As an IELTS instructor with over two decades of experience, I’ve encountered this IELTS Speaking question, or variations of it, countless times. It’s a question that can easily catch students off guard. Why? Because it delves into a realm beyond general hobbies. This question probes your engagement with material relevant to your professional field, assessing not just your English proficiency but also your dedication to continuous learning.

Understanding the “Professional Books” Question

The examiners aren’t expecting you to recite complex theories or industry jargon. The beauty of this question lies in its open-ended nature. It’s an opportunity to showcase:

• Vocabulary Range: Demonstrate your command of language by using synonyms for “read” (e.g., browse, skim, delve into) and by accurately describing different types of professional publications (e.g., journals, reports, industry magazines).
• Fluency and Coherence: Speak naturally and link your ideas smoothly. Use discourse markers (e.g., furthermore, however, in addition) to guide the listener.
• Ideas and Opinions: Even if you don’t read professional books frequently, you can still discuss the importance of staying updated in your field, alternative ways you acquire knowledge, or even mention a specific article or report that recently caught your attention.

Crafting Your Response

Let’s break down how to structure a strong response:

1. Directly answer the question.

• If you do read professional books: “Absolutely, I make it a point to…” or “Yes, in my line of work, it’s essential to…”
• If you read less frequently: “While I don’t read entire books cover-to-cover very often, I do…”
• If you rarely read professional books: “To be honest, I tend to focus on… However, I recognize the value in…”

2. Elaborate and provide context.

• Explain your reading habits: “I usually set aside some time each week to…” or “I find myself drawn to articles that focus on…”
• Give specific examples: “Recently, I finished reading a fascinating study on…” or “There’s a great online journal I follow called…”
• Connect to your profession: “This helps me stay updated on the latest trends in…” or “It’s crucial for my job to be aware of…”

3. Offer an opinion or reflection.

• Share your thoughts: “I find it incredibly beneficial to…” or “It’s a great way for me to relax and unwind after work.”
• Discuss the impact of your reading: “This knowledge has helped me to…” or “It’s definitely influenced my approach to…”

<Professional Reading>

Example Response

“Do I ever read professional books? Absolutely! Working in marketing means staying ahead of the curve. I subscribe to a couple of key industry journals and make time each week to scan for interesting articles. Recently, I’ve been delving into a book on consumer behavior, which I find fascinating. It’s helping me understand how to better tailor our marketing campaigns.”

Tips for Success

• Be Authentic: Don’t fabricate reading habits. The examiners are more interested in your ability to communicate effectively.
• Stay Relevant: Keep your response focused on professional development, not leisure reading.
• Practice Makes Perfect: Rehearse answering this question and similar ones to build confidence.

Remember, the IELTS Speaking test assesses your ability to communicate effectively in English. Be confident, showcase your language skills, and demonstrate your commitment to professional growth. Good luck!