CELPIP Speaking Task 1: Giving Advice
Help a person choose a practical course of action and explain why it suits their situation.
At a glance
- Preparation
- 30 seconds
- Speaking
- 90 seconds
- Response
- 1 recorded task
Preparation and speaking have separate timers. Read the role and task carefully, then finish your response within the recording time.
Speaking lasts about 15 minutes overall. There is no prescribed word count; organize enough relevant detail to use the speaking time naturally.
Format reference: official Speaking study pack · current test format. Checked 4 October 2026.
Use your preparation time
Use the 30 seconds to choose two pieces of advice, a reason for each and one practical first step. Think about this person’s constraints rather than a general list of good habits.
Manage your speaking time
Suggested 90-second plan: a brief direct opening, two developed suggestions, then a short encouraging close. Speak to the person in the prompt throughout.
Response plans are MockPip suggestions; follow the official preparation and recording timers.
A technique for this task
Turn each suggestion into action + benefit: what should the listener do, and why will it help in this situation?
Try an original practice scenario
Practice scenario: A friend has been offered a weekend course but worries it will leave too little time for family. What would you advise?
This example is independently written for practice; it is not a question from an official exam.
Plan a clear response
- Address your friend directly and state your recommendation.
- Give two reasons connected to their circumstances, not general benefits.
- Offer one practical way to handle the main concern and close clearly.
Example of a useful opening
I would try the course for one term, but I would first agree on protected family time each weekend. That way you can find out whether it helps your career without committing indefinitely.
Use this as a model of structure. In your own attempt, respond naturally to the prompt you receive.
A common mistake
Listing options without recommending one leaves the listener unsure what advice you are giving.
Check your recording
Can your listener identify your advice and at least two reasons for it? Play your response back, choose one thing to improve, and record another attempt. If feedback is available for your attempt, use it alongside what you hear yourself.
Your next timed exercise
Record your advice, then write down only the actions you recommended. If an action has no reason, add one in your next recording.
Check whether your answer completes the role, uses specific supporting details and ends before the recording timer expires.
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