Rules, comparisons and data

Can you make notes in the IELTS Speaking test?

Only in Part 2. ielts.org says that in the long turn you get one minute to prepare and 'the examiner will give you a pencil and paper to make notes'. Parts 1 and 3 are a spoken interview and discussion with no preparation time. IDP suggests writing about 10 key words in that minute rather than full sentences.
  • Guide updated · 30 October 2026
  • 3 sections
  • IELTS
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Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 30 October 2026

Notes part by part

From the ielts.org Speaking format.

PartPreparation timeNotes
Part 1: introduction and interviewNoneNo; you answer questions directly
Part 2: long turnOne minuteYes; the examiner gives you a pencil and paper
Part 3: discussionNoneNo; a two-way discussion linked to Part 2

Using the minute well

ielts.org says that by using the points on the task card and making notes, you should be able to think of things to say and structure your talk so that you keep talking for 2 minutes. IDP suggests about 10 key words, with roughly 15 seconds of talk on each (IDP).

Notes are a prompt, not a script. Reading full sentences aloud works against the fluency and coherence the descriptors reward.

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Notes in other sections

Writing has its own note rules: on computer you may use the note-taking tool and examiners do not see those notes, per ielts.org. See notes and highlighting on IELTS on computer.

Frequently asked questions

Can I bring my own pen or paper into Speaking?+

ielts.org says the examiner gives you pencil and paper for Part 2. Follow the test centre's rules on personal items.

Does the examiner mark my notes?+

ielts.org's criteria assess your speech. Notes are only a planning aid.

Can I look at my notes while talking?+

Yes. ielts.org describes the notes as a way to structure your two-minute talk.

Can I write notes in Part 3?+

ielts.org describes preparation time and paper only for Part 2.

Keep reading

Related

Guide updated on 30 October 2026. Individual prices and policies may have earlier observation dates. Confirm current details on the linked official pages before you book or apply.

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