IELTS Speaking Topics for 2025, Trends, Predictions & Strategic Preparation Guide for the test takers
The format and scoring criteria of the IELTS Speaking test remain unchanged; however, the themes in the questions tend to evolve with current world events, technology, and everyday life. While there is no official “secret list,” examiner reports and recent papers indicate some clear trends. As a result, test-takers in 2025 should concentrate on the recurring topic families below and practice speaking about them in a flexible and personal manner.
Table of Contents
What Remains Unchanged
| Part | Purpose | Typical Length |
| Part 1 – Introduction & Interview | Easy, personal questions about you, your habits and preferences. | 4–5 min |
| Part 2 – Long Turn | 1-minute prep ➜ 1–2-minute talk on a cue-card topic (describe a person / place / event / object / experience). | 3–4 min |
| Part 3 – Discussion | Two-way, abstract discussion that digs deeper into issues linked to Part 2. | 4–5 min |
Assessment criteria (identical since 2007):
- Fluency & Coherence
- Lexical Resource (vocabulary)
- Grammatical Range & Accuracy
- Pronunciation
1 | Essential Strategies for Candidates Aspiring to Stand Out in 2025
Embrace the Update: Rest assured, there are no major changes to the IELTS format! It’s all about refreshing content while keeping the familiar structure.
Depth Counts: Remember, authentic answers shine! Instead of memorizing scripts, dive into explanations—share your reasoning and insights.
Make It Personal: Relate every theme to your unique experiences and opinions. It’s perfectly fine to say things like, “It depends…” to express your thoughts.
Stay Curious: Engaging with news about technology, climate, and social trends will enrich your vocabulary and understanding.
Use Engaging Vocabulary: Feel free to weave in terms like renewable energy, algorithm, carbon footprint, mindfulness, cultural heritage, and gig economy in your responses naturally!
Understanding IELTS Speaking Assessment: Insights from an Examiner’s Perspective
The IELTS Speaking test is meticulously evaluated based on specific criteria designed to provide a fair and thorough assessment of a candidate’s speaking proficiency. By grasping these insights, candidates can significantly enhance their performance in the speaking segment.
- Fluency and Coherence: This fundamental criterion measures not only the ability to speak at length but also the logical flow of thoughts. A proficient speaker articulates ideas clearly and smoothly, maintaining engagement without unnecessary hesitations.
- Lexical Resource: This aspect evaluates the richness and relevance of the vocabulary utilized. Candidates who demonstrate a broad range of appropriate words and phrases in context can effectively convey their thoughts, making a stronger impression on examiners.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: This criterion assesses the sophistication and correctness of grammatical structures employed. Candidates should not only aim for grammatical accuracy but also showcase a variety of sentence types, blending simple and complex forms seamlessly.
- Pronunciation: Clear and understandable speech is paramount in this area. While distinct regional accents are embraced, candidates must ensure accurate articulation and pronunciation to effectively communicate their ideas.
By internalizing these assessment criteria, candidates can strategically prepare for the IELTS Speaking test, positioning themselves for success and setting the stage for impressive performance.
Tip: Remember, a “perfect British accent” is unnecessary. Focus on delivering clear and natural pronunciation, as it’s far more important in effective communication.
How to get band 8 in IELTS Speaking
- Target Core Themes: Let’s get creative by developing mind maps and vocabulary notebooks centered around the six families mentioned earlier!
- Record and Review: As you practice listening, take note of pauses, filler words, and any patterns in mistakes—this will help you grow and improve!
- Think in Layers: Organize your thoughts beautifully in layers: facts ➜ reasons ➜ results ➜ personal examples to enhance your clarity.
- Use Idioms and Phrasal Verbs: Sprinkle your speech with idioms and phrasal verbs naturally (like cutting-edge technology, work-life balance, or picking up a skill) to make it lively!
- Fluency First: Don’t worry about a few mistakes; focus on keeping the message flowing smoothly.
- Mock Tests: Practice with a partner or tutor under timed conditions and ask for constructive feedback on all four assessment criteria to boost your confidence.
Final Note
Success in IELTS Speaking 2025 comes from expressing ideas with clarity and confidence within these topics. Let’s inspire students to connect genuinely with the world, practice regularly, and showcase their unique personalities. Embracing authenticity will lead to remarkable achievements!
