Lifestyle: 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 9 questions about lifestyle 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
What do you do in your free time?
I usually unwind by diving into historical fiction novels or experimenting with new recipes in the kitchen. Recently, I have been trying to master sourdough baking, which is incredibly therapeutic and gives me a delicious reward to share with my housemates over the weekend.
Do you have a busy social life?
Actually, I prefer to keep my circle small and my commitments manageable rather than constantly rushing between events. I find that catching up with one or two close friends for a quiet coffee is far more fulfilling than attending large, noisy gatherings.
Do you lead an active life?
Staying active is a priority for me, so I make sure to incorporate movement into my daily routine. Whether it is cycling to my workplace or heading to the local park for a brisk jog, I find that physical exertion keeps my energy levels consistent.
Has your life changed much in the last year?
Things have shifted significantly since I decided to embrace a more minimalist approach to my daily habits. I have spent the last twelve months decluttering my living space and prioritising my mental health, which has brought a surprising amount of clarity to my professional goals.
What would you like to change about your lifestyle?
I am eager to improve my sleep hygiene because I currently spend far too much time scrolling on my phone before bed. Implementing a strict digital detox an hour before sleep would definitely help me feel more refreshed and focused throughout the working day.
What type of activities do you like to do in your free time?
Creative pursuits are my go-to choice, particularly painting and sketching urban landscapes. I find that focusing on the intricate details of architecture helps me disconnect from the stresses of the week and allows me to express myself in a visual, non-verbal way.
Details are invented. Use the shape, not the sentences: examiners mark memorised answers down.
More lifestyle questions to practise
- How long have you been interested in these activities?
- Do you like to do these activities alone or with other people? (Why)?
- Do you think people have enough free time?
Useful vocabulary
- unwind
- to relax and release stress after a busy period
- manageable
- something that is easy to control or deal with
- physical exertion
- using a lot of energy for physical activity
- minimalist
- a style focusing on simplicity and having few possessions
- sleep hygiene
- habits that help you have a good night's sleep
- digital detox
- a period of time spent away from electronic devices
- Provide a direct answer immediately to show confidence and maintain the flow of conversation.
- Use personal examples to make your answers sound more authentic and natural during the exam.
Answer out loud and get a band
The AI examiner asks Part 1 questions like these, listens, and scores fluency, vocabulary, grammar and pronunciation, with the words that cost you.
Practise Part 1 with the AI examinerOn your phone? Get the BandLadder app.