Speaking Sample Test
Part 1: Introduction & Interview
Q1
Do you usually make plans quickly, or do you prefer to think carefully first?
Sample response
I usually like to think things through first, especially if the decision could affect my schedule or money. For small things, I can be quite quick, but for anything important, I prefer to weigh up the pros and cons before I commit.
Q2
When you buy something, do you decide easily or take a long time to choose?
Sample response
It depends on what I’m buying, actually. If it’s something routine, like groceries or basic clothes, I decide quite easily, but if it’s expensive, like a phone or laptop, I’ll compare different options for quite a while because I don’t want to regret it later.
Q3
Do you like having many options, or do you prefer fewer choices?
Sample response
To be honest, I prefer having a few good options rather than too many. When there are endless choices, I start overthinking, so a limited number makes the whole process less stressful and more efficient.
Q4
Who do you usually ask for advice when you have an important choice to make?
Sample response
I usually talk to my parents first because they tend to be calm and practical. If it’s something related to studies or work, I might also ask a close friend who knows me well and can give me honest feedback.
Q5
Do you find it easy to choose what to do in your free time?
Sample response
Yes, most of the time I do. I normally choose based on my mood, so if I feel tired, I’ll stay in and watch something, but if I want a change, I’ll go out for coffee or meet friends.
Q6
Have you ever changed your mind at the last minute about something?
Sample response
Yes, definitely. I once planned to attend an event with some friends, but right before leaving I realized I was exhausted and decided to stay home instead. I felt a bit guilty at first, but honestly it was the right choice.
Q7
Do you prefer to make choices on your own or with other people?
Sample response
I prefer to make the final decision on my own, even if I ask other people for advice first. That way I can listen to different opinions, but I still feel responsible for the outcome.
Q8
What kind of everyday choices do you find most difficult?
Sample response
I think everyday choices about how to spend my time are the hardest. Deciding whether to rest, study, exercise, or meet people sounds simple, but when I’m busy, it can be surprisingly difficult to balance everything.
Q9
Do you think you were better at choosing things when you were younger or now?
Sample response
I’d say I’m much better at it now. When I was younger, I was more impulsive and often chose whatever felt exciting at the moment, whereas now I’m more realistic and I think more about the long-term consequences.
Part 2: Long Turn (Cue Card)
Describe an important choice you had to make. You should say: - When this happened? - What the choice was? - Why it was difficult to choose? And explain whether you were happy with the result?
Sample response
One important choice I had to make was deciding what to study at university, and this happened when I was finishing high school. At that time, I was torn between choosing business and choosing computer science, and it felt like a huge decision because I knew it could shape my future career. To begin with, both options appealed to me for different reasons. Business seemed practical and flexible, and a lot of people around me thought it would open many doors. On the other hand, I had always enjoyed technology and problem-solving, so computer science felt more personally interesting. What made it difficult was that I didn’t want to choose something just because it looked safe. I wanted to pick a field that I could stay motivated in for years. Another thing is that I got very different advice from different people. My parents wanted me to choose something stable, while one of my teachers encouraged me to follow my genuine interest. I spent weeks thinking about it, reading course information, and even talking to university students to get a clearer picture. In the end, I chose computer science. Looking back, I’m really happy with the result because it pushed me to develop useful skills and gave me confidence in my abilities. Of course, it wasn’t always easy, but overall I think it was the right decision because I chose something that genuinely suited me rather than something that simply sounded sensible.
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Q1
Why do some people find it harder than others to choose between different options?
Sample response
I think it mainly comes down to personality, experience, and confidence. Some people are naturally decisive, while others tend to overanalyse every possible outcome and worry about making the wrong move. Upbringing matters as well, because if someone grew up being encouraged to make their own decisions, they usually become more comfortable with it. By contrast, people who are often judged for their choices may become hesitant even in simple situations.
Q2
How much influence do family and friends usually have on the choices people make?
Sample response
Family and friends often have a huge influence, especially when the decision involves education, work, or relationships. In many cases, people want approval from those close to them, so they may adjust their choices to avoid conflict or disappointment. For example, a student might choose a certain degree because their parents think it is more secure, even if they are more interested in something else. That said, the level of influence usually depends on the person’s age and independence.
Q3
Do you think young people and older people approach important choices differently?
Sample response
Yes, I do think they often approach major decisions differently. Young people are sometimes more willing to take risks because they want excitement, personal growth, or new experiences, whereas older people may focus more on stability and responsibility. For instance, a younger person might move abroad with very little planning, while an older person would probably think more carefully about finances, family, and long-term security. Neither approach is always better; they just reflect different priorities.
Q4
What are the advantages and disadvantages of having too many options in modern life?
Sample response
Having many options can be a good thing because it gives people more freedom to find something that really suits their needs, tastes, or budget. For example, consumers can compare products easily and students can choose from a wider range of courses and careers than before. However, too much choice can also be overwhelming and lead to indecision or regret, because people keep wondering if there was a better option available. So in modern life, more choice is beneficial up to a point, but beyond that it can create stress rather than satisfaction.
Q5
How can schools help students become more confident when facing important choices?
Sample response
Schools can help by giving students more chances to make real decisions in a supportive environment. For example, they can offer career guidance, discussions about different life paths, and practical activities where students solve problems and reflect on the results. It also helps when teachers encourage independent thinking instead of always giving one correct answer. If students learn that making a mistake is part of learning, they usually become much more confident when facing important choices later in life.