How to Shine in the Cambridge C1 Advanced Speaking Exam

💬 How to Shine in the Cambridge C1 Advanced Speaking Exam: Expert Tips from a Teacher (andExaminer!)

The Cambridge C1 Advanced (CAE) Speaking Test can seem intimidating — two examiners, another candidate, and only 15 minutes to show what you can do! But with the right approach, it’s your chance to showcase your English naturally and confidently.

Having prepared hundreds of students for this exam (and having examined it myself), I’ve seen what works — and what doesn’t. Below are my top tips for each part of the Speaking Paper to help you perform at your best on test day.

🗣️ Part 1: Warming Up – Questions About You

This first part is short and simple. The examiner will ask you general questions about familiar topics like your studies, free time, or hometown.

✅ Keep it brief.
You don’t need to give long answers — 2–3 sentences are perfect.

✅ Avoid memorized answers.
I’ve seen candidates recite answers they’ve practiced — sometimes to completely different questions! It’s obvious when someone is performing a script instead of answering naturally. Listen carefully and respond to the question that is asked, not the one you hoped for.

✅ Ask if you need clarification.
If you don’t understand the question, don’t panic. Just say, “Sorry, could you repeat that, please?” The examiners won’t penalize you for this.

✅ Don’t obsess over grammar.
You’re not expected to squeeze in advanced structures in every sentence. Just answer naturally and clearly — the grammar and vocabulary will follow.

📸 Part 2: Comparing and Describing Photos

This is where many candidates lose marks — not because of weak English, but because they misunderstand what’s required.

✅ Pay attention to the question above the photos.
This is the most important part! It tells you what you should talk about. Don’t just describe what you see — focus on what the question asks.

✅ Be selective in your description.
Only mention parts of the photo that are relevant to the question. If the question is about teamwork, focus on how people are cooperating, not what colour their shirts are.

✅ Keep talking until the examiner stops you.
If you’ve already answered the main question and still have time, you can describe smaller details like what people are wearing or where they are. It’s harder to restart once you stop, so stay engaged until you hear “Thank you.”

✅ Use comparative language.
When switching between the photos, use linking phrases like:

• “Similarly, in the other photo…”
• “As in the first picture…”
• “On the other hand…”
• “However, in the second photo…”

These connectors make your answer sound more fluent and organized.

👥 Part 3: Discussion with Your Partner

This is a collaborative task — not a monologue! You’ll be given a question with several prompts and need to discuss them with your partner.

✅ Work together, not separately.
Don’t just talk at your partner. Ask for their opinion — “What do you think about this one?” — and react to what they say.

✅ Discuss all the prompts.
Don’t jump straight to your final decision. Talk about each option briefly before deciding which is best.

✅ Link your ideas.
Build on your partner’s thoughts instead of just agreeing. You can say things like:

• “That’s a good point, and I’d add that…”
• “I see what you mean, but I think…”
• “I agree to some extent, although…”

Avoid the “Yes, I agree” trap — it doesn’t show real communication skills.

💭 Part 4: Extended Discussion

The examiner will now ask you broader questions related to the topic of Part 3.

✅ Develop your answers.
Try to speak for about one minute per question. Give reasons, examples, and explanations — this is your chance to show off your higher-level language.

✅ Engage with your partner.
Listen to what your partner says and respond naturally. You can expand, challenge, or add to their ideas. Again, don’t just say “I agree” — show why.

✅ Stay relaxed and conversational.
Think of this part as a friendly discussion, not an interrogation. The examiners want to see how you express opinions, not whether you’re “right.”

✨ Final Advice

Remember: the Speaking Paper isn’t a memory test — it’s a communication test. The best candidates are those who sound natural, listen actively, and respond thoughtfully.

Focus on communication, collaboration, and confidence, and you’ll be well on your way to a great result.