🔶 Part 1 — Tutorial

How to answer IELTS Speaking Part 1 — Step by Step

Step 1 — Give a direct answer first (2–4 sentences)

Start with a clear sentence that answers the question directly. Avoid repeating the question; it wastes precious seconds. Use present simple for habits and past simple for finished events. If it’s a Yes/No question, say “Yes, I do” or “Not really,” then add a short reason. Keep the first sentence short and confident to set the tone. If you need a moment to think, use a light filler like “Well,” or “To be honest,”—but don’t overuse them. Do not apologise or say “I don’t know”; pivot to something related instead. Maintain a natural pace and friendly intonation. Finish your direct answer in one or two sentences so you still have time for details.

Example — Direct Answer

Q: Do you enjoy cooking?
A: Yes, I do. I like trying simple recipes after work because it helps me relax.

Step 2 — Add 1–2 details or an example

After the direct answer, give one short reason and one concrete detail. Choose a detail you can say naturally, like time, place, person, or frequency. Use simple linkers such as “because…”, “for example…”, “usually…”, “these days…”. Keep sentences medium length to reduce errors. If you mention a habit, include frequency words (often, usually, once a week). If you describe a past event, add a clear time marker (yesterday evening, last weekend). Give numbers carefully (ten minutes, twice a week) to sound precise. End with a rounding line if time allows.

Example — Detail + Example

A: I usually cook simple pasta or stir-fried vegetables three or four times a week, for example after the gym on Tuesday. It’s quick and healthy.

Step 3 — Sound organised and natural

Follow a mini-structure: Answer → Reason → Example → Rounding line. Use everyday connectors: “because”, “so”, “for example”, “but”, “and”. Keep grammar steady: present simple for habits, present perfect for life experience, past simple for finished events. Add one or two natural phrasal verbs if they fit (get into, hang out). Pronounce key words clearly and stress content words. Avoid memorised language; examiners notice it quickly. Stay on topic and finish with a short rounding sentence like “Overall, that’s why I enjoy it.”

Example — Organised Mini-Structure

A: I enjoy cooking because it saves money and tastes fresh. For example, I try a new veggie dish every Friday. Overall, it’s become a relaxing routine for me.

Step 4 — Delivery: pronunciation, timing, and confidence

Aim for 15–25 seconds per answer; practise with a 30-second timer. Use natural intonation: slight rise for interest, fall at the end. Link words smoothly (I-like-to / a-lot-of). Stress content words (EN-joy, REA-son, EX-ample). Clarity beats speed—do not rush. Sit upright and look engaged; it helps voice quality. If you make a mistake, correct it briefly and continue. Avoid long pauses; use short fillers like “Well,” to restart. End confidently with a rounding line instead of trailing off.

Example — Timed Delivery

Set a 30-second timer and answer: “Do you prefer cooking at home or eating out?” Give 2–4 sentences with one reason and one example.

Universal Fill-in-the-Gap Template (Sentence by sentence)
  1. Direct answer: Well, I [do / don’t / usually / really] [verb] [topic].
  2. Reason: It’s [adjective] for me [because / since] [short reason].
  3. Detail: I [frequency] [do it / experience it] [time/place].
  4. Example: For example, [specific mini-story with a time marker].
  5. Rounding line (optional): Overall, [short conclusion].
Filled Example

A: Well, I usually cook at home. It’s cheaper for me because I’m trying to eat healthier. I normally cook on weekdays after work. For example, last night I made a quick pasta with vegetables. Overall, it’s a simple routine that suits me.

Practice Set — Topic: Books & Reading (5 new Part 1 questions)
  • Do you enjoy reading books?
  • What kind of books do you usually read?
  • When do you prefer to read—morning or evening?
  • Do you ever reread a book? Why or why not?
  • Have your reading habits changed since childhood?
How to use these questions

Answer each one using the template above. Keep your answer to 2–4 sentences, include one reason and one example, and finish with a short rounding line.

Checklist (before you record)
  • Did I start with a direct answer?
  • Did I add one reason and one concrete example?
  • Is my timing around 15–25 seconds?
  • Is my pronunciation clear with natural stress and intonation?
  • Did I finish with a short rounding sentence?
🔷 Part 2 — Topic Bank & Drills (Timer + Randomizer)
⏳ 00:30

Practice Set — Topic: Daily Technology (5 new Part 1 questions)

Choose a question

Select one question below and answer for about 15–25 seconds. Use the template from Part 1: Answer → Reason → Example → Rounding line.

