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PTE Describe Image sample: diagram (the water cycle in four stages)

A PTE Describe Image task with a model answer, the structure behind it and how to fit it into 40 seconds.

Updated 2026-10-13

The image

Diagram of the water cycle in four stages.
Diagram of the water cycle in four stages.

You have 25 seconds to prepare and 40 seconds to speak.

Sample answer (63 words, about 35 seconds)

The diagram illustrates the water cycle in four stages. First, water evaporates from the oceans. The water vapour then condenses to form clouds. Next, it falls back to the ground as precipitation, such as rain. Finally, the water is collected in rivers and oceans, and the cycle begins again. Overall, the diagram shows how water continuously moves between the land, sea and atmosphere.

The structure behind it

  1. Introduce: "The diagram shows/compares…" (what, where, when)
  2. Main feature: the biggest, highest or most important thing
  3. Two details with numbers: one comparison, one change or contrast
  4. Conclusion: "Overall, …"

Keep a steady pace and don't stop for more than 3 seconds; a long pause can end your recording. Fluency and pronunciation count for more than describing every detail.

Practise it

Try this image yourself on the Describe Image practice page, which records your answer on your device and shows your start time and pauses. More: all Describe Image examples.