Recent IELTS Speaking Questions: March 2023 Edition

Question 1: IELTS Speaking Questions on Websites and Food

Part 1

• What kinds of websites do you often visit?

My favourite websites are those that are related to food and animals. I enjoy cooking and always try to find the best recipes on the internet, to enable me to prepare delicious meals for my family. I am also a part of an organisation that promotes animal protection, so I often go online to look up recent developments in that area.

• What is your favourite website?

To be honest, I have a number of favourite websites but ‘GK Today’ is the website that I visit  often. I am a great fan of it and I frequently check their official page to find important information and learn some astonishing facts about the world. I also enjoy spending time viewing the amazing short videos they have on different topics such as wildlife, food, tourism etc. 

• Are there any changes to the website you visit frequently?

I'm not sure, but there appears to be a significant difference in the appearance of the webpage between the past and the present. It's a lot more vibrant, with distinct designs and images. In fact, it has become easier to navigate through the website and I guess the website has improved in terms of its load speed.

• What kinds of websites are popular in your nation?

Undoubtedly, social networking sites such as Facebook and Instagram are the most popular and favoured websites in my country since they serve as a hub for all types of human activity, whether it be business, education, or entertainment. Apart from that, some of the shopping websites such as Myntra and Amazon.com are also the frequently visited ones.

Part 2 

Describe a special cake you received from others.

• When did it happen?
• Who did you get the cake from?
• Explain why it was a special cake?

It's always pleasant to celebrate memorable occasions with family and loved ones. One such great experience which I still cherish was my grandmother surprising me with a unique birthday cake.  It was my 21st birthday, which was celebrated two years ago in the month of November.

On this occasion, my grandmother baked a unique birthday cake specially for me. I've always loved her cakes because she was a great baker. I'm very sorry she's not here with us anymore. She is still very much missed by me, and she will always hold a special place in my heart.

I was close to my grandmother, and she had an impact on my life. She wanted my birthday to be memorable and unique. She had just taken up baking as a pastime, and made cakes for our close friends and family members but never for me. She finally baked the cake only as a surprise for me and to enhance the significance of my birthday. The cake was unique for a number of reasons. First of all, it was baked by my grandma, who worked hard and with love to create it. It was a three-layer, creamy chocolate cake with sprinkle and candle decorations. The aroma of the cake filled every room in the house and it tasted exquisite. I had to blow out the birthday candle that she had placed in the centre. Second, the cake was crafted especially for me, which left me feeling deeply loved and unique.

Every time I reflect on that precious day and the unique cake she created for me, I am overcome with gratitude. It is a day I will never forget. The cake was more than just a sweet treat; it was also a representation of my grandmother's warmth and love for me.

Part 3 

• Are there foods in your country that are eaten at special times or on special occasions?

Yes, there are numerous dishes like that. India is a large and diverse country, and each region has its unique speciality that is usually associated with a festival or special occasion. Biryani, for example, is eaten on Eid in various parts of India, including Hyderabad, while on Diwali, a special sweet dish called ‘Kheer’ is typically cooked at home using rice as well as milk and it is extremely popular.

• What are the differences between special meals in your country and other countries?

I believe that food is an important aspect of Indian culture, and we enjoy preparing big meals for certain occasions. The main difference between special food in India and other nations, in my opinion, is that it is mostly vegetarian. Second, spices are often used in Indian cuisine, not only for savoury items but also in several desserts.

• Why are some people willing to spend a lot of money on food on special days?

People spend a lot of money on food because it is a way for them to show their affection. Many families gather on special occasions such as festivals and anniversaries and prepare unique dishes to make the day memorable, so they don't mind spending a little extra on food in general. Also, when it comes to eating, no amount of money is ever too much.

• What do you think, is it good to communicate over food with the family?

In my opinion, there couldn't be a better time to communicate with one's family members, than while eating together. First, we are in a better mood after eating, therefore we are less prone to argue. Furthermore, people are free at this time, thus exchange of thoughts and ideas can take place without interruption. Also, just turning off devices and actually connecting with one another over food can improve the physical and mental health of all family members involved.

Question 2: IELTS Speaking Questions on Memory and Places

Part 1

• What are some things that people easily forget?

