IELTS Guide Phil

What is IELTS Speaking? (Start Here If You Know Nothing!)

The IELTS Speaking test is a face-to-face conversation with a certified examiner that lasts 11-14 minutes. It can be conducted in person at a test center or via video call. This is your opportunity to demonstrate your spoken English skills in a structured interview format. You can watch this YouTube video explainer by IELTS Guide Phil.

Here’s what you need to know:

• Duration: 11-14 minutes
• Format: One-on-one with an examiner (in-person or via video call)
• Recording: Your test will be audio or video recorded
• Same for everyone: Academic and General Training candidates take the IDENTICAL Speaking test
• Timing: Usually conducted on the same day as the other tests, but can be up to 7 days before or after

Think of it as a conversation with a purpose. The examiner isn’t trying to trick you—they want you to succeed. They’re trained to put you at ease and give you opportunities to demonstrate your best English. However, they follow strict guidelines and can’t help you or give feedback during the test.

Key principle: The examiner is assessing your ability to communicate in English, not your opinions, knowledge, or personality. There are no “right” or “wrong” answers. What matters is HOW you speak, not WHAT you say.

The Three Parts of the Speaking Test

The test has three distinct parts, each with a different purpose and style:

Part 1: Introduction and Interview (4-5 minutes)

What happens: The examiner introduces themselves, confirms your identity, and asks general questions about familiar topics from your daily life.

Typical topics:

• Home and accommodation
• Family
• Work or studies
• Hobbies and interests
• Daily routine
• Hometown
• Food
• Weather
• Shopping
• Transport

Example questions:

• “Do you work or are you a student?”
• “What do you like about your hometown?”
• “Do you enjoy cooking? Why or why not?”
• “What do you usually do on weekends?”
• “Do you prefer reading books or watching movies?”

Your task: Answer naturally and conversationally. Give answers that are more than one or two words, but don’t give speeches. Aim for 2-4 sentences per answer.

Duration: The examiner will ask 10-12 questions across 2-3 topic areas.

Tone: Friendly, conversational, warm-up.

Part 2: Long Turn (Individual Long Turn) (3-4 minutes)

What happens: The examiner gives you a task card with a topic and prompts. You have 1 minute to prepare, then you must speak for 1-2 minutes on the topic without interruption.

Task card example:

Describe a memorable journey you have taken.

You should say:
- where you went
- who you went with
- what you did
- and explain why it was memorable.

The process:

1. Examiner gives you the card and a pencil and paper
2. 1 minute preparation time: Make brief notes (don’t write full sentences)
3. Speak for 1-2 minutes: The examiner will not interrupt you during this time
4. Rounding-off questions: The examiner may ask 1-2 brief follow-up questions

Your task: Speak continuously for the full time. Cover all the bullet points on the card. Organize your response logically.

Tone: Descriptive, narrative, detailed.

Part 3: Discussion (Two-Way Discussion) (4-5 minutes)

What happens: The examiner asks more abstract and analytical questions related to the Part 2 topic. This is a deeper discussion that requires you to express and justify opinions, analyze issues, and discuss broader themes.

Example questions (if Part 2 was about travel):

• “How has tourism changed in your country over the last few decades?”
• “What are the advantages and disadvantages of international tourism?”
• “Do you think space tourism will become common in the future?”
• “How can countries balance tourism development with environmental protection?”

Your task: Give extended answers with explanations, reasons, and examples. Discuss abstract ideas. Show you can analyze and evaluate.

Key difference from Part 1: Part 1 is personal and concrete (“Do YOU like traveling?”). Part 3 is general and abstract (“How does tourism affect LOCAL ECONOMIES?”).

Tone: Analytical, thoughtful, discussion-based.

How the Speaking Test is Scored

Your Speaking performance is assessed on four criteria, each worth 25% of your total Speaking score:

1. Fluency and Coherence (25%)

What it means: How smoothly you speak and how logically your ideas connect.

Band 7 requirements:

• Speaks at length without noticeable effort or loss of coherence
• May demonstrate language-related hesitation at times
• Uses a range of connectives and discourse markers with some flexibility

What examiners listen for:
✓ Speaking without long pauses
✓ Self-correcting naturally without losing flow
✓ Linking ideas logically
✓ Using discourse markers (however, for example, actually)
✓ Maintaining topic and not going off on tangents

Common problems:
✗ Long silences (more than 3-4 seconds)
✗ Frequent repetition (“I think… I think… I think…”)
✗ Speaking in short, disconnected phrases
✗ Losing track of what you’re saying
✗ Over-relying on memorized phrases that sound unnatural

Tips to improve:

• Practice speaking for 2 minutes without stopping
• Record yourself and identify where you pause unnecessarily
• Learn natural linking words
• Think in English, not translating from your native language
• Accept that some hesitation is normal—even Band 9 speakers hesitate occasionally

2. Lexical Resource (Vocabulary) (25%)

What it means: The range and accuracy of your vocabulary.

Band 7 requirements:

• Uses vocabulary resource flexibly to discuss a variety of topics
• Uses some less common and idiomatic vocabulary
• Shows awareness of style and collocation with some inappropriate choices
• Produces occasional errors in word choice

What examiners listen for:
✓ Variety of vocabulary (not repeating the same words)
✓ Some less common/sophisticated words used accurately
✓ Natural collocations (“heavy rain” not “strong rain”)
✓ Idiomatic expressions used appropriately
✓ Paraphrasing when you don’t know a specific word

Common problems:
✗ Repeating basic words constantly (“good,” “bad,” “important”)
✗ Using overly simple vocabulary throughout
✗ Incorrect word choice (“I made a damage to the car”)
✗ Attempting advanced vocabulary you don’t understand
✗ Translation errors from your native language

Tips to improve:

• Build topic-based vocabulary sets
• Learn words in context, not isolation
• Use synonyms to avoid repetition
• Learn common idioms and phrasal verbs
• Practice paraphrasing (“I can’t remember the exact word, but it’s like…”)

3. Grammatical Range and Accuracy (25%)

What it means: The variety and correctness of your grammar structures.

