How to Introduce Yourself in IELTS Sample

Latest Update:  The upcoming latest IELTS May test dates are as follows: Thursday, 8 May 2025, Academic and General Training Saturday, 17 May 2025, Academic only Saturday, 24 May 2025, Academic and General Training

The IELTS (International English Language Testing System) Speaking test can be nerve-wracking for many test-takers, but Part 1 is crucial. It's the introduction and interview segment. How you introduce yourself in IELTS can significantly influence the tone for the rest of the test. 

Over 3 million IELTS tests are taken globally every year. A confident and clear self-introduction can positively influence examiners' perception of a candidate's speaking skills. In this blog, you'll cover the best strategies for introducing yourself effectively, common mistakes to avoid, and IELTS tips & advice to make a lasting first impression.

How to Introduce Yourself in IELTS Speaking Part 1?

Among the various types of IELTS exams, the speaking test has three parts, and among them, Part 1, the introduction and interview segment, is more than just a formality. It's your first opportunity to make a positive impression on the examiner and enhance your speaking band score.

While the questions might seem basic, the speaking test format & how you respond to it matter. Your answers will set the tone for the rest of the conversation, and a clear, confident introduction can work in your favor. 

Let's break down how to handle each aspect effectively.

Greeting the Examiner

A strong greeting is the foundation of a good first impression. The examiner is not just looking for politeness, but also assessing your ability to communicate effectively from the start. A warm and confident greeting can help calm your nerves and establish a rapport with the examiner.

Example:

• “Good morning! It’s a pleasure to meet you.”
• “Hello, I hope you're having a great day.”
• “Good morning! Nice to meet you.”
• “Hello, thank you for having me.”
• “Good afternoon! I’m glad to be here.”

Quick Tip: Smile and maintain eye contact. A simple, confident tone matters more than using fancy phrases.

Stating Your Full Name

Your name is one of the easiest things to say confidently, but it's surprising how many candidates rush through it or mumble. Don't be afraid to speak slowly and enunciate each part of your name clearly, especially if it's not common in English-speaking countries.

Example:

• “My name is Riya Dutta.”
• “I’m Sandeep Mehra, you can call me Sandeep.”
• “My full name is Kiran Bala Sharma.”
• “I’m Mohammed Faizan, and I prefer Faizan.”
• “I go by Anusha, short for Anushka Ramesh.”

Quick Tip: If your name is difficult to pronounce, avoid rushing through it. You can even add a brief explanation if necessary: “My name is Ashwini. It’s pronounced as ‘Ash-wini’.”

Mentioning Your Hometown

Here, the examiner is looking for more than just a location. Share something specific that makes your hometown unique to you. This helps show your fluency in giving detailed responses while allowing you to talk about something you're familiar with.

Example:

• “I’m from Lucknow, a city known for its Mughlai food and polite culture.”
• “I live in Dehradun, which is close to the Himalayas and great for weekend treks.”
• “I come from Nagpur, often called the orange city due to its citrus industry.”
• “I’m from Kochi, a port city with a mix of colonial and modern influences.”
• “My hometown is Bhopal, well known for its lakes and greenery.”

Quick Tip: Pick a detail that adds personality, not just geography.

Did you know? Pune is known as the "Oxford of the East" due to its numerous educational institutions. This information adds depth to your answer and shows that you can discuss your hometown with insight and nuance.

Discussing Your Occupation or Studies

Talking about your studies or occupation is a chance to show not just what you do, but why you're passionate about it. The goal is to avoid sounding like you're reciting a script. Instead, make your response conversational while adding a bit of insight into your motivations or interests.

Example (For a Student):

• “I study Economics at Delhi University because I’m curious about how markets affect daily life.”
• “I’m in my final year of BTech in Mechanical Engineering at NIT Trichy.”
• “I’m doing an MBA with a focus on marketing. I enjoy working on branding strategies.”
• “I’m pursuing Biotechnology at Amity; I’m especially interested in genetics.”
• “I’m studying English Literature. I enjoy analyzing stories and their cultural impact.”

Example (For a Working Professional):

• “I work as a civil engineer, mainly focused on infrastructure design.”
• “I’m a business analyst at a startup that builds fintech solutions.”
• “I’m a school teacher. I teach high school physics and enjoy mentoring students.”
• “I’m in retail management, handling sales operations in a clothing chain.”
• “I work in customer support for an edtech platform, helping users resolve issues.”

