Use the questions below to practice generating ideas and responses for common topics that come up in the IELTS Speaking Part 1 exam. 

Advertisements

• What are some common types of advertisements that you come across in your daily life?
• Have you ever purchased a product or service based on an advertisement you saw?
• How do you feel about the advertisements you see on social media platforms?
• Do you think advertisements influence people's choices when they shop?
• How do advertisements impact society and culture?
• Are there any types of advertisements that you find annoying?
• In your opinion, how have advertisements changed over the years with the rise of digital media?
• Do you believe that advertisements can sometimes be misleading or deceptive?
• Are there any memorable or creative advertisements that you've seen recently?

Apartments

• Can you describe your apartment?
• What do you like most about your apartment?
• What kind of view do you have from your apartment?
• Are there any amenities in your apartment building?
• How is living in an apartment different from living in a house?
• What improvements would you like to make to your apartment?
• How would you describe the neighborhood where your apartment is located?
• Is it common for people in your country to live in apartments?
• What are the advantages of living in an apartment?
• Are there any disadvantages to living in an apartment?
• How do you feel about the size of your apartment?
• Have you ever lived in a different apartment?
• How important is the location of an apartment to you?
• What features would you look for in your ideal apartment?

Art

• Are you interested in art? Why or why not?
• Do you enjoy visiting art galleries or museums?

• What types of art do you like or appreciate the most (e.g., painting, sculpture, photography)?
• Have you ever tried creating art, such as painting or drawing?
• How important is art in your culture or society?
• Do you think art plays a role in education? How?
• Can you name a famous artist or art piece that you admire?
• What emotions or feelings do you experience when you look at a work of art?
• Are there any traditional or indigenous forms of art in your country that are particularly meaningful?
• Have you ever bought or collected artwork?

Books and reading

• What types of books do you like to read (e.g., fiction, non-fiction, novels, biographies)?
• Do you prefer reading physical books, e-books, or listening to audiobooks? Why?
• Can you describe a book that you've read and liked? What was it about?
• How much reading do you do for your work/studies? [Why/Why not?]
• What kinds of books do you read for pleasure? [Why/Why not?]
• Have you ever participated in a book club or a reading group?
• How do you choose the books you read?/What do you look for when choosing a book to read?

Celebrities and Fame

• Would you like to be famous? Why or why not?
• Are you interested in celebrities or famous people? Why or why not?
• Have you ever attended a live performance, concert, or event featuring a famous person?
• What are the advantages and disadvantages of being a celebrity?
• Who is your favorite celebrity, and why do you admire them?
• How do you keep up with news about celebrities or famous individuals?
• Do you think celebrities have a positive or negative influence on society? Why?
• Can you name a celebrity who is known for their charitable work?
• How do you think the lives of famous people differ from those of ordinary individuals?
• Are there any historical figures or celebrities from the past whom you admire?

Chores

• Do you help with chores or household tasks at home? What do you do?
• How do you feel about doing chores? Are there any chores you particularly dislike?
• Can you describe a chore or task you find most challenging or time-consuming?
• Are there any specific household chores that you enjoy doing? Why?
• In your culture, do people typically divide household chores among family members?
• How do you organize and prioritize your chores to manage your time effectively?
• What household chore do you think is the most important for maintaining a clean and organized home?
• How have your attitudes and responsibilities toward chores changed as you've grown up?
• Do you believe that teaching children to do chores is important for their development?
• What tools or equipment do you use to make chores easier and more efficient?

Clothes and fashion

• Do you enjoy shopping for clothes? Why or why not?
• How important is fashion in your life?
• Can you describe your personal style when it comes to clothing?
• What types of clothing do you feel most comfortable in?
• Are there any fashion trends that you particularly like or dislike?
• Do you follow the latest fashion trends, or do you prefer to wear classic and timeless styles?
• How do you decide what to wear for different occasions or events?
• Are there any traditional or cultural clothing items in your country that you like to wear?
• Have you ever bought clothing online? What was your experience like?
• Can you think of a specific occasion when you dressed up for a special event or celebration?
• How do you feel about people who wear eccentric or unconventional clothing styles?
• Are there any clothing items or accessories that have sentimental value to you?
• What factors influence your clothing choices, such as weather, comfort, or personal preferences?
• How have fashion and clothing styles changed over the years in your country?

