IELTS Speaking Part 1

Computers: questions and Band 8 answers

The examiner asks three to five short questions on two or three everyday topics in the first four to five minutes. These are the 7 questions about computers in the BandLadder test bank, with sample answers for the most frequent ones. Aim for two or three sentences each: answer, reason, one detail.

Sample answers

Do you use computers?

Yes, I rely on them heavily every single day. As a freelance graphic designer, my desktop computer is my primary workspace where I create digital illustrations and manage all my client projects, so it is absolutely essential for my professional life.

How often do you use your computer?

It is pretty much constant because I am glued to my screen from morning until evening. I start my day checking emails and spend most of my working hours on various software applications, so I probably spend at least eight hours daily in front of a monitor.

How important is your computer to you?

To be honest, it is indispensable. Beyond just work, I use it to keep in touch with friends living abroad and to stream my favourite documentaries. If my laptop were to suddenly break down, I would struggle to stay productive or entertained.

What kind of activities involve using computers?

People use them for an incredible variety of tasks these days. From simple things like online shopping and browsing social media to more complex activities such as coding, video editing, or even managing personal finances, computers have integrated themselves into almost every facet of our daily routines.

What kind of computer skills do you have?

I would consider myself quite proficient, especially with creative software suites. I have spent years mastering tools like Photoshop and Illustrator, but I am also comfortable with basic troubleshooting and managing cloud-based storage systems to keep my digital files organised and secure.

Did you use computers when you were little?

Actually, my experience with technology started quite early. My father introduced me to a bulky desktop machine when I was only seven, and I remember spending hours playing simple educational games that really helped me become familiar with navigating a keyboard and mouse.

Details are invented. Use the shape, not the sentences: examiners mark memorised answers down.

More computers questions to practise

Useful vocabulary

indispensable
something so valuable that you cannot manage without it
glued to my screen
spending a large amount of time looking at computers
integrated
combined together to form a functioning, whole system
proficient
highly skilled or competent at doing a specific activity
software suites
a collection of computer programs that work well together
troubleshooting
solving serious problems for a product or computer system

Answer out loud and get a band

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