Just like describe an indoor activity you enjoy, describing your daily routine is a common topic in IELTS Speaking tests. Let’s explore how to excel in this topic with sample answers and expert analysis.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview Questions
Common questions include:
- What is your typical daily routine?
- Have you changed your routine recently?
- Which part of your daily routine do you enjoy most?
- Do you think having a routine is important?
Sample Answer (Band 8-9)
“My daily routine is quite structured and purposeful. I make it a point to wake up at 6 AM and start with some describe a sport or exercise you enjoy. After that, I dedicate an hour to reading and planning my day. What I particularly appreciate about this routine is how it sets a positive tone for the entire day.”
Person following structured morning routine with meditation and exercise
Part 2: Long Turn (Cue Card)
Describe a daily routine you enjoy
You should say:
- What this routine is
- When you started it
- How you do it
- And explain why you enjoy it
Band 6-7 Sample Answer
“I want to talk about my evening reading routine. I started this habit about two years ago. Every night before bed, I spend about 30 minutes reading books. I usually read on my bed or in my comfortable reading chair. I enjoy this routine because it helps me relax and learn new things.”
Band 8-9 Sample Answer
“I’d like to share my evening wind-down routine, which has become an integral part of my daily life. I initiated this practice during the pandemic, and it has evolved into a non-negotiable part of my schedule. Similar to describe a hobby you picked up during your free time, this routine has transformed my quality of life.
The routine consists of 45 minutes of mindful reading, followed by 15 minutes of journaling. I deliberately choose books that stimulate intellectual growth or foster personal development. What makes this routine particularly gratifying is how it serves as a mental palette cleanser, allowing me to process the day’s events and prepare my mind for restorative sleep.”
Person engaged in evening routine with book and journal
Part 3: Discussion Questions
Q: Why do you think some people struggle to maintain routines?
Band 8-9 Sample Answer
“I believe people struggle with routines for multiple interconnected reasons. Firstly, there’s the challenge of instant gratification in our digital age, which makes it difficult to stick to structured activities. Additionally, many individuals underestimate the psychological commitment required to establish and maintain new habits. Just as describe a person who is passionate about their hobby, successful routine-keepers often have strong internal motivation.”
Key Vocabulary and Expressions
- Integral part /ˈɪntɪɡrəl pɑːt/ (adj. phrase) – essential or fundamental
- Wind-down routine /waɪnd daʊn ruːˈtiːn/ (n. phrase) – activities done to relax before sleep
- Mental palette cleanser /ˈmentl ˈpælɪt ˈklenzə/ (n. phrase) – activity that refreshes the mind
- Foster /ˈfɒstə/ (v) – encourage the development of
- Deliberately /dɪˈlɪbərətli/ (adv) – intentionally, on purpose
Examiner’s Tips
- Use specific examples to illustrate your points
- Demonstrate range in vocabulary through synonyms
- Show natural connection between ideas
- Include personal insights and reflections
- Maintain coherent structure in longer answers
These strategies will help you achieve a higher band score while discussing daily routines in your IELTS Speaking test.
