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IELTS Speaking Introduction: How to Answer with Samples

Updated on 26 February, 2025

Sunita Kadian

Sunita Kadian

IELTS Expert

First impressions matter especially in the IELTS Speaking test! The moment you start talking, the examiner forms an opinion about your fluency, confidence, and clarity. And guess what? It all begins with a simple self-introduction.

Imagine walking into the test room, greeting the examiner with a smile, and effortlessly answering questions about yourself. Sounds great, right? That’s exactly what we’ll help you achieve!

Your IELTS Speaking introduction isn’t just about stating your name or hometown—it’s your chance to set the tone for the conversation. A well-structured introduction can boost your confidence, make you feel at ease, and even leave a positive impression on the examiner.

In this guide, we’ll break down common topics, key elements, sample answers, and expert tips to help you introduce yourself naturally and confidently. Ready to make your introduction unforgettable? 

Let’s get started!

IELTS Sample Answer to Tell Me About Yourself

Hi, my name is Arjun, and I live in Bangalore. We are a family of four: my father, a retired Air Force officer; my mother, a former bank manager; and my sister, who works as a senior analyst at a tech firm.

I completed my graduation in Biotechnology in 2021 and secured a campus placement at a leading pharmaceutical company. Now, I plan to pursue an MSc in Clinical Research from Oxford University, as I aspire to become a lecturer at a prestigious institution.

This journey aligns with my passion for scientific research and education, and I look forward to making a meaningful impact in the field of clinical studies.

IELTS Speaking Introduction Questions With Answers: Sample 1

Question: Good morning. My name is Elizabeth Carter. What is your name?
Answer: Good morning, madam. My name is Rahul Mehta. You can call me Rahul.

Question: What is your candidate number?
Answer: My candidate number is AB527.

Question: Could you tell me about yourself and where you reside?
Answer: I’m Rahul, and I live in Pune, Maharashtra. My father, Rajesh Mehta, is a retired professor, and my mother, Anita Mehta, is a homemaker. I’m 24 years old and have completed my Bachelor’s degree in Physics from Pune University. Currently, I work as a Physics teacher at a local high school.

The area where I live is peaceful and filled with greenery. It is well-connected to the city yet maintains a calm, residential atmosphere. Most of my neighbors are professionals and educators, making it an ideal place for learning and personal growth.

Question: What are some of the best things about where you reside?
Answer: The best thing about my locality in Pune is its pleasant weather and natural beauty. It is known for its parks, lakes, and historical landmarks. Mornings and evenings are filled with chirping birds, making it perfect for relaxing walks.

Additionally, my neighborhood has amazing cafés and restaurants that serve both authentic Maharashtrian cuisine and international dishes. One of the highlights is a century-old library nearby, which attracts book lovers from all over the city.

Question: What is the best way for me to reach your locality?
Answer: If you’re flying in, you can land at Pune International Airport and take a cab or auto-rickshaw to my area. Pune is also well-connected by rail and road. You can take a train to Pune Junction and then a short taxi ride. Buses and app-based taxis are also convenient options.

Question: Should I visit at any special time of the year?
Answer: The best time to visit Pune is between October and February, when the weather is cool and comfortable. This is also when cultural festivals and outdoor events take place, making it an exciting time to explore the city.

Introduction of Myself in IELTS Questions and Answers: Sample 2

Question: What is your name?
Answer: My name is Ananya Sharma.

Question: What can I call you?
Answer: You can call me Ananya.

Question: What are you studying currently?
Answer: I am pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science at Delhi University. I am in my final semester of the three-year program, and I find the course incredibly fascinating.

Question: What do you like about your studies?
Answer: I enjoy learning about historical voting patterns and how political behavior has evolved over time. It’s interesting to compare the simplicity of early governance systems with the accessibility and efficiency of modern political frameworks. Understanding these shifts gives me a deeper appreciation for how societies develop and adapt.

Question: What do you wish to do in the future once you have finished your course?
Answer: After completing my bachelor’s degree, I plan to pursue a master’s in Political Science from a reputed institution. My ultimate goal is to become a professor or work in policy research. That’s one of the main reasons I am taking the IELTS exam, as I aim to specialize in international relations. In the future, I might also consider working as a political analyst.

