The PTE Retell Lecture is one of the most challenging speaking tasks where test-takers must listen to a 60-90 second lecture and retell it in their own words within 40 seconds. This comprehensive guide covers proven note-taking strategies, response templates, and scoring techniques to help you achieve your target PTE score.
What is PTE retell lecture task?
This short section explains the task purpose, format, and what examiners expect.
The PTE Retell Lecture task tests your ability to comprehend, process, and reproduce academic content under time pressure. You'll listen to a lecture once, take notes during the audio, and then have 40 seconds to retell it in your own words. This task evaluates your listening comprehension, note-taking skills, and speaking fluency simultaneously.
Task format overview
The lectures cover various academic topics including science, history, psychology, business, technology, and social sciences. Each lecture runs for 60-90 seconds and is played only once. After the audio ends, you have 40 seconds to deliver your response based on your notes.
Consistent Format Across All Lectures:
60-90 seconds audio: Listen and take notes simultaneously
40 seconds response: Retell the lecture using your notes
Goal: Capture and communicate the main ideas and supporting details
Though initially challenging, the Retell Lecture task becomes manageable with the LEAP strategy—systematic note-taking and focused practice transform this into a high-scoring opportunity.
The LEAP strategy for success
A concise four-step approach to help you listen actively, take useful notes, plan quickly, and present clearly.
Follow this proven four-step approach adapted from successful PTE candidates:
L - Listen Actively (During Audio)
Focus on identifying the main topic, key points, and supporting details. Don't try to write everything - listen for structure and meaning.
E - Extract Key Information (Note-Taking)
Use abbreviations, symbols, and keywords to capture essential information quickly. Focus on content words (nouns, verbs, adjectives) rather than function words.
A - Arrange Your Response (10 seconds planning)
Quickly organize your notes into a logical sequence: introduction, main points, conclusion.
P - Present Fluently (30 seconds speaking)
Deliver your response smoothly, connecting ideas with appropriate linking words while maintaining natural speech flow.
The LEAP approach—Listen, Extract, Arrange, Present—provides a proven framework for success, turning complex academic lectures into clear, concise retellings within the time constraints.
Effective note-taking system
Practical note-taking frameworks to capture the lecture efficiently and organise key ideas.
The column method
Divide your note paper into three columns:
Topic/Main Idea
Key Points
Details/Examples
Climate Change
- Rising temps
- Arctic ice melting
- Human impact
- CO2 emissions
- Solutions
- Renewable energy
Essential Abbreviations and Symbols
Common Abbreviations:
& = and
w/ = with
w/o = without
b/c = because
→ = leads to/causes
↑ = increase/rise
↓ = decrease/fall
= = equals/means
Academic Vocabulary Shortcuts:
govt = government
econ = economy/economic
env = environment
tech = technology
res = research
dev = development
imp = important
sig = significant
Note-taking strategy by lecture type
Scientific/research lectures
Focus on: hypothesis, methodology, findings, implications
Key phrases: "research shows", "scientists discovered", "the study indicates"
Structure: problem → research → results → significance
Historical lectures
Focus on: dates, key figures, causes, effects, significance
Key phrases: "in the past", "led to", "as a result", "historically"
Good morning, everyone. Today, we're going to dive into one of the most pressing issues of our time: Climate Change. This topic is a critical one for understanding our planet's future, and I encourage you to take good notes, using the abbreviations and hierarchy we discussed.
First, the most immediate effect we observe is the increase in Global Temperature, or ↑ Global Temp. This is directly linked to the concentration of Greenhouse Gases in our atmosphere, primarily Carbon Dioxide, or CO₂, and Methane. These gases act like a blanket, trapping heat.
The rise in global temperature leads to our first major consequence: Extreme Weather patterns. We are seeing a significant rise in the frequency and intensity of droughts and floods across the globe. Additionally, there are more intense storms—hurricanes, typhoons, cyclones—that are causing unprecedented damage. The difficulty in dealing with this new reality is leading many governments to focus more on Disaster Relief, but often this is a reactive measure after irreversible damage has already occurred.
