Part 3 Essential Guide

 IELTS
 JOURNAL 
 
3 
Do I have to give an answer for every question in part 3?
Yes, if you don’t attempt an answer for all questions you will lose marks. 
However, if you get a question you are really struggling with you can admit this 
to the examiner and give the best answer you can. 
You could say something like: ‘I don’t know a lot about this topic, but if I had to 
guess I would say…..’ It is unlikely you will have to use this phrase and it should 
only be used when you really have no ideas. 
What if I need time to think?
The IELTS examiner does not expect you to give instant answers, you are not a 
robot! However, they do expect you to respond in a natural way. It is 
completely normal for native speakers to use certain words and phrases in 
order to give themselves time to think. You probably also do it a lot in your 
own language. 
Phrases that can be used include:
That’s a difficult question, let me think for a second. 
That’s a very interesting question, let me think. 
It’s very difficult to know exactly, but I think/but I believe/perhaps…. 
It’s difficult to say, I think…. 
I don’t really know for sure, but I would say…. 

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 IELTS
 JOURNAL 
 
4 
The most important thing is not to overuse these phrases. Some students put 
them in front of every answer and it sounds really unnatural. Remember, they 
are only to be used when you get an unexpected or particularly difficult 
question. 
How do I extend my answer?
Many students are worried that they will not have enough to say in part 3. 
In part 3 the examiner will mostly ask for your general thoughts on an issue; 
advantages and disadvantages; problems and solutions; how the issue has 
changed from the past until now; and how the issue will change in the future. 
You should therefore practice thinking and talking about your opinion on 
common everyday issues like health, the economy, education and the 
environment. 
There is no set word limit for what a good part 3 answer, but it should not be 
too short and not too long. Too short and you will have failed to develop your 
answer properly; too long and you may go off topic and/or make mistakes. As a 
rule, I advise my students to try to answer with 3-4 sentences.