One Minute Preparation refers to the 60 seconds of planning time given before Speaking Part Two in the IELTS exam.
During this time, candidates receive a cue card topic and can prepare ideas before speaking for up to two minutes.
This short planning stage is extremely valuable and should be used strategically.
Where It Appears
One Minute Preparation is used in:
- Speaking Part Two
It comes after the examiner gives the cue card and before you begin speaking.
What Happens During This Minute
You will receive:
- A cue card with topic prompts
- Paper
- Pencil
You may:
- Read the topic carefully
- Think of ideas
- Make short notes
- Organize your answer
Example Cue Card
Describe a memorable journey.
You should say:
- where you went
- who you went with
- how you travelled
and explain why it was memorable.
What You Should Do
Use the minute to:
Choose a Clear Idea Quickly
Select a real or realistic example.
Note Key Points
Write keywords only:
- Lagos trip
- cousin
- bus ride
- funny delay
- beach view
Plan a Simple Structure
Beginning → details → feelings.
Think of Useful Vocabulary
Travel, exciting, delayed, scenic, unforgettable.
What You Should NOT Do
Write Full Sentences
This wastes time.
Panic About Perfect Ideas
Simple ideas are enough.
Change Topic Repeatedly
Choose one example and commit.
Memorize a Speech
This sounds unnatural.
Why It Matters
Strong use of the one-minute preparation time helps you:
- Speak longer
- Stay organized
- Reduce hesitation
- Use better vocabulary
- Feel more confident
Poor use of this minute often leads to weak performance.
High-Scoring Strategy
15 Seconds
Read prompt carefully.
30 Seconds
Write keywords for each bullet point.
15 Seconds
Choose opening sentence and order.
Example Notes
Topic: Describe a teacher you liked
Notes:
- Mr Ade
- secondary school
- math teacher
- funny style
- helped confidence
These notes are enough.
What Examiners Notice Later
They do not score the notes themselves.
They score how well you speak after preparation:
- Fluency
- Coherence
- Vocabulary
- Grammar
- Pronunciation
Common Problems Candidates Face
Blank Mind
Take a simple example from real life.
Too Few Notes
Can cause forgetting ideas.
Too Many Notes
Leads to reading dependence.
Fear of Inventing
It is acceptable to use realistic invented examples.
Quick Tips
- Keywords only.
- One example is enough.
- Follow the cue card bullets.
- Use notes as reminders, not script.
Why Strong Candidates Perform Well
Top scorers treat the minute as a planning tool, not a panic moment. They create a simple structure and speak confidently from it.
