Links to all IELTS Speaking Part 1 Question Sets:
Most commonly asked IELTS Speaking Part 1 Questions with AnswersIELTS Speaking Part 1 - Question Set 1
IELTS Speaking Part 1 - Question Set 2
IELTS Speaking Part 1 - Question Set 3
IELTS Speaking Part 1 - Question Set 4
IELTS Speaking Part 1 - Question Set 5
IELTS Speaking Part 1 - Question Set: 5
Topic - Paying Bills:
Q. What kinds of bills do you have to pay?Answer: I have a variety of bills that I need to pay regularly. These include internet bills to stay connected, satellite TV bills for entertainment, electricity bills to power our home, Netflix subscription bills for streaming content, and even website hosting bills for two websites that I own and manage.
Q. How do you usually pay your bills — in cash or by another method? [Why?]
Answer: I usually pay my bills using a combination of methods. For some bills, like internet and satellite TV, I prefer online payments using my credit cards. This is more convenient and helps me keep track of the payments. However, for bills like electricity, I pay in cash at the local payment centres. It's a personal preference to have a mix of payment methods depending on the convenience and the options available.
Q. Have you ever forgotten to pay a bill? [Why/Why not?]
Answer: Yes, unfortunately, I have forgotten to pay bills a couple of times. Once, I forgot to pay my electricity bill because the due date coincided with a busy work period. Another time, I missed paying my Netflix bill as I didn't receive the usual email reminder. These incidents taught me the importance of setting reminders and being more organized with bill payments.
Q. Is there anything you could do to make your bills cheaper? [Why/Why not?]
Answer: Yes, there are definitely ways to make my bills cheaper. For instance, I can be more mindful of my electricity and water usage to reduce consumption, which would lead to lower utility bills. Additionally, paying bills on time and avoiding late fees or interest charges is crucial to save money. By being more frugal and conscious of my consumption patterns, I can definitely find ways to cut down on expenses and make my bills more affordable.
Topic - Age:
Q. Are you happy to be the age you are now? [Why/Why not?]Answer: Yes, I am happy to be the age I am now. I believe each age brings its own set of experiences and opportunities for growth. Being my current age allows me to strike a balance between youthful energy and mature wisdom, enabling me to pursue my goals with enthusiasm and clarity. So I am absolutely positive that I am happy to be at the age I am now.
Q. When you were a child, did you think a lot about your future? [Why/Why not?]
Answer: As a child, I did not think much about my future. My focus was primarily on enjoying the present moment, exploring my surroundings, and engaging in activities that sparked my curiosity. The concept of the future seemed distant and abstract, and I preferred to live in the moment rather than worry about what lay ahead. In retrospect, I am happy that I enjoyed my childhood rather than being too much worried about the future.
Q. Do you think you have changed as you have got older? [Why/Why not?]
Answer: Yes, I believe I have changed as I have gotten older. With each passing year, I have gained new experiences, faced different challenges, and learned valuable lessons that have shaped my perspective and personality. These changes have contributed to my personal growth and development, helping me become more resilient, empathetic, and self-aware.
Q. What will be different about your life in the future? [Why]
Answer: In the future, I anticipate several changes in my life, including career advancements, possible migration to a different country, personal milestones, and new experiences. As I continue to evolve and adapt to life's challenges, I envision myself pursuing further education, exploring different cultures, settling in a foreign country, and perhaps starting a family. These changes will bring new responsibilities, opportunities, and challenges, enriching my life in meaningful ways and contributing to my overall growth and fulfilment.
Topic - Tourism:
Q. Tell me about the kind of foreign visitors or tourists who go to your country?Answer: In my country, we receive a diverse range of foreign visitors and tourists. Many people are attracted to our country's rich cultural heritage, historical landmarks, and natural beauty. We welcome tourists from all over the world, including leisure travellers, adventure enthusiasts, history buffs, nature lovers, and those seeking unique cultural experiences. Some visitors come for sightseeing and explore famous landmarks and attractions, while others immerse themselves in local traditions and festivals. Additionally, we also receive business travellers who visit for conferences, meetings, and trade purposes.
