Secrets to a High Score on the IELTS Speaking Test
- Jihane Sato
- Dec 12, 2025
- 3 min read
The IELTS Speaking test can feel challenging, even for confident English speakers. But with the right strategies and plenty of practice, you can learn how to communicate naturally and clearly, and reach your target band.
Here are some proven IELTS speaking tips and insider advice to help you understand how to score high in the IELTS Speaking test, plus how the LSNZ Full-time IELTS Preparation Course can help you succeed.
Understanding the IELTS Speaking Test
The IELTS Speaking test is a face-to-face interview with an examiner that lasts about 11-14 minutes.
It has three parts:
Introduction and Interview: You answer basic questions about yourself, your studies, work, and interests.
Individual Long Turn: You will speak for 1-2 minutes on a given topic using a cue card.
Discussion: You have a deeper conversation with the examiner about ideas related to your topic.
IELTS Speaking Tips: The Secrets to a High Score
Focus on Fluency and Confidence
Speak naturally, don’t memorise long answers!
Avoid long pauses or repeating the question; show that you can keep the conversation going.
Examiners value communication, not perfection.
Expand your Answers
Don’t give one-word replies.
Add short explanations, examples, or personal opinions.
For example: - Examiner – “Do you like travelling”, You: - “Yes, I love visiting new places because I enjoy learning about different cultures and trying the local food.”
Use a Range of Vocabulary
Try to use natural, topic-specific words rather than repeating the same phrases.
Keep a personal word list with synonyms and idioms you can use.
Don’t overuse complicated words, your clarity matters most.
Pronunciation is More Than Accent
You don’t need to have a ‘perfect’ accent. Focus on clear pronunciation, rhythm, and intonation.
Practise speaking slowly and naturally.
Record yourself or practise with classmates to hear how you sound.
Show Grammatical Range
Use different sentence types: simple, compound, and complex.
Don’t panic if you make small mistakes – it is more important to express your ideas clearly.
Practise Under Real Conditions
Simulate real test timing: 11-14 minutes of continuous speaking.
Ask a teacher to give you feedback on fluency, coherence, and pronunciation.
The more you practise realistic situations, the more confident you will feel on the day.
Common IELTS Speaking Mistakes to Avoid
Memorised answers: Examiners can tell when you are reading from memory!
Short or unclear answers: Always develop your ideas fully.
Speaking too fast: Clarity is much more important than speed.
Over-correcting yourself: Small mistakes are fine, don’t lose confidence!
FAQs: IELTS Exam Secrets
How is the IELTS Speaking test scored?
You are graded on four areas: Fluency and Coherence, Vocabulary, Grammar, and Pronunciation. Each counts equally towards your final band score.
What band score do I need?
For study or migration in New Zealand, most institutions require between Band 6.0 and 7.5. But this depends entirely on the course or visa type.
How can I prepare quickly?
Join a focussed course like the LSNZ Full-time IELTS Preparation course, where our teachers help you identify weak points, practise exam-style questions, and build natural fluency.
Final Advice
The best IELTS exam secret is simple: consistent practice with expert guidance. Learn how to speak naturally, think in English, and stay calm under pressure.
At LSNZ, our IELTS specialists will help you build confidence, master pronunciation, and refine your fluency, so you can reach your dream band score faster.
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