People are more prone to forget where they left their wallets or keys because they are riveted to their cellphones. People also tend to forget their passwords way too often. Also, forgetting someone's name, birthdays, and anniversaries are the most embarrassing things to forget, in my opinion.

• What type of people are more forgetful?

Everyone forgets something or the other in their daily lives, but messy and unorganised people are more likely to be forgetful. People who keep calendar entries or notes are more likely to remember things than those who do not.

• How can people improve their memory?

There is no silver bullet for boosting people's memory, but there are certain strategies that can help. There are several brain exercises that increase memory and minimise stress. Also, getting adequate sleep is a simple practice that can help boost memory. Additionally, numerous meditation and relaxation exercises have a significant impact on memory capacity by lowering stress.

• Can technology be used to help us remember things?

Absolutely! I believe that technology can help us improve our memory by making it easier to remember stuff. There are different tools and applications like alarm clocks, reminders and planners, which can help us recall different information. Also, I’ve seen a few Brain games recently that can help us exercise our memory.

Part 2 

Describe a crowded place you went to. 

• Where did you go? 
• Who did you go there with? 
• Why did you go there? 

Because India is a densely populated country, there are many regions that are frequently congested. Some of these spots are religious memorials, heritage landmarks, and presently, metro stations, botanical parks, and so on. Now I'd like to talk about a retail mall in Chandigarh that is constantly crowded. It is called Elante Mall and is located in Chandigarh's industrial district.

The mall has five stories, including two levels of parking. It was built roughly 7 years ago and houses shops of all the international brands. The mall is frequently congested on Saturdays and Sundays when people have their weekly off. It's a place where no one gets bored since they can indulge in activities like playing games, watching a movie, eating at their favourite food stations and so on. I went to this mall for the first time with some colleagues from Chandigarh.

My friends had heard a lot about the mall from others, and some even suggested it was one of the top shopping malls in Asia. So we decided to find out for ourselves, and we were enthralled. It was a Friday, and the mall was packed. Also, there were huge sales going on and large discounts in most stores, so we got some new clothes at great prices. We spent over four hours in the mall and had no idea how much time had passed by.

Overall, it was a fantastic experience, despite being quite exhausting as we had to walk a lot. I got to participate in a lot of enjoyable events and buy a number of new items. It was also fun to try different food outlets. Now, I am a regular customer at the mall, and it is my preferred place for all my shopping needs.

Part 3

• Do you like large spaces? 

I believe that large places, such as parks and squares, are frequently used as leisure locations and typically attract tourists since they have a history behind their establishment. For example, gorgeous gardens and city centre squares are found in every European town. Hence, it is critical that they be preserved for future generations.

They definitely add a lot of value to both the towns and the lives of the  people who live there.

• What types of problems can be better solved in a group?

Groups, in my opinion, can tackle complicated problems far more successfully than individuals. A group can make use of each member's skill and competence. We frequently see that the combined brain power applied by groups to a problem-solving job is far more than that applied by any individual. This is commonly witnessed in organisations, particularly when making decisions that affect the overall community.

• Why is it important for people to be alone sometimes?

In my opinion, we are social beings, and it is critical for us to develop strong bonds with others. However, solitude may be just as important because it increases creativity, productivity, and mental strength. Furthermore, a quiet space allows you to reflect on your goals, progress and desired changes in your life. It makes me sad that most individuals spend a significant amount of time planning weddings and holidays but never on planning how to make the most of their lives.

• What do you think is the most important thing at a public event?

The most critical aspect of a successful event, in my opinion, is an audience that will want to attend it and find it beneficial. Also, using the incorrect format and setting will limit the attraction to your intended audience. A formal lecture, for example, will not work if your event is for young parents with children because many will want to bring their children along who will not be able to sit quietly for an extended period of time.

Question 3: IELTS Speaking Questions on Sharing and Feelings

Part 1

• Do you like to share?

Yes, of course, I do. Sharing is, after all, a good habit. I enjoy sharing my belongings such as notes, clothes, and electronic devices with my friends and cousins. In fact, when I was in school, I shared my meals with my classmates. I also shared my notes with them. It is a habit that my parents inculcated in me when I was a child and I continue to share most of my stuff with my close ones .

