IELTS Speaking test - Tips to overcome nervousness and build confidence

We understand that on the day of the test, it's common for test takers to feel nervous about interacting with the examiner. However, by making yourself familiar with these comprehensive IELTS Speaking tips, you will be able to enhance your preparedness and boost your confidence for the big day.

If you're feeling anxious about your upcoming IELTS Speaking test , don't worry! Here is a blog with 10 valuable tips to help you gain confidence and achieve the IELTS band score you desire. With dedicated practice and these expert insights, you'll be on the right path to success.

Whether you're taking the IELTS on paper or IELTS on a computer , the Speaking test consists of three distinct parts. Getting to know these sections will greatly enhance your preparation.

Three parts of the IELTS Speaking test

Part 1

During Part 1, you will engage in a conversation lasting 4 to 5 minutes with an IELTS examiner, where you will discuss various aspects of your life. The topics covered may include:

• Employment or professional endeavours

• Family and relationships

• Your domestic environment and lifestyle

• Personal hobbies and interests

Part 2

In Part 2 of the Speaking test, you will receive a card containing a specific topic. You will have one minute to make notes about the topic, and you will be provided with a pencil and paper to prepare your response. Subsequently, you will speak on the given topic for a duration of two minutes.

Part 3

In Part 3, you will engage in a more in-depth conversation with the IELTS examiner regarding the topic provided in Part 2. This segment aims to explore the subject matter further and typically lasts approximately 4 to 5 minutes.

Tips and tricks to excel in the IELTS Speaking test

Here are some of the tips to boost your confidence in the IELTS Speaking test:

Tip 1: Avoid memorising responses

It is highly recommended not to memorise answers, particularly in Part 1 of the test. Memorized language fails to provide an authentic assessment of your English-language proficiency. Examiners can easily detect memorised responses, which can potentially impact your final band score.

Tip 2: Avoid using unfamiliar or overly complex words

While it may be tempting to impress the examiner with sophisticated vocabulary during your Speaking test, it is advisable to refrain from using words you are not familiar with. Using unfamiliar words increases the likelihood of making mistakes, such as mispronunciation or improper usage. Such errors can have a negative impact on your final band score.

Instead, focus on utilising a range of relevant vocabulary that you are comfortable with and that pertains to the topic being discussed. You can create vocabulary lists or mind maps specifically based on the topics mentioned in Tip 10, enabling you to expand your list of words and phrases associated with those particular areas.

Tip 3: Use variety of grammatical structures

IELTS examiners assess your speaking skills based on the following criteria:

• Fluency and coherence

• Lexical resource

• Grammatical range and accuracy

• Pronunciation

Try to use a diverse range of grammatical structures, both complex and simple sentences to effectively convey your thoughts. Identify your own errors and practice speaking in English with friends or record yourself to identify and correct any mistakes. Demonstrating proficiency in using different grammatical structures accurately is crucial, so make sure to practice discussing the past, present, and future while utilising the appropriate tenses.

Tip 4: Don’t think about your accent and focus on effective communication

During a face-to-face Speaking test, IELTS examiners are aware of various accents and can understand what you say, unlike an AI machine. If you can effectively convey your thoughts and ideas, there is no need to worry about your accent.

However, it is beneficial to be aware of any particular sounds or pronunciations that pose challenges for you. Additionally, make use of stress and intonation, as English is a stress-timed language. Practice with friends, and they can provide feedback if they have difficulty understanding you.

Tip 5: Take pauses for reflection

Taking a momentary pause to gather your thoughts is perfectly acceptable and natural. It is common for individuals to pause briefly when processing questions. During the Speaking test, you can use certain phrases to allow yourself time to think, such as:

• That's an interesting question

• I have never thought about that, but

• Let me see

• That's a good point

• That's a difficult question, but I'll try to answer it

• Well, some people say that is the case; however, I think

• Let me think about that for a minute

Using these phrases will give you the necessary time to formulate your response without feeling rushed.

Tip 6: Minimise the use of fillers

To present yourself confidently, it is important to refrain from using filler words. Fillers are commonly used when we are unsure of what to say, but their usage indicates to the examiner that you may struggle to access appropriate language or ideas. It is advisable to avoid fillers and instead utilise the phrases provided in Tip 5 to buy yourself time to gather your thoughts.

Examples of fillers to avoid:

• Like

• You know

• Umm...

• Ahh...

• Ehh...

• Well

• Yeah...

Tip 7: Elaborate on your answers

Try to provide comprehensive answers to the examiner's questions. Extend your responses and avoid waiting for the examiner to prompt you with additional inquiries. When your answers are concise, it implies to the examiner that you are unable to discuss a topic in detail. If the examiner asks "Why?" or poses a similar question, they are prompting you to provide a reason for your answer and to expand on your response more fully.

Tip 8: Utilise the power of a smile for pronunciation

Smiling can have a positive impact on your pronunciation by helping to alleviate nervousness. When you smile, you tend to relax, which contributes to clearer enunciation. Ensure that you articulate each sound distinctly by opening your mouth wide enough. Smiling not only creates a larger mouth shape but also lends a friendlier tone to your voice.

Tip 9: Avoid speaking in a monotone

Speaking in a flat and monotonous manner can hinder effective communication. It becomes challenging to express your ideas, and the listener may struggle to identify the important aspects of your message. Adding emphasis to specific words and pausing at appropriate sections in your speech can make your conversation with the IELTS examiner more engaging. Emphasising certain words allows for easier comparison and contrast of ideas by highlighting key points. It also enhances the flow of conversation.

Remember the following:

• Avoid speaking in a monotone.

• Vary your stress and intonation to emphasize important aspects.

• Utilise hand gestures to enhance the rhythm and flow of the conversation.

Tip 10: Practice common IELTS topics when preparing

In the second part of the IELTS Speaking test, you are required to deliver a speech on a given topic for approximately 2 minutes. Improve your skills and practice your vocabulary associated with each topic by engaging in practice sessions with friends, family, or colleagues.Here are some common topics you can focus on during your Speaking test preparation:

• Tourism and Travel

• Education

• Transport

• Environment

• Family Life

• Sport and Recreation

• Crime and Punishment

• The Internet

• Advertising and Retail

By considering these 10 tips alongside our IELTS practice materials , you can significantly boost your confidence and progress in your journey to achieving the desired band score in your IELTS Speaking test. Remember, practice makes perfect, and with consistent effort, you'll be well on your way to success. Also, to know more about the IELTS test , you can get in touch with your nearest IDP IELTS centres .

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