.