The IELTS Speaking test is a face-to-face, informal discussion with an IELTS examiner. This test is the same for both Academic and General Training versions of IELTS. It is divided into three parts and is designed to test your pronunciation, fluency, grammar, and vocabulary. To help you perform well, here are some essential tips and strategies.

First, consider your IELTS General test booking well in advance to ensure you have ample time to prepare. Speak some English every day to build your confidence and improve your skills gradually. During the test, don’t hesitate to ask the examiner questions if you don’t understand something. Doing a 24-hour English warm-up before your test can significantly enhance your performance. Give full answers to show the examiner your language proficiency, and correct any mistakes you make during the conversation. Understanding the structure of the test and practising regularly will help you succeed in your IELTS Speaking test.

Speak Some English Every Day

One thing all my Band 7+ students have in common is that they speak English every day. Practising a little bit every day helps you improve your skills gradually. It is better than speaking your native language all week and then suddenly switching to English during your IELTS class. Daily practice will help you feel more comfortable and confident when speaking English.

Ask Questions If You Don’t Understand

Your IELTS Speaking test is meant to be like a normal conversation between two people. If you don’t understand a word, you can ask the examiner to explain what it means. For example, you can say, “I’m sorry, could you explain what [word] means?” You can also ask the examiner to repeat the question if you didn’t hear it clearly. However, you cannot ask the examiner to explain the whole sentence.

Do a 24-Hour English Warm-Up

Most IELTS students need 10-15 minutes to ‘warm up’ and perform their best on test day. Just like an athlete needs to warm up before a sporting event, you need to warm up before your IELTS exam. Speak, write, read, and listen to English for 24 hours before your IELTS Speaking test. Your family and friends might think you are crazy, but this will greatly improve your score.      

Give Full Answers

In your IELTS Speaking test, ‘Yes’ and ‘No’ are not satisfactory answers. You need to show the examiner how good your English is. If you give very short answers, the examiner cannot know how good you are. Try to extend your answers with explanations and examples. For example, instead of just saying, “Yes, I like sports,” you could say, “Yes, I like sports because they help me stay healthy and I enjoy playing with my friends.”

Correct Your Mistakes

Everyone makes small mistakes when they speak, especially when they are nervous about an exam. Correcting your mistakes as you make them can show the examiner that you really do know your grammar and vocabulary. When you make a small mistake, say sorry and repeat the sentence correctly. For example, if you say, “I went to the park yesterday,” you can correct yourself by saying, “Sorry, I went to the park yesterday.”

Structure of the IELTS Speaking Test

The IELTS Speaking test is divided into three parts:

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

In this part, the examiner will introduce themselves and ask you to introduce yourself. You will answer questions about familiar topics like your home, family, work, studies, and interests. This part lasts about 4-5 minutes.

Part 2: Long Turn

In this part, the examiner will give you a task card with a topic. You will have one minute to prepare and make notes. Then, you will speak about the topic for 1-2 minutes. After you finish, the examiner may ask you one or two questions about your talk.

Part 3: Discussion

In this part, the examiner will ask you more abstract questions related to the topic in Part 2. This is your chance to discuss more complex ideas and express your opinions. This part lasts about 4-5 minutes.

Practice Topics and Sample Questions: Here are some common topics and sample questions to help you prepare for your IELTS Speaking test:

Topic: Hobbies and Interests

– What do you like to do in your free time?

– Do you prefer indoor or outdoor activities? Why?

– How did you become interested in your hobby?

Topic: Travel

– Do you like to travel? Why or why not?

– What is your favourite place you have visited?

– Where would you like to travel in the future?

Topic: Education

– What is your favourite subject in school? Why?

– Do you think education is important? Why?

– How has education changed in your country in recent years?

Topic: Technology

– How has technology changed the way we live?

– Do you think technology is more helpful or harmful? Why?

– What technological device could you not live without?

Conclusion

Preparing for the IELTS Speaking test can be challenging, but with regular practice and the right strategies, you can achieve a high score. Remember to speak English every day, ask questions if you don’t understand, do a 24-hour English warm-up before your test, give full answers, and correct your mistakes. Understanding the structure of the test and practising common topics will also help you feel more confident. When making your IELTS General test booking, ensure you have ample time to prepare. By following these tips, you will be well on your way to success in the IELTS Speaking test. Good luck!