Essential strategies and practice techniques for this IELTS Reading question type. Learn how to manage time and improve accuracy.
Originally published August 2017. Last reviewed 3 July 2026.
In this post, you will see one of the most common IELTS speaking topics (reading) and sample answers.
Please remember that in the actual test you should give honest answers and talk about your own experiences, thoughts, feelings and opinions. Do not try to memorise answers, as the examiners will probably be able to guess and you will lose marks.
However, you are able to make up information to extend your answers, but be sure that you are confident when speaking about the chosen topic and that it is believable.
TIP >> Each answer should be at least 2-3 sentences long.
TIP >> Listen carefully to the question so that you answer in the correct tense.
TIP >> When answering a yes/no question – answer then give your reasons for your answer. You must extend your answer to gain more marks.
TIP >> Just relax and think of it as a regular conversation you are having, make eye contact and be positive.
Take a look at the questions and sample answers below on the topic of ‘reading‘ >>
Q: Do you like to read books?
A: Yes, I love to read and try to read as often as I can. I have an e-reader and have more than 600 books in my library.
Q: What type of books do you like to read?
A: Mostly romance, I am a huge fan of old English classic literature, like Jane Austen or Charlotte Bronte. I also like to read modern romance, with Mills and Boon often slipping into my holiday reading list.
Q: Do you ever visit the library?
A: Not really, I used to when I was a student and as a teacher, but now it is so easy to buy books online and either have them delivered to your home or downloaded onto your e-reader. I am very forgetful, so always ended up with fines from the library for late returns!
Q: Do you prefer reading books or watching films?
A: I much prefer to read books, because I like to get lost in a story. It is a great way to fuel your imagination and to go somewhere else for a short period of time. You focus on the characters and the details given to you. Watching a movie does not often hold my attention in the same way.
We hope you found this post useful in helping you to study for the IELTS Test. If you have any questions please let us know in the comments below or on the Facebook page.
The best way to keep up to date with posts like this is to like us on Facebook, then follow us on Instagram and Pinterest.
If you need help preparing for the IELTS Test, join the IELTS Achieve Academy and see how we can assist you to achieve your desired band score. We offer an essay correction service, mock exams and online courses.
Expert tips and strategies for this part of the IELTS Speaking test. Includes sample responses and key vocabulary for Band 7+.
Originally published August 2017. Last reviewed 3 July 2026.
In this post, you will see one of the most common IELTS speaking topics (fashion) and sample answers.
Please remember that in the actual test you should give honest answers and talk about your own experiences, thoughts, feelings and opinions. Do not try to memorise answers, as the examiners will probably be able to guess and you will lose marks.
However, you are able to make up information to extend your answers, but be sure that you are confident when speaking about the chosen topic and that it is believable.
TIP >> Each answer should be at least 2-3 sentences long.
TIP >> Listen carefully to the question so that you answer in the correct tense.
TIP >> When answering a yes/no question – answer then give your reasons for your answer. You must extend your answer to gain more marks.
TIP >> Just relax and think of it as a regular conversation you are having, make eye contact and be positive.
Take a look at the questions and sample answers below on the topic of ‘fashion‘ >>
Q: Do you like to wear watches?
A: Not really, I only really wear one when I travel, so that I can keep an eye on the time. I don’t want to be late and miss a flight!
Q: Why do people like expensive watches?
A: They probably see it as a status symbol, the same as having a designer handbag or other expensive accessories. To show to others their wealth and position. On the other hand, they may need it to have special capabilities, which would make it cost more. For example, the apple watch, which can work in sync with your other devices.
Q: Do you like shoes?
A: yes of course! I love shoes, from comfortable trainers, winter boots and pretty summer sandals.
Q: Have you ever bought shoes online?
A: No, I prefer to buy my shoes in a store, because I need to try them on and see how they fit. Buying shoes online can be risky, as they may be larger or smaller in size. Then if you don’t want to keep them, you have the hassle of returning them.
Q: Do you prefer comfortable or good-looking shoes?
A: That depends on the occasion! For everyday activities, like walking the dog I would choose comfortable shoes, like trainers or sandals. But for an event or special outing, I would wear something a bit more fancy, like heels or high wedges. They have to coordinate with my outfit of course!
