The cue card
Describe a job you would like to do in the future.
You should say:
- what the job is
- what skills you need
- how you would prepare
- and explain why you would like to do it
Band 7 sample answer
A job I would really like to do in the future is working as a software engineer for an international company. I have been interested in technology since I was a teenager, and this career seems both challenging and creative.
To succeed in this job, you need strong problem-solving skills, patience and a good level of English, because most documentation and teamwork happens in English. You also have to keep learning, since technologies change very quickly.
At the moment, I am preparing by studying programming languages online and working on small projects, such as a simple mobile app. In the future, I would also like to find an internship, because practical experience is what employers value most.
I have also talked to a cousin who works in this field, and he explained that the work is not only about writing code but also about communicating with clients and colleagues. That made me realise I need to improve my speaking skills as well, so I practise English every day.
I would like this job because I enjoy building things that people can actually use. It also offers good career prospects and the possibility of working remotely, so I could travel and still work.
About 202 words, roughly 2 minutes of natural speech.
Key vocabulary
- challenging — difficult in an interesting way
- career prospects — chances of progress in a job
- problem-solving — finding solutions to difficulties
- internship — short-term work experience
- hands-on experience — practical experience
- work remotely — work away from the office
- rewarding — giving satisfaction
Tips for this cue card
- Use “would” for the future.
- Separate skills, preparation and motivation clearly.
- Mention a concrete step you are already taking.
Part 3 follow-up questions
What jobs will be popular in the future?
Idea: Technology, healthcare and renewable energy jobs will probably grow.
Is salary the most important factor in choosing a job?
Idea: It matters, but job satisfaction and growth matter too.
Should students get work experience at school?
Idea: Yes, it helps them understand careers and develop practical skills.
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.