Computers

• How often do you use computers in your daily life?
• What do you primarily use computers for (e.g., work, studies, entertainment)?
• Do you prefer using desktop computers or laptops? Why?
• Can you describe a situation where you had to troubleshoot a computer problem?
• What software or applications do you use frequently on your computer?
• How have computers and technology influenced the way you communicate with others?
• Are you concerned about issues related to online privacy and security when using computers?
• Have you ever taken a computer-related course or received formal training in using computers?
• Do you think it's important for children to learn how to use computers at a young age?
• Have you experienced any significant changes in your daily life due to advances in technology and computers?

Exercise

• Do you enjoy exercising? Why or why not?
• What types of exercise do you typically engage in?
• How often do you exercise in a week?
• Do you prefer exercising alone or with others? Why?
• What do you think are the most effective exercises for improving fitness?
• How do you motivate yourself to exercise regularly?
• Have you ever participated in any organized sports or fitness classes?
• How do you think technology has influenced the way people exercise?
• Do you think it's important for children to participate in physical education classes at school? Why or why not?
• How do you think the pandemic has affected people's exercise habits?​

Friends

• How do you typically spend time with your friends?
• Are your friends mostly from your hometown or from other places?
• Do you think it's important to have a lot of friends, or is having a few close friends enough?
• Have you made any new friends recently? How did you meet them?
• What qualities do you value most in a friend?
• How do you maintain your friendships, especially if your friends live far away?
• Do you think it's easier to make friends when you're a child, a teenager, or an adult?

Food and cooking

• What types of food are popular in your country?
• What is a traditional dish from your country that you enjoy?
• Do you enjoy cooking? Why or why not?
• How often do you cook at home? What do you usually cook?
• What type of food do you like to cook or prepare at home?
• Are there any traditional dishes or recipes from your culture that you enjoy?
• How often do you eat out at restaurants or cafes?
• Are there any foods or ingredients that you dislike? Why
• Are there any ingredients that you are allergic to? 
• What is your favorite cuisine or type of food (e.g., Italian, Chinese, vegetarian)?
• Are there any dietary restrictions or preferences that you follow in your daily life?
• Have you ever tried cooking a new or exotic dish? How did it turn out?
• What do you think are the benefits of trying foods from different cultures?
• How has globalization affected the availability and variety of foods in your area?
• Do you buy ready-made meals from convenience stores? Why or why not?
• What kind of food do you usually eat when you're in a hurry?
• Do you think people are becoming more health-conscious about their food choices?
• Do you prefer eating at home or going out to eat? Why?
• What is your favorite meal of the day, and why?
• Are there any foreign foods that you'd like to try? Why?

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Gifts

• When do people give gifts or presents in your country?
• Do you ever take a gift when you visit someone in their home? [Why/Why not?]
• When did you last receive a gift? [What was it?]
• Do you enjoy looking for gifts for people? [Why/Why not?]
• Do you enjoy giving gifts to others? Why or why not?
• What kinds of gifts do you usually give to your friends or family?
• How do you choose the perfect gift for someone?
• Is gift-giving an important tradition in your culture? Why or why not?
• Can you recall a memorable gift you received? What made it special?
• Are handmade gifts more meaningful than store-bought ones? Why or why not?
• What factors do you consider when selecting a gift for someone?
• In your opinion, is it better to give practical gifts or ones that are more sentimental?
• How do you react when you receive a gift that you don't like?
• Are there specific occasions in your culture where gift-giving is expected?
• How do you feel about the tradition of giving money as a gift?

History

• Are you interested in history? Why or why not?
• What did you study in history lessons when you were at school?
• How has history been taught in your education, and did you enjoy history classes?
• How often do you watch TV programmes about history? [Why/Why not?]
• Can you describe a historical period or event that you would like to learn more about?
• Are there any historical sites or museums in your area that you've visited and found interesting?
• Do you have a favorite historical figure or a person from the past whom you admire?
• Can you discuss the importance of preserving and protecting historical landmarks and artifacts?
• Have you ever traveled to a place known for its historical significance?

​Hobbies

• Do you have any hobbies or interests that you enjoy in your free time?
• How often do you engage in your hobbies, and when do you typically do them?
• Can you discuss any hobbies that are common or popular in your culture or region?
• Are there any hobbies you would like to try in the future? 
• Do you think it's important for people to have hobbies or leisure activities? Why?
• Have you ever taken classes or lessons to improve your skills in a particular hobby?
• Are there any hobbies or activities that you used to enjoy but have since stopped doing?
• What benefits do you see in pursuing hobbies and interests outside of work or studies?
• How do your hobbies contribute to your personal well-being and relaxation?

