IELTS Cue Cards: A Guide to Ace the Speaking Test

The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) exam is a globally recognised standardised exam for assessing English language proficiency. Although the IELTS Speaking section, in particular, can pose a challenge to some test-takers, by learning the nuances of the IELTS test, one can easily conquer this section of the IELTS exam. To help you overcome this situation, this article provides you with a comprehensive overview of the IELTS cue card, the second part of the IELTS Speaking section, and offers strategies to help you excel in your IELTS speaking sub-test.

What is an IELTS Cue Card?

An IELTS Cue Card, a key component of the IELTS speaking section, is a card given to you by the examiner during Part 2 of the test. The cue card contains a topic that you are required to speak about for one to two minutes. You are given one minute to prepare and make notes before you start speaking. The card also includes a few guiding questions to help you structure your response. 

Sample IELTS Cue Card Prompts and Responses

During your IELTS exam, at the Speaking test, when you are to start the Part 2 of the IELTS Speaking sub-test, you will be given a cue card with a question. Please note that no hints will be given, and only the question will be present on the cue card. So, in order to help you with how you can frame your sentences to the questions asked, Here are ten sample cue card questions covering a range of common topics. 

Students should note that the only information present in your cue card will be the question in Bold. We have provided you with the best structure for your response and sample answers for you to be able to ace your IELTS Cue Card section. Take a look at the popular IELTS Cue Card prompts and the get way to answer them.

Describe a memorable trip you have taken.

• Answer Structure: Where did you go? - Who did you go with? - What did you do there? - And explain why it was so memorable.
• Sample Answer: One of the most memorable trips I’ve ever taken was to the beautiful city of Kyoto in Japan. I went with my family, and it was a truly unforgettable experience. We spent our days exploring ancient temples, strolling through serene bamboo forests, and admiring the stunning cherry blossoms. The food was another highlight; we savoured everything from fresh sushi to traditional ramen. What made this trip so special was the perfect blend of culture, nature, and family time. It was a much-needed break from our busy lives and a chance to create lasting memories together. The tranquillity of the city and the warmth of the people left a lasting impression on me. 

Describe a book you have recently read.

• Answer Structure: What was the book about? → Why did you choose to read it? →  What did you like or dislike about it? →  And explain what kind of person would enjoy this book.
• Sample Answer: I recently finished reading ‘Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind’ by Yuval Noah Harari. The book provides a fascinating account of human history, from the Stone Age to the present day. I chose to read it because I’m very interested in history and anthropology. What I loved most about the book was its ability to connect different historical events and explain complex concepts in a simple and engaging way. I didn’t dislike anything about it, but I would say that it’s a very thought-provoking book that challenges many of our preconceived notions. I think anyone with a curious mind and an interest in history, science, and sociology would enjoy this book.

Talk about a skill you would like to learn.

• Answer Structure: What is the skill? ‭→ Why do you want to learn it? ‭→ How would you learn it? ‭→ And explain how this skill would be useful to you.
• Sample Answer: I’ve always wanted to learn how to play the guitar. I’m a big fan of music, and I think being able to play an instrument would be a wonderful creative outlet. To learn, I would probably start by taking online lessons and practising regularly. I would also watch tutorials on YouTube and try to learn some of my favourite songs. This skill would be incredibly useful for me, not only as a hobby but also as a way to de-stress and relax after a long day at work. I also think it would be a great way to connect with other music lovers.

Describe a person who has been a significant influence on your life.

• Answer Structure: Who is this person? → How do you know them? →  What qualities do you admire in this person? →  And explain how they have influenced you.
• Sample Answer: My grandmother has had a profound influence on my life. She is a kind, compassionate, and resilient woman who has always been a source of inspiration for me. I admire her unwavering optimism and her ability to find joy in the simplest of things. She has taught me the importance of hard work, perseverance, and, most importantly, kindness. Her stories and life lessons have shaped me into the person I am today, and I’m incredibly grateful for her presence in my life. 

Describe a piece of technology you find useful.

• Answer Structure: What is the piece of technology? → How often do you use it? → What do you use it for? → And explain why you find it so useful.
• Sample Answer: My smartphone is undoubtedly the piece of technology I find most useful. I use it every day for a variety of tasks, from staying connected with friends and family to managing my work and accessing information. It is my go-to device for everything, whether I need to check my emails, read the news, or travel to a new place. What makes it so useful is its versatility and convenience. It is like having a mini-computer in my pocket that can do almost anything. I can’t imagine my life without it.

Talk about a time you worked in a team.

• Answer Structure: What was the project or task? → Who was in your team? →  What was your role in the team? →  And explain what you learnt from this experience.
• Sample Answer: I recently worked on a group project for my marketing class. Our task was to create a marketing campaign for a new product. My team consisted of four other students, and my role was to conduct market research and analyse the data. It was a challenging but rewarding experience. We had to collaborate closely, share ideas, and overcome a few disagreements along the way. I learnt the importance of effective communication, teamwork, and compromise. It was also a great opportunity to learn from my teammates and develop my leadership skills.

Describe a restaurant you enjoy going to.

