Which main categories of cue card topics should I expect in my IELTS Speaking Part 2?
16 Oct 2026 · Answered by Saru Sharma · 1 min read
Quick Answer
verified
IELTS Speaking Part 2 topics usually fall under four main heads: places, people, things and situations. Each cue card usually has a question prompt, three dot points and an additional sentence. Part 3 discussion is based on the Part 2 topic. Check the official IELTS site for updates.
IELTS Speaking Part 2 topics usually fall under four main heads: places, people, things and situations. A cue card usually gives you a question prompt, 3 dot points and an additional sentence to talk about.
Four Main Heads for Part 2 Topics
| Main head | Example topics |
|---|---|
| Places | House, country, tourist destination, city, hotel, building |
| People | Family, a famous person, your inspiration |
| Things | Food, a book, a film, goals, a gift |
| Situations | A birthday, a wedding, a time you helped someone, an important decision in your life |
How This Helps Your Practice
- Prepare a few stories for each head so you can adapt them to the prompt
- Remember that Part 3 discussion is based on your Part 2 topic
- Practise covering all the dot points in a coherent and organised way
My Advice
Do not memorise answers for specific cards. Build flexible stories for each of the four heads and practise adapting them. Check the official IELTS site for the latest test details.
IELTS, PTE or Duolingo: which should you take?
Find out which test your universities accept, and which is easiest for you.
4.7/5 Google
🎓 25K+ admits
Get My Test PlanRelated topics
More IELTS questions
- Will I be able to pass the English proficiency exam given my concerns about language skills?
- What are the chances of getting a conditional offer letter requiring IELTS even if I have a good 12th standard score?
- Can I study in the UK without IELTS, and which universities accept other English tests?
- Would you suggest me to give IELTS first before starting the application process in Germany/Italy for a Master's?
- Do I need to score well in GRE, GMAT, or IELTS to get good scholarships in top business schools for a MBA?
- Is it possible to get an IELTS exemption if my transcript states that my medium of instruction was English?
- Can I still take IELTS as a paper-based test?
- How are my Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking sections marked in IELTS?
🎓 Which English test should you take? Get My Test Plan