Mastering IELTS Speaking: Discussing Numbers

In IELTS Speaking Part 1, discussing numbers can often come up in relation to your daily activities, preferences, or abilities. These questions are an excellent opportunity to showcase your ability to talk about abstract and concrete concepts like math, routines, and personal preferences. Below are some sample answers with useful phrases for discussing numbers.

### 1. Are You Good at Math?

When asked about your skills in math, highlight your abilities and relate them to practical aspects of life.

Example Answer:

Generally speaking, I consider myself quite proficient at math. For one thing, I’ve always found numbers and calculations to be logical and straightforward, which makes solving mathematical problems enjoyable for me. Moreover, my strong foundation in math has been beneficial in various aspects of my life, from academics to daily decision-making. All in all, I feel confident in my math abilities.

Why this answer works:

  • Confident tone: You present your math skills with confidence, using words like “proficient” and “strong foundation.”

  • Relevance: Mentioning how math helps in daily decision-making makes the answer practical and relatable.

### 2. Do You Usually Use Numbers?

This question allows you to describe your interaction with numbers in everyday life, making it an opportunity to discuss practical tasks.

Example Answer:

Absolutely, I use numbers on a daily basis. For instance, I frequently deal with numbers at work, whether it’s analyzing data, budgeting, or making calculations. Additionally, numbers play a role in everyday tasks like managing time, measuring ingredients while cooking, or keeping track of expenses. In a nutshell, numbers are an integral part of my routine.

Why this answer works:

  • Variety of examples: The answer covers both professional and personal uses of numbers, making it well-rounded.

  • Strong conclusion: Using “in a nutshell” emphasizes that numbers play a significant role in your life.

### 3. Are You Good at Remembering Phone Numbers?

For this question, you can discuss how technology has changed our reliance on memorizing numbers.

Example Answer:

To be honest, I’m not particularly good at remembering phone numbers. In this day and age, with smartphones storing all our contacts, I find it unnecessary to memorize numbers. However, there are a few important numbers, like those of close family members, that I’ve committed to memory. All things considered, I rely more on technology than my memory for phone numbers.

Why this answer works:

  • Honesty: You acknowledge a common trend (relying on technology), which makes the answer relatable.

  • Balance: While you admit not being good at remembering numbers, you mention the few that you do memorize, giving the answer depth.

### 4. What’s Your Favorite Number?

When answering this type of question, provide a thoughtful explanation of why a certain number stands out to you.

Example Answer:

Honestly speaking, I don’t have a specific favorite number, but if I had to choose, I’d say the number 7. For one thing, it’s often considered a lucky number in many cultures, which adds to its appeal. Additionally, 7 has a pleasing symmetry and appears frequently in nature and human history, which I find intriguing. At the end of the day, it’s a number that has a certain charm for me.

Why this answer works:

  • Personal touch: Discussing the cultural significance and personal reasons behind liking the number 7 makes the answer more engaging.

  • Structure: You use transitions like “for one thing” and “at the end of the day” to create a cohesive and well-organized response.