• Answer Structure: Where is the restaurant located? → What kind of food does it serve? → What is the ambiance like? → And explain why you enjoy going there.
• Sample Answer: There’s a charming little Italian restaurant in my neighbourhood that I love to visit. It is called ‘La Trattoria’, and it serves the most delicious homemade pasta and pizzas. The ambiance is cosy and inviting, with dim lighting and rustic decor. What I enjoy most about this restaurant is the authentic food and the warm, friendly service. It is the perfect place to go for a quiet dinner with friends or a romantic evening with a loved one. I always leave feeling satisfied and happy.

Talk about a subject you enjoyed studying in school.

• Answer Structure: What was the subject? → Who was your teacher? → What did you learn in this subject? → And explain why you enjoyed it so much.
• Sample Answer: History was my favourite subject in school. My teacher, Mr Sharma, was a fantastic storyteller who brought history to life in the classroom. He made learning about the past so engaging and exciting. We learnt about ancient civilisations, world wars, and the freedom struggle of our country. I enjoyed this subject so much because it helped me understand the world better and appreciate the struggles and triumphs of those who came before us. It also taught me valuable lessons about cause and effect, which have been incredibly useful in my life. 

Describe a film that made a strong impression on you.

• Answer Structure: What was the film about? → When did you see it? → Who were the main actors? → And explain why it made such an impression on you.
• Sample Answer: The film ‘The Pursuit of Happiness’ left a lasting impression on me. It is based on the true story of Chris Gardner, a homeless salesman who struggles to build a better life for himself and his son. I saw it a few years ago, and I was deeply moved by the powerful performances of Will Smith and his son, Jaden Smith. The film’s message of hope, resilience, and the power of the human spirit is incredibly inspiring. It is a reminder that no matter how difficult life gets, we should never give up on our dreams. 

Talk about an environmental problem in your country.

• Answer Structure: What is the problem? → What are the causes of this problem? → What are the effects of this problem? → And explain what can be done to solve it.
• Sample Answer: Air pollution is a major environmental problem in my country, India. It is caused by a combination of factors, including vehicle emissions, industrial pollution, and crop burning. The effects are devastating, leading to respiratory problems, acid rain, and a decline in air quality. To solve this problem, we need to take a multi-pronged approach. This includes promoting public transportation, investing in renewable energy, and enforcing stricter emission standards for industries. Public awareness campaigns are also crucial to encourage people to adopt more eco-friendly habits.

Sample IELTS Cue Card Prompts

To help you prepare for the IELTS Speaking test, here is a collection of common cue card prompts for you to practice. Familiarize yourself with these topics and use them to hone your speaking skills, build your vocabulary, and develop a structured approach to your responses.

How to Prepare for your IELTS Cue Cards?

Preparing for the IELTS Speaking test can be daunting, but with the right strategies, you can feel confident and ready. This guide provides essential tips to help you master the cue card section, from using your preparation time effectively to delivering a strong, coherent response.

• Practice with Sample Topics (Real IELTS Cue Cards): Familiarise yourself with the types of topics that are commonly asked. This will help you feel more prepared and confident on the test day.
• Use the Preparation Time Wisely (one-minute prep time): Don’t try to write full sentences. Instead, jot down keywords and ideas for each of the guiding questions. This will give you a clear structure for your talk.
• Speak for the full 2 minutes: Aim to speak for the full 2 minutes. This will show the examiner that you can speak at length on a topic.
• Use a Range of Vocabulary and Grammar: This is your chance to showcase your English language skills. Use a variety of words, phrases, and grammatical structures to express your ideas.
• Focus on Fluency and Coherence: Speak at a natural pace, and don’t worry about making a few mistakes. Use linking words and phrases to connect your ideas logically.
• Record Yourself Speaking: This is a great way to identify your strengths and weaknesses. Listen back to your recordings and pay attention to your pronunciation, fluency, and grammar.
• Get Feedback from an Expert: If possible, practice with an IELTS expert or a native English speaker. They can provide valuable feedback on your performance and help you improve.
   

IELTS Speaking Section

The IELTS Speaking sub-test is a face-to-face interview with a certified examiner and is designed to assess your ability to communicate effectively in English. The test is divided into three parts:

• Part 1: Introduction and Interview (4–5 minutes) – The examiner will ask you general questions about yourself, your family, your work or studies, and your interests.
• Part 2: The Cue Card or Long Turn (3-4 minutes) – You will be given an IELTS cue card with a topic and some guiding questions. You will have one minute to prepare, and then you will speak on the topic for one or two minutes.
• Part 3: Two-Way Discussion (4-5 minutes) – The examiner will ask you further questions related to the topic in Part 2. This part of the test allows you to discuss the topic in more detail and express your opinions.

The IELTS cue card is a great opportunity to showcase your English speaking abilities. By understanding the format of the test and practising with IELTS speaking cue cards, you can significantly improve your performance and achieve the score you deserve. The IELTS exam pattern consists of 4 sections – Reading, Writing, Listening, and Speaking – where the IELTS Cue Card is part 2 of the Speaking section. Remember to practice regularly, stay calm during the test, and let your personality shine through in your responses. Students looking for the perfect IELTS preparation plan or assistance with IELTS cue cards can get in touch with our AECC experts today.