Lesson 1. 5 Simple Tips to Answer IELTS Speaking Part 1 Questions Confidently

The IELTS Speaking Part 1 section is designed to help you start the exam comfortably. It includes familiar, easy questions about topics like hobbies, work, or hometown. You don’t need long or complex answers here—just short, clear ones that show confidence and understanding. Here’s a simple guide with five rules to help you give the best answers for this part of the test.

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Five Simple Rules for Success in IELTS Speaking Part 1

Rule 1: Keep Your Answers Short, Then Stop with Confidence

Your answers in Part 1 don’t need to be long! Stick to 1-2 sentences. By keeping your answers short, you’re less likely to make mistakes. Short, focused answers show that you’re confident and sure about what you want to say.

Example: Question: Do you like parks? Answer: Yes, I like parks because they are great places to relax.

Notice how this answer is simple and straight to the point. After answering, stop confidently and wait for the next question.

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Rule 2: Use Full Sentences

Always answer in full sentences. This shows your understanding of sentence structure and makes your responses sound clear and complete. Avoid one-word answers, even for simple questions, as full sentences sound more natural.

Example: Question: Do you enjoy cooking? Answer: Yes, I enjoy cooking because it allows me to be creative.

Here, the response is in a full sentence, which sounds clear and polite.

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Rule 3: Use Words from the Question in Your Answer

Repeating words from the question helps keep your answer focused on the topic. This also shows the examiner that you understood the question.

Example: Question: Do you like shopping? Answer: No, I don’t like shopping because I find it time-consuming.

By using words like “shopping” from the question, you ensure your answer stays on-topic and sounds natural.

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Rule 4: Give a Reason for Your Answer

Adding a reason gives more meaning to your answer and shows you can expand on ideas. You can use words like “because” or “since” to give reasons.

Example: Question: Do you enjoy reading books? Answer: Yes, I enjoy reading books because they are a great way to learn new things.

The answer is simple, but giving a reason helps explain why you feel this way.

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Rule 5: Don’t Forget to Say “Yes” or “No” When Necessary

If a question is asking if you like or do something, don’t forget to start with “Yes” or “No.” This keeps your answer clear. It’s okay to begin with a simple yes or no, as long as you follow it with a short explanation.

Example: Question: Do you like watching movies? Answer: Yes, I like watching movies because they let me escape into different stories.

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Putting It All Together with Practice

Let’s look at a few practice questions. Try to follow all five rules when answering these:

1. Do you exercise often?

Yes, I exercise regularly because it helps me stay healthy and feel more energetic.

2. What do you do on weekends?

On weekends, I like to spend time with family and friends. It’s a good way to relax after a busy week.

3. Do you have a favorite type of music?

Yes, I enjoy jazz music because it’s very calming and helps me focus.

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Why These Rules Matter

Confidence: By following these rules, you’ll sound sure of yourself.

Clarity: Short and focused answers help keep your thoughts organized and clear.

Natural Flow: Using the question’s words and giving reasons makes your answers sound more natural.

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Practice and Build Your Confidence

Take a few minutes each day to answer some simple Part 1 questions out loud, following the rules. Practice with these questions in the comments .