IELTS Speaking How Long Should My Answer Be?

Most of the candidates want to know how long their answer should be in IELTS speaking.

IELTS speaking will have three parts and in each part of the test, you will have different questions.

For instance, in the first part of the test, the interviewer would like to know more about you, your studies, work, family, etc.

In part 2, you may get a topic to speak about. In part 3, you will get some topic related questions to answer.

As each part of the test is different, you will have to understand what the examiner expects from you.

We can divide questions into two categories. Some questions require only a few words as an answer. But, some questions require you to speak for a longer time. So, it means the answers you give will be short answers and long answers.

Check out some questions and answers.

What is your name?

  • My name is Elena.

Do you study or work?

  •  I study (wrong answer).
  •  I work (wrong answer)
  •  I am a computer science student at XYZ University.
  •  I work as a software developer at XYZ Company.

Do you like reading?

  • No. (bad answer)
  • Yes, I like reading. I have a big collection of books at home. I am also a member of the library in my area (good answer).

What is your favorite book?

  •  like Harry Potter. (bad answer)
  • I like Harry Potter. When I first read it I fell in love with it. It is really amazing.

What difference did you find in good and bad answers? The important thing is you do not have to limit your answer to only one or two words. If you can give much clearer and better answers then you should. For instance, the question, “Do you like reading?” has two answers. One was straightforward and doesn’t look impressive. But, the second answer is lengthy and provides all the necessary information.

Be Simple and Honest

You will have to provide simple but honest answers. You do not have to concoct a story. If you do not know about anything, say you do not know.

If you can provide more information on anything, then give it. Do not hold it back.

Speaking Part 1 will be 3 or 4 minutes long. The interviewer may ask as many as 12 questions. But, if you are not fluent, then you may not get too many questions. The interviewer is trained to judge your language. He/she will continue asking questions if he/she likes your language.

The interviewer may ask you both difficult and easy questions. You will have to be ready for all the types of questions.

It is good to provide an answer that carries at least 2 or 3 small sentences. Of course, if your answer is too long, the interviewer will stop you and may move on to the next question.

Want to prepare for the IELTS? It is time that you apply for the IELTS Practice online at IELTS7band.net.