In the IELTS Speaking test, candidates go through three parts: self-introduction and familiar topics (Part 1), a long turn based on a cue card (Part 2), and a discussion on abstract social issues (Part 3). This test comprehensively assesses your reflexes, coherence, and linguistic thinking.
Among these, Yes/No questions are extremely common in both Part 1 and Part 3. However, many candidates make the mistake of stopping at a simple “Yes” or “No”. This lack of justification, examples, or expansion often leads to a lower score in Fluency and Coherence. In this article, we will guide you on how to identify, classify, and answer these questions effectively to boost your band score naturally.
1. Why “Yes” or “No” is Not Enough
Stopping at a one-word answer is one of the quickest ways to lose points. The examiner needs to hear enough language to assess your grammar, vocabulary, and pronunciation. A short answer prevents you from showcasing these skills.
- Low Fluency: Short answers break the flow of conversation.
- Limited Vocabulary: You miss the chance to use relevant topic vocabulary.
- No Grammar Range: You fail to demonstrate complex sentence structures.
2. The A.R.E. Strategy for Perfect Answers
To ensure your answer is complete and high-scoring, use the A.R.E. formula:
- A – Answer directly: Don’t just say “Yes” or “No”; use synonyms or phrases to express your degree of agreement.
- R – Give a Reason: Explain why you think that way. Use linking words like “because,” “since,” or “due to.”
- E – Extension / Example: Give a specific example or personal detail to make your answer more convincing.
3. Vocabulary: Beyond “Yes” and “No”
Avoid repeating the same words. Use these alternatives to sound more natural and academic:
Ways to say “Yes”
| Function | Phrases | Example Scenario |
|---|---|---|
| Definite agreement | “Absolutely,” “Definitely,” “Without a doubt,” “100%.” | Q: Is exercise important? A: “Without a doubt. It keeps us fit and healthy.” |
| General agreement | “For the most part,” “Generally speaking, yes.” | Q: Do you eat healthy food? A: “Generally speaking, yes, though I do enjoy pizza occasionally.” |
| Enthusiastic agreement | “I’d love to,” “That sounds fantastic.” | Q: Would you like to live abroad? A: “I’d love to! Exploring new cultures is my passion.” |
Ways to say “No”
| Function | Phrases | Example Scenario |
|---|---|---|
| Polite disagreement | “Not really,” “I wouldn’t say so,” “I’m afraid not.” | Q: Do you like cooking? A: “Not really. I find it quite time-consuming.” |
| Strong disagreement | “By no means,” “Not at all.” | Q: Is history boring? A: “Not at all. I find learning about the past fascinating.” |
| Correction | “Actually, I prefer…” | Q: Do you like coffee? A: “Actually, I prefer tea, especially green tea in the mornings.” |
The “Middle Ground” (It Depends)
Sometimes the answer isn’t black and white. In Part 3 especially, showing you can analyze different sides is valuable.
- “It really depends on the situation…”
- “To some extent, but…”
- “It varies from person to person…”
4. Practical Examples
Part 1 Example: Do you like listening to music?
❌ Weak Answer: “Yes, I do.” (Too short)
✅ Strong Answer (A.R.E.):
- (A) “Absolutely! I’m a huge fan of music.”
- (R) “I find it remarkably therapeutic after a long day at work.”
- (E) “For instance, I usually listen to some lo-fi beats or classical music in the evenings to help me unwind.”
Part 3 Example: Do you think money brings happiness?
❌ Weak Answer: “No, I don’t think so.”
✅ Strong Answer (A.R.E.):
- (A) “Not necessarily. While money is essential for basic needs, I wouldn’t say it guarantees happiness.”
- (R) “True happiness often stems from relationships, health, and personal fulfillment rather than material wealth.”
- (E) “We can see many wealthy individuals who struggle with loneliness, whereas people with modest incomes often lead very fulfilled lives surrounded by family.”
Part 1 Example: Is your hometown a good place to live?
❌ Weak Answer: “Yes, it is.”
✅ Strong Answer (A.R.E.):
- (A) “Most definitely. It’s a coastal city with beautiful beaches and fresh air.”
- (R) “The pace of life is much slower than in the capital, which makes it perfect for raising a family.”
- (E) “For example, my children can play safely in the neighborhood parks, something that would be hard to find in a crowded metropolis.”
Part 3 Example: Do people rely too much on technology these days?
❌ Weak Answer: “Yes, they do.”
✅ Strong Answer (It Depends):
- (A) “It really depends on the individual, but I would argue that generally, yes.”
- (R) “We use smartphones for everything from navigation to banking, often losing the ability to do these things manually.”
- (E) “However, for some professions like programming or digital design, this reliance is necessary and productive, not just laziness.”
Conclusion
Mastering Yes/No questions is about doing more than just agreeing or disagreeing. By applying the A.R.E. strategy and varying your vocabulary, you can turn a simple question into an opportunity to showcase your English proficiency. Practice expanding your answers today to see an immediate improvement in your Speaking performance!