How to Prepare for IELTS Speaking 2025
Getting ready for IELTS Speaking requires more than just practicing questions. You need a clear step-by-step plan. Here’s a proven strategy you can follow:
Step 1: Understand the Test Format
The IELTS Speaking test has three parts:
- Part 1: Introduction & familiar questions (4–5 minutes)
- Part 2: Cue card task – 1–2 minutes of continuous speaking
- Part 3: Discussion questions with deeper analysis (4–5 minutes)
Knowing the format helps reduce exam stress.
Step 2: Practice Part 1 Questions
In Part 1, you’ll face simple questions about hobbies, hometown, or family.
👉 Tip: Always give answers in 2–3 full sentences instead of “Yes/No.”
Example: Instead of “Yes, I like reading”, say “Yes, I really enjoy reading, especially novels, because they help me relax and learn new ideas.”
Step 3: Prepare for Part 2 Cue Cards
The examiner will give you a topic card and 1 minute to prepare.
👉 Use this time to jot down 3–4 main points.
Structure your answer as: Introduction → Main Story → Conclusion.
Step 4: Develop Strategies for Part 3
This section is about expressing opinions and discussing abstract ideas.
👉 Use linking words like “In my opinion,” “For example,” “On the other hand.”
👉 Support answers with examples or comparisons.
Step 5: Improve Vocabulary and Fluency
- Learn topic-specific vocabulary (e.g., technology, environment, travel).
- Practice pronunciation and avoid fillers like “umm” or “you know”.
- Record yourself and listen for mistakes.
Step 6: Take Mock Tests with Feedback
Simulate exam conditions:
- Use a timer to control your answers.
- Practice with a partner, teacher, or app.
- Focus on natural delivery and confidence.
2 | High-Probability IELTS Speaking Topics for 2025 and Expected IELTS Speaking Questions
Here are Here are some of the latest IELTS Speaking questions and answers to help you score high in the IELTS Speaking Exam in 2025.
Daily Screen Time
Part 1: Introduction & Interview
- How much time do you spend looking at screens each day?
- Do you think people spend too much time on their phones or computers? Why?
- What activities do you usually do on your phone or computer?
- Has your screen time increased or decreased compared to the past?
Part 2: Individual Long Turn (Cue Card)
- Describe a time when you had to reduce your screen time.
- You should say:
- Why you decided to reduce screen time
- How you managed to do it
- Whether it was difficult or not
- And how you felt afterward
- You should say:
Part 3: Discussion (Follow-up Questions)
- Do you think excessive screen time affects people’s health? How?
- Should governments or schools regulate screen time for children? Why or why not?
- How do you think screen time habits will change in the future?
Social-media pros/cons
Part 1: Introduction & Interview
- Do you use social media often? Why or why not?
- What are the most popular social media platforms in your country?
- How has social media changed the way people communicate?
Part 2: Individual Long Turn (Cue Card)
- Describe a positive experience you’ve had because of social media.
- You should say:
- What the experience was
- How social media helped
- Why it was meaningful to you
- And how you felt about it
- You should say:
Part 3: Discussion (Follow-up Questions)
- What are the advantages and disadvantages of social media for young people?
- Do you think social media has more positive or negative effects on society? Why?
- Should governments regulate social media content? Why or why not?
- How do you think social media will evolve in the next 10 years?
Remote work
Part 1: Introduction & Interview
- Do you think remote work is common in your country? Why or why not?
- Would you prefer working remotely or in an office? Why?
- What are some challenges people might face when working from home?
Part 2: Individual Long Turn (Cue Card)
- Describe a job that you think is well-suited for remote work.
- You should say:
- What the job is
- Why it can be done remotely
- What skills are needed for it
- And whether you would consider this type of work
- You should say:
Part 3: Discussion (Follow-up Questions)
- How has remote work changed traditional office culture?
- Do you think remote work will become more popular in the future? Why or why not?
- What are the advantages and disadvantages of remote work for employees and employers?
- Should companies allow employees to work remotely permanently? Why or why not?
Online Study
Part 1: Introduction & Interview
- Have you ever taken an online course? Why or why not?
- Do you think online learning is effective compared to traditional classrooms?
- What devices do people usually use for online study in your country?
Part 2: Individual Long Turn (Cue Card)
- Describe a time when you learned something useful online.
