If the IELTS examiner keeps asking you “Why?”, “Why is that?”, or “Can you tell me more?”, it’s not because they are interested in your hobbies.
It’s because your answers are too short — and that quietly puts a ceiling on your IELTS Speaking score.
Many candidates believe they are stuck at Band 6.0 or 6.5 because of their accent or limited vocabulary. In reality, they are losing points because they fail to demonstrate Fluency and Coherence, one of the four official IELTS Speaking assessment criteria.
In this guide, you’ll learn the exact structure used by Band 7+ candidates to turn simple Part 1 questions into high-scoring opportunities — without memorizing answers or forcing unnatural English.
Why Short Answers Hurt Your IELTS Speaking Score
In IELTS Speaking Part 1, the examiner is not testing your knowledge or your personal opinions.
They are testing your spoken control under pressure.
When you give minimalist answers like:
- “Yes, I like cooking.”
- “It depends on the weather.”
three things happen to your score — silently.
1. Your Fluency Score Stalls
The Fluency and Coherence band descriptor requires a willingness to speak at length. Short answers signal hesitation, not confidence.
2. Your Grammatical Range Is Hidden
One short sentence only allows one grammar structure. You are not giving the examiner enough evidence to justify a higher band.
3. The Examiner Is Forced to Prompt You
Every time the examiner asks “Why?”, it’s a signal that your idea was incomplete.
The IELTS Speaking Part 1 Myth
Many students are told:
“Part 1 is just a warm-up. Keep your answers short.”
This advice is misleading.
The 3-Sentence Rule: The A-R-E Formula
High-band candidates consistently use a simple, repeatable structure in Part 1 called the A-R-E Formula:
Answer → Reason → Example
Frequently Asked Questions (IELTS Speaking Part 1)
Final Thoughts
If you are stuck at Band 6.0 or 6.5, your English level is often already good enough for a 7.0.
The missing piece is control.