Comprehensive guide to IELTS Cue Cards

The exam has gained enormous attention over the years and is considered an important benchmark for students from non-English speaking countries who wish to study or work abroad.

IELTS tests a candidate's English proficiency in various aspects such as Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. Of the four sections in the IELTS exam, the speaking test stands out, especially the Cue Cards, which gives you the leeway to showcase your capacity to structure thoughts and speak coherently about a particular subject.

Here’s what you’ll find in this article

• Example cue card topics based on themes
• Sample cue card questions along with their answers
• 60 previously asked cue card topics with 4 prompts

Here’s a detailed breakdown of what the speaking test is all about.

Duration: The Speaking test lasts about 11 to 14 minutes and is divided into three parts and the total band score that can be scored is 0-9.

Part 1: Introduction and interview

In part one, the examiner will ask you general questions on familiar topics, mostly about you. The question will be easy and helps you relax and talk naturally. You can expect questions about your home, work, childhood, studies and more. This part lasts about 4-5 minutes.

Part 2: Cue Card

In part 2, you will receive a cue card with a specific topic and some prompts to guide you. You might be asked to share about an experience, a person, a place, or an object that is meaningful to you.

Take a moment– 1 minute– to gather your thoughts and jot down a few points on the paper provided. Remember, these notes are just for you and won't be graded, so feel free to write down whatever comes to mind.           

Once you are ready, you will have 2 minutes to speak. Just relax and share your thoughts. This is your chance to express yourself. Be relaxed, and let your ideas flow naturally.

Part 3: Discussion

In the final part, the examiner will engage you with some deeper questions related to the topic you discussed in Part 2. This part lasts about 4 to 5 minutes, giving you plenty of time to discuss the topic together and engage in a conversation. It is all about connecting and expressing your ideas!

When preparing for the IELTS exam, it's essential to familiarise yourself with various cue card topics. Learn & practise IELTS Reading, Writing, Listening, and Speaking sections with our live, virtual classes to score well!

Sample Cue Card topics

You will be presented with a question and 4 prompts for Part 2 of the Speaking test as given below.

Go through the following questions and read further to understand the examiners’ expectations from you along with a bonus expert opinion from Pedro Almeida.           

Sample Cue Card 1

Describe something you own which is very important to you.

• Where did you get it from?
• How long have you had it?
• What do you use it for?
• Why is it important to you?

Sample Cue Card 2

Describe a website you use that helps you a lot in your work or studies.

• What is the website?
• How often do you use the website?
• What information does the website give you?
• How would your work or studies change if this website didn’t exist?

Sample Cue Card 3

Describe a time when you started using a new technological device (e.g. a new computer or phone).

• What device did you start using?
• Why did you start using this device?
• How easy or difficult was it to use?
• How helpful this device was to you?

Here are some downloadable PDFs for sample cue card topics:

• Describe an area of science that interests you
• Describe a successful businessperson you know
• Describe a party that you enjoyed
• Describe a difficult thing that you did and succeeded
• Describe a beautiful city

Assessment criteria for speaking test

You will be assessed on the following four criteria:

• Fluency and coherence: How smoothly and naturally you speak
• Word-stock: The range of vocabulary you use
• Grammar range and accuracy: How well you use grammar structures
• Pronunciation: How clearly and understandably you speak

10 Tips to Master the IELTS Cue Cards

To help you excel on test day, we’ve listed down 10 pro tips that will improve your preparation, boost your confidence, and ensure you make a strong impression. Whether you’re a first-time test-taker or looking to improve your score, these tips will guide you toward achieving your best performance.

1. Understand the structure, format and types of questions to expect in the speaking test. This will help you feel prepared on test day.
2. Create a study plan to streamline your preparation process and achieve your target score.
3. Do not memorise any answers. It will confuse you during the interview.
4. Focus on maintaining fluency rather than usingcomplex words.
5. Practice speaking out loud on various sample IELTS cue cards. It helps you improve your pronunciation and fluency in spoken English.
6. Use simple language and make sure you convey your ideas and opinions.
7. Be prepared for the possible follow-up questions and try to prepare yourself to answer them.
8. Avoid overthinking. This might affect your flow and disrupt your thought process during the interview.
9. Practice with a stopwatch and speak for up to 2 minutes. During the test, the examiner will stop you if you talk for over 2 minutes.
10. Record yourself when you practise and listen back to improve. Try to practise with a friend or partner for feedback.