Band 7 requirements:

• Uses a range of complex structures with some flexibility
• Produces frequent error-free sentences
• Makes some grammatical errors but they rarely reduce communication

What examiners listen for:
✓ Mix of simple and complex sentences
✓ Correct use of tenses
✓ Conditional sentences (“If I had more time, I would…”)
✓ Relative clauses (“The place where I grew up…”)
✓ Passive voice where appropriate
✓ Accurate use of articles (a/an/the)

Common problems:
✗ Only using simple present tense
✗ Subject-verb agreement errors (“She don’t like…”)
✗ Wrong tenses (“Yesterday I go to the market”)
✗ Article mistakes (“I saw the beautiful flower” when it should be “a”)
✗ Avoiding complex structures out of fear

Tips to improve:

• Practice using different tenses naturally
• Learn and use complex sentence structures
• Record yourself and identify repeated grammar mistakes
• Study common error patterns
• Don’t be afraid to attempt complex grammar—some errors are acceptable at Band 7

4. Pronunciation (25%)

What it means: How clearly and naturally you speak, including individual sounds, word stress, sentence stress, and intonation.

Band 7 requirements:

• Shows all positive features of Band 6
• Sustained use of all positive features with occasional lapses
• L1 (native language) accent has minimal effect on intelligibility

What examiners listen for:
✓ Clear individual sounds (especially problematic ones like /r/ vs /l/, /v/ vs /w/, /th/)
✓ Correct word stress (“PHOtograph” vs “phoTOgraphy”)
✓ Natural sentence stress and rhythm
✓ Appropriate intonation (rising for questions, falling for statements)
✓ Connected speech (“going to” → “gonna” in natural conversation)
✓ Intelligibility (examiner can understand you easily)

Important note: You don’t need a British or American accent! Examiners assess whether you’re understandable, not whether you sound native.

Common problems:
✗ Monotone speaking (no intonation variation)
✗ Speaking too quietly or too quickly
✗ Mispronouncing common words consistently
✗ Wrong word stress (“hoTEL” instead of “HO-tel”)
✗ Trying to fake an accent you don’t have

Tips to improve:

• Practice individual problem sounds
• Learn word stress patterns (use a dictionary with stress markings)
• Record yourself and compare to native speakers
• Practice sentence stress (emphasis on content words)
• Speak clearly but at a natural pace
• Use natural intonation (your voice should go up and down)

Essential Dos and Don’ts

DO:

✓ Arrive early (at least 30 minutes before your scheduled time)
✓ Bring required ID (original, not photocopy—must match your registration)
✓ Speak naturally as if having a conversation with a friend (but keep it formal enough)
✓ Extend your answers beyond one or two words—aim for 2-4 sentences in Part 1, more in Parts 2 and 3
✓ Use the preparation time in Part 2 effectively—make brief notes
✓ Ask for clarification if you don’t understand a question (“Sorry, could you repeat that?”)
✓ Self-correct if you make a mistake—this shows awareness
✓ Maintain eye contact with the examiner—it shows confidence and engagement
✓ Speak clearly at a moderate pace—don’t rush
✓ Use examples to support your answers, especially in Part 3
✓ Show enthusiasm in your voice—let your personality show
✓ Keep talking in Part 2 until the examiner stops you
✓ Think before speaking briefly—a 1-2 second pause to organize thoughts is fine

DON’T:

✗ Don’t memorize and recite full answers—examiners recognize this and will interrupt
✗ Don’t give one-word or two-word answers—expand every response
✗ Don’t go completely off-topic—answer the question asked
✗ Don’t panic if you make a mistake—continue speaking
✗ Don’t ask the examiner for their opinion—they can’t share it
✗ Don’t try to change the topic—answer what’s asked
✗ Don’t speak too quietly—the recording needs to capture your voice
✗ Don’t speak too fast—you’ll make more mistakes and be harder to understand
✗ Don’t use overly informal slang (“yeah,” “gonna,” “wanna”—moderate use is okay, but don’t overdo it)
✗ Don’t say “I don’t know” and stop—if you don’t know, speculate or give your opinion
✗ Don’t interrupt the examiner—let them finish their questions
✗ Don’t disagree with or argue with the examiner—these are discussion questions, not debates
✗ Don’t apologize excessively for your English—stay confident
✗ Don’t try to learn the examiner’s name or be overly friendly—stay professional but warm
✗ Don’t worry about your accent—focus on clarity, not sounding British/American

Part 1 Strategy: Make Your Answers Interesting

Part 1 questions are simple, but your answers shouldn’t be. Here’s how to extend effectively:

The “Direct Answer + Reason/Example + Extra Detail” Formula

Question: “Do you enjoy cooking?”

Weak answer (Band 5): “Yes, I like cooking.”

Better answer (Band 6): “Yes, I enjoy cooking. I like trying new recipes. It’s relaxing.”

Strong answer (Band 7+): “Yes, I really enjoy cooking, actually. I find it quite relaxing after a long day at work. I particularly like experimenting with different cuisines—lately I’ve been trying to master Thai dishes. Plus, I think cooking is healthier and more economical than eating out all the time.”

Structure:

1. Direct answer: “Yes, I really enjoy cooking”
2. Reason: “I find it quite relaxing after a long day”
3. Example: “I’ve been trying to master Thai dishes”
4. Extra detail: “healthier and more economical than eating out”

Useful Phrases for Extending Part 1 Answers

For giving reasons:

• “The main reason is…”
• “I think it’s because…”
• “What I like about it is…”
• “The thing is…”

For adding examples:

• “For instance…”
• “Like, recently…”
• “A good example would be…”
• “Take [topic], for example…”

For expressing preferences:

• “I’m quite keen on…”
• “I’m really into…”
• “I’ve always been fascinated by…”
• “I’m not particularly fond of…”

For talking about frequency:

• “I tend to… quite often”
• “Every now and then I…”
• “On occasion…”
• “More often than not…”

For expressing uncertainty or hedging:

• “I suppose…”
• “I’d say…”
• “I guess…”
• “It depends, but generally…”

Part 2 Strategy: Organize Your Long Turn

Part 2 is often the most challenging because you must speak continuously for 1-2 minutes. Here’s how to succeed:

Using the 1-Minute Preparation Time

DON’T: Write full sentences or try to write everything you’ll say.