• What are the consequences if children do not like to share? 

Children must learn to share in order to make friends and maintain relationships, be social and become better people when they grow up. In general, if young kids are not taught to share, they might grow up thinking that they are the centre of the universe and that they own everything. Children must be able to manage their emotions in order to share, and it is best to teach children this social skill when they are toddlers.

• How can parents and teachers teach young children to share?

I think children should be given lots of praise whenever they share or take turns. Also, parents should point out the benefits of sharing. Ultimately, children progressively learn the concept of sharing and understanding others' emotions and opinions. You can motivate them but not push them.

• How do you feel about sharing housing with others on campus?

Sharing housing on campus not only helps us to meet new people and create new acquaintances, but it also expands our social network. It would also depend on who I would be sharing the accommodation with. I'd prefer to share a room with like minded individuals with a similar outlook to life as mine. However, I believe that privacy is also crucial.

Part 2 

Talk about a person you know who is open about their feelings. 

• Who is this person? 
• How did you know this person?
• Explain how you feel about this person?

We frequently come across people who express their minds and are upfront about their emotions. It is a good trait to have, in my opinion, because it saves us from unnecessary drama. My friend Shubham is one of those people who prefers to be direct in practically every scenario. He chooses to be honest and does not sugarcoat his words in order to please others. Although his openness makes him appear to be a villain at times, it cannot be denied that it is his personality and he has no ulterior motive in behaving so. 

Shubham and I have been buddies since we were in college. He invited me to join the youth club, where we planned a variety of exciting events together. On various occasions, we launched various campaigns to raise awareness, collect funds for donations in  disaster-stricken areas, and assist the needy. Shubham did not hesitate to voice his emotions throughout some of these events. 

I believe I am not as vivid and prefer to suppress my emotions in stressful moments, but he always expresses himself without fear of being criticised. He has obvious and honest social and political opinions, which he expresses in some forums where he occasionally faces opposition as well as criticism for his views. In any case, he is honest about what he feels and chooses to communicate his emotions, whether they are happy or unhappy. 

We've been pals for about five years, and I enjoy spending time with him. I discuss topics on which I have differing opinions because he provides honest comments and advice. He also encourages me to be more open, which always makes me feel better about myself. 

Part 3 

• Do the people of your country usually show their feelings?

A lot of people in my country surely have a high level of openness and are more willing to welcome new ideas and feelings. They are also quite good at making connections and maintaining strong emotional relationships. 

Yet I have seen many people who find it difficult to express or share their feelings and emotions with others because they are less expressive or have a fear of being judged or criticised. 

• Do you think that children show their feelings more than adults?

I believe that children's emotions are more intense than adults as children have less exposure to the world, and novelty can heighten emotional feelings. Children also feel emotions more deeply than adults because they are less able to regulate them and they are definitely more articulate about their emotions.

Adults, on the other hand,  have the advantage of language and vocabulary, which allows them to understand how they feel in various settings and express the feelings appropriately. As they have more experience and maturity, they can also decide whether or not the emotions should be expressed.

• Why do people hide their feelings?

People learn to repress their emotions for a variety of reasons. Showing emotion might put you in a vulnerable position, and it's natural to want to avoid exposing your vulnerabilities to others to avoid being harmed. They may be concerned that their sentiments will not be reciprocated or that the other would not fully comprehend him/her.

• Do you think that nowadays people show their emotions more than before?

In my opinion, we all experience happiness, sadness, lows, and highs. Emotions are a normal element of being human.

However, stressful lifestyles and factors like lack of sleep greatly affect people’s emotional well-being. If you're stressed or exhausted, you're likely to experience some emotional distress. Because of this, people frequently experience emotional outbursts.

Question 4: IELTS Speaking Questions on Newspapers and Science

Part 1

• Do you enjoy reading magazines or newspapers?

I suppose I am fond of both. As we all know, the purpose of reading a newspaper is to keep abreast of not only national and international events but also what's happening in our surroundings whereas magazines always have an essence of entertainment, such as interviews, lifestyle, success stories, food recipes etc. I like to read those articles too.

