PTE Respond to Situation | Task & Template Guide
In this tutorial, we’ll walk you through one of the newest additions to the PTE Speaking section — Respond to Situation. If you're preparing for the updated exam format, this blog will provide you with a powerful template, real mock test examples, and practical tips to help you achieve a high score.
The Respond to Situation task is a new question type recently introduced in PTE Speaking. You will typically get 2 to 3 of these tasks in the exam. Each task presents you with a scenario or prompt, after which you’ll have 10 seconds to prepare and 40 seconds to respond. Your performance here directly impacts your Speaking score, so it's essential to master this task.
We’ve tested this template in a PTE Mock Test and achieved a perfect 90 in the Speaking module. It is clear, effective, and easy to adapt for various prompts.
Hi [Friend/Colleague/Name],
I would like to discuss about [main point from the prompt].
Additionally, I would like to highlight that [supporting idea].
I also want to mention that [request or need – use “I will need…” or “Can you please…” depending on the tone].
I will be looking forward to hear back from you.
Prompt:
One of your friends is leaving for university. You and your group are discussing a farewell gift. What do you suggest?
Response:
Hi friends, I would like to discuss about one of our friends who is going away to start university next week.
Additionally, I would like to highlight that we should give her something useful for her new apartment.
I want to mention that I suggest we gift her a bookcase to help her stay organized.
I will be looking forward to hear back from you about your ideas.
Prompt:
You’ve decided to drop your mechanical engineering course. Your friend has dropped a course before. Ask them about the procedure and refund deadline.
Response:
Hi friend, I want to discuss about dropping the mechanical engineering course.
Additionally, I would like to highlight that you already know the procedure.
I want you to tell me how to apply for the course drop and what’s the last date for a tuition refund.
I’ll be looking forward to hear back from you.
As you continue your PTE preparation, it's important to go beyond just learning templates. You must focus on speaking naturally, paraphrasing where necessary, and maintaining the right tone depending on the scenario. Understanding when to be polite, assertive, or formal is key to scoring high in this task.
✅ Use first-person voice (I, we) – never third-person.
✅ Start with an appropriate greeting (Hi friend, Hi professor).
✅ Cover all parts of the prompt.
✅ Adapt your tone to suit the situation (formal/informal).
✅ Use natural contractions like “I’ll” instead of “I will.”
❌ Don’t skip important details.
❌ Don’t use pre-memorized answers (Pearson now flags them).
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This tested and easy-to-use template has helped hundreds of students score high in PTE Speaking. Whether you're preparing for your first attempt or reattempting for 79+, this strategy will make a difference. Practice it often, adapt to every prompt, and you’ll see results.
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Vishal Kapoor is having 6+ years of expertise in instructing PTE and NAATI, both in Australia and internationally, with an impressive 100% success rate among students. As a certified expert by Pearson in PTE and NAATI, Vishal Kapoor has developed a comprehensive teaching approach derived from extensive research and a wealth of teaching experience. Tailoring coaching techniques to individual skill levels and target scores, Vishal's guidance has proven instrumental in helping numerous aspirants attain their desired scores. With a commitment to personalized tips and solutions, Vishal Kapoor is dedicated to facilitating the success of those preparing for PTE and NAATI examinations.
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