PTE Summarize Group Discussion Template and Tips
The PTE Academic test has introduced a brand-new question type called Summarize Group Discussion. Many are curious about what it is, how it works, and how to prepare effectively. Don’t worry — this blog will walk you through everything in a simple and easy way so you can confidently tackle this task.
Understanding the PTE Summarize Group Discussion Task
What is PTE Summarize Group Discussion?
This is a new speaking task in the PTE Academic exam (effective from August 7, 2025) where you’ll listen to a short group discussion—typically involving 3 speakers—and then summarize their conversation in your own word.
| PTE Summarize Group Discussion Summary | |
| PTE Task | Speaking Task |
| Skills assessed: | Listening & Speaking |
| Audio Length: | Up to 3 minutes |
| No of Questions: | 2 to 3 tasks in the test |
| Time: | 2 min |
| Scoring Criteria: | Content, Pronunciation & Oral fluency |
This test evaluates your listening, paraphrasing, structuring, pronunciation, and fluency skills—all in one task.
How does PTE Summarize Group Discussion Scoring?
Scoring hinges on three core areas:
Content
Capture the main ideas, speaker opinions, and any agreements or contrasting views, clearly and neutrally.
Pronunciation
Speak clearly and intelligibly. Your goal is easily understandable speech from a regular English speaker, not perfect accent.
Oral Fluency
Keep a smooth, steady flow—no long pauses, hesitations, or fillers. It should sound natural.
Also Read: PTE Academic and Core Respond to a Situation Guide
PTE Summarize Group Discussion Template
Version 1 Template:
Intro: The discussion was between ___ about ___.
Body 1: The first speaker was of the opinion that ___. He mentioned that ___. He also said that ___.
Body 2: As far as the second speaker is concerned, he said ___. He was of the view that ___. In the end, he mentioned that ___.
Body 3: The third speaker also mentioned that ___. He continued to say ___. He also said ___.
Conclusion: In conclusion/Overall, the discussion included important details about _____.
Version 2 Template:
Intro: Briefly say what the discussion was about + how many speakers took part.
Body 1: Mention Speaker 1’s main points.
Body 2: Mention Speaker 2’s main points.
Body 3: Mention Speaker 3’s main points.
Conclusion: End with one short line summarizing the overall discussion
How to Use the Template
=> Write 2–3 sentences per blank, not just short ones.
=> Divide notes into S1, S2, S3 → note who said what.
=> Use abbreviations to save time.
=> Listen 3–4 sec, then write 3–4 sec. Missing some details is fine.
=> Start: “The discussion was between ___ about ___.”
=> Mention main points + disagreements.
=> Speak for 90–120 sec with clear structure.
=> Be fluent: pause at sentence ends, avoid hesitations.
=> Use natural linking words (also, however, in addition).
PTE Summarize Group Discussion Example
‘Office Work‘ (On the app, type ‘Office Work’ in the search bar of the ‘SGD’ section for practicing.)
Transcript:
Speaker 1: Honestly, I feel overwhelmed with the amount of reporting tasks this week. I’m not sure I’ll be able to finish them before the deadline.
Speaker 2: I can relate, Sofia. The client updates and presentation slides are taking longer than expected. I’ve been working late just to keep up.
Speaker 3 (Manager): I appreciate both of you sharing this. It’s important that we manage the workload fairly and avoid burnout. Tell me, which tasks are causing the most pressure right now?
Speaker 1: For me, it’s the monthly financial report. Gathering the data is fine, but analyzing and formatting it takes too much time.
Speaker 2: And in my case, preparing the client presentation is the most time-consuming. I want it to look professional, but it’s slowing me down.
Speaker 3: Here’s what we can do: Sofia, you handle the data collection part of the report, and I’ll ask the finance assistant to help with the formatting. Rahul, I’ll assign one of the interns to support you with the visuals for your presentation.
Speaker 1: That would make a big difference. Thank you.
Speaker 2: Yes, delegating the design part would really save me time.
Speaker 3: Remember, teamwork is about using everyone’s strengths. Don’t hesitate to ask for help. Let’s also set daily check-ins this week so I can track progress and give quick feedback.
Speaker 1: That sounds great. With extra support, I’m confident I can finish on time.
Speaker 2: Same here. I feel less stressed now.
Speaker 3: Perfect. Keep communicating with me and with each other. Together, we’ll make sure the project is completed successfully.
Answer:
Intro:
The discussion was between three speakers about workload and reporting tasks.
Body 1:
The first speaker was of the opinion that she felt overwhelmed with the amount of reporting tasks for the week. She mentioned that preparing the monthly financial report was difficult, especially the analyzing and formatting part which took too much time. She also said that extra support would help her finish on time.
Body 2:
As far as the second speaker is concerned, he said that the client updates and presentation slides were taking longer than expected. He was of the view that preparing the presentation professionally was very time-consuming and made him work late. In the end, he mentioned that delegating the design part would save him time and reduce stress.
Body 3:
The third speaker also mentioned that it was important to manage the workload fairly and avoid burnout. He continued to say that the finance assistant would help with formatting and an intern would support the client presentation visuals. He also said that teamwork was about using everyone’s strengths, so daily check-ins would be arranged to track progress and provide feedback.
Conclusion:
Overall, the discussion included important details about workload challenges, support from team members, and the importance of teamwork for completing the project successfully.
Practical Tips & Simple Strategies For Summarize Group Discussion
Here’s how to tackle the task effectively and confidently:
1. Listen Actively
- Stay focused, pick up on main ideas, transitions, and tone, and don’t plan while listening—just absorb.
2. Take Smart Notes
- Use keywords, abbreviations, and speaker tags like S1, S2, S3 to stay organized and save time
3. Structure Your Summary
Use this simple roadmap:
- Intro: “The discussion was about…”
- Body: Mention each speaker’s main point. Use phrases like:
- “One speaker argued…”
- “Another pointed out…”
- Conclusion: Wrap with “overall,” or note any consensus
4. Paraphrase, Don’t Copy
- Use your own phrasing, rather than memorizing. Use simple synonyms and keep ideas precise
5. Speak Naturally & Confidently
- Avoid sound-alike delivery; just stay calm, steady, and connected. Use linking words like “firstly,” “however,” “in addition” to flow smoothly
6. Avoid Common Mistakes
- Don’t: Miss a speaker, speak too fast or slow, use fillers, or read notes word-for-word
Final Thoughts
The PTE Summarize Group Discussion might feel new or tricky—but with regular practice, smart note-taking, and clear structure, you can ace it with ease. It’s all about clarity, coherence, and keeping your speech smooth.
