Linking Words for IELTS Speaking [EUS ‘The linking words in IELTS speaking help the examiner follow your ideas when you are talking, Connecting words are part of the marking criteria of Fluency and Coherence, which is 25% of your marks. However, linking words are used naturally in IELTS speaking. They should NOT be over used. Itis not the same as writing where you need to use a range and show flexibility. In speaking, you CAN repeat ing words. The list below are the most usual linking words and phrases to use in IELTS speaking, inking Words for IELTS Speal ‘Adding more information | Time Phrases Causes and Solutions and now | guess it's because also at the moment ‘The main reason is as well as at present, It was caused by another reason is, right now Because these days | suppose the best way to deal nowadays with this problem is in the past reckon the only answer before The best way to solve then at that time years ago when I was younger Expressing ideas Giving Examples Being Clear I think one important I guess one difference I suppose the main difference between X and Y i for example expression to explain your point again more clearly or get your answer back on track. What | mean is What | want to say is As Iwas saying Contrasting and concessions but ‘on the other hand while although or. ‘There is only one speaking test for al IELTS students. Both GT and academic students take the same ‘est and all speaking tips and words are suitable for everyone, For model answers, common mistakes and tips, please see my blog www jeltsliz com and visit the speaking section, wow ieltsliz.comLinking Words for IELTS Speaking (ES Examples of Linking Words in IELTS Speaking Look at the following questions and answers. See what linking words are contained in the answers. Q. Do you eat much fruit? A. Yes, Ido. love tropical fruit like mangoes and pineapples. Comments: We would not use "for example" in this type of sentence which relates to our everyday life. Q. Do you think fast food is bad? A. Yes, | do. Ifit is eaten too often, it can cause problems such as heart disease or diabetes. Also, it can lead to weight problems which are really common nowadays. Comments: You could use "such as" or "for example" in this sentence because the content is more serious. Please note that we don't use "furthermore" or “in addition" for speaking, instead we use "also" or "and". Q. Do children play similar games today that they played in the past? ‘A.No, I don't think they do, Before, children used to play simple games like hide and seek or they used to play with simple handmade toys. But, these days, kids tend to prefer computer games and their toys are battery operated. Comments: This answer contained time phrases for the past and present "before" and "these days”. It also had an example "like". "Like" is the main example linking word for speaking and can be repeated again and again. This answer also uses a contrasting linking word "but". "But" is the main contrasting linking word in speaking and can be repeated many times. Mistakes with Linking Words in Speaking The example below will help you understand how not to answer a question with linking words. Q. Do you like going out with friends? A. Yes, Ido. Firstly, it gives me a chance to relax. Secondly, I can catch up on their news. Last but not least, it allows me the opportunity to visit new places. Comments: The method of linking is too formal. itis inappropriate and is not a good for a high score. See below what the answer should be: ‘A. Yes, Ido. It's great being able to chill out and catch up with their news. Also we often go out to new places which | really enjoy. Comments: This answer was more natural and would be marked higher in IELTS speaking. The linking words are used appropriately (and / also). www.ieltsliz.comLinking Words for IELTS Speaking [ETN Tips for Linking Devices in IELTS Speaking '* Don't use formal linking words for simple questions about yourself and your life, © Don't worry about repeating linking words. This i ifferent to IELTS writing. ‘+ The most common linking words for speaking are: and, but, because, also, like (for giving examples) ‘+ "Like" is only used as a linking word to give examples in speaking NOT in writing. © You do not get a higher score because used a range of linking devices. ‘+ Linking words in speaking are just to help the listener understand better. © Linking words are used naturally not formally in IELTS speaking. ‘© Linking words are part of the criterion of "Fluency and Coherence" which is 25% of your marks. It is essential to use a wide range of linking words for IELTS writing to get a high score. Please visit iy blog to get a free download of the linking words with tips: www. ieltsliz.com. Visit the writing task 2 page. You will also find model essays and free video lessons, IELTS Speaking Questions For IELTS speaking part 1, part 2 and part 3 questions, please visit my speaking page on. www. ieltliz.com, You will also find model answers and free video lessons.