Self Introduction for IELTS Questions and Answers: Sample 3

Question: Good afternoon. I am James Anderson. What’s your name?
Answer: Good afternoon, sir. I am Amit Verma.

Question: What can I call you?
Answer: You can call me Amit.

Question: Tell me a little about your job.
Answer: I work as a store manager at a well-known retail chain in India. I have been in this role for four years now. My main responsibilities include overseeing store operations, increasing sales through strategic product placements, managing customer promotions, and driving the growth of in-house brands.

Question: Do you have to work in a team?
Answer: Yes, I work closely with a team of 30 members. We collaborate on sales strategies, in-house promotions, marketing campaigns, and customer service. Our daily tasks involve billing, packaging, deliveries, and ensuring a smooth shopping experience for customers. Teamwork is essential to maintain efficiency and customer satisfaction.

Question: Will you change your job in the future?
Answer: Right now, I enjoy my job and was recently promoted to a supervisory role, so I’m not actively looking for a change. The company offers good pay, growth opportunities, and a great work environment. However, I believe career growth requires new challenges, so I may explore better opportunities in the future.

Introduce Yourself IELTS Questions and Answers: Sample 4

Question: What’s your name?
Answer: My name is Aarushi Mehta.

Question: What can I call you?
Answer: You can call me Aarushi.

Question: What do you do in your leisure time?
Answer: I enjoy playing badminton in the evenings with my university friends. I practice four days a week at the club courts to stay active and improve my game. Apart from badminton, I love reading biographies of inspiring personalities and learning about their journeys. I also have a passion for baking, especially trying out new dessert recipes for my family. My chocolate brownies are always a hit!

Question: Have your hobbies changed since childhood?
Answer: Some have stayed the same, while others have evolved. I have always loved playing sports, but as a child, I mostly played outdoors with my friends. Now, I take it more seriously. My interest in reading and baking developed over the years, and I enjoy them just as much.

Question: Do you prefer spending your leisure time alone or with others?
Answer: It depends! Since badminton is a social sport, I enjoy being around my teammates. I also love spending time with my family during holidays and special occasions. However, there are times when I prefer being alone, especially when reading a book or trying out a new recipe; it helps me relax.

Check out: IELTS Speaking Test Format: Tips For Speaking Test

Key Elements to Include in Your IELTS Speaking Introduction

If you actually want to study abroad and score well in your IELTS exam, then following a proper structure, as you will find in your IELTS introduction samples, is very important. In the IELTS Speaking Introduction section, you will get 1-2 questions on your work, home, study, hometown, or other topics. You can start with the following: 

  • My name is 
  • Hello, I am 
  • I am 

However, do not use these terms to begin your introduction: 

  • You can call me 
  • My first name and last name are
  • Everybody calls me 
  • My nickname is
  • It’s me

If applicable, talk about yourself, your studies, co-curricular activities, social work, and your professional journey. Keep it short and crisp. Use simple and understandable words. The examiner is not looking for classical linguistic abilities, so do not assume that fancy words can impress the person. It may even negatively impact your final score. 

Always say, “I live in (city name),” instead of “I come from” or “I hail from.” And be appropriately formal without saying something unusual or awkward. While saying, “I am 20 years old,” is appropriate, avoid saying something like, “I am in my twenties.” 

Many candidates blindly memorize answers for the interview. While some preparation is necessary, do not provide memorized answers. Examiners can quickly identify them, and this will affect your score negatively. Keep your tone natural without putting on an unusual accent. 

Another critical point to note is the influence of your mother tongue. Many candidates score lower in the IELTS Speaking test since their speech is heavily influenced by their mother tongues, impacting their accent and pronunciation.

Looking for the best way to prepare for IELTS? Check out IELTS Preparation Online – the ultimate solution for a structured and effective study plan with online resources and tools! 

