A relaxed conversation across a table, just like the IELTS Speaking test. Photo by Maria Fernanda Pissioli on Unsplash
Many of our students in Bangkok tell us the same thing: "My reading is fine, but the IELTS Speaking test makes me nervous." That is completely normal. Speaking to an examiner you have never met, in a second language, with a timer running, is not easy for anyone.
The good news is that the Speaking test is very predictable. Once you know how it works and you practise in the right way, it starts to feel like a normal conversation. Here are 8 practical tips to help you sound more natural and confident on test day.
First, a quick look at the test
The IELTS Speaking test takes about 11 to 14 minutes and has three parts:
- Part 1: short questions about familiar topics, like your work, studies, family or hobbies.
- Part 2: you get a cue card with a topic. You have one minute to prepare and make notes, then you speak for up to two minutes.
- Part 3: a longer discussion with the examiner about ideas connected to your Part 2 topic.
Now let's get into the tips.
1. Answer, then add a little more
In Part 1, a one word answer is too short, but a speech is too long. A simple formula works well: answer, reason, example.
"Do you like cooking?"
"Yes, I do, especially on weekends. It helps me relax after a busy week. Last Sunday I made green curry for my friends, and it was actually pretty good!"
Two or three sentences is perfect.
2. Use natural "thinking phrases"
Even native speakers pause to think. The trick is to fill the pause with English, not silence or "umm" again and again. Try these:
- "That's an interesting question."
- "Let me think about that for a second."
- "I've never really thought about it, but I guess..."
- "Well, it depends."
Use them naturally, not in every answer. One or two times in the test is enough.
3. Make smart notes in Part 2
One minute goes very fast. Do not write full sentences. Write keywords only, one line for each point on the cue card. For example, if the topic is "Describe a place you like to visit," your notes could be:
- Chatuchak market, weekends
- go with sister, since uni
- food, plants, people watching
- feel energetic, cheap souvenirs
Then tell it like a story. Stories are easier to keep going for two minutes than a list of facts.
4. Use past, present and future in one answer
Examiners listen for a range of grammar. An easy way to show it is to move through time: what you did before, what you do now, and what you plan to do. "When I was younger I used to hate vegetables, but now I eat salad almost every day, and I'm planning to learn how to cook more healthy food."
5. Give your opinion in Part 3, then explain it
Part 3 questions are more abstract, for example: "Why do young people move to big cities?" The examiner wants ideas, not perfect facts. Give a clear opinion and support it:
- "In my opinion, the main reason is jobs. For example, many people from the provinces come to Bangkok because..."
- "On the other hand, some people prefer..."
Comparing two sides shows you can discuss ideas in depth.
6. Watch the sounds Thai speakers often miss
Pronunciation is about being clear, not having a British or American accent. For many Thai speakers, the biggest wins are:
- Final sounds: "worked," "likes," "bus." Say the last sound clearly.
- The "th" sound: "think" and "three," not "tink" and "tree."
- Word stress: "phoTOgraphy," "deVElop," "ecoNOmic."
7. Record yourself and listen back
This is the tip students like least, and the one that helps the most. Pick a Part 2 topic, set a timer for one minute to prepare, then record yourself speaking for two minutes. Listen back and ask:
- Did I stop for long pauses?
- Did I repeat the same words, like "good" or "very"?
- Were my final sounds clear?
Do this a few times a week and you will hear real progress.
8. It's okay to ask the examiner
If you don't understand a question, just ask. "Sorry, could you repeat the question, please?" is completely fine. Guessing and giving an answer that does not match the question is much worse than asking politely.
Keep it a conversation
The examiner is not trying to trick you. Smile, make eye contact, and treat the test like a chat with a friendly new colleague. The more you practise speaking out loud with real people, the more natural it becomes.
Want some help getting ready for IELTS? At Bubble Language School in Wattana, near BTS On Nut, we run IELTS, TOEFL and TOEIC preparation in group, private, online and hybrid classes. Just say hello on LINE Official @ibe_education, email admin@bubblelanguageschool.org, call 092 854 5564, or visit bubblelanguageschool.org. We would love to hear about your goals.