Best case practices from an IELTS expert

One of our top IELTS experts, Pedro Almeida, is a Delta-qualified teacher and a senior English instructor at New College Group, Manchester, UK. With 17 years of experience coaching candidates for the IELTS Exam, here's a pro tip from him.

Expert opinion

The most important tip I would give candidates would be to focus on the opening line more than the 4 prompt questions. The opening line is the key. When it says 'Describe a person you know who is a good cook', then this is what they should focus on. If they only worry about the 4 prompt questions, then they will limit themselves and what they will say, resulting in running out of things to say before the 2 minutes finish. But if they focus on the opening line, they will likely talk about the 4 prompts and more.

The examiners always want you to describe something personal and that first line is the most important line on the whole cue card.

• First impression is the best impression: Focus on crafting a compelling first line that describes something personal; it sets the tone for your entire response.
• Use prompts effectively: Utilise the four prompt questions as support. If you look at the question, the first three are for description, while the last one dives into feelings or emotions.
• Showcase grammatical range and accuracy: Avoid relying on just one or two tenses. Use a mix of simple and complex sentences to reflect natural speech patterns.
• Expand your vocabulary: Enhance your language by incorporating a variety of vocabulary. Use the right word in the right context to avoid repetition.
• Use idioms judiciously: Focus on using idioms appropriately rather than excessively. One well-placed idiom can be more effective than a string of them.
• Structure your answers thoughtfully: Start with an introductory sentence, followed by supporting details. This will make your talk more coherent and organised.
• Plan your response: Use your planning time to jot down key points or ideas instead of full sentences. This helps in organising your thoughts logically.
• Avoid disorganization: Take the time to outline your thoughts during the preparation minute. Without an organised plan, your talk may become scattered and confusing.

You don’t need to use introductions, body, or conclusions for this part. Just say what you’re going to talk about and start right away. You don’t need to conclude it at the end. Keep talking until the examiner tells you to stop.

Example of IELTS cue card topics based on theme

Personal experiences you cherish

• Describe a memorable holiday you have had
• Describe your first day at school

Places you have visited or want to visit

• Describe a city you have visited and liked
• Describe a crowded place you have visited

Famous personalities or people in your life

• Describe a person who inspired you to do something interesting
• Describe a person you know who likes to talk a lot
• Describe a famous person you admire

Events from your personal life

• Talk about a sports event you watched live
• Discuss a wedding you have attended

Objects that are your favourite

• Describe your favourite piece of clothing
• Describe a photo that you took and are proud of

Your travel adventures

• Describe a journey you would like to take in the future
• Describe a memorable road trip you have been on

Skills you wish to acquire

• Describe a course that you want to learn
• Describe a skill you would like to learn in the future

Technologies that interests you

• Describe a new technological gadget you would like to buy
• Talk about an app that has made your life easier

Various food from your place

• Describe a traditional dish from your country
• Talk about your favourite restaurant and what makes it special

Environmental issues you’re aware of

• Describe a natural disaster you have experienced or learned about
• Describe the environmental pollution in your city.

3 Sample Cue Card questions and their answers

Describe something you own which is very important to you.

• What is it that you own?
• Where did you get it from?
• How long have you had it?
• Why is it important to you?

Sample answer 1

One of the most important items I own is my laptop. I received it as a birthday gift from my parents three years ago, and it has truly changed my life in many ways.

I use my laptop for a variety of purposes. Primarily, it’s essential for my studies. As a student, I rely on it to attend online classes, conduct research, and complete assignments. I also use it for writing essays and creating presentations. Besides academics, my laptop helps me stay connected with friends and family through social media and video calls, especially when we can’t meet in person.

Having this laptop is incredibly important to me for several reasons. First and foremost, it is a vital tool for my education. It enables me to access a wealth of information online, which has been particularly helpful during my studies. I can look up resources, watch educational videos, and collaborate with classmates on projects, all from the comfort of my home.

Moreover, my laptop holds sentimental value. It contains countless memories, like photos from trips and special moments with friends and family. Whenever I look back at these photos, it brings a smile to my face and reminds me of the good times we’ve shared.

