PTE Core Describe Image Template
Use one flexible Describe Image template to speak clearly about charts, processes, maps, and photos. Learn the structure here, then test it with timed AI scoring practice.
Quick answer
The safest PTE Core Describe Image template is: introduce the image, describe the most important trend or feature, add one supporting detail, and close with an overall summary in about 30-40 seconds.
Reviewed by Justin, PTE Core coach at PTE Core Practice.
Simple Describe Image Template
Keep the language short enough to finish in 30-40 seconds. Replace only the bracketed parts while keeping your fluency stable.
Chart template
The following graph shows the information about xx (title) As we can see from this graph, there are different elements such as xx, xx and xx (categories) As we can see from this graph, there are different numbers, the largest number is xx (largest value), the smallest number is xx (smallest value) As we can see from this graph, there are different colors, such as xx and xx, xx and xx. In conclusion, the picture is very informative.
Process template
The following graph shows the information about xx (purpose of the diagram) As we can see from the graph, there are different steps, such as step 1 and 2, step 3 and 4, step 5 and 6. As we can see from the graph, there are different elements, such as 6 items in 3 groups As we can see from the graph, there are different colors, such as blue and black, purple and white. In conclusion, the picture is very informative.
Template by Image Type
Use the same structure, but change the details you choose first.
Bar chart
Start with the category being compared. Mention the highest bar, the lowest bar, and one simple comparison instead of listing every value.
Line chart
Describe the overall direction first: increasing, decreasing, stable, or fluctuating. Then mention the start and end points or the most obvious peak.
Pie chart
Name the largest segment, the smallest segment, and one useful contrast. Use percentage language only when it is easy to read.
Table
Group similar rows or columns. Choose the highest value, lowest value, and one pattern across the table rather than reading cell by cell.
Map
Start with the place or layout. Then describe the biggest change, direction, or relationship between two areas.
Process diagram
Describe the first step, the final step, and one middle step. Use sequence words such as first, next, after that, and finally.
Photo
Describe the main scene, people or objects in the foreground, and one background detail. Do not use chart language for photos.
High-Score Sample Answers
These are short model answers. The goal is stable delivery, not a long memorized script.
Prompt
A line chart shows smartphone ownership from 2005 to 2020.
Sample answer
The line chart provides information about smartphone ownership from 2005 to 2020. The most noticeable point is that ownership increased steadily over the period. Also, the final year shows the highest level, which suggests smartphones became much more common. Overall, the chart is informative and shows a clear upward trend.
Best for charts where the overall movement is more important than exact numbers.
Prompt
A process diagram shows how to make a cup of coffee.
Sample answer
The following graph shows the information about how to make a cup of coffee. As we can see from the graph, there are different steps, such as step 1 and 2, step 3 and 4, and step 5. As we can see from the graph, there are different elements, such as spoon and coffee beans, cup and saucer, sugar and stirring, kettle and hot water. And finally, you will get a cup of coffee. As we can see from the graph, there are different colors, such as black and white. In conclusion, the picture is very informative.
Real practice question #10 from the Describe Image question bank.
Prompt
A photo shows customers ordering drinks in a busy coffee shop.
Sample answer
The following picture shows the information about a busy coffee shop where customers are ordering drinks. In the foreground, a waitress, with a white shirt and a black apron, is smiling and operating a tablet to take an order. In the background, several customers are lining up, and another male staff is handing something to a customer at the far end. On the counter, there are many different items such as a wooden tablet stand, a clipboard, and some cafe equipment. In conclusion, the picture captures a typical moment of customer service in a coffee shop.
Real practice question #7 from the Describe Image question bank.
Prompt
A bar chart compares monthly sales for four stores.
Sample answer
The bar chart provides information about monthly sales in four stores. The most noticeable point is that Store A has the highest sales, while Store D has the lowest sales. Also, the middle two stores show similar results, which suggests a moderate level of performance. Overall, the chart is informative and shows a clear comparison between the stores.
Best for comparing categories quickly without reading every bar.
Prompt
A pie chart shows how students spend their study time.
Sample answer
The pie chart provides information about students' study time. The largest section is reading, which takes the biggest share of the total time. The smallest section is revision, while writing and listening have similar portions. Overall, the chart is informative and shows how study time is divided across different activities.