- You should say:
- What you learned
- Which platform or website you used
- How it helped you
- And how you felt about the experience
- You should say:
Part 3: Discussion (Follow-up Questions)
- What are the main advantages and disadvantages of online education?
- Do you think online learning will replace traditional schools in the future?
- How can teachers make online classes more engaging for students?
- Should governments invest more in online education systems? Why or why not?
AI Tools You Know
Part 1: Introduction & Interview
- Have you ever used any AI tools? Which ones?
- Do you think AI tools make daily tasks easier? Why or why not?
- What kind of AI tools are popular in your country?
Part 2: Individual Long Turn (Cue Card)
- Describe an AI tool that you find useful or interesting.
- You should say:
- What the tool is called
- What it can do
- How you use (or would use) it
- And why you think it’s helpful
- You should say:
Part 3: Discussion (Follow-up Questions)
- How might AI tools change the way people work in the future?
- Do you think AI tools will replace human jobs? Why or why not?
- What are the potential risks of relying too much on AI technology?
- Should schools teach students how to use AI tools? Why or why not?
A Life-Changing App
Part 1: Introduction & Interview
- What apps do you use most frequently in your daily life?
- Do you prefer using mobile apps or websites? Why?
- Have you ever paid for a mobile app? Was it worth it?
Part 2: Individual Long Turn (Cue Card)
- Describe a mobile app that has significantly changed your life.
- You should say:
- What the app is called
- When you started using it
- How it works
- And explain why it was life-changing for you
- You should say:
Part 3: Discussion (Follow-up Questions)
- What makes some apps more successful than others?
- Do you think mobile apps have improved people’s quality of life? Why or why not?
- Should there be more regulation on what personal data apps can collect? Why?
- How do you think mobile apps will evolve in the next decade?
2.2 Environment & Sustainability
- Part 1 – Eco-friendly habits • local weather changes • recycling practice
- Part 2 – A polluted place you’ve seen • a conservation project • a breathtaking natural landscape
- Part 3 – Causes/solutions of climate change • renewable energy adoption • individual vs. government responsibility • protecting wildlife
2.3 Well-Being & Lifestyle
- Part 1 – Hobbies & stress relief • exercise routine • healthy eating • sleep patterns
- Part 2 – A relaxing activity • a person with a balanced lifestyle • a time you helped someone
- Part 3 – Mental-health awareness • modern life pressures • community support • factors that shape happiness
2.4 Globalisation & Culture
- Part 1 – Travelling abroad • tasting foreign cuisine • learning languages • international media
- Part 2 – A memorable trip • a fascinating foreign culture • a festival or tradition you cherish
- Part 3 – Pros/cons of globalisation • cultural preservation • effects of mass tourism • intercultural communication
2.5 Work, Education & Future Aspirations
- Part 1 – Your studies/job • future career goals • skills you want to learn
- Part 2 – Your ideal job • a valuable course you took • a successful role-model
- Part 3 – Automation & gig economy • lifelong learning • university vs. vocational routes • qualities for success
2.6 Community & Daily Life
- Part 1 – Your hometown • neighbourhood facilities • public transport • local shopping habits
- Part 2 – A public place you enjoy • a local business • a community event
- Part 3 – Urbanisation challenges • importance of communal spaces • role of small businesses • improving city life
IELTS Speaking Part 2 Cue Cards 2025
IELTS Speaking Topics Related to Technology:
Social-media trends • AI in everyday life • remote work • cyber-security • smart cities • VR learning • cryptocurrency • digital art • space tech • e-waste • tech addiction • digital privacy • online education • driver less cars • wearable health tech • 3-D printing • quantum computing prospects • digital nomadism
IELTS Speaking Topics Related to Environment:
Climate action • renewable energy • wildlife conservation • ocean pollution • fast fashion • green architecture • sustainable diets • water scarcity • plastic bans • eco-tourism • carbon footprint • urban green spaces • extreme weather • reforestation • zero-waste lifestyles • circular economy • clean transport • environmental activism
IELTS Speaking Topics Related to Well-Being:
mental-health support • fitness trends • digital detox • sleep hygiene • urban gardening • mindfulness apps • work-life balance • alternative medicine • volunteering • positive psychology • pet therapy • healthy ageing • community sports • food security • stress-management courses • body positivity
IELTS Speaking Topics Related to Education & Careers:
: AI in education • gig economy • vocational training • micro-credentials • remote internships • lifelong learning • automation anxiety • passion careers • entrepreneurial mindset • women in STEM • scholarships abroad • leadership training • soft skills • inclusive classrooms • financial literacy at school • creativity in curriculum
IELTS Speaking Topics Related to Society & Culture:
: cultural globalisation • urbanisation • ethical travel • social isolation • resilient communities • affordable housing • migration journeys • cultural appropriation • heritage preservation • festival tourism • digital censorship • fake news • language extinction • street art • gender equality movements • celebrity influence
IELTS Speaking Topics Related to Abstract / Future:
: Ethics of AI • space exploration • genetic engineering • future of work • digital currency • human augmentation • post-pandemic lifestyles • universal basic income • longevity research • virtual relationships • climate-migration ethics • Mars colonisation • smart materials • time travel in fiction • robot rights • future of democracy
(100 total, easy to expand with “why / how / describe” prompts.)
