Describe a piece of technology you find useful
Describe a piece of technology you find useful.
You should say:
- what it is
- when you started using it
- how often you use it
And explain why you find it so useful.
Practise this cue card with a timer Use it in a full mock
One-minute preparation plan
Avoid simply saying 'my phone'. A specific device or function gives you more precise vocabulary.
| Cue card point | What to note (keywords only) |
|---|---|
| What it is | 1–2 specific details: a name, a place, a time, or an example |
| When you started using it | 1–2 specific details: a name, a place, a time, or an example |
| How often you use it | 1–2 specific details: a name, a place, a time, or an example |
| And explain why you find it so useful. | Your main reason plus how it affected you—save 30 seconds for this |
Sample answer
The piece of technology I find most useful is a pair of noise-cancelling headphones I bought about two years ago.
I started using them when I moved into a flat on a very busy road and, at the same time, began working from home. The traffic noise made it almost impossible to concentrate, so a friend suggested trying them.
These days I use them every single day, often for several hours. I wear them while working, on the bus, and sometimes even at home in the evening when I want to read without distractions. When I travel, they're the first thing I pack.
The reason they're so useful is that they let me create a quiet space wherever I am. With one button, the background noise practically disappears, which has made a huge difference to my productivity and, honestly, to my stress levels. They were quite expensive, but given how much I use them, they've definitely been worth the money.
About 160 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
- almost impossible to concentrate
- every single day
- without distractions
- practically disappears
- made a huge difference to
- worth the money
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.
- How has technology changed the way people work?
- Do older people find it harder to use new technology?
- Are people too dependent on their smartphones?
- What technology do you think will be invented in the future?
- Does technology make people's lives less stressful or more stressful?
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.