IELTS Tips: Speaking Part 3

IELTS Speaking Part 3 is often seen as the most challenging section of the speaking test. Why? Because it requires you to express complex ideas, justify your opinions, and speculate about future trends—all in just 4–5 minutes.

But with the right strategies, you can tackle this part with confidence and clarity. Let’s break it down:

🔍 What to Expect in Part 3

  • Duration: 4–5 minutes

  • Question Types:

    • Opinion-based

    • Comparison

    • Prediction

    • Cause and effect

    • Hypothetical scenarios

  • Focus: Expressing and supporting opinions, reasoning, and discussing broader topics

💡 Top Tips to Succeed

  1. Expand Your Ideas
    Short answers won’t cut it. Develop your responses with explanations, examples, and multiple perspectives.

  2. Practice Expressing Opinions
    Think critically. Ask yourself: What do I believe? Why? Can I support it with examples?

  3. Use Linking Phrases
    Structure your thoughts with connectors like:

    • On the one hand…

    • In my opinion…

    • For instance…

    • However…

  4. Speculate About the Future
    Use phrases like:

    • I think it’s likely that…

    • In the future, I imagine that…

    • If this trend continues, we might see…

  5. Be Ready for Hypothetical Questions
    Practice “what if” scenarios to prepare for abstract questions.

🗣️ Sample Questions & Answers

Cue Card Topic: Describe a memorable holiday
Part 3 Question: What are the benefits of going on holiday?
Sample Answer:

“There are several benefits to going on holiday. First of all, it allows people to take a break from their daily routines and responsibilities, which can help reduce stress. It’s also a great opportunity to explore new places, experience different cultures, and try new activities.”

Part 3 Question: How do you think the way people travel will change in the future?
Sample Answer:

“I believe the way people travel will change significantly. We’ll likely see more eco-friendly options like electric planes. Virtual travel experiences might also become popular, allowing people to explore destinations from home.”

🧠 Types of Questions to Practice

  • Opinion: “Do you think it’s important for children to learn how to play sports?”

  • Comparison: “How is education today different from education in the past?”

  • Prediction: “How do you think communication will change in the future?”

  • Cause & Effect: “What are the causes of global warming, and how can we address them?”

  • Hypothetical: “If you could change one thing about your country, what would it be?”

✅ Final Advice

  • Take your time – It’s okay to pause and think.

  • Support your opinions – Use examples and reasons.

  • Explore different perspectives – Show depth in your thinking.

  • Practice expanding ideas – Speak for 1–2 minutes on abstract topics.

🎯 Conclusion:
IELTS Speaking Part 3 is your opportunity to showcase your ability to think critically and communicate effectively in English. With consistent practice and the right strategies, you’ll be ready to impress the examiner!

Minju B