5 Speaking test habits that cost you marks

The Speaking test is a conversation, and the examiner is listening for how naturally and clearly you can talk. These five habits come up again and again, and every one of them is easy to fix with practice.

1. Memorised answers

It is tempting to learn a perfect answer for common topics. Examiners are trained to notice memorised speech, and a speech you learned by heart does not show how you really speak. Prepare ideas and vocabulary for common topics, not whole answers.

2. One-line answers in Part 1

"Do you like your hometown?" "Yes." That is a missed chance. Give a short answer, then a reason or an example:

Yes, I do. Kandy is green and quiet, and I can walk around the lake in the evening.

Two or three sentences is about right for Part 1.

3. Stopping early in Part 2

You have up to 2 minutes to speak, and the examiner will stop you when time is up. Many candidates stop after 40 seconds. Use your 1 minute of preparation to note three or four points, and use every point on the card.

4. Chasing big words

Vocabulary marks come from using words accurately and naturally, including some less common ones. A big word used wrongly hurts more than a simple word used well. Learn words with the phrases they usually go with, like "a demanding job" or "make a decision".

5. Worrying about your accent

Pronunciation is about being easy to understand: clear sounds, word stress and natural rhythm. You do not need a British or an American accent. Slow down a little, finish your words, and stress the important ones.

A few more things that help

• If you did not catch a question, you can ask the examiner to repeat it.
• Small pauses to think are normal. Fill them naturally: "That's an interesting question. I think..."
• In Part 3, give your opinion, then explain why, and compare with other views.

Practise with a trainer

Speaking improves fastest when someone listens and tells you exactly what to change. At Kandy IELTS College you can book a one-to-one session with a trainer at the college to work on the part of Speaking that is holding you back.