Describe a newspaper or magazine you enjoy reading
Describe a newspaper or magazine you enjoy reading.
You should say:
- what kind of newspaper or magazine it is, e.g. fashion
- how often you buy it
- what articles and information it contains
And explain why you enjoy reading it.
Practise this cue card with a timer Use it in a full mock
One-minute preparation plan
Digital publications count. Talk about how you read it now, as well as what it contains.
| Cue card point | What to note (keywords only) |
|---|---|
| What kind of newspaper or magazine it is, e.g. fashion | 1–2 specific details: a name, a place, a time, or an example |
| How often you buy it | 1–2 specific details: a name, a place, a time, or an example |
| What articles and information it contains | 1–2 specific details: a name, a place, a time, or an example |
| And explain why you enjoy reading it. | Your main reason plus how it affected you—save 30 seconds for this |
Sample answer
The magazine I enjoy reading most is a popular science monthly. It's aimed at general readers rather than experts, so it explains new research in areas like space, medicine and the environment in a way that's easy to follow.
I used to buy the print edition every month from a newsagent near my office, but these days I have a digital subscription, so I read it on my tablet, usually on Sunday mornings over breakfast.
Each issue has a mix of short news pieces about recent discoveries, two or three long feature articles, and interviews with researchers. There's also a section where readers send in questions, like why the sky is blue or how vaccines are tested, and a scientist answers them in plain language. I particularly like the infographics, which make complicated data much clearer.
I enjoy reading it because it keeps me curious. My job has nothing to do with science, so it's a way of learning something completely different, and I often find myself telling friends about an article I've just read.
About 175 words, roughly two minutes at a natural pace. This is an original example written for SpeakingIELTS to show structure and vocabulary—use it for ideas, not as a script to memorise. Real test cards are worded differently, and examiners notice rehearsed answers.
Useful words and phrases
- aimed at general readers
- easy to follow
- a digital subscription
- in plain language
- keeps me curious
- I often find myself
Try using three of these in your own answer. For more topic vocabulary, see the vocabulary helper.
Part 3 follow-up questions
After this cue card, the examiner moves to a Part 3 discussion on the same theme. Give an opinion, a reason and an example for each.
- In what ways are newspapers better for learning about the news than listening to the radio or watching television?
- Do you think newspapers should be completely free to say whatever they want?
- What do people enjoy reading in your country?
- Do you think it is important for people to read a lot?
- What sort of stories do newspapers and magazines publish about well-known or famous people in your country?
- Do you think the media should be allowed to publish stories about the private lives of public figures?
Practise these Part 3 questions
Check your own answer
Record yourself, then listen once and ask: did I cover every point, keep talking for close to two minutes, link ideas clearly, and explain my reasons at the end? The self-evaluation checklist covers all four speaking criteria.