DO: Write brief keywords and organize your thoughts.

Task card:

Describe a book you recently read.
You should say:
- what book it was
- when you read it
- what it was about
- and explain why you liked or disliked it

Good notes:

- Book: "Educated" - Tara Westover
- When: last month / summer holiday
- About: memoir / girl from strict family / self-education / university
- Why liked: inspiring / well-written / learned about different life
  - shows power of education
  - overcame obstacles

Structure:

• Quick bullet points for each prompt
• Add a few keywords for details
• Note for conclusion/explanation

Speaking Continuously for 2 Minutes

The biggest challenge: Running out of things to say after 30 seconds.

Solutions:

1. Use the “and also” technique: After covering a bullet point, add “and also…” or “another thing is…” to extend.

“I read this book last summer during my vacation. And also, I remember I’d been looking for something inspiring to read, so a friend recommended it.”

2. Add background/context: “The book is called ‘Educated’ by Tara Westover. Just to give you some context, she’s an American author who grew up in an unusual family situation.”

3. Describe in detail: Instead of: “The book was about a girl’s education.” Better: “The book is a memoir about a young woman who grew up in a strict, isolated family in rural Idaho. Despite having no formal education as a child, she eventually taught herself enough to attend university, and the book chronicles her journey from complete isolation to earning a PhD from Cambridge University.”

4. Explain why/how: “I liked the book because it was inspiring. The reason it resonated with me was that it showed how determination and curiosity can help someone overcome seemingly impossible obstacles.”

5. Compare or contrast: “Unlike many memoirs I’ve read, this one felt very honest and self-reflective. The author didn’t just paint herself as a hero—she showed her doubts and mistakes.”

6. Discuss personal connection: “What really struck me was how the author valued education when she finally had access to it. It made me reflect on how I sometimes take my own educational opportunities for granted.”

What If You Run Out of Things to Say?

If you’ve covered all bullet points and still have time:

Extend the “explain why” section: This is usually the most expandable part. Discuss:

• Multiple reasons
• How it affected you
• What you learned
• How it relates to broader themes
• How it compares to similar experiences

Summarize and reflect: “So overall, this book really made an impression on me. It’s one of those books that stays with you long after you’ve finished reading it, and I’ve actually recommended it to several friends since then.”

Don’t panic if the examiner stops you: If you’ve spoken for 1-2 minutes and covered all points, you’ve done your job!

Part 3 Strategy: Answer Abstract Questions

Part 3 requires deeper thinking and more sophisticated language. Here’s how to approach it:

Understanding the Difference: Part 1 vs Part 3

Part 1 (Personal/Concrete): “Do you like reading books?”

Part 3 (General/Abstract): “What role do books play in modern society?”

Part 1: Your personal experience, habits, preferences Part 3: General trends, societal issues, abstract concepts

The “State Position + Explain + Example + Expand” Structure

Question: “What are the advantages of reading books compared to watching television?”

Strong answer:

[State position] “I think there are several significant advantages to reading over watching TV.

[Explain – Point 1] First and foremost, reading requires more active engagement from your brain. When you read, you have to visualize the scenes and characters yourself, which stimulates imagination and creativity.

[Example] For instance, when you read a novel, you create your own mental images of what characters look like, whereas on TV, everything is shown to you directly.

[Explain – Point 2] Additionally, reading tends to improve vocabulary and language skills more effectively than TV. You’re exposed to more complex sentence structures and a wider range of vocabulary in written form.

[Expand/Qualify] That said, I don’t think TV is without value—it can be educational and entertaining. But in terms of cognitive benefits, reading probably has the edge.”

(Word count: ~140 words, spoken in about 50-60 seconds)

Useful Structures for Part 3

Giving opinions:

• “From my perspective…”
• “The way I see it…”
• “I’d argue that…”
• “In my view…”

Speculating:

• “It’s likely that…”
• “I imagine…”
• “I suppose it’s possible that…”
• “Presumably…”

Presenting multiple viewpoints:

• “On the one hand… On the other hand…”
• “While some people believe… others argue that…”
• “There are arguments for both sides…”

Discussing trends:

• “In recent years, there’s been a trend toward…”
• “Over the past decade…”
• “Increasingly, we’re seeing…”
• “These days, it’s becoming more common to…”

Cause and effect:

• “This has led to…”
• “As a result…”
• “Consequently…”
• “One effect of this is…”

Conceding points:

• “Having said that…”
• “That said…”
• “Although… nevertheless…”
• “Despite this…”

Giving examples:

• “A good example of this would be…”
• “Take [example], for instance…”
• “If you look at…”
• “This can be seen in…”

Common Mistakes and How to Fix Them

Mistake 1: Giving One-Word or Very Short Answers

The problem: Answering questions with minimal information.

Example: Examiner: “Do you enjoy reading?” Candidate: “Yes.” [silence]

Why it’s a problem: Shows lack of fluency and doesn’t demonstrate your language ability. Forces the examiner to ask more questions, which wastes time and makes you seem hesitant.

The fix: Always extend your answers with reasons, examples, or extra details.

✓ “Yes, I really enjoy reading, especially fiction novels. I find it’s a great way to relax in the evening after work. My favorite genre is probably science fiction—authors like Isaac Asimov and Arthur C. Clarke.”

Practice tip: For every question, aim for at least 3 sentences in Part 1, and much more in Parts 2 and 3.

Mistake 2: Memorizing and Reciting Full Answers

The problem: Learning complete answers by heart and delivering them like a speech.

Why it’s a problem: Examiners are trained to detect memorization. If they suspect it, they’ll interrupt you or change topics, and your Fluency score will suffer significantly. Memorized answers also often don’t fit the exact question.

