The Pearson Test of English (PTE) is undergoing a major transformation in 2025. Starting 7th August, two brand-new tasks will be introduced in the Speaking section. These New PTE Question Types 2025 are designed not just to test your English language knowledge, but to assess how effectively you communicate in real-world situations.

Whether you’re applying to universities or aiming for professional opportunities abroad, you’ll now be evaluated on your ability to speak fluently, naturally, and appropriately in practical contexts. This guide explains what’s changing, why it matters, and how to prepare with confidence.

Why Pearson Is Updating the PTE Exam

The way we use language in real life goes beyond grammar and vocabulary—it’s about interaction, clarity, and response. Pearson’s aim with these updates is to assess:

• The ability to interpret and understand spoken content
  
  

• Quick, thoughtful, and relevant responses
  
  

• Clear and appropriate communication in real scenarios
  
  

These changes align the PTE more closely with how English is used in classrooms, offices, and everyday life. It’s a move toward authenticity in language testing.

A Look at the New PTE Question Types 2025

The Speaking section will now include two new task types:

• Summarize Group Discussion
  
  

• Respond to a Situation
  
  

These tasks require you to listen attentively, think critically, and respond in a fluent and structured manner.

Task 1: Summarize Group Discussion

What to Expect

• A 2–3 minute recording featuring a group of speakers discussing a topic
  
  

• You’ll have 10 seconds to prepare
  
  

• You then speak for up to 2 minutes, summarizing the discussion in your own words
  
  

Strategy to Succeed

• Take quick notes during the conversation
  
  

• Focus on capturing key arguments and diverse viewpoints
  
  

• Maintain a neutral and formal tone throughout
  
  

• Begin with a strong opening, such as “The discussion focused on…”
  
  

Pro Tips

• Use structured phrases: “One speaker pointed out…”, “Another disagreed, stating…”
  
  

• Highlight contrasts and agreements between speakers
  
  

• Avoid including your personal opinion
  
  

• Keep the summary concise, clear, and balanced

Task 2: Respond to a Situation

What to Expect

• A 20–30 second audio describing a real-life scenario (e.g., a complaint, a scheduling issue, or a workplace dilemma)
  
  

• A written prompt on-screen outlining your role in the situation
  
  

• You’ll have 10 seconds to prepare, followed by 40 seconds to respond
  
  

Strategy to Succeed

• Identify the core issue as quickly as possible
  
  

• Respond with empathy, clarity, and relevance
  
  

• Offer a solution or appropriate reaction
  
  

• Conclude with a confident statement, such as “Let me take care of that for you”
  
  

Pro Tips

• Practice handling common real-life scenarios through role-play
  
  

• Focus on calm, natural delivery rather than perfect language
  
  

• Use everyday polite expressions like “I see what you mean” or “Let me look into that for you”

Task Format Breakdown

How to Prepare for the New PTE Speaking Tasks

1. Practice Summarizing Group Conversations

• Watch debates, panel discussions, or interviews
  
  

• Note down each speaker’s main argument
  
  

• Practice speaking concise, structured summaries aloud
  
  

2. Build Fluency Through Role-Play

• Simulate real-life situations with a friend or tutor
  
  

• Give yourself 10 seconds to plan and 40 seconds to respond
  
  

• Focus on being clear, confident, and polite
  
  

3. Learn Useful Phrases for Each Task

For Group Discussions:

• “The conversation centered around…”
  
  

• “Speaker A highlighted…”
  
  

• “There was a disagreement regarding…”
  
  

For Situational Responses:

• “Thank you for letting me know.”
  
  

• “I’ll be happy to assist you.”
  
  

• “Here’s what I can do to help…”

Top Do’s for the New Format

• Do maintain a polite, professional tone
  
  

• Do use transitional phrases to keep your speech organized
  
  

• Do refer only to the content of the audio—avoid speculation
  
  

• Do manage your time and finish your response with a clear closing statement

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Don’t use slang or overly casual language
  
  

• Don’t rush or leave long pauses—aim for a steady speaking pace
  
  

• Don’t share personal opinions in summary tasks
  
  

• Don’t drift off-topic—stay focused on the prompt and context

Extra Tips to Boost Your Score

• Read news summaries out loud to practice concise delivery
  
  

• Use real audio clips and time yourself to simulate test conditions
  
  

• Record and review your responses to improve clarity and pronunciation
  
  

• Shadow native speakers—repeat after them to build rhythm and tone

Final Thoughts

The New PTE Question Types 2025 represent a major evolution in the way speaking skills are assessed. Rather than focusing on robotic repetition, these updates reward natural, practical communication. That makes the test a more reliable indicator of real-world English proficiency.

Take this update as a chance to shine. With consistent practice, the right preparation strategy, and confidence in your voice, you can turn these new tasks into high-scoring opportunities. Speak, stay structured, and let your communication skills stand out.