Q: Do people own too many shoes?
A: In my opinion, it depends on the person, as for me, I own many shoes, including sandals, trainers and boots. Depending on a persons lifestyle and habits, a large shoe collection is normally necessary for the different weather conditions we experience through the year, as well as going to different events and completing various activities.
Q: Do you think wearing a hat on sunny days is important?
A: Yes of course! Wearing a hat gives you added protection against the suns harmful rays.
Q: Did you wear a hat as a child? Why?
A: Yes, I always wore a hat when the sun was out, as I am fair skinned and burn easily. My parents wanted to make sure I was protected from the sun. Children have much fairer skin, so need added protection from the suns rays.
Q: What is the importance of a hat?
A: You can easily burn your head and face in the sun without any protection, especially when walking around. Wearing a hat can help you to stay cool and for your face to have some shade.
Q: Do you like bags?
A: Yes! I have quite a few bags at home, all for various occasions. They range in size, from large to small, some are more expensive than others, as I have a love for buying tan leather bags.
Q: What types of bags do you like?
A: At the moment I really love bags by the brand Coccinelle, they are so pretty, with small leather bags in a range of neutrals and pastel colours. I recently bought a tan leather small handbag which is great for travelling light.
Q: Do you usually carry a bag (when you go out)?
A: Absolutely! I need to carry lots of things with me when I go anywhere, so need to have a bag for my phone, wallet, keys and other necessary items. The items change, depending on where I am going.
Q: Do you have different bags for different occasions (or, different purposes)?
A: Yes, I have large tote bags for work, a large beach bag, a tan leather backpack for shopping and errands, a laptop bag and small leather bags for various occasions. I also have a collection of beaded clutch bags, which add a touch of sparkle to any evening outfit!
Q: What do you put in these bags?
A: Depending on where I am going, I may take my laptop, books, iPad, documents and snacks to work. If I am going to the beach, the beach bag will be loaded with sunscreen, towels, a scarf and my e-reader. For walking the dog, my bag must include dog treats. Normally when I go shopping, my bag just contains my phone, wallet and keys.
Q: What sorts of bags do women like to buy?
A: I think that women buy practical bags for going to work and the gym, but allow themselves to become more creative when choosing bags for different occasions. Leather over the shoulder bags in neutral colours like black or tan are timeless and will never go out of fashion. I also think that if they can afford it, women like to treat themselves to designer bags, for quality and of course luxury.
We hope you found this post useful in helping you to study for the IELTS Test. If you have any questions please let us know in the comments below or on the Facebook page.
The best way to keep up to date with posts like this is to like us on Facebook, then follow us on Instagram and Pinterest.
If you need help preparing for the IELTS Test, join the IELTS Achieve Academy and see how we can assist you to achieve your desired band score. We offer an essay correction service, mock exams and online courses.
Expert tips and strategies for this part of the IELTS Speaking test. Includes sample responses and key vocabulary for Band 7+.
Originally published August 2017. Last reviewed 3 July 2026.
In this post, you will see one of the most common IELTS speaking topics (hometown) and sample answers.
Please remember that in the actual test you should give honest answers and talk about your own experiences, thoughts, feelings and opinions. Do not try to memorise answers, as the examiners will probably be able to guess and you will lose marks.
However, you are able to make up information to extend your answers, but be sure that you are confident when speaking about the chosen topic and that it is believable.
TIP >> Each answer should be at least 2-3 sentences long.
TIP >> Listen carefully to the question so that you answer in the correct tense.
TIP >> When answering a yes/no question – answer then give your reasons for your answer. You must extend your answer to gain more marks.
TIP >> Just relax and think of it as a regular conversation you are having, make eye contact and be positive.
Take a look at the questions and sample answers below on the topic of ‘hometown‘ >>
Q: Describe your hometown.
A: It is a big city in the North of England, with galleries, theatres and nightlife. It is a popular place for students, as there are two universities. Shopping and eating out are part of the lifestyle, with many places to go. In the surrounding areas, there are many historical places to visit.
