Understanding Summarize Written Text in PTE
The Summarize Written Text task requires candidates to examine a passage of 150 to 300 words, and then write one sentence, between 5 to 75 words, that captures the passage’s essence. Candidates need to be precise while ensuring their response is grammatically flawless and retains the meaning of the original text.
In recent times, themes like the impact of technology on daily life and wellness-related topics have become prominent in this section. One such consistent and popular topic has been “digital detox”. Below, we will explore several sample questions related to the benefits of digital detox practices.
Sample Question: Benefits of Digital Detox Practices
Read the passage below and summarize it in one sentence. Your response must be between 5 and 75 words.
In today’s hyper-connected society, people are constantly glued to their smartphones, computers, and social media accounts, leading to digital fatigue and mental exhaustion. Digital detox practices, which involve temporarily stepping away from digital devices, offer numerous benefits, such as improving concentration, reducing stress levels, and enhancing the quality of interpersonal relationships. Moreover, a break from screen exposure can contribute to better sleep patterns and promote mindfulness by re-engaging participants in physical activities and the real-world environment.
Suggested Answers:
Band Score 90 (Perfect Response)
Engaging in digital detox by taking breaks from devices can bolster concentration, reduce stress, improve sleep, promote mindfulness, and foster better interpersonal relationships by mitigating the mental exhaustion caused by constant connectivity in modern society.
Content: Full coverage of key points (mental exhaustion, improved concentration, stress reduction, better sleep, mindfulness, relationships).
Form: The sentence is grammatically correct and between 5-75 words.
Grammar: Flawless structure with varied sentence patterns.
Vocabulary: Apt use of “bolster”, “foster”, and “mitigating”, adding richness to the answer.
Spelling: No errors present.
Band Score 80
Digital detox helps alleviate mental exhaustion and stress, enhances concentration, fosters better personal relationships, and improves mindfulness and sleep by taking breaks from digital devices.
Content: Key points included, lacks minor details like real-world activities.
Form: Meets the 5-75 word requirement.
Grammar: Good use of complex and compound sentences; clear and fluid syntax.
Vocabulary: Broad vocabulary use (alleviate, fosters), though slightly less advanced.
Spelling: No mistakes.
Band Score 70
A break from digital devices can reduce stress, improve sleep, and promote concentration and mindfulness.
Content: Partially covers details but omits interpersonal relationships and the real-world engagement benefits.
Form: Well-formed, fitting the word limit.
Grammar: Simple but grammatically correct sentences.
Vocabulary: Basic vocabulary; no advanced word choice.
Spelling: No errors.
Band Score 60
Taking a break from digital can help you sleep better, reduce stress and be more mindful.
Content: Only covers primary aspects, lacking depth on some key benefits.
Form: Fits within the word limit but too informal at times (“you” instead of impersonal tone).
Grammar: Simple structure with minor stylistic issues.
Vocabulary: Basic, informal wording.
Spelling: Spelling is correct.
Band Score 50
Digital detox makes you feel good and helps you focus better.
Content: Does not fully address the passage’s main points, lacks depth.
Form: Simple structure, fits with the word count limits.
Grammar: Grammatically correct but lacks sophistication.
Vocabulary: Very basic, lacking academic tone.
Spelling: Correct spelling through all words.
Vocabulary and Grammar Analysis
Here’s a breakdown of challenging vocabulary from the given passage:
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Hyper-connected /ˈhaɪpər kəˈnɛktɪd/ (adj.): Extremely connected to or engaged with technology and devices.
- Example: Modern society has become hyper-connected due to the pervasive use of smartphones.
-
Fatigue /fəˈtiːɡ/ (n.): Extreme tiredness from mental or physical exertion.
- Example: Digital fatigue has become a growing concern for many who spend prolonged hours on screens.
-
Detox /ˈdiːtɒks/ (n.): The process of abstaining from unhealthy practices or substances.
- Example: A digital detox can refresh your mind and body by eliminating unnecessary screen time.
-
Concentration /ˌkɒnsənˈtreɪʃən/ (n.): The action or power of focusing one’s attention or mental effort.
- Example: Regular breaks from technology can help restore concentration.
-
Interpersonal /ˌɪntərˈpɜːrsənl/ (adj.): Pertaining to relationships between people.
- Example: Digital detox can enhance interpersonal connections by encouraging face-to-face interactions.
-
Mindfulness /ˈmaɪnd.fəl.nəs/ (n.): The quality or state of being consciously aware of the present moment.
- Example: Practicing mindfulness can be a crucial outcome of a digital detox regimen.
-
Foster /ˈfɒstər/ (v.): To encourage or promote the development of something.
- Example: Digital detox fosters better mental health and well-being.
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Exhaustion /ɪɡˈzɔːstʃən/ (n.): A state of extreme physical or mental tiredness.
- Example: Digital exhaustion can be mitigated through regular breaks from technology.
-
Bolster /ˈbəʊlstər/ (v.): To support or strengthen.
- Example: A digital detox bolsters your mental clarity and reduces fatigue.
-
Mitigate /ˈmɪtɪɡeɪt/ (v.): To make something less severe or serious.
- Example: Temporary digital detox helps mitigate the harmful effects of constant online exposure.
Conclusion
In the Summarize Written Text section of the PTE exam, practicing topics like the benefits of digital detox practices allows candidates to handle varied content effectively. Remember to focus on condensing the passage’s main points into a single, grammatically accurate sentence while maintaining clarity. Consistent practice with these prompts will greatly enhance your performance in this task. Start practicing today and leave a comment below if you have any questions or need additional tips!
