IELTS speaking test: Important tips

It was by chance I met an IELTS examiner a year ago. As I need to join different seminars and meetings on IELTS, I meet people who have been working with IELTS. Fortunately, he kept in contact with me and has been generous to share some of his real-life experiences with IELTS exams. During our conversations, I have been able to mark some important points on the IELTS speaking exam. So, here are some tips from me on speaking tests based on my conversation with the examiner.

IELTS Speaking – special tips for the oral test

1. Build Confidence: Confidence is key to performing well in the IELTS speaking test. One way to build confidence is by practicing regularly with a study partner or a teacher who can give you feedback. Also, remember that the examiner is not there to judge you but to assess your English language skills.
2. Improve Your Vocabulary: A wide range of vocabulary is important for scoring well in the IELTS speaking test. To improve your vocabulary, read English books, newspapers, and magazines, watch English movies and TV shows, and listen to English podcasts.
3. Focus on Grammar: Proper grammar is essential for clear and effective communication in English. To improve your grammar, study English grammar rules and practice using them in speaking and writing.
4. Manage Time: The IELTS speaking test is timed, so it is important to practice speaking under time pressure. Practice answering questions within the given time limit to get used to the format.
5. Paraphrase: Paraphrasing is the ability to express the same meaning in different words. It is an important skill to have as it can help you avoid repeating the same words and phrases. Practice paraphrasing by taking a sentence and expressing it in a different way.
6. Use Examples: Providing examples in your answers can show the examiner that you understand the question and can support your ideas with relevant information.
7. Listen Carefully: Listen carefully to the questions asked and make sure you understand what is being asked before answering. It is important to answer the question directly and not go off-topic.
8. Connect Your Ideas: Using connecting words such as ‘however’, ‘therefore’, and ‘moreover’ can help connect your ideas and make your speech sound more fluent and organized.
9. Be Natural: Speak in a natural and conversational tone. Avoid memorized answers or rehearsed responses as it may affect your fluency and intonation.
10. Stay Calm and Composed: Finally, staying calm and composed throughout the speaking test can help you perform better. Take a deep breath before you begin and maintain a positive attitude. Remember that mistakes are normal and do not affect your overall score. 

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