Q: Is that a big city or a small place?
A: It is a big city, with a twenty-four-hour culture. It has a reputation as a party place, with many people travelling to visit the restaurants, bars and nightclubs in the city.
Q: What do you like (most) about your hometown?
A: I like that the city is close to historical sites in Northumberland. You can easily travel by car to places that the Vikings invaded and explore quaint seaside villages on the north coast.
Q: Is there anything you dislike about it?
A: I don’t like the drinking culture and the violence that follows. On a night out in the city, there is often a heavy police presence, as many people make trouble. People frequently drink alcohol from early in the morning until late at night, which in my opinion is not a good way to spend time or money.
Q: Do you think you will continue living there for a long time?
A: I don’t currently live there, I moved away for work and now live in Greece. I do however visit quite often to see friends and family. I have no plans to move back there anytime soon.
Q: Can you tell me something exciting about your town?
A: There have been quite a few celebrities from there, who have become well known in the media, including TV presenters Ant and Dec, Cheryl Cole, Sting and actor Charlie Hunnam.
Q: Has your hometown changed much since you were a child?
A: Yes it has evolved from a relatively quiet city to a hub of shopping and entertainment. There have been major developments, with shopping mall renovations and the addition of shop lined streets leading all around the city. There are also more restaurants and bars catering for all tastes.
Q: Are there any changes you would like to make in your hometown?
A: Perhaps the introduction of strict opening times for pubs, selling alcohol from a later time in the day. Also, the coffee shops could stay open much later, to promote a healthier culture of socialisation.
We hope you found this post useful in helping you to study for the IELTS Test. If you have any questions please let us know in the comments below or on the Facebook page.
The best way to keep up to date with posts like this is to like us on Facebook, then follow us on Instagram and Pinterest.
If you need help preparing for the IELTS Test, join the IELTS Achieve Academy and see how we can assist you to achieve your desired band score. We offer an essay correction service, mock exams and online courses.
Expert tips and strategies for this part of the IELTS Speaking test. Includes sample responses and key vocabulary for Band 7+.
Originally published August 2017. Last reviewed 3 July 2026.
In this post, you will see one of the most common IELTS speaking topics (food) and sample answers.
Please remember that in the actual test you should give honest answers and talk about your own experiences, thoughts, feelings and opinions. Do not try to memorise answers, as the examiners will probably be able to guess and you will lose marks.
However, you are able to make up information to extend your answers, but be sure that you are confident when speaking about the chosen topic and that it is believable.
TIP >> Each answer should be at least 2-3 sentences long.
TIP >> Listen carefully to the question so that you answer in the correct tense.
TIP >> When answering a yes/no question – answer then give your reasons for your answer. You must extend your answer to gain more marks.
TIP >> Just relax and think of it as a regular conversation you are having, make eye contact and be positive.
Take a look at the questions and sample answers below on the topic of ‘food‘ >>
Q: Is food important to you? (Why?)
A: Yes, I like to cook and to use fresh vegetables and try to get everything as organic as possible. I also like to eat no gluten whenever possible, no soy or dairy. eating clean is important for my health and overall well-being.
Q: What kinds of food do you particularly like?
A: I really enjoy eating fresh fish, homegrown vegetables and fruits and on special occasions meat that comes from local farmers. I also enjoy fresh eggs from neighbours and family members.
Q: Is there any food you don’t like? (Why?)
A: I don’t like processed food because it is really bad for my body. After having a particular diet, eating processed food does not agree with my body and can make me feel unwell. I also avoid dairy because I have an intolerance.
Q: What kinds of food are most popular in your country?
A: Fresh home grown vegetables, fruits and meat are part of the staple diet here in Greece. Particular dishes, such as kokinisto – beef cooked in a red wine sauce is popular, along with other signature dishes. Of course, a Greek salad is mandatory as well as a lot of olive oil in everything!
Q: Do you like cooking? (Why?/Why not?)
A: Yes, I really like to cook and since moving to Greece I have become a much better cook. I regularly cook Greek food, from various pies, meat dishes and fish to sweets and desserts. I was taught some traditional recipes and methods from my mother in law.
Q: Who usually does the cooking in your home?
