What to Do if You Forget What to Say During IELTS Speaking Test?

The IELTS Speaking test is the last part of the IELTS examination in which the test is conducted in 3 parts wherein the examiner has a conversation with the test taker for around 15 minutes. However, it could be intimidating for individuals to attempt this section for which one might know What to Do if You Forget What to Say During IELTS Speaking Test. It is ideal for a candidate to have a strategy to work on these aspects in order to score a band 8+.

The first part is a conversation between the examiner and the test taker based on common topics such as family, work, friends, etc., and lasts for 4-5 minutes. In the IELTS Speaking part 2, the examiner will give a cue card, and the test taker has to speak on the mentioned topic for 2-3 minutes after preparing for a minute. Finally, in the last part of the IELTS Speaking test, the examiner will ask some questions based on the cue card topic, and it will last for  4-5 minutes.

Although each part of the IELTS Speaking module is conducted very differently, the final speaking score will be the average of all three parts. Let's get started!

Why is the speaking test conducted in 3 parts?

The IELTS Speaking Part 1 is conducted to test the ability of the test takers to communicate the ideas and information fluently on day-to-day activities. Answers can be given in 2-4 sentences depending on the test taker’s speaking speed. Remember to be as concise as possible so that you can showcase your ability to speak fluently. In the IELTS Speaking part 2, one needs to analyze their ability to speak on a given topic using appropriate language. As this part is time based, you need to brainstorm your ideas in a minute and speak for 2 minutes.

The IELTS Speaking Part 3 consists of more challenging questions, which are more generic than the personal questions in part 1. However, the questions in part 3 will be an extension of the topic in part 2. This is to assess the test taker’s ability to justify opinions and discuss the ideas rationally. Therefore, the IELTS Speaking test is not about knowledge but it’s about fluency. It is ideal that the test taker must speak spontaneously without any effort and focus on giving answers fluently without any grammatical errors.

Let's check out the table below to understand the importance and purpose of each part of the Speaking Section.

What to do when you don’t understand a question?

There are much better ways to check for the meaning of the questions. Instead of directly telling the examiner that you don’t understand the question. You can request in the following ways.

These requests show that you have at least understood the questions partially. It is important to understand the question rather than just start answering it without comprehending the information in the prompt. This will affect your band score in the IELTS exam.

It is natural to get nervous, but sometimes nerves can bring someone’s score down in several ways. For example, some people speak at a very low volume when they’re nervous, which will make it difficult for the examiner to understand what you’re trying to say. Others mumble when they get scared, which is a bad idea in the IELTS Speaking test. To overcome this, the test takers should consistently prepare to feel confident about themselves.

What to do if I make a mistake while speaking?

It is possible that a test taker might make a mistake in vocabulary, grammar, or pronunciation while having a conversation with the examiner in the IELTS Speaking tests. In that case, the test taker need not panic but ignore these errors as there are no extra points for correcting these errors. It is best to continue talking and get a strong score on fluency.

Making mistakes in Meaning

If the test taker makes a mistake in the meaning of an answer, then it is possible to correct it without causing too much disruption. But the test taker must not repeat the same word. Instead, rephrase and keep on talking. Again, this will show flexibility in your English language. 

We can understand from the above examples that example 2 shows more natural use of the English language with proper connectors, correct meanings and no repetition. 

Useful Strategies to Use When You Forget What To Say While Answering for a Band 8+

It is quite common to get stuck or forget while answering the questions. In that case, you can try to use the following strategies which will help in achieving a higher IELTS Band Score.

• You can use fillers to get some time to think about the idea or words which will help with the flow. By using these words, you will be fluent which is better than abruptly stopping in the conversation.

• When you are too nervous, you might forget some words or can’t find the right words. But do not worry about it. You can always use other words to describe what you want to say instead of naming it. For example, 

• It is important to know How to Expand Your Answers in IELTS Speaking Part 1. You should paraphrase the question and then give the answer which will not affect your fluency. Not only that but this would also help in a logical flow of the ideas presented. Therefore, you can start with a broader statement and then move towards providing specific examples.
• As you speak for two minutes for the Cue Card question, there could be times when you forget any information. At that moment, try shifting to a personal anecdote or feeling since this part is about expression and not facts. 
• Practice with the timer on so that you can prepare under the same exam conditions which will help you build confidence. Also, by reviewing your answer, you will be able to point out at what situation you lose focus or lose your train of thoughts. Note it down and you can work towards that as you practice the next time.

Practice Scenario to Learn What to do if You Forget What to Say During IELTS Speaking Test

The key is to quickly incorporate words like this into your speech without giving a long pause, which comes only with constant practice. By preparing with different scenario and also knowing the strategy to follow when you forget what to say during the IELTS Speaking Test, you will ace the exam. Let's check out a few scenarios and the possible tips which you can incorporate.

1. You forgot the specific word which you wanted to use

In case you were describing about your favourite subject and somehow, you forgot the word "Mathematics". At that time, instead of freezing, you can explain it by using phrases like, "I really love equations and in that subject, I also get to deal with numbers. Whenever I attempt questions related to calculations, I enjoy them the most." In this way, you are showcasing your skills to paraphrase with calmness without affecting your fluency.

2. You lose your train of thoughts in the middle of the sentence

This is a very common scenario where you might forget what you were about to say or explain. During this particular time, you can use phrases like, "Well, what I anted to say is that ...". Remember that continuity is the key to showcase your level of proficiency for which these words would help as you would show a natural correction instead of hesitating mid-way through the sentence.

3. You forgot the specific name

As you start explaning about a topic such as your favourite book, you might forget the name of the book. Do not stop and think at that moment. Instead of that, you can be descriptive and mention specific details about the book. For instance, you can say, "Well, I don't recall the name of the book right now but it was a thriller story which had a lot of twists and turns. I have never read such a mysterious book till now."

4. You do not understand the question

Make sure that you clarify about the intent of the prompt since you might give a wrong answer which would not be related to the topic as such. Therefore, you can use phrases to politely ask your examiner to either rephrase or repeat the question. However, try not doing it for each and every question since that would mean that you do not understand the question.

5. You pause for too long

It is quite common for individuals to feel nervous as they speak which can make them pause for too long. With practice, you will be able to use strategic fillers and regain the confidence to continue with the topic again. 

A blank moment can be turned into a chance to display your confidence, fluency, and flexibility. Focus on your ability to comprehend information and speak on the given topic rather than speaking from memory. Remember to stay calm, utilize strategies in your communication, and continue with the flow. Start your preparation with IELTS Speaking Practice Test and achieve your desired band scores of 8+ in the IELTS Speaking test. Let's start your journey!

Also check : 

• 10 Useful IELTS Speaking Tips to Impress the Examiner
• Linking Words for IELTS Speaking Section
• IELTS Speaking Recent Actual Tests with Suggested Answers for IELTS 2025
• 5 Tips to Ace Your IELTS Speaking Test
• What is the Correct Tone in IELTS Speaking Test?