It's important to recognize that mitigation—which is actively reducing emissions—is a crucial intervention, and that's why I've put a star next to it. We must slow the change."
This brings us to our second major consequence: Sea Level Rise. As global temperatures ↑, the ice caps melt and water expands, leading to a rise in sea levels. This is causing serious coastal erosion and mass displacement of populations who live near the coast. Unfortunately, there's a vicious cycle here: rising sea levels equal more extreme weather in coastal areas.
The impacts are not only environmental; they are heavily economic (econ). If we continue on our current path without significant intervention, such as cutting emissions drastically by the year 2050, the cost to the global economy will be astronomical.
So, what's a potential solution? Many governments and research groups are focused on development of technology, but an immediate policy that is gaining traction is the Carbon Tax. This places a financial burden on carbon emissions, incentivizing companies to find cleaner alternatives. The important message is that a solution is possible, but it requires significant global cooperation and policy change.
Sample notes
Response templates by lecture type
Ready-to-use templates and example responses you can adapt during practice to build fluency and structure.
General template structure
Introduction (5-8 seconds):
"The lecture discusses/explains/examines [main topic]..."
Body (25-30 seconds):
"The speaker mentions/explains that [key point 1]. Additionally, [key point 2]. Furthermore, [key point 3]."
Conclusion (5-7 seconds):
"In conclusion/Overall, the lecture highlights [main message]."
Scientific research template
Introduction:
"The lecture presents research about [topic]..."
Body:
"According to the speaker, scientists/researchers found that [finding 1]. The study also revealed [finding 2]. Moreover, the research indicates [finding 3]."
Conclusion:
"Overall, this research contributes to our understanding of [topic]."
Example Response:"The lecture presents research about sleep patterns in teenagers. According to the speaker, scientists found that teenagers naturally stay awake later due to biological changes. The study also revealed that early school start times conflict with their natural sleep cycles. Moreover, the research indicates that insufficient sleep affects academic performance and mental health. Overall, this research contributes to our understanding of adolescent sleep needs."
Historical events template
Introduction:
"The lecture examines the historical event of [event/period]..."
Body:
"The speaker explains that [cause/context]. This led to [event/consequence]. Additionally, [key figure/factor] played a significant role."
Conclusion:
"In summary, this event had lasting impacts on [area/society]."
Example Response:"The lecture examines the historical event of the Industrial Revolution. The speaker explains that technological innovations transformed manufacturing processes. This led to mass production and urbanization as people moved to cities for factory work. Additionally, this period created both economic opportunities and social challenges including poor working conditions. In summary, this event had lasting impacts on modern society and labor practices."
Business/economics template
Introduction:
"The lecture analyzes [business concept/economic trend]..."
Body:
"According to the speaker, [factor 1] influences [outcome]. The presentation also covers [factor 2] and its impact on [area]. Furthermore, [strategy/solution] is suggested."
Conclusion:
"The lecture concludes that [main insight/recommendation]."
Example Response:"The lecture analyzes consumer behavior in digital marketing. According to the speaker, social media influences purchasing decisions significantly. The presentation also covers how personalized advertising increases engagement rates. Furthermore, companies should focus on authentic brand storytelling. The lecture concludes that successful digital marketing requires understanding consumer psychology and building genuine connections."
Technology/innovation template
Introduction:
"The lecture explores [technological development/innovation]..."
Body:
"The speaker describes how [technology] works by [process/mechanism]. The benefits include [advantage 1] and [advantage 2]. However, [challenge/limitation] remains a concern."
Conclusion:
"Overall, this technology represents [significance/future impact]."
Example Response:"The lecture explores artificial intelligence in healthcare. The speaker describes how AI works by analyzing vast amounts of medical data to identify patterns. The benefits include faster diagnosis and personalized treatment plans. However, data privacy and accuracy concerns remain important issues. Overall, this technology represents a significant advancement in medical care delivery."
Critical success strategies
Practical techniques to maximise accuracy, clarity, and time management during the task.
