Summarize Group Discussion PTE – Format, Tips & Examples
The Summarize Group Discussion (SGD) task in the PTE Academic exam is a relatively new addition that evaluates both your listening and writing skills. In this task, you are required to listen to a group discussion, pick out the key points, and write a concise summary within a limited time. Many test-takers find this task tricky because it demands quick comprehension, excellent note-taking, and the ability to express the essence of the discussion in just a few words.
This guide will help you understand the format of Summarize Group Discussion, the best tips to ace it, common mistakes to avoid, and provide a few examples to get you started. By the end, you will have a clear approach to mastering this task and improving your overall PTE score.
Format of Summarize Group Discussion in PTE
The Summarize Group Discussion task follows a simple yet challenging format:
Audio Length: You will hear a discussion that lasts about 1 to 2 minutes.
Participants: Typically, you will hear 3 to 4 speakers sharing their thoughts on a topic.
Task: After the discussion ends, you will get 50 to 70 words space to summarize the conversation.
Time Limit: You usually get 60 to 90 seconds to write your summary, so every second counts.
Scoring: Your score depends on how well you capture the key ideas, maintain coherence, and use proper grammar.
Unlike other PTE tasks, SGD evaluates both listening and writing skills together, which means you need to focus carefully during the discussion and quickly organize your thoughts before writing.
Tips to Master Summarize Group Discussion
1. Sharpen Your Listening Skills
Listening is 70% of this task. If you miss the main ideas, you will struggle to write a good summary. Practice listening to group conversations, podcasts, and panel discussions. Focus on identifying:
Main topic of discussion
Different perspectives shared by speakers
Final conclusion (if any)
2. Master Note-Taking
Efficient note-taking is the secret weapon for this task. Don’t try to write everything down; instead, use keywords, arrows, and abbreviations. For example:
“Govt ↑ tax” (means government is increasing taxes)
“Exp → eco growth” (means expenditure leads to economic growth)
Your notes should be enough to reconstruct the discussion later.
3. Write a Single, Well-Structured Sentence
The recommended word limit is 50-70 words, but try to write one clear and grammatically correct sentence. Use connectors like “while,” “however,” “in addition,” “whereas” to link ideas.
Example:
The participants discussed the impact of social media on mental health, with some arguing it promotes awareness while others believed it causes stress and addiction, and they concluded that a balanced use is necessary.
4. Focus on Key Points, Not Examples
Avoid including minor details, jokes, or examples from the conversation. Your goal is to summarize, not to narrate everything.
5. Use Proper Punctuation and Grammar
Good grammar and punctuation are essential for higher scores. Incorrect sentence structure can cost you points even if your content is good.
Things to Keep in Mind
Identify the Central Theme: Before you start writing, ask yourself: “What was this discussion about in one line?”
Balance All Opinions: If there are opposing views, mention both briefly instead of focusing only on one.
Stay Within the Word Limit: Writing too short or too long can negatively affect your score. Aim for 55–65 words.
Practice Under Timed Conditions: The time limit is strict, so practice completing the task in less than a minute.
Things to Avoid
Avoid Copying Exact Words: Don’t repeat entire sentences from the audio. Paraphrase in your own words.
Don’t Add Your Opinion: You are summarizing, not debating.
Avoid Spelling and Grammar Errors: Double-check your work before submitting.
Don’t Miss the Conclusion: If the discussion had a conclusion or solution, include it.
Examples of Summarize Group Discussion
Example 1
Audio Summary: A group discusses whether remote work should be permanent. One participant supports it citing better productivity, another argues it reduces collaboration, and a third suggests hybrid work as a compromise.
Answer:
The participants debated whether remote work should be a long-term practice, with one supporting it for higher productivity, another opposing it due to poor collaboration, and a third recommending a hybrid model as a balanced solution.
Example 2
Audio Summary: A group debates if electric vehicles are truly eco-friendly. Some say they reduce carbon emissions, while others point out battery production harms the environment.
Answer:
The discussion focused on whether electric vehicles are genuinely eco-friendly, with some participants emphasizing their role in cutting carbon emissions, while others highlighted the environmental impact of battery production, concluding that more innovation is needed.
Example 3
Audio Summary: The group talks about the rise of artificial intelligence in education. Some believe it personalizes learning, others worry about reduced human interaction.
Answer:
The participants discussed the use of artificial intelligence in education, with some praising its ability to personalize learning while others expressed concern over the decline of human interaction, stressing the need for balanced adoption.
Final Thoughts
The Summarize Group Discussion task can seem intimidating at first, but with consistent practice, strong note-taking, and focused listening, you can master it. Remember to write concisely, cover all perspectives, and maintain proper grammar.
If you want to prepare effectively for the entire PTE exam, try free tools and practice platforms like Gurully.com, where you can attempt PTE mock test and PTE practice test modules designed to improve your performance.
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