A: I normally cook and look for recipe ideas online and in books. I like to experiment and make a variety of dishes, even though my husband has a preference for mostly Greek food.
Q: Do you like chocolate?
A: yes, but I can only eat very dark chocolate or chocolate that is free from dairy and gluten.
Q: Did you like chocolate as a child?
A: Of course! Until I discovered I had a lactose intolerance, then I cut it out of my diet as it was making me ill. The ‘free from’ options are great, as I can enjoy chocolate without dairy or gluten.
Q: Do you think most people like chocolate? Why?
A: Yes, as it is a lovely sweet treat. Chocolate can give you a sugar high and of course, it tastes delicious. There is nothing better than selecting chocolates and treating yourself after a long day or as a celebration. People enjoy it as a way of treating themselves.
We hope you found this post useful in helping you to study for the IELTS Test. If you have any questions please let us know in the comments below or on the Facebook page.
The best way to keep up to date with posts like this is to like us on Facebook, then follow us on Instagram and Pinterest.
If you need help preparing for the IELTS Test, join the IELTS Achieve Academy and see how we can assist you to achieve your desired band score. We offer an essay correction service, mock exams and online courses.
Expert tips and strategies for this part of the IELTS Speaking test. Includes sample responses and key vocabulary for Band 7+.
Originally published August 2017. Last reviewed 3 July 2026.
In this post, you will see one of the most common IELTS speaking topics (your home) and sample answers.
Please remember that in the actual test you should give honest answers and talk about your own experiences, thoughts, feelings and opinions. Do not try to memorise answers, as the examiners will probably be able to guess and you will lose marks.
However, you are able to make up information to extend your answers, but be sure that you are confident when speaking about the chosen topic and that it is believable.
TIP >> Each answer should be at least 2-3 sentences long.
TIP >> Listen carefully to the question so that you answer in the correct tense.
TIP >> When answering a yes/no question – answer then give your reasons for your answer. You must extend your answer to gain more marks.
TIP >> Just relax and think of it as a regular conversation you are having, make eye contact and be positive.
Take a look at the questions and sample answers below on the topic of ‘your home‘ >>
Your home questions and answers
Q: Do you live in a house or a flat?
A: I currently live in a house with three bedrooms, a bathroom and an open living space, with a dining area and kitchen. It also has a large yard at the front of the house and a large veranda at the back of the house, which has great views.
Q: Do you like your house?
A: Very much! The house itself is very spacious for us and is in a good spot. I have my own office space and plenty of room still for all the family. Built on top of another house it has a high position, with great views of the town and even a sea view.
Q: Why do you like it?
A: Not only because it is very spacious, but because of its location. It is situated in a village on the outskirts of town, with a bus stop just metres away, which is convenient because I don’t always have the car. There is also a small supermarket less than 5 minutes walk from the house.
Q: How do you expect your future house to be and why?
A: In the future, we plan on building our own property to our uniquely designed specifications. With at least 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, it would also have a large open plan living room/dining area, with a built in kitchen area. The outside would have a garden, patio, and car port.
Q: Do you like visitors coming to your home?
A: Definitely! I love it when people come to stay with us. We like to show them around the island and to visit the best spots for swimming. We also know where to take them for the best coffee in town and of course where the best places to eat are.
Q: Do you prefer to have friends visit you, or relatives?
A: I prefer to have family members staying with us, as we don’t get to see any of them very often. We try to visit them as often as we can, and they come to us for holidays normally in the summer months, so they can enjoy the weather.
Q: Do you often invite friends to visit your home?
A: yes, I have friends over most weekends. They come over for food and drinks on Saturday nights or Sunday afternoons. We often have Greek style barbeques, with plenty of food and more people than we can fit into our yard.
We hope you found this post useful in helping you to study for the IELTS Test. If you have any questions please let us know in the comments below or on the Facebook page.
The best way to keep up to date with posts like this is to like us on Facebook, then follow us on Instagram and Pinterest.
If you need help preparing for the IELTS Test, join the IELTS Achieve Academy and see how we can assist you to achieve your desired band score. We offer an essay correction service, mock exams and online courses.
