IELTS Speaking · Part 3
Goals and the future: IELTS Speaking Part 3 questions
Last updated 2 September 2026
In short
Discussion questions
The examiner usually opens the discussion with: "Do you think it is important for people to set goals in life?", then works up from concrete to abstract.
Warm-up (concrete)
Why do some people achieve their goals while others give up?
Cause & effect
Development (societal)
Do you think young people today are more or less ambitious than before?
ComparisonIs it better to plan carefully for the future or to live for the present?
EvaluationShould schools do more to help students plan their futures?
Opinion
Depth (abstract & hypothetical)
How much control do you think people really have over their futures?
OpinionHow do you think people's goals and dreams might change in the coming decades?
SpeculationIf people could know their future, would they be happier?
HypothesisIs success more about luck or effort, in your view?
Evaluation
Useful vocabulary for this theme
Band 7+ language for discussing goals and the future.
- set your sights on
- decide firmly to aim for something
- “I've set my sights on studying abroad next year.”
- in the long run
- over an extended future period
- “I think this decision will really pay off in the long run.”
- achieve your goals
- successfully reach the aims you set
- “I'm determined to achieve my goals this year.”
- keep your options open
- avoid committing so choices stay available
- “For now I'd rather keep my options open.”
- a bright future
- very promising prospects ahead
- “With all her hard work, she has a bright future ahead of her.”