50+ Duolingo English Test Speaking Topics with Sample Questions & Tips

The Duolingo English Test (DET) evaluates your ability to communicate effectively in English through various speaking tasks. Understanding the updated format, task types, and scoring criteria will help you perform confidently and maximise your score. 

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This guide breaks down the 50 Duolingo speaking topics with answer, Duolingo speaking sample questions, new speaking questions Duolingo 2025 and strategies to help you succeed.

Understanding the Duolingo English Test Speaking Section (2025)

The speaking section of the Duolingo English Test measures your ability to express ideas clearly and naturally. It consists of multiple tasks requiring spoken responses based on images, text, and audio prompts. 

Let’s look at some details and some common topics in Duolingo speaking test: 

Speaking Task Types: Photo, Read, Listen, Sample

The speaking tasks assess different skills through various formats:

• Photo Description: Describe an image in detail using relevant vocabulary.
  
• Read Aloud: Read a given sentence or passage clearly and accurately.
  
• Listen & Respond: Hear a prompt and provide a spoken response.
  
• Sample Response: Answer an open-ended question with a structured spoken response.
  

Updated Task Structure, Timing & Evaluation

In 2025, the DET speaking section has been refined for better accuracy in assessment.

• Tasks now have strict time limits ranging from 30 to 90 seconds per response.
  
• Evaluation criteria include clarity, pronunciation, response organisation, and accuracy.
  
• Responses are graded using AI-based scoring, ensuring fairness and consistency.
  

Scoring: Fluency, Coherence, Vocabulary, Grammar

Your score depends on multiple factors:

• Fluency: Ability to speak smoothly without excessive pauses.
  
• Coherence: Logical structure and clarity of response.
  
• Vocabulary: Range and accuracy of words used.
  
• Grammar: Proper sentence formation and verb usage.
  

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Table Comparing Task Types, Time, and Skill Focus

Practising these tasks will help you improve your score and overall confidence in spoken English.

For more information on test acceptance, check Duolingo Accepted Universities in Australia and Duolingo Accepted Countries and Universities.

50+ Duolingo Speaking Topics with Sample Questions

The Duolingo English Test Speaking section includes various topics that assess your fluency, coherence, vocabulary, and grammar. 

Below are 50 Duolingo speaking topics with answers in five common speaking topics to help you improve your score.

Personal Experiences

Sample Question:

"Describe a skill you’ve recently learned."

Example Answer:

"Recently, I learned how to bake bread from scratch. At first, it was challenging because I had never worked with yeast before. However, after a few attempts, I finally made a soft and fluffy loaf. This experience taught me patience and the value of following instructions carefully. Now, I bake fresh bread for my family every weekend, which makes me feel accomplished."

Other Question Examples:

• "Describe a time you faced a challenge and how you overcame it."
  
• "Talk about a memorable trip you’ve taken."
  
• "What was your first job, and what did you learn from it?"
  
• "Describe a hobby you enjoy and why it’s important to you."
  
• "Have you ever volunteered? If so, what was your experience like?"
  
• "What is one thing you recently bought and why?"
  
• "Describe an achievement you’re proud of."
  
• "What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?"
  

Tip:

Use past tense for personal experiences and highlight why the experience was meaningful. Adding emotions and lessons learned can make your response more engaging.

Opinions & Abstract Ideas

Sample Question:

"What’s the role of education in society?"

Example Answer:

"Education plays a crucial role in shaping society. It provides individuals with knowledge, critical thinking skills, and personal and professional growth opportunities. In addition, education promotes equality and helps reduce poverty by giving people the tools they need to succeed. I believe education is not just about academic success but also about learning to be a responsible and informed citizen."

Other Question Examples:

• "Should people be required to vote? Why or why not?"
  
• "Is technology making life better or worse?"
  
• "What makes a good leader?"
  
• "Do you think money brings happiness?"
  
• "Should schools focus more on practical skills?"
  
• "What’s the impact of social media on communication?"
  
• "How important is creativity in today’s world?"
  
• "What are the benefits of learning a second language?"
  

Tip:

Define the concept first, then provide a well-reasoned opinion with examples. If possible, add a personal perspective or real-world application.

Descriptive Topics

Sample Question:

"Describe your favourite weather and why."

Example Answer:

"My favourite weather is a cool, sunny day in autumn. The air is crisp, and the trees turn beautiful shades of red and gold. I enjoy walking outside, feeling the gentle breeze, and hearing the crunch of leaves under my feet. This kind of weather makes me feel relaxed and energised at the same time, and it’s perfect for outdoor activities like hiking or reading in a park."

Other Question Examples:

• "Describe a place you would love to visit."
  
• "What does your ideal home look like?"
  
• "Describe your favourite meal and why you enjoy it."
  
• "What’s your favourite holiday, and how do you celebrate it?"
  
• "Describe an object that is special to you."
  
• "What is the most beautiful place you’ve seen?"
  
• "Describe a festival or event you have attended."
  
• "What’s your favourite season and why?"
  

Tip:

Use sensory details—talk about what you see, hear, feel, and even smell or taste. This makes your description more vivid and engaging.

Hypothetical & Preference-Based

Sample Question:

"If you could meet any historical figure, who would it be and why?"

Example Answer:

"If I could meet any historical figure, I would choose Leonardo da Vinci. He was not only an artist but also a scientist and inventor. I would ask him how he managed to master so many different fields and what inspired his creativity. I believe talking to him would give me valuable insights into innovation and perseverance."

Other Question Examples:

• "If you could time travel, would you go to the past or the future?"
  
• "If you won the lottery, how would you spend the money?"
  
• "Would you rather live in a big city or a small town?"
  
• "If you could have any job in the world, what would it be?"
  
• "If you could change one thing about the world, what would it be?"
  
• "Would you rather be famous or rich?"
  
• "If you could have dinner with any celebrity, who would it be?"
  
• "Would you prefer to live by the ocean or in the mountains?"
  

Tip:

When answering hypothetical questions, justify your choice clearly and explain how it would impact your life or the world.

Society, Culture, & Current Events

Sample Question:

"Describe a cultural tradition from your country."

Example Answer:

"One important cultural tradition in India is Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights. Families celebrate by lighting oil lamps, bursting fireworks, and exchanging sweets. It symbolises the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. Diwali is special because it brings my family together, and we share joy and positivity. It’s also a time for reflection and new beginnings."

Other Question Examples:

• "How has technology changed the way people communicate?"
  
• "What is an important festival in your country?"
  
• "What are some common customs in your culture?"
  
• "How do people in your country celebrate birthdays?"
  
• "What is a traditional dish from your country?"
  
• "How has globalisation affected your country’s culture?"
  
• "What’s an important historical event in your country?"
  
• "How do people in your country greet each other?"
  

Tip:

Mention the significance of the tradition, how it is practised, and why it is meaningful. Adding a personal experience can make your response stronger.

Explore Duolingo Accepted Universities in the USA to see how your scores can be used for applications.

Effective Strategies for Answering Duolingo Speaking Prompts

The Duolingo English Test speaking section requires fluency, coherence, and clarity. You need structured responses, natural delivery, and a strong vocabulary to perform well.

Below are Duolingo speaking test preparation, grammar tips, and effective practice methods.

1. Think Fast → Structure Clearly (Intro – Reason – Example – Wrap-up)

A well-structured response keeps your answer organised and logical. Start with a clear introduction, explain your reasoning, support it with an example, and end with a concise wrap-up.

2. Speak Naturally, Avoid Filler Words

Instead of using “um,” “like,” or “you know,” take a brief pause to gather your thoughts. Speaking naturally increases fluency and clarity.

3. Use Transition Phrases (e.g., “Firstly…”, “On the other hand…”)

Connecting ideas smoothly makes your response more coherent. Use linking words to show contrast, sequence, and cause-effect relationships.

4. Aim for 70–90 Seconds Per Answer for Structured Tasks

Speaking for too long can cause rambling, while being too brief may lack depth. Aim for a structured and well-developed answer within the ideal time range.

5. Use a Variety of Sentence Forms (Complex, Compound)

Avoid simple sentences. Instead, combine ideas using complex (e.g., “Although I was tired, I kept practising”) and compound sentences (e.g., “I enjoy reading, but I also love outdoor activities”).

6. Replace Basic Words with Descriptive Synonyms

Instead of “good,” say “excellent” or “remarkable.” Instead of “bad,” use “unpleasant” or “disappointing.” Expanding your vocabulary makes your responses sound more advanced.

7. Practice with Voice Recording Tools

Record yourself answering different prompts and listen for clarity, pacing, and pronunciation. This helps identify areas for improvement.

Sample Word Bank (5 for Each Theme)

8. Speak Into Your Phone Daily Using Random Prompts

Pick a random question and record yourself answering it. This builds confidence and improves fluency.

9. Watch YouTube Breakdowns + Copy Intonation

Mimicking native speakers’ pronunciation, tone, and rhythm makes your speech more natural.

10. Get Peer or Tutor Feedback via Recording Reviews

Share recordings with a tutor or language partner for constructive pronunciation, grammar, and coherence feedback.

Following these strategies will help you answer Duolingo speaking prompts confidently and effectively. Practice daily, refine your structure, and expand your vocabulary to boost your score!

For additional speaking guidance, explore Duolingo Speaking Topics with Answers

Frequently Asked Questions