• Do you like to read news online or in the newspaper?

We all have different ways of accessing news, but I feel online newspapers are really good at putting the main news of the day to the centre of the website, so I don't have to look for what I want to read. I definitely don't want to waste my time sifting through a print newspaper looking for a story when I can search for and find it online in seconds.

• How often do your family members read the newspaper?

Well, I'm not the type of person who reads the newspaper every day. Because the Internet is now practically everywhere, I frequently go online and read e-news on a regular basis. However, newspapers remain my parents' primary source of daily news, and they read them on a daily basis just to stay up to date on global events.

• Do you think it is necessary to read the newspaper?

Absolutely! The newspaper contains a wealth of information on various sectors of the world. We learn about what is going on in the farthest places in the world by reading the newspaper. Furthermore, we can understand what is going on in our immediate surroundings.  It also helps a person build a strong vocabulary. If followed religiously, reading the newspaper provides great insights on  different topics.

Part 2 

Describe an area of science that interests you.

• What is it? 
• When did you know it? 
• How did you learn it? 
• Explain why you are interested

Almost all branches of science, such as biology, physics, and chemistry, are quite difficult for me. But one subject that piques my interest is astronomy. My interest in the sky began as a child, as it does for many others. I don't recall the precise time, but I do remember being fascinated with space in third grade, when I was approximately seven years old. I vaguely recollect seeing a presentation about stars in my school. I returned home and informed my mum that I thought this was fantastic. 

I think, astronomy is a way of looking at the universe that allows you to have the proper perspective. I learnt that Astronomy was once used to measure time, record the seasons, and traverse immense oceans. Astronomy, as one of the oldest disciplines, is a part of every culture's history and roots. It awes us with stunning imagery and promises answers to life's major questions. 

I soon found myself reciting the names of all  the planets faster than everybody else in the class, which was very significant to me for some reason. I used to enjoy sleeping outside at night so I could gaze at the sky. Even today, I enjoy watching space videos by notable astronomers on YouTube. When I start earning money, I want to acquire my own telescope, for sure.There are many unresolved questions in astronomy, in my opinion. Current research is struggling to answer questions, which adds to the topic's intrigue. On a more personal level, I would definitely want to introduce the subject to my children as I think it would be extremely beneficial.

Part 3

• What has been the best innovation of the last century?

People frequently argue about which invention is the most significant. While some opine that antibiotics are the best, I believe that computers have had a greater impact on our lives. The advent of computers has aided our world's advancement by providing a vast range of services in a variety of industries. 

Computers have enabled the instant sharing of information between people living in various regions of the world. It has also played a significant role in improving communication methods throughout the world. Documents, for example, can be attached and sent by email, saving money and time.

• How does science affect human life?

Science and technology have surely  made human existence easier, more comfortable, and have enabled us to live in a modern fashion. They have made cooking, sleeping, chatting, and commuting easier and faster with the help of devices like microwaves, fans, cellphones, and cars. 

Technology has altered how we entertain ourselves, interact with one another, and consume various forms of information. Most importantly, it has made significant advancements in security and medical devices. It creates new opportunities by enhancing safety, mobility, and connectivity.

• What can people do for scientific research?

There are numerous scientific research initiatives that would benefit mankind. Both amateurs and experts can offer their skills or volunteer.  Furthermore, few of these pay well and are extremely interesting. 

I think that people can also take part in various surveys and provide open and honest responses to help researchers obtain the most accurate data. 

Last but not the least, people can also donate money to fund the future research endeavours.

• What impact can international cooperation in science have?

Without any doubt, the "globalisation" of scientific research is accelerating. International research not only stimulates economic growth and jobs, but it can also greatly speed up the development of newly established institutions. Researchers can learn new approaches and generate new ideas by working together. The "transfer of skills" is a significant and major benefit of collaborative research.

Cross-border research collaborations will become normal for the next generation of academics, as sharing facilities will allow them to be more productive.

• Scientific progress only harms the environment, what do you think?

I am optimistic that scientific development will benefit the environment more than it will harm it. Although the world is becoming more industrialised, it is also becoming greener in many ways. In addition, technology is being used to clean the air we breathe, the water we drink, and the soil in which we grow food. 

