Know what’s coming
Three parts. Three different speaking skills.
The IELTS Speaking test moves through three distinct parts, each testing a slightly different kind of speaking. Knowing what’s expected in each one lets you focus on speaking naturally, rather than wondering what happens next.
Part by part
What each part actually involves
Introduction and Interview
Around four to five minutes of questions about familiar topics — your home, work, studies, interests and daily life. Answers should be natural and reasonably developed, not one-word replies.
The Long Turn
You receive a topic card, one minute to prepare, and then speak for one to two minutes without interruption. This is the only part of the test where you speak continuously for an extended period.
Discussion
A longer discussion connected to the Part 2 topic, often exploring broader, more abstract ideas. This part rewards the ability to explain, justify and compare, not just describe.
How the parts connect
Part 3 grows directly out of Part 2’s topic.
If your Part 2 topic card asks you to describe a memorable journey, Part 3 might explore travel, transport, or how people’s travel habits have changed over time. Recognising this connection helps you anticipate the general direction of Part 3’s questions.
Different skills, different parts
Adjust your approach as the test progresses
Parts 1 and 3
Interactive Conversation
These parts are a back-and-forth exchange. Listen closely to each question and respond directly to it, developing your answer with a reason or example rather than stopping short.
Part 2
Sustained, Independent Speech
This part rewards your ability to organise and sustain your own speech for an extended period, without the examiner guiding you along the way.
Ready for the next step?
Make the most of your one minute of prep time.
Part 2’s one-minute preparation period is short, but used well it can shape your entire long turn. Learn a practical strategy for using it effectively.