A Cue Card Prompt refers to the task card topic and guiding questions given in Speaking Part Two of the IELTS exam.
The cue card tells the candidate what topic to speak about and provides bullet points to help structure a response.
It is the basis of the Two Minute Talk.
Where It Appears
Cue Card Prompts are used in:
- Speaking Part Two
They are given after the examiner finishes Speaking Part One.
What a Cue Card Prompt Includes
A typical cue card contains:
Main Topic
What you need to describe, explain, or discuss.
Bullet Points
3 to 4 prompts guiding your answer.
Final Instruction
Usually asks why it was important, memorable, useful, enjoyable, etc.
Example Cue Card Prompt
Describe a person who has helped you.
You should say:
- who the person is
- how you know them
- what they helped you with
and explain why their help was important to you.
Common Cue Card Prompt Topics
You may be asked to describe:
People
- Friend
- Teacher
- Family member
- Leader
Places
- City
- Park
- Restaurant
- Country
Objects
- Book
- Gift
- Technology item
Experiences
- Journey
- Celebration
- Competition
- Skill you learned
Activities
- Hobby
- Sport
- Volunteer work
What You Must Do
When given the cue card prompt, you should:
- Understand the topic quickly
- Use the bullet points as a guide
- Plan ideas during one minute preparation
- Speak for up to two minutes
Why It Matters
A good response to the cue card prompt helps show:
- Fluency
- Coherence
- Vocabulary range
- Grammar control
- Pronunciation
This section strongly influences your Speaking score.
High-Scoring Strategy
Focus on the Main Topic First
Choose a clear example quickly.
Use Every Bullet Point
They help you stay organized.
Add Extra Detail
Do not stop after answering only prompts.
Include Feelings or Opinions
This enriches your response.
Keep Speaking Naturally
Do not memorize.
Example Quick Plan
Prompt: Describe a useful skill you learned.
Notes:
- cooking
- learned from mother
- age 16
- saves money
- enjoyable
This is enough to begin speaking.
Common Problems Candidates Face
Choosing Complicated Ideas
Simple examples are often better.
Ignoring Bullet Points
Can create weak structure.
Finishing Too Early
Need more development.
Trying to Be Perfect
Natural speaking is better than forced complexity.
Useful Language for Cue Cards
- I’d like to talk about…
- One thing I remember is…
- What made it special was…
- Another point worth mentioning is…
- Overall, it was memorable because…
Quick Tips
- You may use real or realistic examples.
- Notes should be keywords only.
- If topic feels unfamiliar, adapt it simply.
- Stay calm and organized.
Why Strong Candidates Perform Well
Top scorers understand that the cue card is a guide, not a trap. They use it to build a clear, confident two-minute answer.