Q. In what ways has tourism changed your country?
Answer: Tourism has had a significant impact on my country, bringing about both positive and negative changes. On the positive side, tourism has stimulated economic growth by creating job opportunities in the hospitality, transportation, and service sectors. It has encouraged infrastructure development, including the construction of hotels and resorts, and improved transportation networks. Tourism has also promoted cultural exchange and understanding as visitors engage with local traditions, cuisine, and arts. However, it has also posed challenges such as increased pressure on natural resources, environmental degradation, and cultural commodification. Overall, tourism has played a transformative role in my country, shaping its economy, culture, and environment.
Q. What part of your country do most tourists go to?
Answer: In my country, the most popular tourist destinations tend to be major cities or regions for their cultural, historical, or natural attractions. These areas often have a concentration of iconic landmarks, museums, historical sites, scenic landscapes, or vibrant cultural experiences that attract a large number of tourists.
Q. How easy is it to travel around your country?
Answer: Travelling around my country is relatively easy due to its well-developed transportation system. We have an extensive network of highways, railways, and domestic flight connections that connect various cities and regions. Public transportation, such as buses and trains, is readily available and offers affordable options for both short and long-distance travel. Additionally, private transportation options like taxis and rental cars are also accessible in urban areas.
Topic - Newspapers & Magazines:
Q. Which magazines and newspapers do you read? [Why?]Answer: I enjoy reading a variety of magazines and newspapers. Some of the magazines I frequently read include National Geographic, Time, and Vogue. These publications cover a wide range of topics, from science and current affairs to fashion and lifestyle. I find them informative, engaging, and they provide me with a broader perspective on the world. As for newspapers, I often read my local newspaper to stay updated on regional news and events.
Q. What kinds of articles are you most interested in? [Why?]
Answer: I have a diverse range of interests, so the types of articles I am most interested in vary. However, I particularly enjoy articles related to science, lifestyle, travel and culture. Reading about the latest scientific breakthroughs, research, health, and fashion helps me enhance my knowledge as well as lead a better life. I am also fascinated by learning about different interesting destinations, their history and traditions. Additionally, I am also drawn to articles that delve into social issues, technological advancements, and personal development. Such articles broaden my knowledge and stimulate my curiosity.
Q. Have you ever read a newspaper or magazine in a foreign language? [Why?/Why not?]
Answer: Yes, I have read newspapers and magazines in foreign languages on several occasions. As a language enthusiast, I find it beneficial to expose myself to different languages and cultures through written materials. I read English newspapers and magazines almost every week. I learned German in my college. So I read a German newspaper and magazines on different occasions. It's also a great way to stay connected with global news and developments, I believe.
Q. Do you think reading a newspaper or magazine in a foreign language is a good way to learn the language? [Why?/Why not?]
Answer: Absolutely, reading newspapers or magazines in a foreign language can be an effective way to learn the language. It exposes learners to authentic written content, vocabulary, idiomatic expressions, and grammatical structures. Reading extensively in the target language enhances reading comprehension, improves language fluency, and aids in vocabulary acquisition. It also provides cultural insights and a deeper understanding of the language in context.
Topic - Television:
Q. How often do you watch television?
Answer: As a university student, I don't have a lot of free time, but I try to make time for television in the evenings. On average, I watch television for about one to one and half hours a day. However, during exam periods, I usually refrain from watching TV to focus on my studies.
Q. Which television channel do you usually watch? [Why?]
Answer: I typically watch a variety of channels depending on my interests and preferences. However, when it comes to news, I prefer channels like BBC and CNN. They provide in-depth coverage of current events and offer a global perspective on important issues. I also enjoy educational programmes, and for that, I often tune in to National Geographic and Discovery Channels. These channels offer captivating documentaries and insightful content related to science, nature, and exploration.
Q. Do you enjoy the advertisements on television? [Why?/Why not?]
Answer: Generally, I'm not particularly fond of advertisements on television. While I understand their purpose in promoting products and services, I find them interruptive and often repetitive. Advertisements can disrupt the flow of a programme and extend the duration of breaks. However, I do appreciate creative and well-executed advertisements that entertain or convey a meaningful message.
Answer: As a university student, I don't have a lot of free time, but I try to make time for television in the evenings. On average, I watch television for about one to one and half hours a day. However, during exam periods, I usually refrain from watching TV to focus on my studies.