Internet

• How often do you use the internet?
• What do you primarily use the internet for (e.g., work, communication, entertainment)?
• Can you describe a specific website or online service that you use regularly?
• How important is the internet in your daily life?
• How do you think has the internet changed the way people communicate and access information?
• What do you think is the impact of the internet on education and learning?
• How has the internet affected the way people shop and access goods and services?
• Can you share your thoughts on the availability and affordability of internet access in your area?
• Are there any online communities or networks that you actively participate in?

Mobile phones

• Do you own a mobile phone? How often do you use it?
• What do you primarily use your mobile phone for (e.g., communication, work, entertainment)?
• Can you describe the model and features of your mobile phone?
• Are you interested in the latest developments and features in mobile phone technology?
• How important is a mobile phone in your daily life?
• Are you satisfied with the battery life and durability of your mobile phone?
• Have you ever lost or damaged your mobile phone? 
• What types of apps or applications do you frequently use on your mobile phone?
• Are there any concerns about privacy or security when using mobile phones and apps?
• Have you ever had a memorable or significant experience related to your mobile phone?
• What are your thoughts on the use of mobile phones in educational settings or for learning?

Movies

• What types of movies do you like to watch?
• What is the most recent movie you have seen?
• Do you prefer watching movies at home or in the cinema? Why?
• How often do you go to the cinema?
• What is your favorite movie of all time?
• Are there any types of movies you dislike?
• Do you like watching foreign films? Why or why not?
• How do you choose which movies to watch?
• Do you think movies influence people's behavior? How?
• Do you prefer watching movies alone or with friends?
• Have you ever watched a movie more than once? Why?
• What movie genres are popular in your country?
• Is there a movie you’re looking forward to seeing? Why?

News

• Do you regularly follow the news or keep up with current events? Why or why not?
• How do you usually access news and information (e.g., newspapers, TV, websites, apps)?
• Can you describe a recent news story or headline that caught your attention?
• Are there specific topics or types of news that you find more interesting or important?
• How do you feel about the reliability of the news sources you use?
• Do you think it's important for people to stay informed about current events? Why?
• Have you ever discussed a news story with friends or family? What was the topic?
• Are there any news stories that have had a significant impact on your life or your community?
• Are there differences in how different age groups or demographics consume news?

Photography

• Do you enjoy taking photographs? Why or why not?
• What kind of subjects do you like to photograph the most?
• How do you feel when you look at old photographs?
• Do you prefer taking photos with a smartphone or a camera? Why?
• How do you think photography has changed with the rise of social media?
• Do you like sharing photos online on  social media or other websites?
• Have you ever taken a photography class or course?
• Do you prefer to take posed or candid photographs? Why?
• What role do you think photography plays in our daily lives?
• Do you have a favorite photographer or photography style? If so, who or what is it?
• How do you store and organize your photographs?
• What do you think makes a good photograph stand out from others?
• Have you ever had a photograph professionally taken? If so, for what occasion?

Transport

• How do you usually get around in your city or town?
• Can you describe the public transportation options available in your area?
• What do you think are the advantages and disadvantages of public transportation?
• Have you ever experienced any problems with public transportation?
• Are there any transportation challenges or issues in your community, such as traffic congestion or air pollution?
• Have you ever taken a long-distance or international trip? What form of transport did you use?
• What changes or improvements would you like to see in the transportation infrastructure in your area?

Shopping

• Do you enjoy shopping? Why or why not?
• How often do you go shopping for clothes or other items?
• Where do you prefer to shop: in physical stores or online? Why?
• What factors do you consider when choosing a place to shop?
• Are there any items you prefer to buy second-hand or used? Why?
• Do you think shopping habits have changed in recent years? How?
• How do you decide what to buy when you're faced with many options?
• Do you enjoy window shopping, or do you prefer to make purchases quickly?
• Do sales and discounts influence your shopping decisions?
• Are there any traditional markets or street markets in your country that you like to visit?
• What role does advertising play in influencing your shopping choices?
• What do you think are the advantages of online shopping?
• What do you think are the disadvantages of online shopping?