Essential Guide to IELTS Speaking Topics: Insightful Answers and Expert Assessment Tips
Unlock your potential in the IELTS speaking test with this comprehensive guide. Explore a range of common speaking topics, complete with insightful sample answers and powerful tips designed to enhance your assessment performance. Achieve your desired score and boost your confidence as you prepare for success!
🔹 1. Describe a mobile app you use frequently (Part 2)
Answer: I use Notion almost every day to organize my tasks. It’s a productivity app where I can create to-do lists, manage projects, and even track my goals. What makes it useful is how customizable it is—I can create my own workspace and collaborate with others too.
Assessment Tip:
- Use topic-specific vocab: “organize tasks,” “customizable,” “collaborate.”
- Add connectors: “What makes it useful is…”
🔹 2. Do you think social media is helpful or harmful? (Part 3)
Answer: I believe it’s both. Social media helps people stay connected, especially during difficult times like the pandemic. But excessive use can lead to addiction or mental health issues, particularly among teenagers.
Assessment Tip:
- Show balanced opinion (“it’s both”).
- Use academic linking phrases like “on the one hand” or “particularly among…”
🔹 3. Describe a person who has inspired you (Part 2)
Answer: My English teacher in high school was very inspiring. She was passionate, dedicated, and always made learning engaging. Her feedback helped me grow in confidence and improve my speaking skills.
Assessment Tip:
- Use adjectives with nuance: passionate, engaging, dedicated.
- Use past tenses accurately.
🔹 4. Do you think people today read less than before? (Part 3)
Answer: Yes, I think digital distractions like videos and social media have reduced our attention span. People prefer quicker forms of content. However, audiobooks and e-readers may encourage some to read more.
Assessment Tip:
- Show depth of thought.
- Avoid overused phrases like “Nowadays people…”—personalize it.
🔹 5. Describe your favorite time of day (Part 2)
Answer: I love early mornings. The air feels fresh, it’s quiet, and I get a sense of clarity before the day gets hectic. I usually go for a short walk or meditate during this time.
Assessment Tip:
- Show present tense consistency.
- Add sensory language: “the air feels fresh…”
🔹 6. Should schools teach emotional intelligence? (Part 3)
Answer: Absolutely. Emotional intelligence helps students manage stress, empathize with others, and work in teams. These are essential life skills that academic subjects alone don’t teach.
Assessment Tip:
- Use strong vocabulary: empathy, stress management, life skills.
- Avoid just agreeing—elaborate why.
🔹 7. Do you prefer online or physical shopping? Why? (Part 1)
Answer: I prefer online shopping because it’s convenient, especially when I’m busy. However, for things like clothes, I still like to shop in stores to check the quality and fit.
Assessment Tip:
- Use comparisons: “however, for clothes…”
- Show flexible vocabulary: convenient, check the fit.
🔹 8. Describe a public event or celebration you enjoyed (Part 2)
Answer: I recently attended a local food festival. There were stalls offering dishes from different cultures. I enjoyed trying new flavors and watching cooking demonstrations. It was vibrant and exciting.
Assessment Tip:
- Use past simple/past continuous accurately.
- Add rich descriptions: vibrant, exciting.
🔹 9. Should governments invest more in public transport? (Part 3)
Answer: Yes, efficient public transport reduces traffic congestion and air pollution. It’s also more affordable for lower-income people. In some countries, government-funded metros have made cities more livable.