Q. Which television channel do you usually watch? [Why?]
Answer: I typically watch a variety of channels depending on my interests and preferences. However, when it comes to news, I prefer channels like BBC and CNN. They provide in-depth coverage of current events and offer a global perspective on important issues. I also enjoy educational programmes, and for that, I often tune in to National Geographic and Discovery Channels. These channels offer captivating documentaries and insightful content related to science, nature, and exploration.
Q. Do you enjoy the advertisements on television? [Why?/Why not?]
Answer: Generally, I'm not particularly fond of advertisements on television. While I understand their purpose in promoting products and services, I find them interruptive and often repetitive. Advertisements can disrupt the flow of a programme and extend the duration of breaks. However, I do appreciate creative and well-executed advertisements that entertain or convey a meaningful message.
Q. Do you think most programmes on television are good? [Why?/Why not?]
Answer: Television programmes vary in quality, and it would be unfair to generalize them all as either good or bad. There are certainly many excellent programmes that offer educational, entertaining, and thought-provoking content. However, there are also programmes that may not meet everyone's preferences or standards. It ultimately depends on individual tastes and interests. Personally, I try to choose programmes that align with my interests, such as news, talk shows, and intriguing TV series.
Topic - Festival:
Q. Tell me about the most important festival in your country.Answer: The most important festival in my country is Christmas. It is celebrated on December 25th every year and holds significant religious and cultural importance for Christians. It marks the birth of Jesus Christ and is observed by people of various faiths as a time of joy, love, and togetherness.
Q. What special food and activities are connected with this festival?
Answer: During Christmas, special food and delicacies are prepared and shared among family and friends. Traditional dishes such as roasted turkey, ham, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, and Christmas pudding are commonly enjoyed. People also indulge in baking cookies, and gingerbread houses, and exchanging homemade sweets. Additionally, activities like decorating Christmas trees, singing carols, attending midnight church services, and exchanging gifts are central to the celebrations.
Q. What do you most enjoy about it?
Answer: One of the aspects I most enjoy about Christmas is the festive atmosphere that surrounds it. The streets are adorned with colourful lights and decorations, and there is a sense of warmth and happiness in the air. Spending quality time with loved ones, sharing meals, exchanging gifts, and engaging in joyful activities create a sense of unity and merriment. It's a time when people come together, regardless of their differences, to celebrate and spread goodwill.
Q. Do you think festivals are important for a country? [Why?]
Answer: Yes, I believe festivals are indeed important for a country. Festivals play a vital role in preserving cultural heritage and traditions. They provide an opportunity for people to come together, strengthen social bonds, and foster a sense of community. Festivals also contribute to the economy through tourism and the sale of festive goods. Moreover, they bring joy, happiness, and a break from the routine, allowing individuals to unwind and create lasting memories. Festivals reflect the cultural diversity and richness of a nation, promoting harmony and understanding among its people.
Answer: Yes, I believe festivals are indeed important for a country. Festivals play a vital role in preserving cultural heritage and traditions. They provide an opportunity for people to come together, strengthen social bonds, and foster a sense of community. Festivals also contribute to the economy through tourism and the sale of festive goods. Moreover, they bring joy, happiness, and a break from the routine, allowing individuals to unwind and create lasting memories. Festivals reflect the cultural diversity and richness of a nation, promoting harmony and understanding among its people.
Topic - Money:
Q. When you go shopping, do you prefer to pay for things in cash or by card? [Why?]Answer: When I go shopping, I prefer to pay for things by card rather than cash. It offers me convenience and security, as I don't need to carry a large amount of cash with me. Additionally, paying by card allows me to track my expenses more efficiently through online banking and electronic statements, helping me manage my budget effectively. Perhaps another reason why I often prefer cards over cash while shopping is the numerous offers like rewards points, cashback offers or discounts that my cards offer.
Q. Do you ever save money to buy special things? [Why/Why not?]
Answer: Yes, I do save money to buy special things. Saving enables me to prioritize my spending and allocate funds towards items or experiences that hold significance for me. Whether it's a dream vacation, a major purchase, or investing in personal development, saving money allows me to achieve my goals and fulfil my desires without compromising my financial stability.