During the audio
First 10 seconds: Identify the main topic and lecture type
Middle section: Focus on key points and supporting details
Last 10 seconds: Listen for conclusions and summary statements
Active Listening Techniques:
Listen for signposting language ("first", "however", "in conclusion")
Identify the speaker's tone and emphasis
Note examples that illustrate main points
Pay attention to repeated concepts
Note organization tips
Use Visual Hierarchy:
Main topic (center/top)
Key points (bullet points)
Supporting details (sub-bullets or indented)
Examples (in parentheses)
Effective Symbol Usage:
Use arrows to show cause-effect relationships
Circle important numbers or dates
Underline key terms or concepts
Use stars (*) for crucial information
Strategic note-taking is your foundation for success—focus on main ideas and relationships rather than transcribing every word, and you'll deliver confident, comprehensive responses.
Speaking delivery excellence
Fluency Techniques:
Practice linking words to connect ideas smoothly
Vary your sentence structure for natural flow
Use appropriate pausing for emphasis
Maintain consistent speaking pace
Key Linking Words:
Addition: furthermore, additionally, moreover, also
Contrast: however, nevertheless, on the other hand
Cause-Effect: therefore, consequently, as a result
Example: for instance, such as, specifically
Sequence: first, then, finally, subsequently
Time management strategy
Preparation Phase:
Organize notes immediately after audio ends (5 seconds)
Plan your response structure (5 seconds)
Begin speaking promptly
Response Phase:
Introduction: 5-8 seconds
Main content: 25-30 seconds
Conclusion: 5-7 seconds
Finish within 35-38 seconds to avoid cutoff
Common lecture topics and preparation
Typical academic themes that frequently appear in Retell Lecture tasks and how to prepare for them.
Science and research
Climate change and environmental issues
Medical breakthroughs and health studies
Space exploration and astronomy
Biology and genetics research
Physics and chemistry discoveries
History and culture
Historical events and their impacts
Cultural movements and traditions
Archaeological discoveries
Social changes and revolutions
Art and literature developments
Business and economics
Market trends and economic theories
Business strategies and case studies
Globalization and trade
Entrepreneurship and innovation
Consumer behavior and marketing
Technology and innovation
Artificial intelligence and automation
Renewable energy technologies
Communication and social media
Transportation innovations
Medical technology advances
Psychology and social sciences
Human behavior studies
Educational research
Social psychology experiments
Cognitive science findings
Child development research
Critical mistakes to avoid
Common pitfalls candidates make and concise guidance on how to avoid them during note-taking and delivery.
Content Mistakes ❌
Don't try to memorize the entire lecture word-for-word
Don't focus on minor details and miss main points
Don't panic if you miss some information - work with what you have
Don't fabricate information that wasn't mentioned
Don't spend too much time on one point
Note-Taking Mistakes ❌
Don't write in complete sentences
Don't use only one note-taking method
Don't ignore the lecture structure and flow
Don't write too small or illegibly
Don't try to capture every single word
Speaking Mistakes ❌
Don't exceed the 40-second time limit
Don't speak too slowly and run out of time
Don't use overly complex vocabulary unnecessarily
Don't repeat the same information multiple times
Don't pause for too long while thinking
Scoring breakdown
A brief overview of how the task is scored and which areas you should prioritise during preparation.
The task contributes 15 marks total to your Speaking score:
Criterion
Score Range
Key Focus Areas
Content
0-6
Main ideas, supporting details, sequence, completeness
Pronunciation
0-5
Clarity, word stress, consonant sounds, intelligibility
Oral Fluency
0-5
Rhythm, phrasing, smooth delivery, natural pace
Content Scoring Details: Higher scores require capturing the main theme, key supporting points, and logical sequence. The more relevant information you include accurately, the better your content score.
Advanced preparation techniques
Higher-level study methods and memory strategies to boost retention and recall during the task.
Memory enhancement strategies
The Story Method: Create a mental story connecting the lecture's main points
Visual Association: Link concepts to memorable images or scenarios
Acronym Creation: Use first letters of key points to create memorable words
Chunking: Group related information together for easier recall
Practice progression
Week 1-2: Focus on note-taking without speaking
Week 3-4: Practice retelling with unlimited time
Week 5-6: Implement 40-second time constraint
Week 7-8: Work on fluency and natural delivery
Self-assessment checklist
After each practice session, evaluate:
Did I capture the main topic correctly?
