Mastering IELTS Speaking: How to Explain Complex Ideas Effectively

The IELTS Speaking test often challenges candidates to discuss intricate topics or explain complicated concepts. This task frequently appears in Part 2 and Part 3 of the speaking exam, making it crucial for test-takers to develop strategies for articulating complex ideas clearly and concisely. Let’s explore how to excel in this aspect of the IELTS Speaking test, focusing on the topic “Describe A Situation Where You Had To Explain Something Complicated.”

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

While Part 1 typically involves simpler, more personal questions, it’s an excellent opportunity to warm up and demonstrate your English proficiency. Here’s a sample question related to explanations:

Examiner: Do you find it easy to explain things to others?

Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“Generally speaking, I’d say I’m quite adept at explaining things. I believe my strength lies in breaking down complex ideas into simpler, more digestible parts. However, I must admit that when it comes to highly technical subjects outside my area of expertise, I sometimes struggle to find the right words. In those cases, I often resort to using analogies or visual aids to help convey my point more effectively.”

Part 2: Long Turn

Here’s a sample cue card related to our topic:

Describe a situation where you had to explain something complicated

You should say:
- What you had to explain
- Who you were explaining it to
- Why it was complicated
- How you managed to explain it

Sample answer (Band 6-7):
“I’d like to talk about a time when I had to explain a complex scientific concept to my younger cousin. The topic I needed to explain was photosynthesis, which is the process by which plants convert sunlight into energy.

I was helping my 10-year-old cousin with her science homework, and she was struggling to understand this concept. It was complicated because it involves several chemical reactions and abstract ideas that aren’t easily visible to the naked eye.

To make it easier for her to grasp, I decided to use a simple analogy. I compared the plant to a factory, with the leaves acting as solar panels that collect sunlight. I explained how the plant uses this ‘solar energy’ along with water and carbon dioxide to produce its own food, just like how a factory uses raw materials to produce goods.

I also drew a simple diagram to illustrate the process, showing how sunlight, water, and carbon dioxide enter the leaf, and how oxygen and glucose are produced as a result. By breaking down the concept into simpler terms and using visual aids, I was able to make the explanation more accessible and engaging for my young cousin.

In the end, she seemed to understand the basic idea of photosynthesis much better, and was even able to explain it back to me in her own words, which was quite rewarding.”

Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“I’d like to recount an instance where I had to elucidate the intricacies of blockchain technology to a group of non-technical colleagues at our company’s annual conference.

The challenge lay in demystifying this complex, decentralized system of record-keeping to an audience with limited technological background. The concept is particularly abstruse due to its integration of cryptography, distributed computing, and economic incentives – areas that aren’t typically within the purview of the average professional.

To tackle this formidable task, I employed a multi-faceted approach. Firstly, I used an analogy, likening blockchain to a digital ledger that’s duplicated and distributed across an entire network of computer systems. This helped establish a foundational understanding.

Next, I utilized visual aids, creating a simplified flowchart that illustrated how transactions are verified, blocked together, and added to the chain. This visual representation helped concretize the abstract concept.

I also incorporated interactive elements, using a simple demonstration with audience participation to simulate how consensus is reached in a blockchain network. This hands-on approach significantly enhanced engagement and comprehension.

Furthermore, I made sure to contextualize the technology by elucidating its potential applications across various industries, from finance to supply chain management. This helped my colleagues grasp the relevance and potential impact of blockchain in our business context.

Throughout the presentation, I was mindful to avoid technical jargon, instead opting for plain language and relatable examples. I also encouraged questions, using each as an opportunity to clarify and reinforce key points.

The efficacy of my explanation was evident in the subsequent Q&A session, where my colleagues asked insightful questions that demonstrated a solid grasp of the fundamental principles. This experience underscored the importance of tailoring complex information to your audience and utilizing a variety of explanatory techniques to enhance understanding.“

Explaining blockchain to non-technical audience

Follow-up questions:

1. How did you feel after successfully explaining the complex topic?
2. What other methods could you have used to make your explanation more effective?

Sample answers (Band 7-8):

1. “After successfully explaining the complex topic, I felt a profound sense of accomplishment and satisfaction. It was gratifying to see the proverbial ‘light bulb’ moment in my audience’s eyes as they grasped the concept. This experience bolstered my confidence in my communication skills and reinforced my belief in the power of clear, well-structured explanations.”

2. “To enhance the effectiveness of my explanation, I could have employed a few additional strategies. For instance, I might have used more real-world examples to illustrate practical applications of the technology. Additionally, creating a brief, engaging video animation could have further visualized the abstract concepts. Lastly, providing a concise handout with key points and diagrams would have given the audience a tangible reference to reinforce their understanding after the presentation.“

Part 3: Two-way Discussion

Examiner: Why do you think some people are better at explaining complex ideas than others?

Sample answer (Band 6-7):
“I believe some people are better at explaining complex ideas because they have a good understanding of the subject themselves. When you really know something well, it’s easier to break it down for others. Also, some people are naturally good communicators and can use simple language to describe difficult concepts. They might be good at using examples or analogies that make sense to their audience.”

Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“The ability to effectively elucidate complex ideas is, in my opinion, a multifaceted skill that stems from several factors. Primarily, it requires a profound understanding of the subject matter. Those who excel in explanations often possess not just surface-level knowledge, but a deep, intuitive grasp of the topic, allowing them to deconstruct and reconstruct ideas flexibly.

Moreover, superior explainers typically demonstrate high emotional intelligence and empathy. They can gauge their audience’s level of understanding and adapt their explanation accordingly, choosing appropriate analogies, examples, or levels of technicality.

Another crucial aspect is the ability to structure information logically and coherently. Skilled explainers can create a narrative around complex ideas, presenting information in a sequence that builds understanding progressively.

Lastly, effective communication of complex ideas often involves a degree of creativity. The best explainers can draw unexpected parallels or use novel metaphors that illuminate abstract concepts in relatable ways. This creative approach can make even the most intricate ideas accessible to a broader audience.”

Examiner: How has technology changed the way we explain things to each other?

Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“Technology has revolutionized the way we explain concepts to one another in several significant ways. Firstly, it has provided us with a plethora of visual aids and multimedia tools that can enhance our explanations. For instance, we can now use interactive diagrams, animations, and simulations to illustrate complex processes or abstract ideas, making them more tangible and easier to grasp.

Secondly, technology has made information more accessible than ever before. With just a few clicks, we can access expert explanations on almost any topic, which can help us better understand concepts before we attempt to explain them to others.

Furthermore, technology has enabled real-time, long-distance communication, allowing us to explain things to people across the globe instantaneously. This has opened up possibilities for collaborative learning and explanation on an unprecedented scale.

However, it’s worth noting that technology has also created new challenges. The abundance of information can sometimes lead to information overload, making it harder to distill and communicate the most relevant points. Additionally, our increasing reliance on technology for explanations may be diminishing our ability to explain things face-to-face or without visual aids.

Overall, while technology has undoubtedly enhanced our capacity to explain complex ideas in many ways, it’s important to strike a balance and maintain our fundamental communication skills.”

Technology-enhanced explanation methods

Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores

1. Elucidate /ɪˈluːsɪdeɪt/ (verb): To explain or make something clear; to throw light upon.
   Example: “I’ll try to elucidate the concept of quantum entanglement.”

2. Demystify /diːˈmɪstɪfaɪ/ (verb): To make something clear and easy to understand.
   Example: “The professor’s goal was to demystify complex mathematical theories for his students.”

3. Analogous /əˈnæləɡəs/ (adjective): Comparable in certain respects, typically used to make an explanation clearer.
   Example: “The structure of an atom is analogous to our solar system.”

4. Deconstruct /ˌdiːkənˈstrʌkt/ (verb): To analyze and break down into constituent parts.
   Example: “To explain the plot, I had to deconstruct the entire novel.”

5. Articulate /ɑːrˈtɪkjuleɪt/ (verb): Express (an idea or feeling) fluently and coherently.
   Example: “She was able to articulate her research findings clearly to the non-specialist audience.”

Describe a childhood game you enjoyed can also be a challenging topic that requires clear explanation skills. Similarly, when you describe a skill you are learning, you may need to break down complex processes into simpler terms.

Examiner’s Advice

To excel in explaining complex ideas during your IELTS Speaking test:

1. Practice breaking down complex topics into simpler components. This skill is invaluable across all parts of the speaking test.

2. Develop a repertoire of analogies and examples for various subjects. These can be powerful tools for making abstract concepts more concrete.

3. Enhance your vocabulary, particularly terms related to explanation and clarification. This will allow you to articulate your thoughts more precisely.

4. Work on your delivery, ensuring you speak at an appropriate pace and use pauses effectively to allow your listener to process information.

5. Engage in discussions about complex topics regularly. This will improve your ability to handle unexpected questions and elaborate on your ideas.

Remember, the key to a high score lies not just in what you say, but how effectively you communicate your ideas. Describe a time when you stayed up late working on something complex could be an excellent opportunity to showcase these skills.

By implementing these strategies and continuously practicing, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle any complex explanation task in your IELTS Speaking test. Whether you need to describe a time when you gave someone a surprise or describe a famous public figure from your country, these skills will serve you well in articulating your thoughts clearly and effectively.