​Sports

• What is your favorite sport to play or watch? Why do you like it?
• Do you enjoy watching sports on television? Why or why not?
• What is the most popular sport in your country? Why do you think it is so popular?
• Have you ever played a team sport? If yes, which one, and what did you like about it?
• Do you think it's important for children to participate in sports? Why or why not?
• Are there any traditional sports in your country? Can you describe them?
• How often do you exercise or engage in physical activity? What do you do?
• How have sports changed in your country over the years?
• Are there any sports that you would like to try in the future? Why?
• What qualities do you think should a good athlete possess?
• Are there any sports or physical activities that are popular among older people in your country?

Studies

• Do you enjoy studying? Why or why not?
• What is your favorite subject to study? Why do you like it?
• Are there any subjects that you find difficult or challenging? Why?
• How do you usually prepare for exams or tests?
• Do you prefer studying alone or in a group? Why?
• What study habits do you find most effective?
• What challenges do you face while studying, and how do you overcome them?
• How do you manage your time between studying and other activities?
• Are there any study techniques or strategies that you find particularly helpful?
• What role do teachers play in your learning experience?
• How has your approach to studying changed over the years?
• How do you stay motivated during challenging or boring subjects?
• How has technology influenced the way you study?

Weather

• ​What is the most common type of weather in your country?
• What is your favorite season, and what activities do you enjoy during that time?
• Does the weather affect your mood? How?
• How often does it rain in your region?
• Are there any extreme weather conditions in your country?
• How do people in your country typically prepare for different seasons?
• Have you ever experienced a natural disaster related to weather? If so, please describe it.
• Are there any precautions people take in your country during extreme weather events?

A review of the IELTS Speaking Band Descriptors would show that repetition is something that would give a test-taker lower band scores of around 4 or 5 in fluency and coherence. This is because frequent repetitions demonstrate limited vocabulary and communication skills. Here are some strategies to minimize repetition in your responses:

1. Describe and specify.

• Instead of saying something is "good," describe why it's good and give a short list of its positive qualities. For example, if you're discussing a movie, talk about its plot, characters, acting, cinematography, and so on.
• Example, if you hear a question like, "Which movies do you think are good for children to watch?" you can't just say, "I think movies that teach a lesson are ideal for children." You could add specific details and say, "Let's take the movie 'Inside Out', for example. It's  a great movie for kids to watch because not only is it entertaining,  but it also teaches children to become more aware of their emotions. The movie's themes of growing up, dealing with change, and coping with complex emotions are topics that resonate with both children and teenagers as they go through the challenges of adolescence."

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2. Learn to paraphrase.

• Practice paraphrasing your statements. When you've made a point, rephrase it using different words. This is a valuable skill to express the same idea in various ways.
• Example: "I take great pleasure in gardening and tending to plants" could be restated as "My favorite way to relax is by spending time in my balcony/garden taking care of my plants." 

3. Use pronouns and references.

• Rather than repeating the same noun, use pronouns and references. For example, if you're talking about your friend Bob, instead of saying "Bob" each time, use "he," "his," "they,"  or the appropriate pronoun when referring to that person.

4. Provide examples.

• Supporting your points with examples not only enriches your response but also reduces repetition. For instance, instead of saying "I enjoy outdoor activities," provide examples such as "I like hiking, cycling, and camping."

5. Avoid filler words.

• Minimize the use of filler words like "um," "uh," "well," and "you know." Overusing these can make you sound less confident and may lead to repetition. This may be one of the more difficult habits to change (I know this based on personal experience) so you'll need to be intentional and to consciously just pause instead of saying "um".

6. Expand your vocabulary.

• Continually work on expanding your vocabulary. Learn synonyms and antonyms for common words. For instance, instead of repeatedly using "good," you can say "excellent," "outstanding," "superb," or "great." Instead of using "important," consider using "crucial," "significant," or "vital."
• Learn to enjoy reading to acquire new words, or even if it's something that you don't typically enjoy, at least regard it as a useful exercise to expose yourself to new words and phrases.

 7. Use transition words.

• Transition words can help you connect ideas and avoid repeating the same phrases. For example, use words like "also," "what's more,"  "moreover," "in addition," "besides," or "on the other hand" to transition between points.

Of course, some degree of repetition is normal in conversation, and examiners understand this. The key is to avoid excessive and unnecessary repetition by employing the strategies mentioned above while maintaining natural and fluent speech.