Furthermore, scientific progress is the reason why people are becoming more aware of the pollution they cause while also developing solutions.

Question 5: IELTS Speaking Questions on Borrowing and Books

Part 1

• Have you borrowed books from others?

Books are an essential part of a student's life. As a result, books are crucial to me as a student. Books are frequently unavailable or will be available only at a later date. Borrowing books from friends and classmates is therefore the only method to keep up with academic life in such circumstances.

• Have you ever borrowed money from others?

I recently borrowed money from my uncle to pay for my university studies, and everything worked out fine. There were never any issues because I made my payments on time. After a few years, I paid it off, and we are still good friends. Having said that, I typically do not recommend taking a loan from relatives or close friends because things get embarrassing in case you piss a payment or forget to repay. 

• Do you like lending things to others?

To be completely honest, the answer is no. Too often, the items you lend are not returned, and if returned, they rarely are in the same condition. Unless we have complete trust in someone, we rarely feel ready to lend valuable or fragile items to others, in my opinion.

• How do you feel when people don't return things they borrowed from you?

It all depends. If that object is extremely valuable, I will fight to reclaim it. If I could do without the item or money, I'd probably write it off as a learning experience. All of these options are likely to harm the relationship, which is why I believe it's generally best not to borrow from or lend to someone you want to keep as a friend.

Part 2

Talk about a book you read that you found useful. 

• What is it? 
• When you read it? 
• Why do you think it is useful? 

Explain how you felt about it

As an avid reader, I have read a plethora of books, but one book in particular holds a special place in my heart and has caused a paradigm shift in my life. “Fitness Simplified” is the title of the book, and Dr Rimple Sharma is the author.

Six months ago, I gained a lot of weight due to my inactive lifestyle; to reduce weight, I practised a variety of activities such as jogging, yoga, cycling, and so on.

However, I did not achieve the desired results. To resolve my problem, I sought guidance from a buddy who had successfully lost weight.She recommended this book, and I purchased it right away.

This book teaches you about the science of fitness. It explains how you can acquire great results and become fit by making simple modifications to your diet and eating pattern. The author's main goal is to educate people about the relevance of food in overall fitness. She is certain that exercise contributes just 20% to weight loss and that in order to stay in shape, you must focus on your food. According to her diet plan, when and how you eat is more important than what you consume. You should eat between 7am and 7pm and chew each bite of food 32 times. These are such simple tips, yet resulted in an amazing outcome for me!

This book has made a significant difference to my life. I am a fitter person as a result of the author's suggestions, and my productivity has increased. I no longer have to work up a sweat in the gym. Instead, I take regular walks and eat gently.

Part 3 

• What kind of books do youngsters like to read?

That's difficult to say because genre preferences differ from person to person. I'm guessing that young people favour self-help books. You know, these books often pique the interest of young people since they teach them how to overcome various difficulties in life or just teach them useful skills. Novels are another option for many young people who enjoy reading for leisure.

• What is the difference between the reading habits of youngsters and senior citizens?

I think that because older people can only read and absorb a certain quantity of information at a time, they prefer to read newspapers or magazines. Furthermore, the elderly have a tendency to make it a habit. I mean, they have a preferred time for reading books. When it comes to children, they can read whenever they want and a range of genres. Young people may also find it enjoyable to read novels that allow them to study, think, and imagine.

• What's the difference between paper books and e-books?

Of course, you can hold a printed book and turn its pages, which is not possible with electronic books. Some people may find it simpler to read paper books because there is less eye strain as compared to reading e-books on a phone or computer screen. However, I must admit that ebooks provide more flexibility. Everyone can read literature on portable devices instead of carrying so many books around. In addition, e-books are typically less expensive than traditional books.

• Do you agree that children should start reading at an early age?

I guess so. Well, I believe that reading at a young age accelerates the development of children's intellectual abilities. Furthermore, children are naturally inquisitive and eager to learn from their surroundings. As a result, starting to read at that age may aid in gaining knowledge and cognitive development. While we should let them play and have as much fun as they want, one of the best literacy strategies at a young age is to introduce them to basic concepts, phonetics, and reading stories aloud.

