Summarise Spoken Text — Note Structure
1 min read
What is Summarise Spoken Text?
You hear an audio of 60–90 seconds, then write a summary in 50–70 words (Academic) or 25–50 words (Core). Tests Listening + Writing.
Format & Timing
- Audio: 60–90 seconds, plays once
- Total time per question: 10 minutes
- Word limit: 50–70 (Academic) · 25–50 (Core)
- Number per exam: 2–3
How It Is Scored
- Content (2): captures main points from the audio.
- Form (1): within word limit. Auto-zero if violated.
- Grammar (2): correct sentences.
- Vocabulary (2): appropriate words.
- Spelling (2): consistent (US OR UK).
Note-Taking System
Develop personal abbreviations and use them consistently:
- w/ = with · w/o = without · b/c = because
- ↑ = increase · ↓ = decrease · → = leads to
- First letter for long words: "environment" → env
- Numbers as digits: "twenty-three" → 23
Capture Framework (one column per slot)
- Topic (1 word)
- Speaker stance (agree / argue / explain)
- Point 1
- Point 2
- Point 3 (if there is time)
- Conclusion
Writing Template (50–70 words)
"The lecturer explains that [topic + stance]. Firstly, they note that [point 1]. Additionally, they argue that [point 2]. Finally, they conclude that [conclusion]."
Common Mistakes
- Writing in paragraphs — single paragraph is fine; flow matters more than structure.
- Going under 50 or over 70 words — auto-zero on form.
- Copying phrases verbatim from audio — vocabulary score drops.
- Making up content not in the audio — content score drops.
Practice on ClearMyPTE
Drill SST in Listening practice. AI flags whether you stayed within the word limit and how many key points you captured.