IELTS Speaking: extend your answers with a reason and an example

The rule

Build each answer in three steps: answer the question, give a reason (because…) and add an example (For example, last week…). Keep it natural: a few sentences, not a speech.

In class, many learners are used to short answers like Yes or I like it. In a speaking test, a one-word answer gives the examiner very little of your English to hear. A reason and an example show what you can say.

Examples

In a conversation

A: Do you like cooking?

B: Yes, I do, because it helps me relax after university.

A: What do you usually cook?

B: Simple dishes. For example, yesterday I made pasta with vegetables for my friends.

Practice

Choose the best answer. The answers are at the end of the lesson.

1. Examiner: Do you enjoy reading? You: “___”
   • a) Yes.
   • b) Yes, because it helps me relax.
   • c) Yes, I do.
2. Yes, I do, because it helps me relax. ___
   • a) For example, I read before bed.
   • b) So yes, I like reading.
   • c) Yes, I like reading a lot.
3. The best way to prepare for speaking questions is to ___.
   • a) learn long answers by heart
   • b) speak only in short sentences
   • c) practise answer, reason, example

Tip

Don't memorise long scripts: they often don't fit the exact question, and they sound unnatural. Learn the pattern instead, and practise it with everyday questions.

Answers

1. b) Yes, because it helps me relax. A good answer gives a reason, not just yes.
2. a) For example, I read before bed. After the answer and reason, add an example.
3. c) practise answer, reason, example. A pattern fits any question; a script doesn't.

Exam names are trademarks of their owners. This lesson is independent preparation.

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