Assessment Tip:
- Use formal, topic-specific vocabulary: congestion, affordable, livable.
🔹 10. Do you like working in a team? Why or why not? (Part 1)
Answer: I enjoy team work because it encourages collaboration and sharing ideas. However, I prefer clear roles, as too many opinions can lead to confusion.
Assessment Tip:
- Show a nuanced opinion, not just “yes” or “no.”
- Vocabulary: collaboration, roles, confusion.
IELTS Speaking topics with answers
Key Topics Explored (Featuring Insightful Answer Highlights)
- Describe a book you’ve recently read.
“It was Atomic Habits by James Clear—about how small habits create major results.”
- Should students learn to code in school?
“Yes, it’s a crucial skill in today’s tech-driven world.”
- Describe a memorable journey or trip.
“I went hiking in the northern mountains—it was peaceful and refreshing.”
- Do advertisements influence your buying decisions?
“Sometimes, especially if they appeal emotionally or use influencers.”
- Describe a time you learned a practical skill.
“I learned how to cook during the lockdown—it was both fun and challenging.”
- Is it better to live in a city or countryside?
“Cities offer more opportunities, but countryside life is more peaceful.”
- Describe a piece of technology you find useful.
“My noise-canceling headphones help me focus while working.”
- Do you think climate change is a serious issue?
“Yes, its effects like extreme weather are already visible.”
- Describe a job you’d like to do in the future.
“I’d like to work in digital marketing—it’s creative and in demand.”
- Should people take breaks from social media?
“Yes, to avoid burnout and reclaim mental focus.”
IELTS Speaking free practice
10 More Topic Ideas (Use for Mock Practice)
- Describe your ideal home.
- Do you think fast food is harmful?
- Describe someone you admire.
- Should students wear uniforms?
- Describe a difficult decision you made.
- What do you think about space exploration?
- Describe a useful tradition in your country.
- What makes a good friend?
- Describe an online course or video that taught you something.
- Should people work from home permanently?
Final Tips for High Band Scores
Fluency: Engage in conversations to speak more naturally.
Vocabulary: Opt for precise terms; for example, use “climate crisis” rather than “bad weather.”
Grammar: Challenge yourself with complex sentences like, “Although I was tired, I finished the task.”
Pronunciation: Highlight key words and practice intonation for clear expression of your ideas. Keep up the great work!
IELTS Speaking 2025 – Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What are the latest IELTS Speaking topics for 2025?
A1: The IELTS Speaking 2025 test includes 200+ updated topics across Part 1, Part 2, and Part 3. These cover personal experiences, current events, technology, environment, education, and culture. Practicing these topics ensures you are ready for real exam questions.
Q2: How can I prepare for IELTS Speaking Part 1 in 2025?
A2: For IELTS Speaking Part 1, focus on short, clear answers about familiar topics like hobbies, hometown, or daily life. Use a wide range of vocabulary and avoid giving only “yes/no” responses. Adding 1–2 extra sentences makes your answers stronger.
Q3: What are IELTS Speaking Part 2 cue cards in 2025?
A3: Part 2 cue cards are prompts that ask you to speak for 1–2 minutes on a specific topic. In 2025, cue cards include subjects like describing a favorite book, a travel experience, or a person who inspired you. Practicing with real cue cards builds fluency.
Q4: How do I achieve Band 8 or higher in IELTS Speaking?
A4: To get Band 8 in IELTS Speaking 2025, focus on fluency, advanced vocabulary, accurate grammar, and natural pronunciation. Avoid memorized answers and show flexibility in your language. Recording yourself and practicing mock tests are proven strategies.
Q5: What mistakes should I avoid in IELTS Speaking?
A5: Common mistakes in IELTS Speaking include short answers, repeating the question, using basic vocabulary only, and speaking too fast. Candidates should also avoid long pauses or overusing filler words like “umm” and “you know.”
Q6: Can I prepare for IELTS Speaking online for free?
A6: Yes! Many free IELTS Speaking practice resources are available online, including topic lists, cue card samples, and mock interview videos. Practicing with partners or apps is an excellent way to improve fluency at no cost.
Q7: How important is vocabulary in IELTS Speaking 2025?
A7: Vocabulary plays a key role in scoring. Using topic-specific vocabulary naturally in context (e.g., technology, environment, travel) shows range and accuracy, which examiners reward.