PTE Summarize Written Text: One-Sentence Rules & Examples

Read a text of up to 300 words and summarise it in a single sentence, in 10 minutes.

Updated 2026-10-12

The rules

  • One sentence only. It starts with a capital letter and ends with one full stop.
  • 5 to 75 words. Outside this, Pearson scores the response zero.
  • Main idea plus key supporting points. Misunderstand the topic and it's zero.

Sentence patterns that work

Join ideas with linking words so one sentence can carry the main point and its support:

  • While [point A], [main point], because [reason].
  • [Main point], which [supporting detail], although [contrasting detail].
  • [Subject] argues that [main point], as [reason 1] and [reason 2].

Worked example

Text (shortened): Urban heat islands form when cities replace natural ground with pavement and buildings that absorb heat. City centres can be several degrees warmer than surrounding areas. Planting trees, installing reflective roofs and creating parks can lower temperatures, and these measures also reduce air-conditioning use, though they need long-term investment.

Summary (44 words): Cities become hotter than surrounding areas because buildings and pavement absorb heat, but measures such as planting trees, installing reflective roofs and creating parks can reduce temperatures and energy use, although they require long-term investment and maintenance.

Check your sentence

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