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Prepare for Your IELTS Speaking Test
Expert IELTS Speaking preparation with mock speaking tests and detailed feedback. All band score targets. Online or in person.
Book a Free ConsultationThe IELTS Speaking test is a face-to-face or video interview lasting 11–14 minutes. It is the only IELTS component that cannot be crammed the night before — it tests real speaking ability, developed through practice over time. But there are specific techniques that make a significant difference to your score.
IELTS Speaking is assessed on four equally-weighted criteria:
How smoothly you speak and how well your ideas connect. Examiners reward extended, organised responses — not hesitation and short answers.
The range and accuracy of your vocabulary. Using a variety of words — including less common expressions used correctly — scores higher than repeating basic vocabulary.
Using a variety of grammatical structures (including complex ones) accurately. A mix of tenses, conditionals and passive structures scores higher than simple sentences.
Clear, intelligible pronunciation — not a British accent. Examiners assess how easy you are to understand, not your accent.
Answer fully but concisely. Give your answer plus a brief reason or example. Do not give one-word answers.
Use all two minutes. Plan quickly in the one minute of preparation time — jot down three or four points. Speak to all bullet points on the card.
This is where high bands are won or lost. Give extended, nuanced responses with reasoning. Speculate, give examples, consider different perspectives.
One or two sentence answers will limit your fluency score. Always extend.
"That is an interesting question. Do I like travelling? Well, I like travelling because..." wastes time and signals limited fluency.
Examiners are trained to spot memorised responses. Unnatural, over-rehearsed answers score lower.
Minor self-correction is natural. But constantly stopping and restarting signals lack of fluency.
The IELTS Speaking test is a face-to-face or video interview lasting 11–14 minutes. It is the only IELTS component that cannot be crammed the night before — it tests real speaking ability, developed through practice over time. But there are specific techniques that make a significant difference to your score.
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Expert IELTS Speaking preparation with mock speaking tests and detailed feedback. All band score targets. Online or in person.
Book a Free Consultation