Common Topics in IELTS Speaking 

The IELTS Speaking test covers a wide range of topics to assess your ability to communicate fluently. These topics are usually related to everyday life, personal experiences, and opinions. Below are some of the most common topics you might experience in different parts of the test.

1. Personal Information & Hometown

✅ Your full name and what you prefer to be called
✅ Where you live and details about your hometown
✅ What you like or dislike about your city

2. Education & Work

✅ Your current studies or job
✅ Why you chose your field of study or career
✅ Future study or career plans

3. Hobbies & Free Time Activities

✅ Favorite leisure activities (reading, sports, music, etc.)
✅ Hobbies you’ve had since childhood
✅ How you spend your weekends

4. Travel & Holidays

✅ Places you have visited
✅ A memorable trip or vacation
✅ Your dream travel destination

5. Family & Relationships

✅ Your family members and their occupations
✅ Your relationship with your family
✅ Importance of family in your culture

6. Food & Eating Habits

✅ Your favorite food and cuisine
✅ Cooking habits and experiences
✅ Eating out vs. home-cooked meals

7. Technology & Social Media

✅ The role of technology in your life
✅ Your opinion on social media
✅ Advantages and disadvantages of digital communication

8. Environment & Nature

✅ Pollution and climate change
✅ Your efforts to protect the environment
✅ Favorite natural places (beaches, mountains, forests)

9. Books, Films & TV Shows

✅ Your favorite book or movie
✅ The last book you read or film you watched
✅ The impact of books or movies on your life

Also Read: IELTS Common Speaking Topics With Questions And Answers

Common Introduction Questions in IELTS Speaking

In the IELTS Speaking test, common introduction questions help examiners get to know you. Responding clearly and confidently to these introductory questions sets a positive tone for the rest of the interview. 

Here are a few common questions that you may encounter:

Category Common Questions
Personal Information
  • What is your full name?
  • Can you tell me a little about yourself?
  • Where are you from?
  • Do you live in a house or an apartment?
Work & Studies
  • Are you a student or do you work?
  • What are you studying? Why did you choose this subject?
  • Where do you work, and what are your job responsibilities?
  • Do you enjoy your work or studies? Why or why not?
Hobbies & Free Time
  • What do you like to do in your free time?
  • Do you have any hobbies?
  • How do you usually spend your weekends?
Family & Friends
  • Can you tell me about your family?
  • Do you spend a lot of time with your family?
  • Do you prefer spending time with family or friends?
Daily Routine & Lifestyle
  • What is a typical day like for you?
  • Do you prefer mornings or evenings?
  • How do you usually start your day?
Travel & Holidays
  • Do you like to travel? Why or why not?
  • What was the last place you visited?
  • What is your dream travel destination?

Also Read: Section Wise IELTS Exam Pattern - Question Types 

10 Steps to a Perfect IELTS Speaking Introduction

Your introduction in the IELTS Speaking test is important. It sets the tone for the entire conversation. A confident and clear introduction makes a great first impression and helps you feel relaxed. Keep your introduction natural, straightforward, and brief while showing your ability to speak fluently.

In this section, we will guide you through 10 key steps to create the perfect self-introduction. Whether you are introducing yourself to the examiner, discussing your background, or sharing your interests, these steps will help you sound confident and ready.

For additional tips on improving your fluency and performance, you can also check out our guide on Speaking Tips for IELTS: How to Prepare for IELTS Speaking.

1️⃣ Greet the Examiner with a Smile

  • Start with a polite greeting like “Good morning” or “Good afternoon.”
  • Maintain eye contact and a confident posture.

2️⃣ State Your Full Name Clearly

  • Say your full name and mention if you have a preferred name.
  • Example: “My name is Rohan Sharma, but you can call me Rohan.”

3️⃣ Mention Where You Are From

  • Briefly introduce your hometown or city.
  • Example: “I am from Delhi, the capital of India, known for its rich history.”

4️⃣ Talk About Your Studies or Job

  • If you are a student, mention your course and university.
  • If you work, briefly describe your profession.
  • Example: “I recently completed my bachelor’s degree in Computer Science at XYZ University.”

