IELTS Speaking Part 1

IELTS Speaking Part 1: Social media questions and answers

IELTS Speaking Part 1 questions are short and personal: the examiner asks three to five on two or three everyday topics in the first four to five minutes. These are the 4 questions about social media in the BandLadder test bank, with Band 8 sample answers for the most frequent ones and useful vocabulary. Aim for two or three sentences each: answer, reason, one detail.
  • 4 questions
  • 4 Band 8 answers
  • 4 to 5 minutes
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4 answers

Social media questions with sample answers

1

Which social media websites do you use?

I primarily stick to Instagram and LinkedIn for my daily digital interactions. Instagram is my go-to for catching up with friends' photos, while I use LinkedIn to keep a close eye on industry trends and network with professionals in my field.

2

How much time do you spend on social media sites?

Honestly, I probably clock in about two hours a day, though it fluctuates depending on my workload. I have a tendency to check my notifications during my morning commute and then again while unwinding in the evening before I head to bed.

3

What kind of information about yourself have you put on social media?

My profiles are relatively minimalist, containing just my job title, educational background, and a few personal interests. I prefer to keep my private life fairly guarded, so I avoid posting my residential address or any sensitive financial details online.

4

Is there anything you don't like about social media?

What really bothers me is the prevalence of curated perfection, which often makes people feel inadequate about their own lives. It is exhausting to constantly see polished highlights rather than the genuine, messy reality that everyone actually experiences behind the screen.

Details are invented. Use the shape, not the sentences: examiners mark memorised answers down.

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6 words

Useful vocabulary and tips

  • clock in

    To reach a specific amount of time spent doing something

  • fluctuates

    To change or vary frequently in size or amount

  • minimalist

    Characterised by extreme simplicity and using very few details

  • guarded

    Cautious and careful about sharing personal information with others

  • prevalence

    The fact of something being very common or widespread

  • curated

    Carefully selected and presented to look better than reality

  • →Give a direct, concise answer first before adding a specific personal detail or reasoning.
  • →Use a range of natural vocabulary to describe your habits rather than just saying I like.

Frequently asked questions

How many questions are in IELTS Speaking Part 1?+

Usually about ten to twelve, over four to five minutes: a few on your work, study or home, then three or four short questions on each of two everyday topics.

How long should a Part 1 answer be?+

Two or three sentences, about 15 to 20 seconds: a direct answer, a reason and one detail. One-word answers cost fluency marks, and long speeches eat into the examiner's time.

Keep practising

More Part 1 topics

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