Part 1.2 is the second Multilevel Speaking task and tests B1. Two pictures appear on screen: you compare them, then answer further questions on the theme.
What the task looks like
For example: one picture shows students working in a library, the other a young man studying at home with a laptop. The question: "Compare these two pictures. Which way of studying do you prefer, and why?".
The answer shape
- What they share (1 sentence): "Both pictures show people studying".
- How they differ (2-3 sentences): the place, the people, the mood. "In the first picture..., whereas in the second...".
- Your preference and why (2 sentences).
- Follow-up questions: short answers, each with a reason.
Model answer
Compare these two pictures. Which way of studying do you prefer, and why?
Both pictures show young people studying, but in very different settings. In the first picture, a group of students are working in a quiet library, surrounded by books, whereas in the second one a young man is studying alone at home with a laptop and a cup of tea.
The library looks more focused and formal, while the home looks more relaxed and comfortable.
Personally, I prefer studying in a library, because at home I get distracted far too easily by my phone and my family. In a library, seeing other people working makes me want to work too.
Useful phrases
| Phrase | When to use it |
|---|---|
| Both pictures show... | What they share |
| In the first picture..., whereas in the second... | A difference |
| The main difference is that... | The key difference |
| ...looks more relaxed / formal than... | Comparing |
| It seems that... / It looks as if... | Guessing |
| Personally, I'd prefer... because... | Your preference |
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In IELTS Buddy an AI examiner talks to you as in the real test and gives an estimated band on all 4 criteria. 3 mock tests are free.
Typical mistakes
- Only describing. "In the first picture there is a library. In the second picture there is a man." That is not comparing: you need "whereas", "while", "unlike".
- Listing every detail. The colours and the number of chairs do not matter: name the main difference.
- A preference without a reason. Always add "because".
Frequently asked questions
How much time is there for part 1.2?
Preparation sources describe a short thinking time and about 30 to 45 seconds per answer. The test screen shows the exact time.
Reading is not enough: speak
In IELTS Buddy an AI examiner talks to you as in the real test and gives an estimated band on all 4 criteria. 3 mock tests are free.