Example of obvious memorization: Examiner: “Tell me about your hometown.” Candidate: [in a monotone, rehearsed voice] “My hometown is a beautiful and peaceful place with a long history spanning over 500 years. The people are friendly and hospitable. There are many historical sites including museums, temples, and ancient buildings. The weather is pleasant with four distinct seasons…” [continues without pausing or natural hesitation]

The fix: Prepare ideas and flexible structures, not full scripts. Practice talking about topics in different ways.

What you CAN prepare:
✓ Topic vocabulary (words related to hobbies, work, travel, etc.)
✓ Useful phrases and linking words
✓ General ideas for common topics
✓ Stories you might tell (but vary how you tell them)

What you CANNOT do:
✗ Memorize word-for-word answers
✗ Deliver rehearsed speeches
✗ Ignore the exact question and give your prepared answer

Mistake 3: Speaking Too Fast or Too Quietly

The problem: Rushing through answers at high speed, or speaking so quietly the examiner/recording can’t hear you properly.

Why it’s a problem:

• Too fast: More pronunciation errors, harder to understand, sounds nervous, difficult to process
• Too quiet: Recording may not capture your voice, examiner has to strain to hear you

The fix:

• Pace: Aim for a moderate, conversational speed. Imagine you’re explaining something to a friend who’s learning English.
• Volume: Speak clearly and at a volume that feels slightly louder than your normal conversation. The room needs to hear you, plus the recording device.
• Practice: Record yourself and listen back. Are you understandable? Would someone hear you clearly?

Mistake 4: Panicking When You Don’t Know a Word

The problem: Stopping completely or saying “I don’t know the word” and giving up.

Why it’s a problem: Part of strong Lexical Resource is the ability to paraphrase and explain when you don’t know exact vocabulary.

The fix: Use circumlocution (explaining around the word).

Example: You want to say “stethoscope” but can’t remember the word.

✗ “The doctor used… uh… I don’t know the word… the thing… sorry…”

✓ “The doctor used that medical instrument—you know, the device they put in their ears to listen to your heartbeat and breathing.”

Paraphrasing strategies:

• “It’s a kind of…”
• “It’s something you use to…”
• “It’s like a… but…”
• “I can’t remember the exact word, but it’s the thing that…”

This demonstrates communication skill and vocabulary resourcefulness.

Mistake 5: Not Answering the Question

The problem: Going off-topic or answering a different question than what was asked.

Example: Examiner: “How has technology changed education in your country?” Candidate: [talks for 2 minutes about their favorite school subject]

Why it’s a problem: Affects Task Achievement in Fluency and Coherence. Shows you can’t follow conversation topics.

The fix:

• Listen carefully to the entire question
• If unsure, ask for clarification: “Sorry, could you repeat that?”
• Address the specific question asked, not just the general topic
• Check mentally: “Am I answering THIS question?”

In Part 3, pay attention to question types:

• “Why…?” → Need to give reasons
• “How has… changed?” → Need to discuss past vs present
• “What are the advantages/disadvantages?” → Need to discuss both sides
• “Do you think… will happen?” → Need to speculate about future

Mistake 6: Using Only Simple Grammar

The problem: Speaking entirely in simple present tense with basic sentence structures.

Example: “I like sports. I play football. Football is fun. I play every week. My friends play too. We are happy.”

Why it’s a problem: Limits your Grammatical Range score. Band 7+ requires variety of structures.

The fix: Incorporate different tenses and complex structures naturally.

✓ “I’ve always been quite interested in sports, particularly football. I’ve been playing regularly for about five years now, and I find that it’s not just good exercise but also a great way to socialize. If I had more free time, I’d probably join a more competitive league.”

Structures to practice:

• Past, present, present perfect tenses
• Future forms (will, going to)
• Conditionals (If I had… I would…)
• Relative clauses (The sport which I enjoy most…)
• Passive voice (Football is played by millions…)
• Modal verbs (should, could, might, must)

Mistake 7: Giving Yes/No Without Explanation

The problem: Answering opinion questions with just agreement or disagreement.

Example: Examiner: “Do you think children spend too much time on electronic devices?” Candidate: “Yes, I agree.” [silence]

Why it’s a problem: Doesn’t demonstrate ability to develop ideas or explain reasoning.

The fix: Always explain WHY you think that way.

✓ “Yes, I do think so. From what I’ve observed, many children nowadays spend several hours a day on smartphones or tablets, often at the expense of outdoor activities or face-to-face interaction. This concerns me because childhood is such an important time for developing social skills and physical fitness, and excessive screen time might interfere with that development.”

Mistake 8: Inappropriate Informality

The problem: Being too casual or using slang as if talking to friends.

Examples:
✗ “Yeah, it’s like, super cool, you know?”
✗ “Nah, I’m not really into that stuff.”
✗ “That’s totally awesome!”

Why it’s a problem: IELTS Speaking requires a balance—natural but appropriately formal. Too much slang sounds unprofessional.

The fix: Use conversational but standard English.

✓ “Yes, I find that quite interesting actually.”
✓ “No, that’s not really something I’m particularly keen on.”
✓ “I think that’s really impressive.”

Acceptable informal elements:

• Contractions (I’m, don’t, haven’t) are fine
• Fillers (well, actually, you know) in moderation
• Conversational phrases (to be honest, the thing is)

Too informal:

• Excessive slang (cool, awesome, guys, stuff)
• Very casual expressions (yeah, nah, kinda, wanna, gonna)

Mistake 9: Long Silences and Frequent Hesitation

The problem: Pausing for 5-10 seconds frequently, saying “umm…” repeatedly, or struggling to continue.

Why it’s a problem: Significantly affects Fluency score. Suggests difficulty maintaining speech flow.

The fix:

Use natural fillers strategically:

• “Well…” (thinking time at the start)
• “Let me think…” (buying time)
• “That’s an interesting question…” (processing)
• “How can I put this…” (organizing thoughts)
• “Actually…” (reformulating)

Keep speaking even while thinking: ✗ [10 second silence] ✓ “That’s a good question… let me think… I suppose from my perspective… well, I’d say that…”

Practice techniques:

• Talk to yourself daily in English
• Describe what you see around you
• Practice answering random questions without preparation
• Record yourself and identify where you pause unnecessarily

Mistake 10: Trying to Sound Like a Native Speaker

The problem: Attempting a British or American accent you don’t naturally have, or using idioms you don’t fully understand.

