The cue card
Describe a hobby that you would like to take up in the future.
You should say:
- what the hobby is
- how you became interested in it
- what you need to start it
- and explain why you want to do it
Band 7 sample answer
A hobby I have wanted to try for a long time is playing the guitar. I do not have any musical training, but I have always felt that being able to play a few songs would add something special to my life.
My interest began at a friend's birthday party last year. One of his cousins brought a guitar and played folk songs, and everyone started singing together. I remember thinking how much more enjoyable the evening was because of live music. To start, I would need an affordable acoustic guitar, a tuner and some beginner lessons. I have already found a few free video tutorials, and there is a small music studio near my home that offers group classes in the evenings.
The reason I want to do it is partly relaxation. After a day of studying, I often feel tired and stressed, and I think playing music could help me switch off. I would also like to challenge myself with something creative, because most of my free time is spent on screens. At the moment I am saving up for the instrument, and my plan is to start next spring. I know it will be difficult at first, since my fingers will hurt, but I am ready to be patient.
I have also thought about the social side of it. If I joined a class, I could meet people with similar interests, and perhaps play at small gatherings with friends. For somebody who spends so much time alone with books, that sounds like a very healthy change.
About 259 words, roughly 2 minutes of natural speech.
Key vocabulary
- take up — start a new hobby or activity
- a beginner — someone new to a skill
- switch off — relax and stop worrying
- creative outlet — a way to express yourself
- a pastime — something you do for fun
- challenge yourself — try something difficult
- get the hang of — learn how to do something
Tips for this cue card
- Use “would” and “I’d like to” for future wishes.
- Explain what has stopped you so far, such as time or money.
- Describe the first realistic steps you would take.
Part 3 follow-up questions
Why do some people have no hobbies?
Idea: They may be too busy with work, tired, or simply spend free time on phones and television.
Should schools encourage students to develop hobbies?
Idea: Yes, clubs build confidence, teamwork and balance alongside study.
Do hobbies help people at work?
Idea: They reduce stress and can teach useful skills such as patience and creativity.
More discussion questions with full answers: IELTS Speaking Part 3 topics.
Study guides
How Is IELTS Scored in Speaking and Writing? Criteria, Weighting and Rounding
The short answer first, then the Speaking and Writing criteria tables, how Task 1 and Task 2 combine and how the overall band is rounded.
IELTS Speaking Band Descriptors Explained in Plain English
The IELTS Speaking test is marked on four criteria. Here is what each one means at bands 5, 6, 7, 8 and 9, with short examples you can compare with your own answers.
IELTS Speaking Part 2: How Many Minutes to Speak (With a Practice Timer)
How long Part 2 lasts (1 minute to prepare, 1–2 minutes to speak), a practice timer, a four-step structure and a model answer.