Q. Would you ever take a job which had low pay? [Why/Why not?]
Answer: Taking a job with low pay would depend on various factors such as the job's alignment with my career goals, the opportunities for growth and advancement, and the overall job satisfaction it offers. While salary is an important consideration, other factors such as job fulfilment, work-life balance, and professional development opportunities also play a crucial role in my decision-making process. So, if I find a job that would align with my career prospects and offer the opportunity for growth, I will join it even if the salary is low.
Q. Would winning a lot of money make a big difference to your life? [Why/Why not?]
Answer: Winning a significant amount of money could indeed make a big difference in my life, as it would provide financial security and open up opportunities for pursuing my goals and aspirations. However, money alone does not guarantee happiness or fulfilment. While it can alleviate financial stress and offer a sense of freedom, true satisfaction comes from pursuing meaningful relationships, personal growth, and contributing positively to society. Therefore, while winning a lot of money would undoubtedly be beneficial, it would not necessarily be the sole determinant of my happiness and well-being.
Answer: Winning a significant amount of money could indeed make a big difference in my life, as it would provide financial security and open up opportunities for pursuing my goals and aspirations. However, money alone does not guarantee happiness or fulfilment. While it can alleviate financial stress and offer a sense of freedom, true satisfaction comes from pursuing meaningful relationships, personal growth, and contributing positively to society. Therefore, while winning a lot of money would undoubtedly be beneficial, it would not necessarily be the sole determinant of my happiness and well-being.
Topic - Flower:
Q. Do you like to have flowers in your home? [Why? /Why not?]Answer: Yes, I absolutely love having flowers in my home. They bring a sense of freshness, beauty, and vibrancy to the living space. Flowers have a way of brightening up the environment and creating a pleasant ambience. They also add a touch of nature indoors, making the space more inviting and calming. Moreover, the fragrance of flowers can be uplifting and have a positive impact on one's mood.
Q. Where would you go to buy flowers? [Why?]
Answer: When I want to buy flowers, I usually go to a local florist or a flower shop. These places offer a wide variety of fresh flowers, ensuring that I can choose from a range of options. The florists are knowledgeable about different types of flowers, their meanings, and how to arrange them beautifully. Additionally, buying from local florists supports small businesses in the community.
Q. On what occasions would you give someone flowers?
Answer: Giving flowers is a common gesture to express emotions and convey messages on various occasions. I would give someone flowers on birthdays, anniversaries, weddings, graduations, or any special milestone in their life. Flowers are also appropriate as a thank-you gift, to show appreciation or to apologize.
Q. Are flowers important in your culture? [Why?/ Why not?]
Answer: Yes, flowers hold significance in my culture. They are often used in religious ceremonies, festivals, and traditional celebrations. In weddings, flowers are an integral part of decorations and symbolize beauty, love, and new beginnings. Some flowers also hold cultural symbolism or represent virtues or qualities in our culture. Moreover, flowers are gifted and exchanged on various occasions as a gesture of respect, love, or well wishes, and this is a century-old tradition in our country.
Topic - Cooking:
Q. Do you like cooking? [Why/ Why not?]Answer: Yes, I do enjoy cooking, but I wouldn't say it's something I love to do on a daily basis. I find cooking to be a creative and fulfilling activity. It allows me to experiment with different flavours, ingredients, and techniques. I particularly enjoy trying out new recipes and exploring different types of cuisine. However, I also appreciate the convenience of having meals prepared for me at times, especially during busy days or when I want to relax and unwind.
Q. What was the last meal you cooked?
Answer: The last meal I cooked was a homemade spaghetti carbonara. It's a classic Italian dish that I absolutely love. I cooked the pasta al dente and combined it with crispy bacon, creamy egg sauce, Parmesan cheese, and a hint of black pepper. It turned out delicious, and I enjoyed savouring the flavours and textures of the dish.
Q. What kind of food do you like to eat?
Answer: I have a diverse palate and enjoy exploring various types of cuisine. However, if I had to choose a favourite, it would be Italian food. I love the rich flavours, fresh ingredients, and the simplicity of Italian dishes. From pasta and risotto to pizza and gelato, Italian cuisine offers a wide range of mouthwatering options that never fail to satisfy my taste buds.
Q. What kind of new food would you like to try? [Why?]
Answer: I would love to try authentic Japanese cuisine, such as sushi and sashimi. The artistry and precision that goes into preparing Japanese dishes fascinate me. I'm intrigued by the delicate flavours, the use of fresh seafood, and the attention to detail in the presentation. Exploring Japanese cuisine would not only introduce me to new flavours but also allow me to appreciate the cultural aspects associated with the food.
