How this test is marked
IELTS Speaking is marked by an examiner on four equally weighted criteria. This practice test has no automatic score, so record yourself, then compare your answer with the notes below.
- Fluency and coherence. Speak at a natural pace with few long pauses, and link your ideas so the listener can follow.
- Lexical resource. Use a range of vocabulary and natural phrases, and paraphrase when you do not know a word.
- Grammatical range and accuracy. Mix simple and complex sentences and keep errors from getting in the way of meaning.
- Pronunciation. Be easy to understand: clear sounds, word and sentence stress, and varied intonation.
Notes for each question
Question 1: Do you work or are you a student?
Answer directly in your first sentence, then add one reason or example. Aim for two or three sentences (about 20 to 30 seconds) and avoid one word answers. State your situation and add one detail, such as your subject or field.
Question 2: What do you like about your work or studies?
Answer directly in your first sentence, then add one reason or example. Aim for two or three sentences (about 20 to 30 seconds) and avoid one word answers. Name one or two things and give a short example.
Question 3: Is there anything you would like to change about your daily routine?
Answer directly in your first sentence, then add one reason or example. Aim for two or three sentences (about 20 to 30 seconds) and avoid one word answers. Use 'I'd like to' and a reason, for example waking up earlier.
Question 4: How do you usually relax after a long day?
Answer directly in your first sentence, then add one reason or example. Aim for two or three sentences (about 20 to 30 seconds) and avoid one word answers. Describe one or two activities and say why they work for you.
Question 5: Describe a time when you were very busy. (speak for one to two minutes after one minute of preparation)
Set the scene with a time marker, describe the pressure in detail and then explain the strategies you used. Use past tenses and finish with a reflection on what you learned about managing your time.
Question 6: Why do some people find it hard to manage their time?
Give an opinion, explain it with a reason and add an example or a contrast ('on the other hand'). Longer, developed answers of 30 to 45 seconds score higher than short ones. Give two reasons such as distractions and poor planning, with a short example.
Question 7: Is it better to work on one task at a time or several tasks at once?
Give an opinion, explain it with a reason and add an example or a contrast ('on the other hand'). Longer, developed answers of 30 to 45 seconds score higher than short ones. Take a position with reasons and acknowledge when the other approach works.
Question 8: Do you think people today are under more stress than in the past?
Give an opinion, explain it with a reason and add an example or a contrast ('on the other hand'). Longer, developed answers of 30 to 45 seconds score higher than short ones. Compare past and present, mention technology and work pressure, and give a balanced view.
Question 9: What can employers do to reduce stress at work?
Give an opinion, explain it with a reason and add an example or a contrast ('on the other hand'). Longer, developed answers of 30 to 45 seconds score higher than short ones. Suggest practical measures such as flexible hours and realistic deadlines, and explain how they help.
Question 10: How important is it to have free time?
Give an opinion, explain it with a reason and add an example or a contrast ('on the other hand'). Longer, developed answers of 30 to 45 seconds score higher than short ones. Explain the benefits for health and creativity and give an example from your own life.