Countdown Timer

Tip: Aim to finish your answer with 3–5 seconds remaining, using a short rounding line.

Recorder (30 seconds, with progress bar)

Record your answer and then play or download it. Maximum length: 30 seconds.

Submit for Feedback

The message includes: 1) title of the exercise, 2) your selected question with its detail, 3) your Full Name, Country, Email, and WhatsApp number.

Privacy Tip

Only share information you are comfortable with. Your recording stays on your device unless you attach or send it yourself.

🟣 Part 3 — Model Short Answers (Band 6.5–7)

Model Answers using the Part 1 Template

Each answer follows the universal structure: Direct Answer → Reason → Detail → Example → Rounding line. Read, listen, and study the step-by-step explanations.

Q1) Do you use any apps to manage your day?

Sample Answer: Well, I usually use a simple to-do app to plan my day. It helps me stay organised because I can see my tasks at a glance. I check it every morning before work and again after lunch. For example, today I scheduled a quick gym session at 6 p.m. Overall, it keeps my routine clear and stress-free.

Audio (placeholder)
Why this answer is good (Step-by-Step)
  1. Starts with a clear direct answer: “I usually use a simple to-do app”.
  2. Uses an adverb of frequency (usually) to show habit.
  3. Gives a short reason: “It helps me stay organised”.
  4. Adds a functional detail: “see my tasks at a glance”.
  5. Includes specific routine times (morning, after lunch) to sound real.
  6. Uses the present simple for daily habits.
  7. Provides a concrete, time-stamped example (“gym session at 6 p.m.”).
  8. Keeps sentences short to reduce grammar risk.
  9. Vocabulary is everyday and natural (to-do app, plan, routine).
  10. Shows control of linking (because / For example / Overall).
  11. Finishes with a rounding line that summarises the benefit.
  12. Intonation would naturally fall at sentence ends for clarity.
  13. No memorised phrases; it sounds personal but simple.
  14. Length fits 15–25 seconds when spoken at a calm pace.
  15. Answer stays on topic and avoids repetition of the question.
Q2) How often do you check your phone during the day?

Sample Answer: I check my phone quite often, but I try to keep it under control. It’s useful for quick messages and calendar reminders, so I look at it every couple of hours. For instance, I usually check it at lunchtime to reply to friends. Overall, I use it regularly, but I don’t let it interrupt my work.

Audio (placeholder)
Why this answer is good (Step-by-Step)
  1. Directly addresses frequency with natural phrasing (“quite often”).
  2. Balances honesty with control to sound mature and realistic.
  3. Provides reasons (messages, reminders) to justify behaviour.
  4. Uses a measurable detail (“every couple of hours”).
  5. Includes a time anchor (“at lunchtime”) for specificity.
  6. Keeps clauses short to reduce mistakes.
  7. Shows self-management language (“under control”, “don’t let it interrupt”).
  8. Uses present simple for routines.
  9. Natural linking with “so” and “For instance”.
  10. Maintains topic focus and avoids over-explaining.
  11. Fits comfortably in the 20-second range.
  12. Appropriate vocabulary for Part 1 (messages, reminders, reply).
  13. Rounding line expresses a balanced conclusion.
  14. No complex tense shifts; grammar stays stable.
  15. Pronunciation is clear with stress on key words (useful, reminders, regularly).
Q3) What kind of technology do you use for studying or work?

Sample Answer: I mainly use a lightweight laptop and cloud storage for my tasks. It’s convenient because I can access my files anywhere. I also use a note-taking app during meetings to keep everything tidy. For example, last week I prepared a short slide deck on the train. Overall, these tools make my work faster and more flexible.