In addition to its practical uses, my laptop represents independence and growth. It has allowed me to develop important skills like research, writing, and digital literacy. These skills are not only valuable in my academic life but will also be essential in my future career.

In summary, my laptop is much more than just a piece of technology; it is a key component of my daily life. It supports my education, keeps me connected to loved ones, and holds cherished memories. For all these reasons, it is extremely important to me.

Sample question 2

Describe a dream you had recently.

• What was the dream about?
• How did it make you feel?
• Do you think it has any significance?
• How often do you remember your dreams?

Sample answer 2

Recently, I had a dream that really stood out to me. In the dream, I was exploring a beautiful forest filled with colourful flowers and singing birds. The sunlight was streaming through the trees, creating a magical atmosphere. As I walked along the path, I felt a sense of freedom and happiness. It was almost like I was on a mini-vacation, away from all my worries.

When I woke up, I felt calm and joyful. It was such a refreshing experience that it stayed with me throughout the day. I could still picture the vibrant colours and hear the birds singing, which made me smile. It felt like a nice escape from reality, especially since I've been feeling quite stressed with schoolwork and other responsibilities lately.

I think the dream has some significance. It might reflect my desire for relaxation and a break from my daily routine. Sometimes, I get so caught up in my studies and other obligations that I forget to take time for myself. This dream reminded me of the importance of nature and finding peace in simple moments.

As for how often I remember my dreams, it’s not very frequent—maybe once or twice a week. But this particular dream stuck with me because of how positive it was. Overall, it served as a lovely reminder to take a step back, enjoy the beauty around me, and prioritise my well-being. I think dreams can offer insights into our feelings and needs, and this one definitely encouraged me to seek more balance in my life.

Sample question 3

Describe a course you want to learn.

• What the course is about
• When do you want to start learning
• Where can you learn the course
• Why do you want to learn it

Sample answer 3

I would like to talk about a course that I'm really interested in pursuing in the future, which is photography. Photography has always fascinated me, and I believe it's an excellent medium for storytelling and capturing moments in a visually appealing way.

I plan to start this course within the next year or so. I've been exploring photography as a hobby for some time now, experimenting with different camera settings and composition techniques. However, I feel that taking a structured course will help me enhance my knowledge and skills.

I am considering joining a local photography academy or enrolling in an online program. Both options have their advantages. Attending a physical academy would allow me to interact with instructors, participate in practical sessions, and receive direct feedback. On the other hand, an online course would offer flexibility in terms of scheduling and allow me to learn at my own pace, accessing the course materials and tutorials from anywhere.

There are several reasons I want to learn photography. Firstly, I have always appreciated capturing moments and freezing them in time. Photography allows me to showcase the world from my perspective.

Secondly, I believe that by honing my photography skills, I can communicate stories and emotions effectively through visual imagery. Whether it's capturing moments or documenting important events, I want to convey a powerful message through my photographs.

Lastly, learning photography will also open opportunities for me to pursue it as a profession in any specialisation.

60 Cue Card questions to practise

Now that you know what's expected and how to answer, we've put together 60 cue card questions with prompts to help you practise and get comfortable.