Why it’s a problem:

• Sounds forced and unnatural
• Often leads to pronunciation errors
• May use expressions incorrectly
• Wastes mental energy that should go to content

The fix: Focus on clarity, not accent. Your natural accent is fine as long as you’re understandable.

What matters:
✓ Clear pronunciation of individual sounds
✓ Correct word stress
✓ Natural intonation
✓ Speaking at an appropriate pace
✓ Being easily understood

What doesn’t matter:
✗ Having a “British” or “American” accent
✗ Sounding exactly like a native speaker

The examiner’s question: “Can I understand this person easily?” NOT “Does this person sound British?”

Mistake 11: Not Using Examples in Part 3

The problem: Giving general, abstract answers without concrete examples.

Example: Examiner: “What are the benefits of international tourism?” Candidate: “International tourism has many benefits. It’s good for the economy. It also helps cultural exchange. People learn about other cultures.”

Why it’s limited: While accurate, it’s too general. Band 7+ requires development with examples.

The fix: Add specific examples to illustrate your points.

✓ “International tourism brings substantial economic benefits to many countries. For example, in my country, tourism accounts for about 15% of GDP, providing jobs for millions of people in hotels, restaurants, and tour companies. Beyond economics, tourism facilitates cultural exchange—when visitors from different countries interact with locals, both sides gain new perspectives. I remember reading about how tourism has helped preserve traditional crafts in some Southeast Asian countries because tourists are willing to pay for authentic handmade products.”

Mistake 12: Contradicting Yourself

The problem: Saying opposite things in the same answer.

Example: “I love reading books. Reading is my favorite hobby. Actually, I don’t read very often because I find it boring.”

Why it’s a problem: Confuses the examiner and suggests unclear thinking or language problems.

The fix: Be consistent in your position. If you have mixed feelings, express them clearly.

✓ “I enjoy reading in principle, but to be honest, I don’t read as often as I’d like to because I find it hard to make time with my busy schedule. When I do read, though, I really get absorbed in the story.”

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I take the Speaking test on a different day from the other tests? A: Yes. Speaking tests may be scheduled up to 7 days before or after your written tests. Check your test confirmation for the exact date and time.

Q: What should I bring to the Speaking test? A: Only your ID (the same one you used for registration—must be original, not a photocopy). No bags, phones, watches, or other items are allowed in the testing room.

Q: Will the examiner give me feedback during the test? A: No. Examiners cannot tell you how you’re doing, correct your mistakes, or give you advice during the test. They maintain a neutral, professional demeanor.

Q: Can I ask the examiner to repeat a question? A: Yes! If you didn’t hear or understand a question, it’s perfectly fine to say “Sorry, could you repeat that?” or “Could you say that again, please?” This won’t affect your score.

Q: What if I don’t know anything about the Part 2 topic? A: You can adapt the topic slightly or talk about something similar. For example, if asked about “a book you read” but you don’t read books, you could talk about an article, a movie based on a book, or even be honest: “I don’t read much, but I remember a book from school…” The key is to keep talking.

Q: Can I change what I said if I make a mistake? A: Yes! Self-correction is actually a positive feature. If you notice an error, you can correct it: “I went there last year… sorry, I mean two years ago.”

Q: Will my score be affected if the examiner is unfriendly? A: Examiners are trained to be neutral and professional. They may seem less friendly than expected, but this is to maintain objectivity. Your score is based solely on your language performance, not the examiner’s personality. All tests are recorded and can be reviewed for quality assurance.

Q: How can I improve my pronunciation? A:

• Record yourself and compare to native speakers
• Use pronunciation apps (ELSA Speak, Sounds: The Pronunciation App)
• Watch videos showing mouth positions for difficult sounds
• Practice word stress with a dictionary
• Listen and repeat exercises daily
• Work with a teacher for personalized feedback

Q: Is it okay to say “I don’t know”? A: It’s better to avoid this phrase. Instead, speculate or give your opinion even if you’re uncertain. Use phrases like:

• “I’m not entirely sure, but I think…”
• “I haven’t thought about this much, but I suppose…”
• “That’s difficult to say, but perhaps…”
• “I don’t have much experience with this, but I imagine…”

Q: Should I use idioms and phrasal verbs? A: Yes, if you use them naturally and correctly. A few well-placed idioms demonstrate strong vocabulary. However, forcing idioms or using them incorrectly is worse than not using them at all. Quality over quantity.

Q: What if I run out of things to say in Part 2? A: Keep talking about any aspect of the topic. Repeat points in different words, add personal reflections, or explain why the topic is important. Don’t stop speaking before the examiner tells you time is up.

Q: Can I talk about controversial topics? A: Yes, you can express opinions on controversial subjects, but stay balanced and professional. Avoid extreme views or offensive language. The examiner is assessing your English, not judging your opinions.

Q: Do I need a British or American accent? A: No! You can use any accent as long as you’re clearly understandable. Many successful Band 8-9 candidates have noticeable accents from their native languages. Clarity and intelligibility matter, not sounding native.

Q: Will I lose marks for grammar mistakes? A: Small, occasional errors are expected even at Band 7. Examiners look at overall accuracy and range. Frequent errors that impede communication will lower your score, but occasional slips are fine.

Q: How can I sound more fluent? A:

• Speak regularly in English (even to yourself)
• Use natural fillers (well, actually, you know) instead of silence
• Don’t translate from your native language—think in English
• Practice topic-based speaking for 2-3 minutes daily
• Accept that some hesitation is natural
• Focus on meaning, not perfection

Q: Can I ask the examiner questions? A: Only for clarification about the test procedure or if you didn’t understand a question. Don’t ask the examiner’s opinion on topics (“What do you think about this?”)—they won’t answer.

Q: What happens if I go off-topic in Part 2? A: The examiner may redirect you back to the topic, but if you’ve addressed the bullet points on the card, some deviation is acceptable. However, staying focused is better—it shows you can maintain a topic.

