PTE Retell Lecture — Full Guide

PTE Retell Lecture — Full Guide

What is Retell Lecture?

You listen to an audio or watch a video for 60–90 seconds, then you must summarize and retell it in 40 seconds.

2. Number of Questions

You will get 3–4 Retell Lecture questions in the exam.

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3. Timing in Retell Lecture

Stage	Time
Audio/Video duration	60–90 sec
Preparation time	10 seconds
Answering time	40 seconds

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4. Scoring Criteria

PTE gives marks in three major areas:

1. Content (3 points)

·         Did you cover the main idea + key points?

·         No need for all details — just main topic & 2–3 major ideas.

2. Fluency (5 points)

·         Speak smoothly

·         No long pauses

·         Natural speed

3. Pronunciation (5 points)

·         Clear sounds

·         Understandable rhythm

Total = 13 points per lecture

Retell Lecture also contributes to:

·         Speaking score

·         Listening score

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5. Ideal Length / Number of Words

You should speak for 35–40 seconds.
Ideal words = 35–50 words (short, clear, structured).

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6. Simple Template to Use (High Score)

⭐ PTE Retell Lecture Template

“The lecture was mainly about (main topic).
The speaker explained that (key point 1).
Additionally, the lecture mentioned (key point 2).
Furthermore, the speaker highlighted (key point 3).
In conclusion, the lecture provided important information about (topic).”

This template works for any lecture.

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7. Useful Phrases for Retell Lecture

Starting phrases

·         “The lecture discusses…”

·         “The speaker talks about…”

·         “The main topic of the lecture is…”

Idea-adding phrases

·         “Firstly, the speaker mentions that…”

·         “Moreover, it is explained that…”

·         “Another important point is that…”

·         “In addition to this…”

Ending phrases

·         “In conclusion…”

·         “Overall, the lecturer highlights…”

·         “To sum up the lecture…”

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8. Tips to Score 65–90 Easily

Just collect keywords — not the whole lecture

Write 6–8 words during listening:

·         Main topic

·         Dates

·         Examples

·         Causes/effects

Don’t stop speaking

Even if you forget, keep talking using fillers:

·         “The speaker also talked about other important points related to this topic.”

Do NOT repeat sentences from memory

PTE checks fluency, not perfection.

Use clear intonation

High → low speech tone helps pronunciation score.

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9. Sample Answer (Perfect 90 Style)

Listen → Notes → Produce answer like this:

“The lecture mainly describes climate change. The speaker explains that global temperatures are rising due to human activities. Furthermore, melting glaciers and extreme weather events were highlighted. In conclusion, the lecture emphasized urgent action to reduce carbon emissions.”