Describe a skill that you would like to learn in the future
Try the card on the exam timer first, then read the band-8 sample answer and the Part 3 questions that follow it.
Practice it like the exam
Describe a skill that you would like to learn in the future.
You should say:
- what the skill is
- how you would learn it
- how long you think it would take
and explain why you want to learn this skill.
Ready
1 minute to prepare, then 2 minutes to speak. It switches on its own.
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Band 8 sample answer
273 words · about 2 minutes at a natural pace · Phrases from the vocabulary list are highlighted.
A skill I'd love to learn is how to play the piano. I've always loved the sound of it, and for years I've told myself that I'd learn some day, but I've never found the right moment. I've now decided to make it a concrete goal for next year.
I'm planning to enrol in lessons at a local music school, because I think it's important to have a teacher who can correct my mistakes at the beginning, when it's easy to pick up bad habits. I'd probably have a lesson once a week and practise for at least thirty minutes every day. I'd need to buy a keyboard first, and I've been looking at digital pianos that are affordable and can be used with headphones, so as not to disturb my neighbours. I'd also use apps and online videos to supplement my lessons.
I expect it will take quite a long time. Perhaps six months before I can play a simple melody with both hands, and two or three years before I can play pieces that I really enjoy. I'm aware that the learning curve will be steep, particularly because I can't read music at all. But I'm patient, and I'm willing to give it a go.
There are a few reasons why I want to learn. First, music has always been a source of comfort for me, and I'd like to be able to create it rather than just listen. Second, I've read that learning an instrument is good for the brain and for concentration. Finally, I'd love to be able to play at family gatherings someday, to make my parents proud.
What to notice
- It takes the points on the card in order, so the examiner can follow it.
- Each point gets a specific detail or a short story, which is what keeps a talk going for two minutes.
- The "explain" line at the end gets the most time, because that is where you give an opinion and show your range of language.
We wrote this answer for practice; it does not come from IELTS. Take its structure and phrases and tell your own story, because examiners notice memorised answers.
Getting ready for IELTS?
Useful vocabulary
| Phrase | Meaning |
|---|---|
| master a skill | become highly competent in something |
| enrol in lessons | register for classes |
| a steep learning curve | a difficult start with a lot to learn quickly |
| set aside time | reserve time for something |
| expand my skill set | add new abilities |
| give it a go | try it |
Plan it in one minute
Choose what to talk about in the first ten seconds, then write two or three key words for each point. Full sentences take too long to write and to read back.
Who or what you could talk about
- Learning to drive, swim or play an instrument
- Learning to code or edit video
- Learning to cook or sew
How to spend the two minutes
- 25 swhat the skill is
- 25 show you would learn it
- 25 show long you think it would take
- 45 sand explain why you want to learn this skill.
Part 3 questions
In the exam these come straight after your talk, on the wider subject: Lifelong learning. Answer each in 3–4 sentences, with your view, a reason and an example.
- Is it ever too late to learn a new skill?
- What are the benefits of learning new skills throughout life?
- Do you think companies should pay for their employees' training?
- Which skills do young people need most in order to succeed?
- How can people find the time to learn while working full time?
Keep practicing
More cue cards: Plans and wishes
- Describe a sport or physical activity that you would like to try in the future
- Describe a change that you would like to make in your life
- Describe a place in your own country that you would like to visit
- Describe something expensive that you would like to buy in the future
- Describe a family celebration that you are looking forward to or would like to organise
- Describe a foreign language (other than English) that you would like to learn
Part 1 topics on the same subject
Frequently asked questions
How do I talk about future plans in an IELTS cue card?
Say what you would like to do, why, and how you would go about it. Mix future forms: "I'm planning to", "I'd love to", "if I had the chance, I would". A plan you really have gives you more to say than an invented one.
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