IELTS Speaking (Parts 1–3)
The IELTS Speaking test is a one-to-one interview lasting 11 to 14 minutes. This page outlines its structure, assessment criteria, and practical improvement steps.
Structure and Timing
- Part 1 — Introduction and familiar topics. The examiner asks short questions about everyday life (e.g. work, studies, hobbies). About 4–5 minutes.
- Part 2 — Long turn. You receive a cue card, have 1 minute to prepare, then speak for 1–2 minutes on a given topic.
- Part 3 — Discussion. The examiner asks deeper questions linked to the Part 2 topic. About 4–5 minutes.
Total time: 11–14 minutes.
What Examiners Assess
Speaking is marked on four criteria. Each contributes equally to your band score:
Fluency & Coherence
Ability to speak without long pauses, with clear logical flow.
Lexical Resource
Range and accuracy of vocabulary.
Grammar Range & Accuracy
Variety and correctness of grammatical structures.
Pronunciation
Clarity, intonation, and natural delivery.
Official band descriptors define what each score level looks like. See the Band Scores & Descriptors page and the PDF downloads below for full detail.
Common Mistakes That Hold Scores Down
- Giving answers that are too short, without development or examples
- Using memorised scripts that sound unnatural or off-topic
- Failing to develop ideas with reasons, examples, or explanation
- Using vague or unclear referencing (e.g. "it", "that") without clear connection
- Repeating the same vocabulary instead of showing range
- Speaking in a flat, monotonous tone with little variation in stress or intonation
- Making frequent grammar errors when under pressure or speaking quickly
- Not addressing the question asked, or drifting off-topic
Simple Improvement Plan
- Record — Record yourself answering practice questions so you can hear what the examiner hears.
- Review against criteria — Compare your recordings to the band descriptors. Note where you match or fall short on each of the four criteria.
- Targeted drills — Focus practice on weak areas (e.g. extending answers, varying vocabulary, or clearer pronunciation).
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