1. Describe a memorable event from your childhood.
   • What was the event?
   • When and where did it happen?
   • Who were the people involved?
   • Why is it memorable to you?
2. Talk about your favourite book or movie.
   • What is the title of the book/movie?
   • What is the genre and the storyline?
   • Why is it your favourite?
   • Would you recommend it to others? Why?
3. Describe a place you would like to visit.
   • Which place is it?
   • What do you know about the place?
   • Why do you want to visit it?
   • What activities would you like to do there?
4. Discuss a person who has had a significant impact on your life.
   • Who is the person?
   • How did you meet this person?
   • How have they influenced you?
   • How has your life changed because of them?
5. Talk about a hobby or activity you enjoy.
   • What is your hobby/activity?
   • When and how did you start doing it?
   • What do you like about it?
   • How does it benefit you or make you feel?
6. Describe a recent travel experience.
   • Where did you go?
   • Who did you travel with?
   • What did you do there?
   • What did you enjoy the most about the trip?
7. Talk about a technological device you find useful.
   • What is the device?
   • How do you use it in your daily life?
   • What benefits does it provide?
   • Would you recommend it to others? Why?
8. Describe an achievement you are proud of.
   • What is the achievement?
   • When did it happen?
   • How did you accomplish it?
   • Why is it significant to you?
9. Discuss a cultural event or festival you have attended.
   • Which event or festival was it?
   • When and where did it take place?
   • What were the highlights of the event?
   • How did you feel about the experience?
10. Talk about a challenging situation you faced and how you dealt with it.
    • What was the situation?
    • How did it challenge you?
    • What steps did you take to overcome it?
    • What did you learn from the experience?
11. Describe a skill you want to improve.
    • What is the skill?
    • Why do you want to improve it?
    • How do you plan to work on it?
    • What benefits will it bring to your life?
12. Talk about a historical event that fascinates you.
    • What is the event?
    • When and where did it happen?
    • Why does it fascinate you?
    • How did it impact the world?
13. Describe your ideal job.
    • What is the job?
    • What responsibilities does it include?
    • Why is it your ideal job?
    • How do you plan to achieve it?
14. Discuss a book that changed your perspective.
    • What is the title of the book?
    • Who is the author?
    • What is the main message of the book?
    • How did it change your perspective?
15. Talk about a family tradition you cherish.
    • What is the tradition?
    • How did it start?
    • Why is it important to you?
    • How do you celebrate it?
16. Describe a project you worked on that you are proud of.
    • What was the project?
    • What was your role in it?
    • What challenges did you face?
    • What was the outcome?
17. Discuss a favourite childhood game or activity.
    • What was the game/activity?
    • Who did you play it with?
    • Why was it your favourite?
    • Do you still enjoy it?
18. Talk about a place you have lived in.
    • Where is the place?
    • How long did you live there?
    • What did you like about it?
    • What did you dislike about it?
19. Describe a dream you had recently.
    • What was the dream about?
    • How did it make you feel?
    • Do you think it has any significance?
    • How often do you remember your dreams?
20. Discuss a favourite recipe or dish you enjoy cooking.
    • What is the recipe/dish?
    • How did you learn to cook it?
    • Why do you enjoy it?
    • Would you share the recipe with others?
21. Talk about a sport or physical activity you enjoy.
    • What is the sport/activity?
    • How did you get into it?
    • What do you like about it?
    • How does it benefit you?
22. Describe a memorable holiday celebration.
    • What was the holiday?
    • When and where did it take place?
    • Who were the people involved?
    • Why is it memorable to you?
23. Discuss a piece of art or music that inspires you.
    • What is the piece of art/music?
    • Who is the artist/composer?
    • Why does it inspire you?
    • How does it make you feel?
24. Talk about a volunteer experience you had.
    • What was the volunteer activity?
    • Where did it take place?
    • What did you do?
    • How did it impact you?
25. Describe a goal you have set for yourself.
    • What is the goal?
    • Why is it important to you?
    • How do you plan to achieve it?
    • What challenges do you anticipate?
26. Discuss a favourite quote or saying.
    • What is the quote/saying?
    • Who said it?
    • Why is it meaningful to you?
    • How does it influence your life?
27. Talk about a favourite season and why you like it.
    • What is your favourite season?
    • What do you enjoy about it?
    • How do you spend your time during this season?
    • Does it remind you of any special memories?
28. Describe a memorable performance or concert you attended.
    • What was the performance/concert?
    • When and where did it take place?
    • Who were the performers?
    • Why is it memorable to you?
29. Discuss a favourite childhood book or story.
    • What is the title of the book/story?
    • Who is the author?
    • Why was it your favourite?
    • Do you still enjoy it?
30. Talk about a favourite outdoor activity.
