When preparing for the PTE Academic exam, one of the challenging tasks in the Describe Image section is explaining a process chart or flow chart. This task requires you to describe the sequence of steps in a process, often represented with arrows or stages. While this might seem tricky at first, using a clear structure and approach can help you deliver an organized and effective response. In this blog, we will share useful tips, a simple template, and sample answers to help you ace the Describe Process/Flow Chart task.

Understanding a Process/Flow Chart in PTE

A process chart or flow chart in PTE represents a sequence of steps or stages in a process, often with arrows indicating the direction of flow. These charts are commonly used to explain how something works, how tasks are performed, or how one event leads to another. Your task is to describe each stage or step in the process clearly and coherently within 40 seconds, while organizing your response logically.

Tips for Describing a Process/Flow Chart in PTE

Here are some tips to help you describe a process chart or flow chart effectively:

1.  Understand the Process/Flow Clearly

• Start by analyzing the flow chart and focus on the sequence of steps and arrows that show the flow of the process.

• Identify the starting point and ending point of the process.

• Pay attention to key stages or actions within the process and how they are connected.

2. Structure Your Answer

A well-organized response will help you cover all the steps and convey the process clearly. Here’s how you can structure your answer:

• Introduction: Briefly introduce the chart, mentioning the process it describes.

• Details: Describe the steps of the process in the correct order. Be clear about what happens in each step.

• Conclusion: Offer a summary of the process or the outcome.

3. Use Simple and Clear Vocabulary

Use straightforward language to describe each step. Here are some key phrases to use:

• Start/Begin: Initiate, commence, begin

• Action: Perform, carry out, proceed, execute

• Connection: Next, then, after that, following, subsequently

• End/Finish: Complete, conclude, finish, end, finalize

4. Focus on the Sequence of Events

• In a flow chart or process chart, it’s important to describe the steps in the correct order.

• Use connectors like first, then, next, after that, and finally to make the sequence clear.

5. Be Concise and Time-Efficient

You have only 25 seconds to prepare and 40 seconds to explain. Use the preparation time to identify the main steps and think about how to summarize them efficiently. Be sure to stay on topic and avoid going off-track.

Apply these tips instantly with our PTE Describe Image practice test.

Template for Describing a Process/Flow Chart

Here’s a simple template you can follow to organize your response:

Introduction:

The flow chart illustrates the process of describing the process, e.g., making tea, manufacturing paper, and applying for a job.

Details:

The process begins with (Step 1). After that, (Step 2) takes place, where (describe what happens). Then, (Step 3) happens, followed by (Step 4), where (describe action). Finally, (Step 5) completes the process.

Conclusion:

To summarize, the process follows a clear sequence, starting with (mention first step) and ending with (mention last step). Overall, it is a straightforward process that involves several stages to reach the final result.

Sample Questions with Answers

Answer:

The flow chart illustrates the process of making a cup of tea. The process begins with boiling water in a kettle. After that, tea leaves are placed in a teapot. Next, the boiling water is poured into the teapot, and the tea is left to brew for a few minutes. Once the tea has brewed, it is poured into a cup. Finally, milk or sugar is added according to taste. To summarize, the process involves boiling water, brewing the tea, and adding the desired ingredients to complete the tea-making process.

Answer:

The process chart illustrates the steps involved in applying for a job. First, the applicant prepares their resume and cover letter. Then, they submit these documents to the company’s recruitment portal. After that, the recruiter reviews the application and shortlists candidates for an interview. The selected candidates are invited for an interview, and once the interview is completed, the company makes a job offer. Finally, the applicant either accepts or declines the offer. In conclusion, the process follows a logical sequence, starting with document preparation and ending with the decision to accept or decline the job offer.

Answer:

The flow chart demonstrates the process of recycling paper. Initially, used paper is collected from various sources. Following this, the paper is sorted to remove any non-paper materials. Afterward, the paper is shredded into small pieces. Then, the shredded paper is pulped and mixed with water to form a slurry. Next, the slurry is spread out and dried to form new paper products. Finally, the recycled paper is packaged and ready for use. To summarize, the recycling process involves collection, sorting, shredding, pulping, drying, and packaging.