Audio (placeholder)
Why this answer is good (Step-by-Step)
  1. Names two clear tools (laptop, cloud storage) to keep focus.
  2. Explains convenience with a mobile benefit (“anywhere”).
  3. Adds a third tool (note-taking app) with a purpose (meetings).
  4. Gives a specific past example with a time marker (“last week”).
  5. Uses simple collocations (prepare a slide deck / keep tidy).
  6. Shows task relevance (studying or work) without drifting.
  7. Varies sentence length while staying error-light.
  8. Uses present simple for regular use; past simple for a one-off.
  9. Provides a concise conclusion about efficiency and flexibility.
  10. Vocabulary is accessible but precise (lightweight, cloud, access).
  11. Linkers are natural: because / also / For example / Overall.
  12. Intonation can highlight advantages to sound engaged.
  13. Fits within 20–25 seconds comfortably.
  14. No unnecessary jargon for Part 1.
  15. Maintains a positive but realistic tone.
Q4) Do you prefer texting or calling your friends? Why?

Sample Answer: I usually prefer texting because it’s quick and polite when people are busy. I can send a short message and they reply when they’re free. Still, if something is urgent or personal, I call. For example, I phoned my best friend last night to plan a trip. Overall, I text most of the time, but I call when the topic matters.

Audio (placeholder)
Why this answer is good (Step-by-Step)
  1. Direct preference is stated immediately.
  2. Gives a social reason (busy schedules) that sounds realistic.
  3. Explains the benefit of delayed response.
  4. Introduces a clear exception (urgent/personal → call).
  5. Provides a recent past example (“last night”) to ground it.
  6. Shows balanced judgement: texting vs. calling.
  7. Uses simple, natural vocabulary and collocations.
  8. Grammar stable: present simple for preferences; past simple for example.
  9. Uses contrast linker (“Still,”) effectively.
  10. Finishes with a neat summary sentence.
  11. Timing fits the 20-second target easily.
  12. Pronunciation focus: stress on key contrasts (text / call).
  13. No filler overuse; tone is confident.
  14. Fully answers both parts (preference + reason).
  15. Avoids rambling or off-topic detail.
Q5) Has technology changed your morning routine? How?

Sample Answer: Yes, it has changed it a little. I use a smart alarm that wakes me up gently, and I check the weather on my phone while I make coffee. Then I skim my calendar so I know my first task. For example, yesterday I moved a meeting after seeing a transport delay. Overall, technology helps me start the day calmly and on time.

Audio (placeholder)
Why this answer is good (Step-by-Step)
  1. Starts with a direct “Yes” and a measured claim (“a little”).
  2. Lists practical changes (smart alarm, weather check, calendar).
  3. Shows logical sequence of morning steps.
  4. Uses present simple for routine; present perfect for overall change.
  5. Adds a realistic, recent example (“yesterday”).
  6. Links cause and effect (transport delay → moved meeting).
  7. Vocabulary is clear and everyday (skim, task, on time).
  8. Sentences are concise, reducing grammar risk.
  9. Finishes with a positive, rounded conclusion.
  10. Time fit: 18–22 seconds when spoken naturally.
  11. Pronunciation targets: content word stress (smart aLARM, CALendar).
  12. Shows awareness of convenience and planning.
  13. Uses soft hedging to avoid exaggeration.
  14. Consistent mini-structure maintained.
  15. No unnecessary technical terms.
🟢 Part 4 — Vocabulary (Topic-Based)

Key Vocabulary from the Task

Each item includes British & American IPA, part(s) of speech, patterns, a learner-friendly definition, an example with a quick gloss, common synonyms, and typical learner mistakes. All text stays black; boxes use a dark-blue outline to match the template.

organise / organize (v.) — BrE /ˈɔːɡənaɪz/ · AmE /ˈɔːrɡənaɪz/

Patterns: organise sth; organise to do sth; organise for sb to do sth; organise files/tasks/events

Definition: to arrange things in a clear, useful order so that you can find or do them easily.

Example: I organise my to-do list every morning so I know my top three tasks. (= I arrange items to work efficiently.)

Synonyms: arrange, sort, structure, systematise/systematize

Common mistakes: 1) ❌ “I organise about my day” → ✅ “I organise my day.” 2) Confusing organise with decorate. 3) Using after an object wrongly: ❌ “organise to my files” → ✅ “organise my files.”

reminder (n.) — BrE /rɪˈmaɪndə/ · AmE /rɪˈmaɪndər/

Patterns: set a reminder (for + time); get/receive a reminder; reminder to do sth

Definition: a message or alert that helps you remember to do something at a certain time.

Example: I set a reminder to call my manager at 3 p.m. (= an alert tells me to call.)