Did I include 3-4 key supporting points?
Was my response logically organized?
Did I speak fluently without long pauses?
Did I finish within the time limit?
Sample lecture with response
Practice with this authentic example to understand how to apply the strategies discussed above.
Sample Lecture: Habitat Fragmentation and Conservation
Listen to this 60-second lecture about wildlife conservation. Take notes and practice your response.
0:000:00
Click play to load audio
Lecture transcript
"Habitat fragmentation is, well, it's probably the biggest threat facing wildlife today. When we build roads, cities, and farms, we're essentially creating islands of habitat surrounded by human development. Animals can't just, you know, hop over highways to reach food sources or mates. Conservation corridors are fascinating solutions to this problem. These are basically wildlife highways, strips of protected land that connect larger habitats. Bears in Montana, for example, use these corridors to move between national parks safely. It's quite remarkable, actually. But here's where it gets complicated. Conservation costs money, lots of it. Protecting land means compensating landowners, hiring rangers, and funding research. Many developing countries, understandably, prioritize immediate economic needs over long-term conservation goals. The success stories are encouraging, though. California condors went from just 27 birds in the 1980s to over 500 today. Gray whales recovered from near extinction. These victories show that, with sufficient commitment and resources, we can actually reverse species decline. The question is whether we'll act quickly enough for other endangered species."
High-Scoring Sample Response (38 seconds)
The lecture discusses habitat fragmentation as a major threat to wildlife and the role of conservation corridors as a solution. According to the speaker, human development creates isolated habitats, but conservation corridors act as 'wildlife highways' to connect them. The speaker notes that conservation is very expensive, which can be a challenge for developing countries. However, he highlights success stories like the recovery of California condors and gray whales, showing that conservation efforts can reverse species decline with enough resources.
Highlighted: Key phrases and linking words
Analysis of the sample response
Why this response scores well:
✅ Content (5-6/6): Captures the main topic (fragmentation), the solution (corridors), the complication (cost), and the evidence of success (condors, whales).
✅ Oral Fluency (4-5/5): Uses natural linking words ("According to", "However") that create a smooth, logical flow between contrasting ideas.
✅ Pronunciation (4-5/5): Would demonstrate clear articulation of key terms like "habitat fragmentation", "conservation corridors", and "species decline".
Key techniques demonstrated:
Opens with a clear summary of the topic and solution.
Covers the problem, solution, challenge, and positive outcomes.
Uses varied sentence structure and linking words.
Includes specific examples mentioned in the lecture.
Concludes by summarizing the main message about the effectiveness of conservation.
Completes well within the time limit, allowing for natural pacing.
Practice approach
A structured practice routine, materials, and progression tips to improve steadily over time.
Effective training steps:
Build listening stamina: Practice with various accents and speaking speeds
Develop note-taking speed: Use academic podcasts and TED talks
Master response templates: Practice with different lecture types
Time yourself consistently: Always use actual test timing
Record and review: Identify patterns in your mistakes
Recommended practice materials:
Academic podcasts: BBC Radio 4, Scientific American
University lectures: Available on university websites
PTE practice platforms: Specialized retell lecture exercises
Daily practice routine (30 minutes):
10 minutes: Note-taking practice with academic audio
10 minutes: Template practice with different lecture types
10 minutes: Timed responses with self-evaluation
Frequently asked questions
Short answers to common candidate questions about timing, note-taking, and exam conditions.
LearnPTE platform advantage
A short summary of how our platform supports targeted practice, feedback, and progress tracking.
Our Retell Lecture module provides extensive practice with lectures across all academic disciplines. The platform offers detailed feedback on content accuracy, pronunciation, and fluency, helping you identify specific areas for improvement. With our adaptive scoring system, you'll track your progress and build confidence across all possible lecture types you might encounter on test day.
