IELTS Academic · Speaking

Speaking test: Describe a time when you had a lot to do in a short time

17 questions · 14 minutes · Speaking prompt

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On the computer-delivered layout, timed like test day, and marked by our AI examiner on all four criteria.

Part 1: Part 1

Questions 1–12

The examiner asks you about yourself and familiar topics.

  1. 1 Do you have a busy schedule at the moment?
  2. 2 Do you use a diary or an app to plan your day?
  3. 3 Do you find it easy to meet deadlines?
  4. 4 Is it better to work hard all day or take regular breaks?
  5. 5 Do you usually have plans for the weekend?
  6. 6 Do you prefer to relax or be active on weekends?
  7. 7 Do you ever work at the weekend?
  8. 8 What would be your ideal weekend?
  9. 9 How often do you eat out?
  10. 10 Do you usually have time to cook during the week?
  11. 11 What do you eat when you are in a hurry?
  12. 12 Do you think people eat healthily these days?

Part 2: Part 2

Question 13

You have one minute to prepare, then talk for one to two minutes.

Describe a time when you had a lot to do in a short time.

You should say:

  • what you had to do
  • why you had so little time
  • how you managed

and explain how you felt about it.

  1. 13 Describe a time when you had a lot to do in a short time.

Part 3: Part 3

Questions 14–17

The examiner asks more general questions linked to Part 2.

  1. 14 Are people busier today than in the past?
  2. 15 How can people balance work and free time?
  3. 16 Does stress help people work better?
  4. 17 Should employers limit working hours?

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