Synonyms: alert, prompt, nudge, notification

Common mistakes: 1) ❌ “make a reminder” → ✅ “set a reminder.” 2) ❌ “reminder for calling” → ✅ “reminder to call.” 3) Overusing plural when one alert is meant.

habit (n.) — BrE/AmE /ˈhæbɪt/

Patterns: have/develop/break a habit; a habit of doing sth; daily/healthy/productive habits

Definition: something you do regularly and often without thinking much about it.

Example: I have a habit of checking my calendar after breakfast. (= I do it regularly.)

Synonyms: routine, practice, custom

Common mistakes: 1) ❌ “I am habit to…” → ✅ “I have a habit of …” 2) Using present continuous for stable habits. 3) Confusing habit (neutral) with addiction (negative).

urgent (adj.) — BrE /ˈɜːdʒənt/ · AmE /ˈɝːdʒənt/

Patterns: an urgent call/task/message; it is urgent to do sth; deal with sth urgently

Definition: needing fast action or attention because it is important now.

Example: If it’s urgent, I call instead of texting. (= it needs quick action.)

Synonyms: pressing, critical, immediate

Common mistakes: 1) ❌ “more urgent than to call” → ✅ “more urgent to call.” 2) Overusing “very” (better: “really/quite urgent”). 3) Confusing urgent (time-sensitive) with important (high value but not always fast).

flexible (adj.) — BrE /ˈfleksəbl/ · AmE /ˈfleksəbəl/

Patterns: be flexible about/with sth; a flexible schedule/plan; become more flexible

Definition: able to change easily so you can deal with different situations.

Example: Cloud tools make my plan more flexible because I can edit files anywhere. (= my plan can change easily.)

Synonyms: adaptable, adjustable, versatile

Common mistakes: 1) ❌ “I am flexible in time” → ✅ “I am flexible with my time.” 2) Using “flexible” to mean “free” (they differ). 3) Over-using with people when you mean “the schedule is flexible.”

routine (n./adj.) — BrE/AmE /ruːˈtiːn/

Patterns: morning/evening routine; follow/set/change your routine; part of my routine

Definition: (n.) a regular way of doing things; (adj.) normal and not special.

Example: Checking the weather is part of my morning routine. (= I do it every morning.)

Synonyms: schedule, pattern, regimen (formal)

Common mistakes: 1) ❌ “I have a good routin” (spelling) → ✅ “routine.” 2) Mixing noun/adj. uses. 3) Using “routine” to mean “boring” only; it’s neutral.

calendar (n.) — BrE /ˈkælɪndə/ · AmE /ˈkælɪndər/

Patterns: check/open/update your calendar; put sth in/on the calendar; calendar invite/event

Definition: a tool (paper or digital) that shows days and times and helps you plan events and tasks.

Example: I put my gym session in the calendar so I don’t forget it. (= I add it to the schedule.)

Synonyms: schedule, planner, agenda

Common mistakes: 1) Preposition errors: ✅ “in the calendar” / “on my calendar” depending on variety. 2) ❌ “write calendar” → ✅ “add to the calendar.” 3) Confusing calendar (dates/times) with timetable (public transport/class schedule).

Practice Tip

Use each word in a 2–3 sentence Part-1 style answer today. Keep one reason and one example. Speak for about 20 seconds and record yourself.

🟠 Part 5 — Phrases & Fillers

Natural Phrases for IELTS Speaking Part 1

Each expression is presented with BrE/AmE IPA, part(s) of speech, common patterns, learner-friendly definition, an example with a quick gloss, useful synonym(s), and typical learner mistakes. All text is black; boxes keep a dark-blue outline to match the template. Use them with the mini-structure: Answer → Reason → Example → Rounding line.

get into (sth) (phr. v.) — BrE /ˈɡet ɪntuː/ · AmE /ˈɡet ˈɪntu/

Patterns: get into + hobby/topic/app; get into doing sth

Definition: to start enjoying something and become interested in it.

Example: I got into using a to-do app during exams, and now I use it every day. (= I became interested and made it a habit.)

