IELTS Topics Master
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Speaking

IELTS speaking topics and questions

Practise IELTS speaking Part 1, Part 2 cue cards and Part 3 discussion questions. Record or type your answer, get an instant transcript, and receive tutor feedback with a band estimate and Band 6.5–7.0 upgrades.

Record or type your answer
Add the question first, then record — or type an answer instead.
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Target: 120s

Aim to speak for 1–2 minutes without stopping: cover every bullet and spend longest on the 'explain why' point.

Speaking Part 2 (cue card) target: 0s / 120s
MP3, M4A, WAV or voice memo — choose several at once if the answer is in parts.
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IELTS speaking question bank
Questions are grouped into topic categories, ordered by how often they come up in the exam. Open a category to see its questions, or search across all of them.

Familiar topics · short answers · 4–5 min

A.R.E.A. structure
Use this shape for Part 2 and Part 3 answers.

Answer

Answer the question directly in one sentence.

Reason

Because… / The main reason for this is…

Example

For instance, when I…

Alternative

That said, some people would argue…

Question

Do you think people should learn a second language? (Part 3)

Answer: Yes, I firmly believe learning a second language is worthwhile for almost everyone. Reason: The main reason is that it opens up far better study and career opportunities, particularly in international companies. Example: For instance, my cousin learned English at university and was consequently able to take a job with a firm that trades with Europe. Alternative: That said, some people would argue translation apps make this unnecessary, although in my view they cannot replace genuine conversation.

Question

Describe a place in nature you enjoy visiting. (Part 2)

Answer: The place I'd like to talk about is a small lake about an hour from my hometown. Reason: I go there mainly because it gives me a complete break from the noise and pressure of city life. Example: For instance, last spring I spent a whole morning walking round the water with my father, and we barely saw another person. Alternative: In light of this, although some friends prefer holidays in busy resorts, I find quiet natural places far more refreshing.

What each speaking part involves

4–5 minutes 3–5 sentences (about 20–40 seconds) per answer Warm-up on familiar topics

IELTS Speaking Part 1

Speaking Part 1 lasts 4 to 5 minutes and requires you to answer short questions about yourself and familiar topics such as your home, work, study, hobbies and daily routine. Answer directly, then add a reason and one detail or example — 3 to 5 sentences, about 20 to 40 seconds, never a single word.

  • Fluency & Coherence — answer without long hesitation or restarts
  • Lexical Resource — everyday topics still need precise word choice
  • Grammatical Range & Accuracy — control your tenses when talking about habits and the past
  • Pronunciation — clear word stress and sentence rhythm
1 minute preparation, then speak 1–2 minutes Keep talking until the examiner stops you Sustained solo speech

IELTS Speaking Part 2 (cue card / long turn)

Speaking Part 2 gives you a cue card with a topic and bullet points. You get 1 minute to make notes and then must speak alone for 1 to 2 minutes covering every bullet, finishing with the 'and explain why' point.

  • Cover all bullets, and spend the most time on the final 'explain' bullet
  • Use past-tense narration and time markers to structure the story
  • Add descriptive collocations rather than repeating 'very good' or 'really nice'
  • Do not stop early — aim for at least 90 seconds
4–5 minutes 4–6 sentences (about 30–45 seconds) per answer Abstract discussion and opinions

IELTS Speaking Part 3

Speaking Part 3 lasts 4 to 5 minutes and requires you to discuss abstract questions connected to the Part 2 topic — comparing, predicting, weighing advantages and disadvantages, and justifying opinions about society in general rather than yourself.

  • Use the A.R.E.A. shape: Answer, Reason, Example, Alternative view
  • Speculate with modals: might, could well, is likely to
  • Signal contrast and consequence precisely: conversely, consequently, in light of this
  • Generalise about people and society, not just your own experience

Sample speaking answers — Band 5.5 vs 6.5

Hear what separates a 5.5 answer from a 6.5 answer on the same question, then rework the weaker one yourself.