Q: Should I be formal or informal? A: Aim for a conversational but respectful tone. Not as formal as an academic essay, but not as casual as texting friends. Think “professional conversation.”

Q: How long should my Part 1 answers be? A: About 2-4 sentences (10-20 seconds) per answer. Short enough to be natural, long enough to demonstrate language ability.

Q: Will I be penalized for pausing to think? A: Brief pauses (1-2 seconds) to organize your thoughts are natural and acceptable. Long silences (5+ seconds) or frequent hesitation will affect your Fluency score.

Q: Can I use the same answer for different questions? A: Not recommended. Each question is different, and your answers should be relevant. If topics overlap, you can mention similar ideas but adapt them to fit the specific question.

Q: What if the examiner interrupts me in Part 2? A: This is normal! It means time is up. Don’t worry—you haven’t done anything wrong. The examiner has to keep to the timing schedule.

Q: Should I practice with a native speaker? A: It’s helpful but not essential. Practicing with any English speaker (even other IELTS students) is valuable. Focus on fluency, not accent perfection.

Q: How do I prepare if I’m naturally quiet or shy? A:

• Practice alone first (record yourself)
• Gradually work up to practicing with others
• Remember: examiners are professionals, not judging your personality
• Focus on the task, not your anxiety
• Practice deep breathing before the test
• Remember that most candidates feel nervous—this is normal

Your IELTS Speaking Preparation Plan

Week 1-2: Foundation and Assessment

Days 1-3: Understand the Test

• Watch sample IELTS Speaking tests on YouTube
• Study the band descriptors (what each score means)
• Familiarize yourself with the three-part structure
• Identify your current approximate level

Days 4-7: Build Topic Vocabulary

• Create vocabulary lists for common topics (home, work, hobbies, education, technology, environment)
• Learn synonyms for common words
• Study topic-specific phrases and expressions
• Practice using new vocabulary in sentences

Days 8-10: Record Baseline Performance

• Record yourself answering Part 1 questions (10 questions)
• Record a Part 2 long turn (2 minutes)
• Record Part 3 discussion responses (5 questions)
• Listen critically: identify grammar errors, pronunciation issues, hesitations, vocabulary repetition

Days 11-14: Pronunciation Practice

• Identify your problem sounds (r/l, v/w, th, etc.)
• Practice word stress using a dictionary
• Study sentence stress patterns
• Practice intonation (questions vs statements)
• Record and compare to native speakers

Week 3-4: Skill Development

Daily routine (30-40 minutes):

Part 1 Practice (10 minutes):

• Answer 10-15 Part 1 questions
• Focus on extending answers (aim for 3-4 sentences)
• Record yourself and listen back
• Vary your responses for similar questions

Part 2 Practice (15 minutes):

• Practice 2 Part 2 topics
• Time yourself: 1 minute preparation, 2 minutes speaking
• Cover all bullet points
• Practice not stopping until time is up

Part 3 Practice (10 minutes):

• Answer 5-7 Part 3 abstract questions
• Practice giving extended answers with reasons and examples
• Work on expressing and justifying opinions
• Use complex grammatical structures

Vocabulary Building (5 minutes):

• Review and use new words from daily practice
• Learn 5-10 new words or phrases
• Practice using them in context

Topics to cover this week:

• Week 3: Work/Study, Hobbies, Hometown, Family, Daily Routine
• Week 4: Technology, Education, Travel, Health, Environment

Week 5-6: Advanced Practice and Fluency

Days 1-7: Intensive Speaking Practice

• Do full practice tests (all three parts, 11-14 minutes)
• Practice with a partner if possible (language exchange, tutor, friend)
• Focus on fluency—speak without long pauses
• Record all sessions and review

Days 8-14: Work on Weak Areas

• Based on recordings, identify specific problems:
  • Grammar errors? Study and practice correct forms
  • Limited vocabulary? Build topic-based word lists
  • Pronunciation issues? Focus on specific sounds
  • Too much hesitation? Practice thinking in English
  • Short answers? Practice the extension techniques

Advanced techniques to develop:

• Using conditionals naturally (If I had…, If I could…)
• Comparing and contrasting (On one hand… on the other hand…)
• Speculating about future (It’s likely that… I imagine…)
• Expressing uncertainty appropriately (I suppose… Perhaps…)

Topics to cover this week:

• Media, Culture, Social Issues, Science, Sports, Shopping, Food

Week 7-8: Exam Simulation and Final Preparation

Days 1-5: Full Mock Tests

• Do 5 complete mock Speaking tests under exam conditions
• Use official IELTS Speaking test questions
• Have someone (teacher, tutor, or partner) play the examiner role if possible
• Time strictly: Part 1 (4-5 min), Part 2 (3-4 min including prep), Part 3 (4-5 min)

Days 6-10: Polish and Refine

• Review all recordings from mock tests
• Create a personal checklist of things to remember:
  • Common grammar mistakes to avoid
  • Overused words to replace with synonyms
  • Pronunciation words that trip you up
  • Useful phrases for different situations
• Practice answering the same question in multiple ways

Days 11-13: Light Practice

• Don’t over-practice—you might burn out
• Do one mock test
• Review your notes and useful phrases
• Practice positive visualization
• Watch some English content to keep your ear tuned in

Day 14: Rest and Mental Preparation

• No intensive practice
• Light review of vocabulary only
• Ensure you know the test location and timing
• Prepare what you’ll wear (comfortable, professional)
• Get a good night’s sleep

Test Day Strategy

Before the test:

• Arrive 30 minutes early
• Use the bathroom
• Do light warm-up: talk to yourself in English, review key phrases
• Take deep breaths to stay calm
• Remember: the examiner wants you to succeed

During the test:

Part 1:

• Be friendly and natural
• Extend every answer (2-4 sentences)
• Don’t overthink—answer naturally
• Show enthusiasm in your voice

Part 2:

• Use the full 1 minute to prepare
• Write brief notes, not full sentences
• Cover all bullet points
• Keep talking until the examiner stops you
• Don’t panic if you run out—repeat points in different words

Part 3:

