⚛️What to Expect in the IELTS Speaking Test        

The IELTS Speaking Test is made up of three parts, and it typically lasts around 11-14 minutes. It's a face-to-face interview with an examiner who will ask you a series of questions based on different topics. The aim is to assess your ability to speak fluently and clearly, while also showcasing your vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation skills.

Whether you're taking the Academic IELTS or General IELTS, the Speaking Test is exactly the same for both. Understanding its structure and the types of questions you may be asked can significantly improve your performance.

In this ultimate guide, we’ll walk you through all three parts of the IELTS Speaking Test, providing helpful tips and examples to make sure you’re fully prepared for every stage of the exam.

⚛️ IELTS Speaking Part 1: Introduction and Interview

In Part 1, the examiner will introduce themselves and ask you basic questions about familiar topics such as your hometown, family, hobbies, work, or studies. This section is designed to put you at ease and assess your ability to speak naturally and confidently on everyday subjects.

What to Expect

• Duration: 4-5 minutes

• Questions about familiar topics: home, work, studies, hobbies, etc.

• Focus on fluency and clarity

Tips for Part 1

• Answer in full sentences – avoid one-word answers.

• Use a range of vocabulary – try to incorporate new words and phrases.

• Practise - with a language partner, tutor or even independently!  It sounds obvious, but focusing on getting 1% better, every day, leads to success!  

Rebecca has made some interactive videos for you to practise your skills!

Sample Questions for Part 1

• Where is your hometown?

• What do you enjoy doing in your free time?

• Can you tell me about your family?

You can find more typical IELTS speaking test part 1 question prompts here. 

⚛️ IELTS Speaking Part 2: Long Turn 

Part 2 is where you’ll get the chance to speak at length. The examiner will give you a topic card with a question, and you’ll have 1 minute to prepare your response. After that, you’ll need to speak for 1-2 minutes on the topic without interruption. This is your opportunity to showcase your ability to speak fluently and coherently for an extended period.

What to Expect

• Duration: 3-4 minutes (including preparation time)

• You’ll be given a topic card and asked to speak on a subject

• Focus on fluency and the ability to develop ideas

Tips for Part 2

• Use your preparation time wisely – jot down key points to guide your response.

• Speak for the full 1-2 minutes – try not to rush your answer.

• Provide details and examples – this will help make your answer more engaging.

Sample Topic Card for Part 2

Describe a place you would like to visit.
You should say:

• Where it is

• Why you want to visit it

• What you would do there

• And explain why it’s important to you

You can find more typical IELTS speaking test part 2 question prompts here. 

⚛️ IELTS Speaking Part 3: Discussion

Part 3 is the final section, where the examiner will ask you more complex questions based on the topic from Part 2. This section is designed to test your ability to discuss ideas, give opinions, and speculate on abstract concepts. It’s also an opportunity to show your ability to use advanced grammar and vocabulary.

What to Expect

• Duration: 4-5 minutes

• Questions are more abstract and focused on general themes or issues

• Focus on critical thinking, opinion expression, and in-depth discussion

Tips for Part 3

• Expand on your answers – give reasons, examples, and explanations.

• Don’t be afraid to express an opinion – even if you’re not sure, give your view and back it up with logical reasoning.

• Use a range of vocabulary – link ideas together using appropriate connectors and transitional phrases.

Sample Questions for Part 3

• How important is it to maintain family relationships in modern society?

• What are the benefits and drawbacks of globalisation?

• How do you think education will evolve in the future?

You can find more typical IELTS speaking test part 3 question prompts here. 

⚛️ How to Prepare for the IELTS Speaking Test

1. Practise Regularly
The more you practise speaking in English, the more confident you’ll become. 

2. Record Yourself
Recording your answers will help you identify areas for improvement, such as pronunciation, grammar, or vocabulary.

3. Familiarise Yourself with Common Topics
There are certain topics that frequently appear in the IELTS Speaking Test, such as family, education, work, and travel. Practice speaking on these topics and learn useful vocabulary related to them.

4. Seek Feedback
Get feedback from a teacher or a native English speaker. This will help you identify mistakes and improve your overall speaking skills.  

⚛️ Let Atomic IELTS Prepare You For Success!

At Atomic IELTS, we provide tailored resources to help you succeed in your IELTS Speaking Test. With live speaking lessons, expert guidance and practice materials, we’ll ensure you feel confident and fully prepared on test day.

Our next preparation course is enrolling now, and spots are filling fast! Don’t miss this opportunity to work with Rebecca and Sandra - your expert instructors who are passionate about helping people just like you to power your future!