Today, I want to share a super helpful tip for acing the Speaking section of your IELTS test. It’s all about learning to buy time when you need it.
This simple technique can really boost your confidence and help you speak more fluently.
So, what do I mean by “buying time”? Well, it’s about giving yourself a few extra seconds to think when you’re asked a question.
This can be really useful if you’re not sure how to answer right away or if you need a moment to organize your thoughts.
Now, you might be wondering, “How can I buy time without awkward silences?” Great question! There are actually several natural-sounding ways to do this. You can try:
- Repeating the question
- Asking for clarification
- Using filler phrases
Let’s look at an example. Imagine the examiner asks you this question:
“What are the advantages and disadvantages of living in a big city?”
Instead of panicking or staying silent, you could buy some time like this:
“The advantages and disadvantages of living in a big city? That’s an interesting question. Let me think about that for a moment…”
See what I did there? I repeated part of the question and added a short comment. This gives me a few extra seconds to gather my thoughts without any awkward silence.
Here’s another way you could handle it:
“Could you clarify what you mean by a big city? Are we talking about a metropolis like New York or Tokyo?”
Even if you understand the question perfectly, asking for clarification is a natural way to buy time. Plus, it shows the examiner that you’re engaged and thinking critically.
You can also use filler phrases like:
- “Well, that’s a great question…”
- “Hmm, let me see…”
- “That’s something I’ve thought about before…”
These phrases sound natural in conversation and give you a moment to think.
Remember, the key is to use these techniques sparingly and naturally. You don’t want to overdo it or sound rehearsed. The goal is to give yourself a little breathing room when you need it.
By learning to buy time effectively, you can reduce stress during your Speaking test. You’ll have a moment to collect your thoughts, which can help you give more coherent and detailed answers. This can really impress the examiner and boost your score.
So, next time you’re practicing for the IELTS Speaking test, why not try out some of these time-buying techniques? You might find that they help you feel more relaxed and speak more confidently.
Have you ever used any of these strategies before?
How did they work for you? I
‘d love to hear about your experiences or any questions you might have about this technique.
Feel free to share in the comments below!
Author
IELTS Maverick
Founder of Worddemy and an ex-IELTS student turned IELTS Instructor. After completing Academic English Program from University of Texas, he have successfully navigated the IELTS exam. As a former test-taker, he intimately understands the challenges students face. He brings a unique perspective that combines personal experience with professional expertise. Now, as an IELTS Instructor and Strategist, he leverages this firsthand knowledge to develop effective preparation strategies and materials.
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