• Take a moment to think before answering
• Give extended, developed answers
• Use examples to support your points
• Show you can discuss abstract ideas
• It’s okay to politely disagree with premises (“Well, I’m not sure I entirely agree that…”)

Throughout:

• Maintain eye contact
• Speak clearly at a moderate pace
• Self-correct if you notice mistakes
• Use natural gestures (but not excessively)
• Stay calm even if you make mistakes
• Keep a positive attitude

Common IELTS Speaking Topics to Prepare

Part 1 Topics (Personal/Everyday)

Personal Information:

• Name, hometown, accommodation, family
• Work or studies
• Daily routine

Hobbies and Interests:

• Sports, music, reading, movies, art
• Free time activities
• Cooking, shopping, fashion

Technology:

• Mobile phones, internet, social media
• Computers and technology use

Environment:

• Weather, seasons, nature
• Animals and pets

Travel:

• Vacations, places visited
• Transportation

Food:

• Favorite foods, cooking
• Restaurants, eating habits

Other Common Topics:

• Friends, neighbors, visitors
• Birthdays, celebrations, festivals
• Colors, numbers, names
• Shoes, bags, jewelry, clothes
• Photos, art, museums
• Sleep, relaxation, time management

Part 2 Topics (Describe…)

People:

• A person who influenced you
• A famous person you admire
• A family member
• A friend you’ve known for a long time

Places:

• A place you visited
• Your ideal home
• A city you would like to visit
• A peaceful place

Objects:

• A gift you received
• Something you own that’s important to you
• A piece of technology you use
• A book/movie/song you like

Events:

• A memorable journey
• A celebration you attended
• A time when you helped someone
• An achievement you’re proud of
• A difficult decision you made

Activities:

• A hobby you enjoy
• A sport or exercise you do
• Something you do to stay healthy
• A skill you would like to learn

Abstract:

• An interesting conversation
• Advice you received
• A goal you have
• A change you would like to see

Part 3 Topics (Abstract/Societal)

Education:

• Purpose of education
• Teaching methods
• Technology in education
• Cost of education
• Academic vs vocational training

Technology:

• Impact on society
• Privacy concerns
• Future technology
• Children and technology
• Work and automation

Environment:

• Climate change solutions
• Individual vs government responsibility
• Conservation efforts
• Pollution and waste
• Sustainable living

Work:

• Work-life balance
• Job satisfaction
• Future of work
• Gender equality
• Retirement

Society and Culture:

• Cultural preservation
• Globalization effects
• Generation differences
• Urban vs rural living
• Social problems and solutions

Media and Communication:

• News and information
• Social media influence
• Advertising
• Celebrity culture
• Traditional vs digital media

Advanced Tips for High Scores (Band 7+)

1. Develop Natural Conversation Skills

Band 7+ candidates sound natural and conversational, not scripted.

How to sound natural:

• Use contractions (I’m, don’t, haven’t)
• Use discourse markers (actually, basically, to be honest)
• Include natural fillers moderately (well, you know, I mean)
• Vary your sentence structure
• Show genuine interest in the topic
• Let your personality show

Example of natural speech: “Well, to be honest, I’m not really a morning person. I mean, I know some people spring out of bed full of energy, but for me, it takes a good coffee or two before I’m properly awake. Actually, I’ve tried to change this—setting earlier alarms and so on—but I think it’s just how I’m wired, you know?”

2. Master Paraphrasing

High scorers can express the same idea in multiple ways.

Question: “Do you enjoy reading?”

Multiple ways to express agreement:

• “Yes, I’m quite keen on reading.”
• “Absolutely, I’m an avid reader.”
• “Yes, I find reading very enjoyable.”
• “Definitely, I’m really into books.”
• “Yes, reading is one of my favorite pastimes.”

Practice expressing common ideas in 5 different ways.

3. Use Sophisticated Vocabulary Naturally

Band 7+ requires “less common lexical items” used naturally.

Instead of: “Technology is very important in education.” Better: “Technology plays a crucial role in modern education.” Even better: “Technological innovations have fundamentally transformed the educational landscape.”

Less common vocabulary examples:

• deteriorate (instead of get worse)
• predominantly (instead of mostly)
• tremendous (instead of very big)
• implement (instead of use/do)
• foster (instead of help create)
• substantial (instead of large)

BUT: Only use words you’re comfortable with. A correctly used common word is better than an incorrectly used advanced word.

4. Show Analytical Thinking in Part 3

Band 7+ candidates can analyze issues from multiple perspectives.

Question: “Should governments spend money on space exploration?”

Basic answer (Band 5-6): “Yes, I think so. Space is interesting and we can learn many things.”

Analytical answer (Band 7-8): “That’s a complex question with valid arguments on both sides. On one hand, space exploration has led to technological breakthroughs that benefit society—GPS, satellite technology, and medical advances all originated from space research. Moreover, exploring space helps us understand our place in the universe and could be crucial for humanity’s long-term survival. On the other hand, the enormous costs involved could arguably be better spent addressing pressing issues here on Earth—poverty, disease, climate change. I think it comes down to balance. Moderate investment in space programs is justified, but not at the expense of fundamental human needs.”

What makes this Band 7-8:

• Acknowledges complexity
• Presents multiple perspectives
• Uses sophisticated vocabulary
• Shows depth of thinking
• Provides balanced conclusion

5. Use Time Expressions Precisely

Instead of vague time references:
✗ “A long time ago…”
✗ “Recently…”

Use precise timeframes:
✓ “About five years ago…”
✓ “Back in 2018…”
✓ “Over the past decade…”
✓ “In recent months…”

This shows language precision and improves coherence.

6. Employ “Hedging” Language

Academic English often avoids absolute statements.

Too absolute:
✗ “Social media is always bad for mental health.”
✗ “Everyone agrees that education is important.”

Better (hedged):
✓ “Social media can potentially have negative effects on mental health.”
✓ “There’s widespread consensus that education plays a vital role.”

Hedging words:

• tend to, seem to, appear to
• might, may, could, can
• generally, typically, often, usually
• to some extent, in many cases
• it could be argued that…

7. Practice Strategic Self-Correction

Self-correction is actually a positive feature—it shows language awareness.