Question 6: IELTS Speaking Questions on Sweets and Friendship

Part 1

• Do you eat sweets or cake after the meal?

Not all of the time. I normally have a variety of fennel seeds, sesame seeds, flax seeds, and almonds to help reduce sugar cravings, as eating sweets after meals is not a good habit. I believe that not only does it raise your overall sugar intake, but it also increases the risk of obesity and other linked health concerns in the long run.

• Is there any sweet food popular in your country?

Rasgulla is undoubtedly India's most beloved and popular sweet, and hence deserves to be ranked first. Although the dish's origins are unknown, it is thought to have originated in West Bengal and Orissa. The texture is chewy, and the flavour is just excellent.

• Have you ever tried making cakes or sweets?

I must confess that baking is not my forte. I've never attempted to make a genuine cake, which requires a variety of complex utensils, materials, and time-consuming work. I do, however, know how to cook a banana pancake.

• Why do people like sweets?

According to what I know, our bodies have a tendency to seek sugar for a variety of reasons. When we crave sugar, we crave the nutrients present in fruits and pastries. Eating sweets gives us a sense of well-being and helps regulate our moods, sleep cycles, and appetite.

Part 2  

Describe a time when you were friendly with someone you didn't like.

• Where did it happen?
• Who was the person? 
• Why did you have to be friendly?

Explain how you felt about it later?

I believe that when  studying  in a co-ed university, many students would have been in circumstances in which they did not like the person but had to behave cordially. When I was in college, something similar happened to me when I became close with one of my classmates whom I did not like at the time.

 I feel that most people prefer to make friends, talk to , and spend time with people who share their interests because it is difficult to adjust to people who have opposing personalities. Nobody wants to sit next to someone who has nothing in common with them in terms of attitude, mindset, or anything else. I'll talk about one such person today. He happens to be a former classmate of mine.

His name is Shubham and he is a former classmate of mine. I didn't appreciate his demeanour or energy and we used to barely talk during our classes. He approached everything differently than I did, and I didn't like his attitude. He was the kind of person who would get upset over trivial matters in life. I was diametrically opposite to him in terms of beliefs, actions, and techniques as he had the tendency to overthink every topic and engaged in useless dialogues. I am a cheerful and outgoing individual. I disliked him because of his actions and thought process..

I was friendly with him for a few weeks because he was depressed as a result of the covid situation. His mother, a single mother, tested positive for the lethal virus. He was devastated and disheartened. I assisted him in overcoming his depression at the time because he was the sole carer for his mother. I took care of his mother and remained friendly with him throughout. 

This made me happy since I helped him deal with his vulnerability.

Part 3

• What is the difference between being polite and friendly?

According to my observations, friendliness is related to character or personality, whereas politeness is directly proportional to one’s level of education. To be more explicit, when people are nice, they are more easily approached. They treat others as if they are friends, making them feel at ease. Being courteous, on the other hand, means treating others with respect and discretion. Overall, I feel that people can be taught to be courteous, but that most people are naturally friendly.

• What do you think of people who are always straight forward?

According to me, straightforward people are always inherently unproblematic. 

As a result, there is no need to speculate, infer, decode, untangle, unscramble, or translate what they say. There are no unexpected surprises or paradigm shifts. If these simple kinds do not want to perform something, they will express nicely and promptly that it is not for them, which is a great trait.

• Is it necessary to be friendly in professional life?

Being nice and professional at work is essential for a variety of reasons. For starters, it can aid in the creation of a positive and productive work environment. Employees are more likely to be interested in their work and create high-quality products when they feel at ease and valued.

Second, being nice can aid in the development of relationships with both coworkers and consumers. Strong bonds can foster collaboration, invention, and a sense of belonging.

• Some people may pretend to be friendly when they are actually not. Do you think this is familiar to you?

Nobody likes pretenders. However, everyone pretends to be someone they are not at some point in their lives. So it's understandable when we know that people pretend to be friendly in order to manipulate others.

People may appear to be someone they are not, or feel and think things they do not, in specific settings simply because they believe it would help them achieve their goals. 

Pretending is also, at its core, a sort of avoidance. Some people choose to act in order to avoid conflict in different situations.