CELPIP Speaking Task 4 asks you to look at a picture and predict what is likely to happen next. You do not need to be correct — you just need to be logical, detailed, fluent, and organized.

Below are the most effective strategies to boost your score.

✅ 1. Start With a Clear Introduction

Begin by showing that you understand the task right away.

Useful starters:

“Based on this picture, I think what will happen next is…”
“It seems likely that…”
“From what I can see, it looks like…”

This sets the stage for your predictions.

✅ 2. Make 2–3 Predictions

CELPIP expects multiple logical guesses, not just one.

Try planning them like this:

Prediction 1: Something that will happen immediately
Prediction 2: A short-term outcome
Prediction 3: Another possibility / alternative scenario

✅ 3. Use Probability Language

These words instantly increase the quality of your speaking:

probably
is likely to
might / may
there’s a good chance that
it’s possible that

Variety matters for vocabulary scores.

✅ 4. Add Reasons for Each Prediction

Explain why you think something will happen.
This makes your answer stronger and more natural.

Examples:

“This might happen because…”
“This is likely since…”
“This could occur due to…”

✅ 5. Use Good Transitions

Connect your ideas smoothly:

First of all…
Additionally…
Another possibility is…
Finally…

Using transitions boosts coherence and flow.

✅ 6. Add Realistic Details

You’re allowed to imagine — just keep it reasonable.

You can talk about:

the time of day
possible intentions
environmental clues
what the people might be doing next

Adding details makes your speaking richer.

✅ 7. Fill the Full Speaking Time (45–50 seconds)

If you finish early, add:

what else could happen
what could go wrong
how things may end later

CELPIP rewards well‑developed answers.

✅ 8. Finish With a Quick Conclusion

Wrap up confidently.

Example:

“Overall, I expect the scene to continue with people interacting with nature and becoming more engaged with what’s happening around them.”

✅ Sample Answer

“Based on the picture, I think several things are likely to happen next. First, the large bird flying toward the tall plants may land near the water, and the people using binoculars will probably try to observe it more closely. Meanwhile, the person reaching toward the birds at the edge of the pond might drop food into the water, and the birds may swim closer. Another possibility is that the group running in the background will continue along the path and pass by the area near the pond. Overall, it seems the park will become even more active as both people and wildlife interact.”

CELPIP Tips: Speaking Task 4 – Making Predictions