5️⃣ Share a Bit About Your Interests

  • Mention your hobbies or passions.
  • Example: “In my free time, I enjoy reading novels and playing football.”

6️⃣ Speak Naturally and Fluently

  • Avoid memorized answers; sound natural.
  • Speak in complete sentences without rushing.

7️⃣ Use a Positive and Friendly Tone

  • Be confident and maintain a friendly tone.
  • This helps build rapport with the examiner.

8️⃣ Keep Your Introduction Concise

  • Aim for a response of 20-30 seconds.
  • Avoid unnecessary details.

9️⃣ Use Simple and Correct Grammar

  • Speak clearly with proper sentence structure.
  • Example: Instead of “I liking football,” say “I like playing football.”

🔟 Prepare but Don’t Over-Rehearse

  • Practice beforehand but stay flexible.
  • Be ready for follow-up questions.

Explore more: IELTS Speaking Test tips

10 Common Mistakes to Avoid During Your IELTS Speaking Introduction

Many test-takers lose points in the IELTS Speaking test because of common mistakes made during the introduction. This part of the test may seem easy, but it is important for setting the right tone for your performance. By avoiding these mistakes, you can start strong and make a good impression on the examiner.

Here are 10 common mistakes to avoid in your IELTS Speaking introduction:

  1. Not preparing answers to common questions
  2. Choosing incorrect words or phrases.
  3. Making grammatical mistakes.
  4. Speaking too fast. This does not indicate fluency in English. Rather, you should aim at speaking slowly and clearly so that the examiner understands everything. 
  5. Not maintaining proper tone and pitch while speaking.
  6. Giving excessively short or long-winded answers to questions.
  7. Over-thinking answers and confusing the examiner.
  8. Freezing and staying silent in case of any unique or unusual queries.
  9. Not making proper eye contact or not speaking with confidence.
  10. Repeating the same words and phrases.

The answers should be approximately two to three sentences long. Just replying with a word or a very short answer will not help your cause since the examiner wants to assess your fluency in English. However, avoid too-long answers. There could be 10-12 questions in just 4-5 minutes. If you spend 2-3 minutes on a single answer, then some questions will be skipped. This will lead to a loss of marks as well.

Looking for expert guidance on acing the IELTS Speaking test? Download our IELTS Speaking Test Guide for tips, strategies, and sample answers to boost your confidence and score higher!

Conclusion

Doing well in your IELTS speaking introduction is important for setting a positive tone during your test. A clear and confident self-introduction can help you make a good first impression on the examiner. To leave a lasting impact, know common topics, practice your responses, and avoid typical mistakes. Make sure your answers are clear, natural, and engaging, and keep a steady pace.

Remember, practice is key to success. The more you rehearse speaking about yourself, the more comfortable and fluent you will become. Focus on pronunciation, coherence, and confidence to maximize your score.

If you are preparing for IELTS, structured guidance can make a significant difference. With expert-led courses, personalized feedback, and practice sessions, you can refine your speaking skills and enhance your overall performance. Start practicing today and take a step closer to achieving your desired IELTS score!

Want to ace your IELTS Speaking test? Download our free IELTS Guide and get expert tips to boost your score!

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long should my IELTS Speaking introduction be?

Your introduction should be short, lasting about 20 to 30 seconds. The examiner wants to hear a clear and natural response. Start with your name, where you’re from, and a quick mention of your job or studies. Keep it simple and organized, avoiding long explanations.

How can I introduce myself in IELTS Speaking?

In the IELTS Speaking test, your self-introduction should be short and natural. You can follow this structure:

  • Greet the examiner: “Good morning/afternoon.”
  • State your full name: “My name is Rohan Sharma.”
  • Mention what the examiner can call you: “You can call me Rohan.”
  • Briefly mention where you are from: “I am from Delhi, a beautiful city in northern India.”
  • If asked, share what you do: “I am currently studying Computer Science at XYZ University.”

How to begin a speech in IELTS Speaking?

The IELTS Speaking test is not like a formal speech, so you should avoid scripted introductions. Instead, answer naturally and directly. For example:

  • “Hello, my name is Ananya Verma. You can call me Ananya.”
  • “I come from Chennai, which is known for its rich culture and heritage.”