Good self-correction: “I visited that place in 2020… actually, no, sorry, it was 2019. And what struck me most was…”

Don’t over-correct: Don’t stop mid-flow to correct every tiny mistake. Only correct if the error affects meaning or if you immediately notice it.

8. Use Conditionals for Speculation

Conditionals demonstrate grammatical range, especially in Part 3.

Second conditional (hypothetical present): “If I had more free time, I would definitely take up photography.”

Third conditional (hypothetical past): “If I had studied harder in school, I might have gotten into a better university.”

Mixed conditionals: “If governments had taken climate change more seriously in the past, we wouldn’t be facing such severe environmental challenges today.”

9. Add Personal Anecdotes Strategically

Brief personal stories make your answers engaging and natural.

Question: “Is it important to learn a foreign language?”

With anecdote: “Absolutely. I remember when I was traveling in Japan a few years ago—I didn’t speak Japanese, and trying to navigate the Tokyo subway system was incredibly challenging. That experience really highlighted how valuable language skills are. Beyond just practical benefits, learning a language opens doors to understanding different cultures and perspectives. It’s not just about communication; it’s about connection.”

Keep anecdotes:

• Brief (20-30 seconds)
• Relevant to the question
• Connected to a broader point

10. Master Register Shifts

Adjust your language register based on the part of the test.

Part 1 (Conversational): “Yeah, I really enjoy cooking. It’s relaxing and I like trying new recipes.”

Part 3 (More formal/analytical): “In terms of broader societal trends, there has been a notable shift toward home cooking in recent years, likely influenced by several factors including economic considerations and increased health awareness.”

High scorers adjust naturally—Part 3 should sound slightly more formal and analytical than Part 1.

Recommended Resources

Official Materials

• IELTS.org: Official Speaking test samples and band descriptors
• British Council YouTube: Official IELTS Speaking test examples with examiner comments
• IDP Education: Sample Speaking tests and preparation materials

YouTube Channels (Highly Recommended)

• IELTS Liz: Speaking strategies, sample answers, common topics
• E2 IELTS: Method-based Speaking preparation
• IELTS Advantage: Topic-specific vocabulary and strategies
• Fastrack IELTS: Speaking test walkthroughs with band scores
• IELTS Speaking Success: Analysis of Band 7-9 performances

Apps and Websites

• IELTS Speaking Assistant: Practice questions organized by part
• ELSA Speak: AI-powered pronunciation training
• Sounds: The Pronunciation App: Learn British English sounds
• YouGlish: See how native speakers pronounce specific words in context
• Forvo: Hear pronunciations of any word by native speakers

Speaking Practice Partners

• iTalki: Find tutors or language exchange partners
• Cambly: Practice with native speakers
• HelloTalk: Language exchange app
• Tandem: Connect with speakers worldwide
• Speaky: Free language exchange community

Books

• “Target Band 7” by Simone Braverman
• “IELTS Speaking Strategies” by Rachel Mitchell
• “Collins Speaking for IELTS”
• “Get Ready for IELTS Speaking” by Fiona Aish and Jo Tomlinson

Podcasts for Listening and Learning

• BBC Learning English: “6 Minute English,” “The English We Speak”
• All Ears English
• Luke’s English Podcast
• Culips ESL Podcast

Getting Feedback (Essential!)

• Professional IELTS tutor: Most effective for rapid improvement
• Online correction services: WriteToScore, IELTS Advantage
• Language exchange partners: Free but quality varies
• Recording yourself: Self-assessment using band descriptors

Final Thoughts

IELTS Speaking is unique among the four test sections because it’s interactive and unpredictable. You can’t memorize perfect answers because you don’t know exactly what questions you’ll receive. This makes some students anxious, but it also means that genuine conversational ability—not memorization—is what succeeds.

Key Principles to Remember:

1. Fluency comes from practice, not perfection. You don’t need flawless English. You need to communicate clearly and maintain flow. Even Band 9 candidates make small errors occasionally.

2. Personality and authenticity matter. The most successful candidates sound like themselves, not like they’re performing a script. Let your personality show. Be enthusiastic, thoughtful, friendly.

3. There are no right or wrong opinions. You can agree, disagree, or present balanced views. The examiner is evaluating your English, not judging your opinions. Choose positions you can support with reasons and examples.

4. Communication strategies are valuable skills. Using paraphrase when you don’t know a word, asking for clarification, self-correcting—these aren’t weaknesses. They’re signs of strong communication ability.

5. Regular practice is essential. Speaking improves with use. Daily practice, even just 10-15 minutes of talking to yourself, is more effective than occasional marathon sessions.

6. Feedback accelerates improvement. You can’t always hear your own mistakes. Getting feedback from teachers, tutors, or even recording and critically analyzing yourself is crucial.

Mindset Shifts:

From: “I need to memorize perfect answers.”
To: “I need to develop flexible speaking skills.”

From: “I must sound like a native speaker.”
To: “I must be clearly understandable.”

From: “Making mistakes will hurt my score.”
To: “Small mistakes are normal; communication is what matters.”

From: “I should use the most advanced vocabulary possible.”
To: “I should use appropriate vocabulary accurately.”

Final Encouragement:

Band 7 in Speaking is achievable for most dedicated students. It doesn’t require native-level fluency—it requires clear communication, reasonable vocabulary range, adequate grammar, and good pronunciation.

Thousands of candidates achieve their Speaking targets every month. The formula works:

1. Understand the test format
2. Build topic-based vocabulary
3. Practice speaking regularly
4. Get feedback and correct mistakes
5. Develop fluency through consistent practice
6. Stay authentic and conversational

Remember: Every confident English speaker was once a beginner. Every successful IELTS interview starts with one practice session, one question answered, one speaking partner found.

The Speaking test is your opportunity to shine—to show what you CAN do, not what you can’t. The examiner is your audience, there to listen to you demonstrate your English skills. With preparation, practice, and confidence, you can absolutely achieve your target score.

Start practicing today. Speak English daily. Record yourself. Get feedback. Trust the process.

You’ve got this!

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