PTE Describe Image Tips 2026: Templates for Every Graph Type

Describe Image is one of the most feared PTE Speaking tasks — and one of the easiest to master with the right templates. You get 25 seconds to study an image and 40 seconds to describe it into the microphone. The key to scoring well is having a template for every image type so you never freeze or run out of things to say. This guide provides templates for bar charts, line graphs, pie charts, tables, process diagrams, maps, and pictures.

What Is Describe Image?

Describe Image appears in Part 1 (Speaking & Writing) of PTE Academic. You are shown an image — which could be a graph, chart, diagram, map, or picture — and given 25 seconds to study it. Then a recording tone plays and you have exactly 40 seconds to describe the image. The AI scores your response on three criteria: Content (relevant information from the image), Oral Fluency (smooth delivery), and Pronunciation (clear, intelligible speech).

Types of Images in PTE

Universal Describe Image Template

This template works for ANY image type. Memorise it and adapt for specifics:

Sentence 1 (Opening):"This [bar chart / line graph / pie chart / diagram / image] shows [what the image is about]."

Sentence 2-3 (Key Features):"The most significant [feature] is [detail]. We can also see that [second observation]."

Sentence 4 (Comparison/Trend):"Comparing [A] and [B], we notice that [relationship/difference]."

Sentence 5 (Conclusion):"In conclusion / Overall, the [image type] clearly indicates that [summary observation]."

Bar Chart Template

"This bar chart illustrates [topic]. The horizontal axis represents [categories] while the vertical axis shows [measurement/unit]. The highest value is [X] for [category], whereas the lowest is [Y] for [category]. There is a notable difference between [A] and [B], with [A] being approximately [X] higher/lower. Additionally, [another observation about middle values or trends]. Overall, this bar chart clearly demonstrates that [summary — which category dominates or what pattern exists]."

Line Graph Template

"This line graph depicts [topic] over [time period]. The line begins at approximately [starting value] in [starting year] and shows [an upward/downward/fluctuating] trend. The peak is reached at [value] in [year], while the lowest point is [value] in [year]. Between [year A] and [year B], there is a sharp [increase/decrease] of approximately [amount]. Overall, the general trend indicates [increasing/decreasing/stable] performance over the period shown."

Pie Chart Template

"This pie chart represents [topic]. The largest segment is [category] at approximately [X]%, which accounts for nearly [fraction] of the total. The second largest is [category] at [Y]%. In contrast, the smallest segment is [category] at only [Z]%. Together, [top 2 categories] account for over [combined %] of the total. This pie chart shows that [category] clearly dominates [topic]."

Process Diagram Template

"This diagram illustrates the process of [topic]. The process begins with [first step], followed by [second step]. In the next stage, [third step] occurs. Subsequently, [fourth step]. The final stage involves [last step]. There are approximately [number] steps in total. Overall, this diagram shows a [linear/cyclical] process from [start] to [end]."

Time Management: 25-Second Prep Strategy

You have exactly 25 seconds to study the image before recording begins. Use them wisely:

Seconds 1-5: Identify the image type (bar chart? line graph? pie chart?). Select the appropriate template.

Seconds 5-15: Identify key data points — highest, lowest, trends, notable comparisons. Note numbers and labels.

Seconds 15-25: Mentally rehearse your opening sentence and first key feature. Have your starting words ready.

When the recording tone plays, start immediately. Do not waste time. Begin with your template's opening sentence and flow into the prepared key features.

Describe Image Scoring Breakdown

Key insight: Content is only 1/3 of the score. Even if you miss some data points, excellent Oral Fluency and Pronunciation can carry your score. This is why the template approach works — it ensures continuous speaking (fluency) while you naturally incorporate whatever content you observed.

EEC Daily Describe Image Practice

EEC's PTE coaching includes daily Describe Image practice with 10-15 random images per session. Students practise with the templates, record their responses, and receive trainer feedback on content coverage, fluency gaps, and pronunciation corrections. This daily drill is what builds the automatic template response that scoring 79+ requires. For speaking fundamentals, see our Speaking Tips guide.

“Describe Image is the most template-friendly item in PTE. Students who memorise a strong template and practise 50 images score 70+ on Speaking consistently.”

— EEC PTE Trainer, Speaking Section Specialist

Related Resources & Further Reading

Ready to begin? Register for a free demo class. PTE is also accepted for study in New Zealand. Planning Canada? See our study in Canada options. Read our PTE Academic complete guide. Read our PTE fee structure in India. Read our PTE Academic vs PTE Core. Read our PTE scores for Australia PR. Read our PTE vs IELTS comparison. Read our PTE preparation tips for 79+. Also explore our IELTS complete guide. Also explore our IELTS vs PTE comparison. Also explore our IELTS Band 7 tips. Visit EEC Ahmedabad or EEC Surat for in-person guidance. Use our IELTS vs PTE comparison page for a side-by-side breakdown.

Frequently Asked Questions

Describe Image questions from PTE students: