IELTS Speaking Questions September 2026
With Sample Answers and Examiner Notes
Last updated: September 2026
These IELTS speaking questions are real questions that were reported by candidates across the globe. The article includes:
- 10 Part 1 questions with expanded examiner’s notes and detailed sample answers
- 5 Part 2 cue cards with examiner advice and sample answers
- 10 Part 3 questions with deep examiner commentary and Band 8+ sample responses
Part 1 – Introduction & Interview
1. Do you enjoy cooking?
Examiner’s Note: This question checks comfort with everyday vocabulary, present simple tense, and ability to describe routine behaviors. Many candidates give vague answers like “Yes, I like it,” which miss the chance to personalize the topic. Use specific dishes or reasons to show natural fluency.
Sample Answer: Yes, I actually enjoy cooking quite a lot. It started during the pandemic when I had more free time, and now it’s something I do almost every evening. I mostly cook vegetarian food, and I love experimenting with spices—especially in Indian or Middle Eastern recipes. It helps me relax after work and feels a bit like a creative outlet.
2. What kind of weather do you prefer?
Examiner’s Note: This tests descriptive language, adjectives, and the ability to support personal preferences. Many students answer with generic likes/dislikes. A good answer adds emotional or situational context.
Sample Answer: I prefer cool, cloudy weather—especially in the early autumn. There’s something calming about overcast skies and the smell of rain. It makes me want to curl up with a book or take a quiet walk. I don’t enjoy extremely hot weather because it drains my energy and makes it hard to focus.
3. Do you prefer mornings or evenings?
Examiner’s Note: Be careful to answer in present tense with adverbs of frequency. Don’t just name a time of day—explain how it fits your lifestyle. Use contrast if possible.
Sample Answer: I’m definitely more of a night owl. I find it easier to concentrate in the evening when everything is quieter. Mornings feel too rushed, especially on weekdays, but at night I can reflect, read, or work on personal projects without interruptions. That’s when I feel most like myself.
4. What do you usually do on weekends?
Examiner’s Note: The word “usually” is a cue to use present simple and habitual activities. Avoid listing too many things—pick two and add some detail. The question also checks range in expressing daily life.
Sample Answer: My weekends are usually a mix of rest and catching up. On Saturdays, I often go grocery shopping and clean my apartment. Sundays are more relaxed—I go for a long walk, maybe meet a friend for brunch, and sometimes visit my parents. I try to stay off my laptop as much as possible.
5. Do you often read the news?
Examiner’s Note: Good answers mention the medium (online, app, newspaper) and the reason. It’s okay to say “not much” if you explain why. Don’t be afraid to mention recent topics or personal routines.
Sample Answer: I read the news almost every morning through a news app on my phone. I check headlines while having breakfast, just to stay informed. I usually focus on international news and science-related stories. I don’t watch the news on TV because I find it too dramatic and repetitive.
6. Do you remember your dreams?
Examiner’s Note: The key here is past simple and present simple combined with a personal anecdote. Even if the answer is “no,” it should be extended.
Sample Answer: Not always. Most of the time, I forget my dreams as soon as I wake up. But occasionally I have vivid dreams that stick with me for days—like once I dreamt I was walking through a city made entirely of books. I still remember that one because it felt so real and strange.
7. Do you like to walk or drive when you go out?
Examiner’s Note: Candidates often misread this as a question about transportation only. Focus on preferences and reasons—mention context like distance, mood, or environment.
Sample Answer: I prefer walking whenever I can. It clears my mind and gives me a bit of exercise. In my neighborhood, everything is close—cafes, parks, even the supermarket. Driving feels stressful with all the traffic and parking issues, so I avoid it unless I’m going somewhere far.
8. How often do you go shopping?
Examiner’s Note: Mention frequency clearly and explain the purpose—groceries, clothes, fun, or necessity. Differentiate between online and in-person if possible.
Sample Answer: I go grocery shopping once or twice a week, usually on the way home from work. For clothes or other items, maybe once a month, and I prefer online shopping for that. It saves time and lets me compare options more easily.
9. Are you good at remembering names?
Examiner’s Note: This is a classic “personality” question. A good answer gives a brief self-reflection and, if possible, a small example or strategy.
Sample Answer: Honestly, I’m terrible at remembering names. I can recall faces easily, but names slip away almost instantly. I’ve tried repeating the name after I hear it, but I usually forget anyway. It’s something I’m working on, especially in professional settings.
10. Do you enjoy travelling by train?
Examiner’s Note: This tests descriptive language and experience sharing. Mention sights, sounds, or specific experiences if possible.
Sample Answer: Yes, I really enjoy travelling by train. It’s less stressful than flying and more scenic than driving. I love watching the countryside go by, especially on long routes. Last year, I took a six-hour train ride through southern Germany and spent most of it reading and staring out the window.
Part 2 – Long Turn (Cue Cards)
Speak for 1–2 minutes after 1 minute of preparation.
1. Describe a person you met only once but remember well.
Examiner’s Note: This question tests storytelling skills, past tense accuracy, and your ability to describe character traits and memorable interactions. Strong candidates build a short narrative with emotional or intellectual depth. Don’t waste time describing what the person looked like unless it adds meaning—focus on why they were memorable.
Sample Answer: A few years ago, I met a woman on a train from Munich to Vienna. She was in her 60s, wore a wide-brimmed hat, and carried a stack of books. We struck up a conversation after I complimented her bookmark. It turned out she was a retired literature professor from Belgium. We talked about poetry, politics, and travel the entire ride. She recommended a book—”Letters to a Young Poet”—that changed how I think about writing. I never saw her again, but that short exchange made a lasting impression because she was thoughtful, curious, and completely open with a stranger.
2. Describe a tradition in your country.
Examiner’s Note: The best answers include cultural background, emotional significance, and vivid sensory detail. Don’t just list steps—explain why the tradition matters to you or to the society. Use the opportunity to teach the examiner something new.
Sample Answer: One tradition I deeply value is Yalda Night in Iran. It’s celebrated on the longest night of the year, which usually falls around December 21st. Families gather to eat fruits like pomegranate and watermelon, which symbolize light and rebirth. We also read poems from the Persian poet Hafez, and many people believe his words offer spiritual guidance. I love Yalda because it’s not commercialized—it’s about storytelling, food, and connection. Sitting around a table filled with candles, dried fruits, and laughter feels like a quiet rebellion against the darkness, both literal and emotional.
3. Describe a time when you lost or forgot something important.
Examiner’s Note: This question assesses how well you structure a small story and express emotions like stress, regret, or relief. Use clear time markers (e.g. “last year,” “two weeks ago”) and include what you learned from the experience.
Sample Answer: Last year, I forgot my passport at home on the way to the airport. I was flying to Istanbul for a weekend conference and realized it halfway to the terminal. I panicked, called a friend, and we arranged a crazy car swap at a gas station to get the passport to me just in time. It was chaotic, but I made it. That experience taught me two things: always double-check important documents, and also, how much your friends will do for you in an emergency.
4. Describe a piece of clothing you wore for a special occasion.
Examiner’s Note: Use sensory and emotional language. Describe how you felt wearing it and what made the moment special. Avoid listing details like “blue shirt, cotton material” without any story or significance.
Sample Answer: For my sister’s wedding, I wore a dark green velvet dress that my aunt had tailored for me. The fabric was soft and heavy, and it had golden embroidery along the sleeves. I don’t usually wear formal clothes, but in that moment, surrounded by music and candles and dancing guests, I felt truly elegant. Everyone kept complimenting the dress, but more than that, I felt like I belonged in that celebration. I’ve only worn it once, but I’ll never forget how it made me feel: grounded, beautiful, and part of something meaningful.
5. Describe a place where you go to relax.
Examiner’s Note: This cue card tests your ability to describe settings and convey mood. Focus on how the place makes you feel, not just what it looks like. Sensory language—sound, smell, light—will score higher.
Sample Answer: There’s a small lake about 30 minutes from my home where I often go when I need to clear my head. It’s surrounded by tall pine trees, and there’s a bench where I usually sit with a journal. The air always smells like wet earth and pine needles, and the water reflects the sky like a mirror. It’s quiet, except for birds and the occasional rustle of leaves. I usually bring some tea in a thermos and just sit there for an hour or two. It’s the only place where I feel completely disconnected from stress, screens, and noise.
Part 3 – Follow-up Discussion
The examiner will ask you broader questions related to your Part 2 topic or on similar themes. These require longer, more thoughtful responses.
1. How do strangers influence our lives?
Examiner’s Note:
This question tests your ability to connect personal experiences to social behavior. Avoid overgeneralizing. Go beyond “some people are kind” and consider how brief interactions can shape views or decisions. You might reference strangers online as well as in-person.
Sample Answer:
Strangers can have a surprising impact on our lives, even if we don’t realize it at the time. A quick conversation on a train, a helpful gesture in a stressful moment, or even a book recommendation from someone you never see again — these can stay with us for years. Strangers also shape our behavior indirectly. For instance, product reviews online are written by people we’ve never met, yet they heavily influence what we buy. On social media, we often react to posts by people outside our circles, and their opinions can change our perspective. Even walking through a city, the way others behave—whether they’re polite or aggressive—can affect how safe or welcome we feel. So although we may not form lasting relationships with most strangers, their influence can be subtle, unexpected, and sometimes even life-changing.
2. Should people trust strangers more or less nowadays?
Examiner’s Note:
The examiner is testing your reasoning and ability to consider both sides of a complex issue. Refer to real-world scenarios—such as ridesharing apps, online scams, or cultural differences in trust.
Sample Answer:
It really depends on the context. In some ways, we trust strangers more than ever—especially with technology. We get into Ubers driven by people we’ve never met or rent homes through apps like Airbnb. That kind of trust is built on systems of reviews and reputation. But at the same time, digital life has made it easier for people to be dishonest. There are scams, fake identities, and misleading content everywhere, especially on social media. So I think people today are more cautious than in the past, and rightly so. Still, if we lose all trust in others, society starts to fall apart. Small acts of trust—like asking someone for directions or accepting help when we’re lost—are what connect us. So yes, we should be careful, but we shouldn’t shut ourselves off completely. Finding the right balance is key.
3. What makes a good first impression?
Examiner’s Note:
Here, the examiner wants you to go beyond the basics. Instead of just saying “appearance matters,” explain how specific behaviors or communication styles influence perception.
Sample Answer:
A good first impression often comes down to two things: confidence and warmth. When someone speaks clearly, makes eye contact, and listens actively, they instantly seem more trustworthy and competent. Of course, appearance does play a role—being clean and appropriately dressed helps—but it’s not enough on its own. I think people also respond well to small things, like a smile or a genuine compliment. These show that the person is friendly and emotionally intelligent. On the other hand, someone who’s distracted or checking their phone during a conversation usually leaves a negative impression, no matter how well-dressed they are. In the end, a good first impression isn’t about pretending to be perfect—it’s about showing that you’re respectful, interested, and present in the moment.
4. How has communication changed in recent years?
Examiner’s Note: The examiner is assessing your ability to compare past and present. Be specific—mention digital tools and how they’ve changed tone, timing, or habits.
Sample Answer: Communication has changed dramatically, mostly because of technology. Ten or fifteen years ago, people relied more on phone calls and face-to-face conversations. Now, most of our communication is through text—whether it’s instant messaging, emails, or social media. This makes things faster and more convenient, but also more impersonal. It’s easy to misunderstand tone in a text message or feel disconnected when chatting with someone who’s physically far away. Video calls have helped bring back some personal connection, but even those aren’t quite the same as meeting in person. Another big change is the speed of communication—people expect instant replies now. That can be stressful, especially in work settings. Overall, we communicate more often, but I’m not sure we always communicate more deeply.
5. Do you think traditions are still important in modern society?
Examiner’s Note: This question invites personal reflection. Choose a cultural tradition you know well and use it to support your argument. Mention both benefits and limitations.
Sample Answer: Yes, I believe traditions still play a very important role in modern society. They give people a sense of identity and continuity, especially in a fast-changing world. For example, in Iran, we celebrate Nowruz, the Persian New Year. It’s been practiced for thousands of years, and it brings families together, reminds us of nature’s cycles, and promotes values like renewal and hope. Even though we live in an age of technology and global culture, these kinds of rituals still ground us. That said, I think traditions should also evolve. If a tradition excludes certain groups or feels outdated, it’s okay to modernize it. The core idea can remain, but it needs to stay relevant to the current generation. So yes—traditions are important, but they shouldn’t be frozen in time.
Part 3 – Follow-up Discussion
The examiner will ask you broader questions related to your Part 2 topic or on similar themes. These require longer, more thoughtful responses.
1. How do strangers influence our lives?
Examiner’s Note:
This question tests your ability to connect personal experiences to social behavior. Avoid overgeneralizing. Go beyond “some people are kind” and consider how brief interactions can shape views or decisions. You might reference strangers online as well as in-person.
