“What would you do” questions are a common question type in the IELTS Speaking test, particularly in Part 3. These questions test your ability to speculate, hypothesize, and express your opinions on a range of topics. They require you to go beyond simple answers and demonstrate a broader understanding of the world.

Understanding “What Would You Do” Questions

These questions typically present you with hypothetical situations and ask for your response. They aim to assess:

• Your ability to think critically: Can you analyze a situation and consider different perspectives?
• Your problem-solving skills: Can you propose logical solutions or courses of action?
• Your language proficiency: Can you express complex ideas clearly and fluently?

Approaching “What Would You Do” Questions Effectively

Here’s a step-by-step guide to tackling these questions:

1. Listen carefully and identify the key elements.

Pay close attention to the situation presented. What are the main issues? Who are the people involved?

2. Take a moment to think.

Don’t rush into an answer. Use a brief pause to gather your thoughts and formulate a coherent response.

3. State your opinion clearly.

Begin by directly addressing the question. For example:

• “If I were in that situation, I would…”
• “In my opinion, the best course of action would be…”

4. Provide reasons and examples.

Support your opinion with logical reasons and relevant examples. Draw from your personal experiences, general knowledge, or current events.

5. Use a range of grammatical structures.

Demonstrate your language proficiency by using a variety of grammatical structures, such as:

• Conditional sentences: “If I had more time, I would definitely…”
• Modal verbs: “I might consider…” or “It would be advisable to…”
• Phrasal verbs: “I would look into…” or “I would come up with…”

6. Be prepared to discuss different perspectives.

The examiner might challenge your viewpoint or ask you to consider alternative solutions. Be open to exploring different angles of the issue.

lost-wallet

Example from IELTS Speaking Test:

Examiner: What would you do if you found a wallet on the street?

Candidate: If I found a wallet on the street, I would definitely try to return it to its owner. It’s important to be honest and responsible. I would look for identification inside and if possible, try to contact the owner directly. If that wasn’t possible, I would turn it over to the authorities or a trusted individual.

Tips for Success:

• Practice brainstorming: Regularly think about hypothetical situations and practice responding to them.
• Expand your vocabulary: Learn a range of phrases and expressions related to problem-solving, decision-making, and expressing opinions.
• Record yourself speaking: This will help you identify areas for improvement in your fluency and pronunciation.
• Seek feedback from a teacher or tutor: Get personalized advice on how to improve your responses to “what would you do” questions.

Conclusion

Mastering “what would you do” questions is essential for achieving a high score in the IELTS Speaking test. By following the strategies outlined above and practicing regularly, you can confidently demonstrate your ability to think critically, express your opinions effectively, and showcase your language skills. Remember to stay calm, think clearly, and provide well-reasoned and articulate responses.