Essential Set Phrases And Expressions For The Ielts Writing Speaking Modules Pdf May 2026

Essential Set Phrases & Expressions for IELTS Writing & Speaking

Below is a complete, ready-to-use collection of set phrases and sample sentences organized by task and function for IELTS Writing (Task 1 & 2) and Speaking (Parts 1–3). Use these to expand vocabulary, structure answers, and produce natural, coherent responses. Copy into a PDF or study sheet.

3.1 Part 1 (Personal questions – fluency)

Part 5: Sample Answer Snippets

Writing Task 2 (Opinion)

It is often argued that social media negatively affects interpersonal relationships. From my perspective, while there are some drawbacks, the benefits in terms of connectivity outweigh the harms. For instance, families living abroad can now stay in touch daily, which was impossible a generation ago. In conclusion, despite valid concerns, I believe social media has strengthened rather than weakened human bonds. Essential Set Phrases & Expressions for IELTS Writing

Speaking Part 3 (Speculation)

"If governments were to invest more in public transportation, it’s highly likely that traffic congestion would reduce significantly. That said, changing people’s habits is never easy, so a multi-faceted approach would be necessary." To buy time: That’s an interesting question

Part 1: The Writing Module

In the Writing module, set phrases serve as the "skeleton" of your essay or report. They provide coherence and cohesion, guiding the examiner through your argument.

Part 2: Essential Phrases for IELTS Speaking (Parts 1, 2, & 3)

In the speaking test, fluency is key. Using natural "discourse markers" gives you time to think without saying “ummm.” In stark contrast to X

1.5 Describing Peaks & Troughs

A. Academic Writing Task 1 (Describing Data and Trends)

Task 1 requires you to describe visual information (graphs, charts, maps, or processes). You need specific language to describe movement, time, and comparisons.

1. Introducing the Topic:

2. Describing Trends (Movement):

3. Making Comparisons: