Part 1 is the "warm-up" section lasting 4-5 minutes. The examiner asks about familiar topics like work, family, hobbies, and hometown. While it seems easy, your first impression matters. This guide covers the most common questions and proven answer strategies for Band 7+.
How Part 1 Works
The examiner will ask you about yourself in 3-4 topic areas. Each topic has 3-4 questions. The questions are simple and personal—there are no "wrong" answers. What matters is how you answer: fluently, accurately, and with appropriate vocabulary.
The Perfect Answer Length
Topic 1: Work or Study
Everyone gets asked this. Prepare both if you're a student who also works part-time.
Q: Do you work or are you a student?
Sample Answer: "Currently, I'm a student at [University Name], majoring in [Subject]. I'm in my final year, so I'm quite busy with my dissertation at the moment."
Q: Why did you choose that subject/job?
Sample Answer: "Well, I've always been fascinated by [Subject] since high school. I think it offers great career prospects, especially in the field of [Field], and I genuinely enjoy the challenge it provides."
Q: What do you like most about your studies/work?
Sample Answer: "I really enjoy the practical aspects. We get to work on real projects, which gives me hands-on experience. Plus, my professors are incredibly supportive and knowledgeable."
Topic 2: Hometown
Q: Where are you from?
"I come from [City], which is a bustling metropolis in the north of [Country]. It's famous for its street food and historical architecture, which attracts many tourists."
Q: Do you like living there?
"Yes, absolutely. Although the traffic can be horrendous during rush hour, the people are incredibly friendly and there's always something to do, whether it's shopping, dining, or cultural events."
Q: Has your hometown changed much?
"Definitely. Over the past decade, there's been massive development. New shopping malls and office buildings have sprung up, though unfortunately some of the old charm has been lost."
Topic 3: Hobbies & Free Time
Q: What do you do in your free time?
"I'm actually a bit of a bookworm, so I spend a lot of time reading, especially mystery novels. I also enjoy hitting the gym a few times a week to stay fit and relieve stress."
Q: Do you prefer indoor or outdoor activities?
"I'd say I'm more of an indoor person. I like the comfort of staying home with a good book or watching films. That said, I do enjoy the occasional hike when the weather's nice."
The "Rule of 3" Answer Strategy
To extend your answer naturally without rambling, use this structure: Direct Answer + Reason/Explanation + Detail/Example.
Rule of 3 in Action
Q: Do you like chocolate?
- 1. Direct Answer: "Yes, I have a real sweet tooth."
- 2. Reason: "It really helps me relax when I'm stressed or tired."
- 3. Detail: "I particularly prefer dark chocolate because it's not too sugary and has health benefits."
Total: 3 sentences, ~20 seconds. Perfect length!
Common Part 1 Topics (2025)
Be prepared to talk about these topics:
- ✓ Work/Study
- ✓ Hometown/Accommodation
- ✓ Family
- ✓ Friends
- ✓ Hobbies/Free time
- ✓ Sports/Exercise
- ✓ Food/Cooking
- ✓ Music
- ✓ Reading/Books
- ✓ Weather/Seasons
- ✓ Technology/Internet
- ✓ Public Transport
Useful Expressions for Part 1
Giving Opinions
I'd say..., In my opinion..., I believe..., I suppose..., Personally, I think...
Showing Contrast
Although..., However..., That said..., On the other hand..., But...
Adding Information
Plus..., Also..., What's more..., In addition..., On top of that...
Frequently Asked Questions
Keep your answers concise: 2-3 sentences or 15-20 seconds. Don't ramble for a minute—that's for Part 2! Answer directly, give a reason, add a detail.
Practice Speaking Part 1
Record yourself answering these questions. Get instant AI feedback on pronunciation, fluency, and grammar.
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