If you are asked a question, start your answer with a clear and structured response:
Don’t say: "Well, you know, umm… I think..." (Avoid hesitation)
Instead: "In my opinion, the best way to learn a language is through practice."

How to start an introduction for IELTS?

You can start your introduction in a polite and confident manner. Follow this structure:
Step 1: Greet the examiner (Good morning/afternoon)
Step 2: State your name (My name is Aditi Singh)
Step 3: Mention where you're from (I live in Bangalore, India’s tech hub.)
Step 4: Answer any follow-up questions (I am currently working as a marketing analyst.)

Tip: Keep it natural and avoid memorized responses!

How to start in the IELTS Speaking test?

The test starts when the examiner asks: “What is your full name?”

  • Simply reply with: “My full name is Arjun Mehta, but you can call me Arjun.”
  • If asked about your hometown, say: “I am from Jaipur, a city famous for its historic forts and palaces.”

The key is to stay calm, speak fluently, and be yourself. The examiner is not looking for perfection but clear communication and confidence.

How can I improve my self-introduction before the IELTS exam?

  • Practice speaking aloud in front of a mirror or with a friend.
  • Record yourself and listen for areas of improvement.
  • Use a variety of phrases so you don’t sound rehearsed.
  • Work on pronunciation and fluency by listening to native English speakers.
  • Take mock tests to get comfortable with the exam format.

What personal details are relevant to share?

In the IELTS speaking test, relevant personal details to share include your name, occupation, or student status, where you're from (city or country), and perhaps a brief mention of your hobbies or interests. These details help create a well-rounded introduction that provides context about yourself without delving into excessive personal information. 

For example, "My name is (Your Name). I'm currently an (Occupation/Student), originally from (City/Country). In my free time, I enjoy (Hobby/Interest)." This structure gives the examiner a clear picture of who you are without overwhelming them with unnecessary details.

How can I connect my background to potential IELTS questions?

You can connect your background to potential IELTS questions by linking your experiences, interests, or studies to broader themes likely to be covered. For instance, if you're from a multicultural city, you could discuss cultural diversity in response to questions about societal values or traditions. If you're a student of science, you might relate your studies to topics on technological advancements or environmental issues. 

This approach not only demonstrates relevance but also enriches your responses with personal insights, making your answers more engaging and authentic during the IELTS speaking test.

Can I talk about my hobbies in my introduction?

Generally, hobbies are not a part of the first introduction. However, if the examiner asks about your interests, you can briefly mention them. For example:

 “In my free time, I enjoy reading novels and playing badminton.”

What is the best way to practice my IELTS speaking introduction before the test?

The best way to practice your IELTS speaking introduction is to simulate test conditions as closely as possible. Record yourself introducing and answering practice questions, then review to identify areas for improvement in fluency, pronunciation, and coherence. Practice with a partner or tutor to receive feedback on the clarity and relevance of your introduction.

Additionally, familiarize yourself with common topics and questions likely to be asked, ensuring you can smoothly transition from your introduction into discussing various subjects during the test. This methodical practice will enhance your confidence and readiness for the actual IELTS speaking test.

How important is pronunciation when I introduce myself in IELTS?

Pronunciation is critical during the IELTS introduction, as it conveys clarity and confidence. Correctly pronouncing your name and introduction phrases ensures effective communication with the examiner and enhances your overall speaking performance. Focus on enunciating clearly to make a positive first impression.

Sunita Kadian

IELTS Expert

Sunita Kadian, co-founder and Academic Head at Yuno Learning is an expert in IELTS and English communication. With a background in competitive exam preparation (IELTS, GMAT, CAT, TOEFL), interview prep, and corporate soft skills training, she has adapted these programs for the Yuno platform. Her dedication and commitment earned high praise from students, especially for her public speaking and advanced speaking English courses. Sunita's mastery of language nuances and articulation makes her a favorite among IELTS students. She holds a Postgraduate degree in English Literature, a B.Ed., and a Post Graduate Diploma in Public Relations.

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