Best for proportion images where largest and smallest sections matter most.
Prompt
A table shows average test scores for three classes in speaking, writing, and listening.
Sample answer
The table provides information about average test scores for three classes. The most noticeable point is that Class 1 has the strongest speaking result, while Class 3 has the weakest writing result. Also, listening scores are fairly similar across all classes. Overall, the table is informative and shows several useful score comparisons.
Best for tables because it groups data and chooses only clear comparisons.
Prompt
A map shows a town center before and after a new train station was built.
Sample answer
The map provides information about changes in a town center. The most noticeable point is that a new train station was added near the main road. Also, more shops and parking spaces appeared around the station, which suggests better access for visitors. Overall, the map is informative and shows clear development in the town center.
Best for maps because it mentions location, change, and impact.
Prompt
A photo shows a busy indoor fruit and vegetable market.
Sample answer
The following picture shows the information about a busy indoor fruit and vegetable market where many vendors and customers are gathered under a green roof. In the foreground, a woman with a black handbag is browsing through the stalls filled with peaches, grapes, and bananas. In the middle, another woman with a backpack is walking between two rows of stalls. In the background, numerous customers are packed around the stalls, and some blue umbrellas are set up to provide shade. In conclusion, this picture captures a typical moment of daily life in a local marketplace.
Real practice question #8 from the Describe Image question bank.
Scoring and Timing Focus
Fluency
Speak continuously. A simple sentence spoken smoothly is safer than a complex sentence with long pauses.
Pronunciation
Use clear common words. Slow down slightly on numbers, categories, and key nouns.
Content
Cover the main idea and two details. Do not attempt to mention every label or object.
Timing
Aim for about 35 seconds. Finish with a closing sentence instead of stopping suddenly.
When Not to Use a Template Blindly
- Do not force chart words like highest or lowest onto a photo when there are no values.
- Do not memorize a script that is so long you cannot finish before the timer ends.
- Do not stop to correct a small grammar mistake; keep speaking and protect fluency.
10-Minute Practice Routine
1 min
Read the template
Say the opening, key detail, and closing lines once without looking away.
6 min
Answer three prompts
Do one chart, one process or map, and one photo with a 40-second timer.
3 min
Review feedback
Check AI scoring for pauses, unclear words, and missing main details.
Describe Image answers for common prompt patterns
These quick rules help you adapt the same template to the long-tail prompts learners usually search for before the test.
PTE Core Describe Image bar chart template
For a bar chart, say what the bars compare, identify the highest and lowest categories, then add one comparison such as A is much higher than B.
PTE Core Describe Image line chart template
For a line chart, lead with the overall movement, then mention the starting point, ending point, peak, or lowest point if it is obvious.
PTE Core Describe Image process template
For a process diagram, focus on sequence. Use first, next, after that, and finally so your answer sounds organized even with limited vocabulary.
PTE Core Describe Image photo template
For a photo, describe the scene, foreground, background, and likely purpose. Avoid saying highest, lowest, or trend when there are no numbers.
Describe Image Template FAQ
Should I memorize one PTE Core Describe Image template?
Yes, but keep it flexible. Memorize the structure, not a long script, then change the details for each image.
Can I use the same template for charts and photos?
Use the same opening and closing, but change the body. Charts need trends and values; photos need scene, foreground, and background.
How long should my Describe Image answer be?
A practical target is 30-40 seconds. You need enough content for the image but should finish before the recording ends.
What should I mention first in a chart?
Start with the overall trend or the highest and lowest values. This gives your response structure quickly.
Where should I practice after learning the template?
Use the Describe Image practice page to answer timed prompts and review AI feedback on fluency, pronunciation, and structure.
What is the easiest Describe Image template for beginners?
Use one opening, two details, and one summary sentence. Beginner answers should protect fluency before trying advanced vocabulary.
Should I mention exact numbers in Describe Image?
Mention exact numbers only when they are easy to read. If the image is crowded, approximate language such as about, nearly, and the highest value is safer.
How do I describe a photo in PTE Core?
Describe the main scene first, then the foreground and background. A photo answer should sound observational, not like a chart report.