Describe a skill you would like to learn
Describe a skill you would like to learn.
You should say:
- what the skill is
- how you would learn it
- how difficult you think it would be
And explain why you want to learn this skill.
Practise this cue card with a timer Use it in a full mock
One-minute preparation plan
Use conditional and future forms naturally here: how you would learn it and what you will be able to do.
| Cue card point | What to note (keywords only) |
|---|---|
| What the skill is | 1–2 specific details: a name, a place, a time, or an example |
| How you would learn it | 1–2 specific details: a name, a place, a time, or an example |
| How difficult you think it would be | 1–2 specific details: a name, a place, a time, or an example |
| And explain why you want to learn this skill. | Your main reason plus how it affected you—save 30 seconds for this |
Sample answer
A skill I'd really like to learn is cooking properly, not just following a recipe on my phone, but understanding how to combine ingredients and cook without instructions.
If I had the time, I'd start with a short evening course at a local cooking school, because I think you learn much faster when someone can correct your technique. After that, I'd practise at home by cooking one new dish every weekend, and I'd probably watch videos to fill in the gaps.
I don't think it would be especially difficult at a basic level, but becoming genuinely good would take years. The hardest part for me would be timing, getting several dishes ready at the same moment, and having the confidence to improvise.
The main reason I want to learn it is independence. I've lived alone for two years and I rely far too much on takeaway food, which is expensive and not very healthy. Also, cooking for friends seems like a lovely way to bring people together, and I'd love to be able to host dinners.
About 176 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
- if I had the time
- fill in the gaps
- at a basic level
- the hardest part for me would be
- rely far too much on
- bring people together
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.
- What skills do young people need to succeed in today's job market?
- Is it better to learn a skill from a teacher or by yourself online?
- Why do some adults stop learning new things?
- Which skills will become less important because of technology?
- Should schools teach more practical skills?
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.