    • What is the activity?
    • How often do you do it?
    • What do you enjoy about it?
    • Who do you usually do it with?
31. Describe a memorable meal you had.
    • What was the meal?
    • Where did you have it?
    • Who were you with?
    • Why is it memorable to you?
32. Discuss a favourite TV show or series.
    • What is the title of the show/series?
    • What is the genre and storyline?
    • Why is it your favourite?
    • Would you recommend it to others? Why?
33. Talk about a favourite childhood toy.
    • What was the toy?
    • How did you get it?
    • Why was it your favourite?
    • Do you still have it?
34. Describe a memorable birthday celebration.
    • When was my birthday?
    • How did you celebrate it?
    • Who were the people involved?
    • Why is it memorable to you?
35. Discuss a favourite place to relax.
    • Where is the place?
    • How often do you go there?
    • What do you do to relax?
    • Why do you like it?
36. Talk about a favourite subject in school.
    • What was the subject?
    • Why did you enjoy it?
    • Who was your teacher?
    • How did it influence your education?
37. Describe a memorable experience with nature.
    • What was the experience?
    • Where did it take place?
    • Who were you with?
    • Why is it memorable to you?
38. Discuss a favourite type of cuisine.
    • What is the cuisine?
    • Why do you like it?
    • What are some of your favourite dishes?
    • Have you tried cooking it yourself?
39. Talk about a favourite holiday destination.
    • Where is the destination?
    • How many times have you visited?
    • What do you like about it?
    • Would you recommend it to others? Why?
40. Describe a memorable experience with a pet.
    • What was the experience?
    • What kind of pet was it?
    • How did it make you feel?
    • Do you still have a pet?
41. Discuss a favourite type of exercise.
    • What is the exercise?
    • How often do you do it?
    • What do you like about it?
    • How does it benefit you?
42. Talk about a favourite type of weather.
    • What is the weather?
    • Why do you like it?
    • How does it make you feel?
    • What activities do you enjoy during this weather?
43. Describe a memorable experience with a friend.
    • Who was the friend?
    • What was the experience?
    • When and where did it happen?
    • Why is it memorable to you?
44. Discuss a favourite type of music or band.
    • What is the genre or band?
    • Why do you like it?
    • How did you discover it?
    • What are some of your favourite songs?
45. Talk about a favourite type of clothing or fashion style.
    • What is the style?
    • Why do you like it?
    • How do you incorporate it into your wardrobe?
    • Who are your fashion inspirations?
46. Describe a memorable experience at a restaurant.
    • What was the restaurant?
    • What did you eat?
    • Who were you with?
    • Why is it memorable to you?
47. Discuss a favourite type of movie genre.
    • What is the genre?
    • Why do you like it?
    • What are some of your favourite movies in this genre?
    • How does it make you feel?
48. Talk about a favourite type of dessert.
    • What is dessert?
    • Why do you like it?
    • How often do you have it?
    • Have you tried making it yourself?
49. Describe a memorable experience at a park or garden.
    • Where was the park/garden?
    • What did you do there?
    • Who were you with?
    • Why is it memorable to you?
50. Discuss a favourite type of beverage.
    • What is the beverage?
    • Why do you like it?
    • How often do you have it?
    • Do you have any special memories associated with it?
51. Talk about a favourite type of animal.
    • What is the animal?
    • Why do you like it?
    • Have you ever seen it in person?
    • What do you find fascinating about it?
52. Describe a memorable experience at a museum or gallery.
    • Where was the museum/gallery?
    • What exhibits did you see?
    • Who were you with?
    • Why is it memorable to you?
53. Discuss a favourite type of flower or plant.
    • What is the flower/plant?
    • Why do you like it?
    • Do you grow it yourself?
    • What does it symbolise for you?
54. Talk about a favourite type of exercise or workout routine.
    • What is the exercise/routine?
    • How often do you do it?
    • What do you like about it?
    • How does it benefit you?
55. Describe a memorable experience at a beach or lake.
    • Where was the beach/lake?
    • What did you do there?
    • Who were you with?
    • Why is it memorable to you?
56. Discuss a favourite type of hobby or craft.
    • What is your hobby/craft?
    • How did you get into it?
    • What do you enjoy about it?
    • How does it benefit you?
57. Talk about a favourite type of technology or gadget.
    • What is the technology/gadget?
    • How do you use it in your daily life?
    • What benefits does it provide?
    • Would you recommend it to others? Why?
58. Describe a memorable experience at a concert or live event.
    • What was the event?
    • When and where did it take place?
    • Who were the performers?
    • Why is it memorable to you?
59. Discuss a favourite type of art or artist.
    • What is the art form or artist?
    • Why do you like it/them?
    • How did you discover it/them?
    • What are some of your favourite works?
60. Describe a course that you want to learn in the future.

• What is the course about?
• When do you want to start learning?
• Where can you learn the course?
• Why do you want to learn it?