Sample Answer:
Strangers can have a surprising impact on our lives, even if we don’t realize it at the time. A quick conversation on a train, a helpful gesture in a stressful moment, or even a book recommendation from someone you never see again — these can stay with us for years. Strangers also shape our behavior indirectly. For instance, product reviews online are written by people we’ve never met, yet they heavily influence what we buy. On social media, we often react to posts by people outside our circles, and their opinions can change our perspective. Even walking through a city, the way others behave—whether they’re polite or aggressive—can affect how safe or welcome we feel. So although we may not form lasting relationships with most strangers, their influence can be subtle, unexpected, and sometimes even life-changing.
6. How can people build trust in relationships?
Examiner’s Note: This question tests your ability to explain a process. Be clear and use sequencing words like “first,” “then,” or “over time” to organize your response.
Sample Answer: Trust isn’t built overnight—it develops through small, consistent actions. First, I think honesty is essential. If someone is open about their thoughts and doesn’t hide things, others feel more secure around them. Second, reliability matters. If you promise to do something and follow through, that builds credibility. Another factor is vulnerability—when people share personal feelings or ask for help, it creates a deeper connection. Of course, trust also grows when people spend time together and experience challenges. If you go through a tough situation and someone stands by you, it strengthens the relationship. And once trust is broken, it’s very hard to rebuild, so maintaining it requires ongoing effort. Whether it’s a friendship, romantic relationship, or even a work partnership, trust is really the foundation for anything lasting.
7. What role does honesty play in daily life?
Examiner’s Note: The key here is subtlety. Discuss everyday honesty—like being late, making excuses, or white lies—and whether it’s always necessary to be fully honest.
Sample Answer: Honesty is essential in daily life, but it’s not always black and white. In most situations, being truthful helps build respect and prevents misunderstandings. For example, if you’re running late to a meeting, it’s better to say so than make up an excuse. That shows you value the other person’s time. However, there are also situations where complete honesty can be hurtful—like commenting on someone’s appearance or criticizing a friend when they’re already stressed. In those cases, being tactful might be more important than being brutally honest. So I think honesty is the rule, but it should come with emotional intelligence. It’s not just about saying what’s true—it’s also about knowing how and when to say it.
8. Is it easier to make friends online or in person?
Examiner’s Note: Demonstrate your ability to compare and contrast. Include examples and address how deep or lasting the friendships are in each context.
Sample Answer: Making friends online is definitely easier in terms of access. You can connect with people who share your interests, no matter where they live. Social media platforms, online games, and forums make it simple to start conversations. But in-person friendships tend to feel more real because they involve shared experiences. Having coffee with someone or going through challenges together helps build deeper bonds. Online friendships can also be meaningful, but they usually require more effort to maintain, especially across time zones. I’ve made friends both ways, and in my experience, online connections often start faster, but face-to-face ones usually last longer. So both have value, but they serve different emotional needs.
9. Why do some people feel nervous in social settings?
Examiner’s Note: This question is partly psychological. Offer causes and coping mechanisms. It’s fine to include a bit of personal perspective or empathy.
Sample Answer: People feel nervous in social situations for many reasons. One common cause is fear of judgment—worrying that others will think they’re awkward, boring, or strange. Some people also have social anxiety, which can make even small interactions feel overwhelming. Past experiences can play a role too—if someone was bullied or excluded, they may carry that fear into future situations. Personality matters as well. Introverts, for instance, often find large groups draining and uncomfortable. To cope, people sometimes prepare topics in advance or bring a friend for support. But the most effective way is probably practice—like any skill, social confidence builds over time. And it helps to remember that most people are too busy thinking about themselves to judge anyone else harshly.
10. How can people overcome shyness?
Examiner’s Note: Don’t give overly generic advice. Mention specific steps, such as public speaking clubs or gradual exposure. Tailor the answer to realistic situations.
Sample Answer: Overcoming shyness isn’t about changing who you are—it’s about building confidence through small steps. One strategy is to start with low-pressure situations, like saying hello to a neighbor or asking a question in class. Gradually, as those interactions become easier, you can move on to more challenging ones, such as giving a short presentation or joining a group activity. Another helpful approach is practicing active listening. When you focus on what the other person is saying, you take the attention off yourself, which reduces anxiety. Joining a public speaking group like Toastmasters is also effective—it gives you a safe environment to practice speaking. Finally, it’s important to reframe mistakes. Instead of thinking, “I embarrassed myself,” think, “I learned something today.” With time, those small experiences build up and create lasting change.
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