The Summarize Written Text section in PTE Writing sounds easy on paper—read a passage and condense it into one sentence. But here's the catch: that single sentence can't be longer than 75 words, and it needs to capture everything important from a 150-300 word passage.

It's trickier than it looks. Here's exactly what you need to know to nail this task.

Read for the Main Point First

Don't start writing immediately. Take 30 seconds to understand what the passage is really about.

Ask yourself:

• What's the core message here?
• What is the author trying to say?

Quick tip: The main idea usually lives in the first or last sentence. Read those carefully, then scan for 2-3 supporting details that matter.

Include Only What Matters

You're not retelling the entire passage. You're capturing its essence.

Skip the examples, statistics, and minor details. Focus on the big picture.

Good summary example: "Climate change is causing rising temperatures, melting glaciers, and widespread loss of biodiversity across ecosystems."

See? Core idea, key impacts, nothing extra.

Write One Strong Sentence

Since you can only write one sentence, you need to connect ideas smoothly. Use these linking words:

• and, but, while, although, because, which, whereas, due to

Example: "While urbanization drives economic growth, it also leads to serious environmental problems like pollution and habitat loss."

This keeps your sentence clear and connected.

Stick to 30-50 Words

The official limit is 5-75 words, but the sweet spot is 30-50 words.

• Too short? You'll miss important information.
• Too long? You'll make grammar mistakes or hit the word limit penalty.

Aim for that middle range and you'll be fine.

Get Your Grammar Right

The PTE scoring system is strict about grammar. One mistake can cost you points.

Double-check these things:

• Subject and verb match (singular/plural)
• Punctuation is correct
• No incomplete sentences
• No run-on sentences

Use commas and connecting words properly. Your sentence should read smoothly from start to finish.

Don't Copy the Passage

Copying sentences word-for-word will hurt your score. The system wants to see that you can rephrase.

Change the structure and use different words:

• "The research highlights..." → "According to the study..."
• "People are concerned about..." → "There is growing concern over..."

This proves you understand the content, not just copying it.

Practice Makes Perfect

The only way to get faster and better is to practice regularly.

Try this: Read short articles online and challenge yourself to write a one-sentence summary. Time yourself. Aim for 2-3 minutes per task.

Want structured practice? You can do unlimited Summarize Written Text questions for free at openpte.com, with instant AI scoring and feedback on every attempt.

The Bottom Line

To score well on PTE Summarize Written Text, remember three things: Be clear. Be concise. Be accurate.

Find the main idea, write one solid sentence with proper grammar, and stay in the 30-50 word range.

Do this consistently, and you'll walk into the exam with confidence.

Quick Checklist

✓ Read the passage carefully
✓ Identify the main idea and 2-3 key points
✓ Write one grammatically correct sentence
✓ Keep it between 30-50 words
✓ Paraphrase—don't copy
✓ Practice regularly at openpte.com