Q. What are some kinds of food you never eat? [Why?]
Answer: As of now, I don't have any specific types of food that I completely avoid. However, I try to make mindful choices based on my dietary preferences and restrictions. For example, I may limit my consumption of fried or overly processed foods for health reasons. I believe in maintaining a balanced approach to food and enjoying everything in moderation.
Topic - Animals:
Q. Are there many animals or birds where you live? [Why/Why not?]Answer: Yes, there are quite a few animals and birds where I live. I reside in a suburban area surrounded by greenery, parks, and gardens, which attract various species of birds like sparrows, pigeons, and robins. Additionally, we often spot squirrels, rabbits, and occasional hedgehogs roaming around, making it a relatively wildlife-friendly environment.
Q. How often do you watch programmes or read articles about wild animals? [Why?]
Answer: I try to watch programmes or read articles about wild animals whenever I get the chance, usually a few times a month. I find them fascinating as they provide insights into the behaviour, habitats, and conservation efforts related to different species. It's not only educational but also inspiring to learn about the diversity of wildlife and the efforts being made to protect and preserve their natural habitats. A few days ago, I watched a captivating documentary called "Our Plant" that features some of the most fascinating birds and animals on our planet, and I quite enjoyed it.
Q. Have you ever been to a zoo or a wildlife park? [Why/Why not?]
Answer: Yes, I have been to both zoos and wildlife parks on several occasions. Visiting these places allows me to observe a wide range of animal species up close, which is an enriching experience. It's not only entertaining but also educational as I get to learn about various animals' behaviours, habitats, and conservation status. Moreover, zoos and wildlife parks often play a crucial role in wildlife conservation and raising awareness about the importance of preserving biodiversity.
Q. Would you like to have a job working with animals? [Why/Why not?]
Answer: Yes, I would love to have a job working with animals as it aligns with my passion for wildlife and conservation. Being able to contribute to the well-being and conservation of animals would be immensely fulfilling for me. Whether it's working as a wildlife biologist, conservationist, or zookeeper, I believe that such a career would not only be rewarding but also meaningful, as it would allow me to make a positive impact on the lives of animals and contribute to their protection and welfare.
Topic - Your work/ profession:
Q. What do you do on a typical day at work?Answer: I mostly research different software and try to understand what the market leaders of a particular software are doing. I document the strong and weak points of those pieces of software and then call a meeting to describe my findings. Then I take feedback from the software developers and our project manager to finalise my software requirement. I often attend meetings with my CEO and team members to track the progress of a project.
Q. What are you doing these days?
Answer: I am a working professional. In my office, I am working on requirement creation for a few large software, and I need to report the progress every day to the team lead. Apart from that, I am writing a pdf manual for a client these days. In my personal life, I am taking an online course to enhance some skills for professional development.
Q. What responsibilities do you have?
Answer: Well, I work as a business analyst in a large software company, and my responsibilities include understanding and documenting the requirements of the clients, competitor analysis, and market research; then converting the requirements for the programmers, tracking the projects, updating the CEO about the progress, collaborating with the developers, communicating the clients for further changes, testing the software and making sure that the software is delivered to the clients before deadline.
Those are, in fact, the main responsibilities I have in my job. However, due to the dynamic nature of the software industry, I often need to perform additional tasks as required for making a project successful.
Q. Why did you choose that kind of work?
Answer: Well, being a business analyst was not my initial career plan. I started my career as a programmer. While I worked with another large software company, they promoted me to this position, and I found it more challenging and demanding. I started enjoying my work and then decided to work as a business analyst. The business analyst position of a company requires these kinds of work and the responsibilities are equally demanding and challenging. I think I chose to work in this position initially because I was promoted to this position, but I have continued this position because I enjoy my work.
Q. Did you have to do any training or study for this job?
Answer: Computer Science was my major at my university, and this is often, if not always, a prerequisite to starting a career as a software programmer. After I worked on many software development projects for about 2 years, I was promoted to the business analyst job position. So I would say my education at the university level and job experiences for about 2 years as a developer was required for this job position. Apart from that, I had to complete two comprehensive training sessions before I started working in this position.