IELTS Speaking Part 3 is the discussion stage of the test where you are asked more abstract, analytical questions. Many learners find this part difficult because the questions can feel unpredictable. Sometimes you immediately know what to say, but other times your mind goes blank.
If you’re not sure how to answer, or you need a quick way to structure your ideas, each of the following methods gives you a clear pathway to produce a strong, confident response. These three methods are based on a British Council approach, which you can see here.

1. Answer From a Perspective

This method is perfect when you feel stuck because it gives you a simple template: pick one perspective → explain it → give a reason.

Possible perspectives include:

• economic
• environmental
• technological
• educational
• social

Example Question:

“Should governments invest more in public transport?”

Sample Answer:

“I’m not sure, but from an environmental perspective, improving public transport would help reduce pollution. If more people rely on buses or trains, there will be fewer private cars on the road, which means cleaner air.”

2. Answer From the Point of View of Different People

If you’re not sure how to answer, think about who is affected. Then try to put yourself in their shoes and see the issue from their point of view. You can simply choose a group of people and explain how they might see it.

Sample groups you can use:

• parents
• office workers
• teenagers
• the elderly
• business owners
• local communities

Example Question:

“Is working from home beneficial?”

Sample Answer:

“I don’t really know, but if I were a young parent, I’d probably see working from home as a great option because it makes it easier to balance childcare and job responsibilities.”

3. Answer Using Personal Experience or Observation

If you’re unsure how to answer, connecting the idea to your own experience can help you speak more naturally and confidently. Just remember to link your personal example back to a general idea.

Example Question:

“Do you think people will travel more in the future?”

Sample Answer:

“From my own experience, I think people will travel more. These days flights are cheaper and information is easier to find online, so travelling feels much more accessible than before.”