Synonyms: take up, become keen on, get hooked on (informal)

Mistakes: 1) ❌ “get in to” (space) → ✅ “get into”. 2) Using it for entering a place (“get into the room”) when meaning “become interested”. 3) Wrong tense for past change: use got into for a finished start.

keep track of (sth) (expr.) — BrE /kiːp træk əv/ · AmE /kip træk əv/

Patterns: keep track of + tasks/time/spending; use sth to keep track of sth

Definition: to continue to know the latest information about something; to monitor it.

Example: I use calendar reminders to keep track of meetings. (= I monitor and don’t forget them.)

Synonyms: monitor, stay on top of, keep an eye on

Mistakes: 1) ❌ “keep a track” → ✅ “keep track”. 2) Confusing with “lose track of” (opposite meaning). 3) Using plural “tracks” in this idiom.

on the go (adv. phrase) — BrE /ɒn ðə ˈɡəʊ/ · AmE /ɔn ðə ˈɡoʊ/

Patterns: do/use sth on the go; check sth on the go

Definition: while you are moving or busy; not sitting at a desk.

Example: I read news on the go when I’m on the bus to work. (= while travelling, not at home.)

Synonyms: in transit, while commuting, on the move

Mistakes: 1) Using it for future plans (“I will go”)—it’s an adverbial phrase, not a verb. 2) Overusing in very formal answers. 3) Missing article “the”.

be glued to (your) phone (expr.) — BrE /ɡluːd tə fəʊn/ · AmE /ɡlud tə foʊn/

Patterns: be glued to + screen/phone/TV

Definition: to look at your phone for a long time and pay too much attention to it.

Example: I try not to be glued to my phone in the evening, so I put it on silent. (= I avoid constant checking.)

Synonyms: be stuck to, be absorbed in, be fixated on

Mistakes: 1) Forgetting “to”: ❌ “glued my phone” → ✅ “glued to my phone.” 2) Using progressive incorrectly: say “I’m glued to…”, not “I’m gluing to…”. 3) Using it for short, necessary checks.

free up time (expr./v. phrase) — BrE /friː ʌp taɪm/ · AmE /friː ʌp taɪm/

Patterns: free up time (for + noun / to + verb); free sth up

Definition: to make time available by removing or reducing other tasks.

Example: Planning my day frees up time to exercise after work. (= I create time for the gym.)

Synonyms: create time, make time available, clear time

Mistakes: 1) ❌ “free time up” (word order) → ✅ “free up time”. 2) Using it with people instead of time. 3) Mixing with “have free time” (state) — different meaning.

a quick check-in (n. phrase) — BrE /ə kwɪk ˈtʃek ɪn/ · AmE /ə kwɪk ˈtʃɛk ɪn/

Patterns: do/have a quick check-in (with + person); a quick check-in about + topic

Definition: a short message or call to update someone or confirm plans.

Example: I send a quick check-in to my teammate before meetings. (= a brief update to stay aligned.)

Synonyms: brief update, touch base (AmE), quick follow-up

Mistakes: 1) Writing it as a verb (“I check-in him”)—use it as a noun or use “check in” as a phrasal verb. 2) Overusing in very formal contexts. 3) Hyphen omission is fine, but keep clarity.

it depends (set phrase) — BrE /ɪt dɪˈpendz/ · AmE /ɪt dɪˈpɛndz/

Patterns: it depends (on + noun/gerund); it really depends

Definition: used to show that the answer changes with the situation.

Example: It depends on my schedule—if I’m busy, I text; if not, I call. (= the choice changes with time.)

Synonyms: it varies, it’s situational, case by case

Mistakes: 1) ❌ “it depend” → ✅ “it depends.” 2) Forgetting “on”: “depends on my schedule”. 3) Giving a long, unclear explanation after saying it—add one clear condition.

Practice Tip

Pick two phrases and answer a Part-1 question twice, changing only the phrase. Record both versions and choose which sounds more natural for you.

🔺 Part 6 — Quick Quiz (5 items)

Quiz: IELTS Speaking Part 1 Skills

You’ll get 10 random questions (from a pool of 25) each time. Question type: [CHANGEABLE: MCQ]. After you choose an option, you’ll see an immediate, detailed explanation to learn why the correct answer works in Part 1.

Score: 0
Question 1
0 / 10

Press “Start / Retake” to begin.

How to use this quiz

Answer naturally as if you’re speaking. The correct choices reflect Part 1 targets: direct answer, a reason, a short detail/example, and a rounding line.