IELTS Speaking Preparation Guide (Parts 1, 2, 3)

Prepare effectively for the IELTS Speaking test. This section covers the test format, sample questions for all three parts, vocabulary tips, fluency advice, and assessment criteria.

The Speaking test is a face-to-face interview with a certified IELTS examiner, lasting 11-14 minutes. It assesses your ability to communicate effectively in spoken English across a range of topics and discussion formats. It's the same for both Academic and General Training tests.

Explore Speaking Resources

Speaking Test Overview & Format

Understand the structure and timing of the three parts of the Speaking test.

Part 1: Sample Questions & Answers

Practice common interview questions about familiar topics like work, study, and hobbies.

Part 2: Cue Card Topics List

Explore a collection of recent and common cue card topics for the 'long turn'.

Part 3: Discussion Questions & Answers

Prepare for the more abstract discussion questions that follow Part 2.

Vocabulary for Speaking

Learn useful idioms, phrasal verbs, and topic-specific words to enhance your lexical resource score.

Fluency & Pronunciation Tips

Find advice on speaking smoothly, reducing hesitation, and improving clarity and intonation.

Speaking Band Descriptors

Understand how your speaking is assessed based on Fluency, Vocabulary, Grammar, and Pronunciation.

Speaking Practice Simulator (Beta)

Use our tool to practice responding to typical IELTS Speaking questions (Coming Soon).