Quick Tip: Avoid overly detailed technical terms when explaining your studies or occupation. The examiner isn't seeking in-depth knowledge; they evaluate your ability to speak clearly and stay on topic.

Sharing Personal Interests or Hobbies

Many candidates treat this as an afterthought, but this is your chance to show the examiner that you are well-rounded. Share hobbies or interests that make you stand out or highlight something unique. Avoid the generic, “I like reading books,” unless you can give more context.

Example:

• “I enjoy sketching—it helps me relax and improves my focus.”
• “I’m into football and play with a local team every weekend.”
• “Reading historical fiction is a favourite of mine; I enjoy learning through stories.”
• “I recently picked up gardening. It’s surprisingly therapeutic.”
• “I love playing the guitar and sometimes write my own songs.”

Quick Tip: Add one sentence that connects the hobby to a skill or feeling, like relaxation, creativity, discipline, etc.

A well-prepared introduction will help you stay calm, build rapport with the examiner, and set a positive tone for the rest of the test.

Maximize your IELTS speaking performance with upGrad's free IELTS preparation course. Gain targeted lessons, expert feedback, and practical strategies to excel in all sections, including self-introductions, speaking tasks, and more!

Although you have a brief idea, let's look at a few sample self-introductions for the IELTS Speaking test!

Sample Self-Introductions for IELTS Speaking

In Part 1 of the IELTS Speaking test, the examiner will typically ask you questions related to your personal life, background, and interests. A strong IELTS speaking introduction not only showcases your speaking ability but also reflects your personality.

Below are a few sample self-introductions along with practical exercises to help you craft your own confident and effective introduction.

1. Introducing Yourself with Your Name and Hometown

Use this opportunity to engage the examiner by sharing something interesting about your hometown.

Sample:

• “Hi, my name is Rahul Kapoor, and I’m from Jaipur, Rajasthan. Jaipur is known for its rich history and beautiful palaces. I love living there because of the mix of old-world charm and modern-day conveniences.”

Practice Exercise:

• Try introducing yourself by sharing your name and hometown, then add a unique fact about where you’re from. For example, if you're from Kochi, you might say, "I'm Anjali, and I'm from Kochi, a coastal city in Kerala, known for its backwaters and beautiful beaches."

2. Talking About Your Studies or Job

It's not just about mentioning your course or job; it’s about showing why you enjoy it.

Sample (Student):

• “I’m currently studying Computer Science at the University of Delhi. I've always been fascinated by how technology impacts our lives, and I hope to work in artificial intelligence after graduation.”

Sample (Professional):

• “I work as a financial analyst for a multinational company in Bangalore. My role involves analyzing market trends to help our clients make investment decisions. It’s a fast-paced job, but I enjoy the challenge.”

Practice Exercise:

• Introduce yourself as a student or professional, then explain why you chose your field of study or career. Challenge yourself to add a specific detail that shows your passion, like, “I chose this field because I'm passionate about renewable energy.”

3. Describing Your Hobbies or Interests

While many people might say, “I like reading,” try to add depth by explaining why you like the activity and how it shapes you.

Sample:

• “In my free time, I enjoy playing badminton. It’s something I’ve done since childhood, and I love the physical challenge. I also play in a local league every weekend.”

Practice Exercise:

• Think about your hobbies and pick one that you're passionate about. Instead of just listing the activity, describe how you got into it and what it means to you. For instance, if you like cooking, explain how experimenting with new recipes is a way to relax and be creative.

4. Sharing a Personal Story About Your Hometown

Instead of just stating where you're from, share a personal story or experience that relates to your hometown.

Sample:

• “I’m from Chandigarh, which is a well-planned city in India. One thing I really love about Chandigarh is the Rock Garden. I remember visiting it as a child and being amazed at how the artist used waste materials to create something so beautiful.”

Practice Exercise:

• Write a short story about your hometown, highlighting something unique. Practice delivering it in a way that feels conversational, not scripted. This adds a personal touch to your introduction, helping you stand out from the crowd.

5. Talking About Your Future Goals or Aspirations

Sometimes, you may be asked to share your future goals or plans. This is a good opportunity to show how focused and motivated you are.

Sample:

• “In the future, I hope to become a software developer specializing in cybersecurity. Given the increasing threats to online safety, I believe there’s a growing need for experts in this field.”

Practice Exercise:

• Practice explaining your future aspirations clearly and confidently. Whether it’s related to your studies or career, think about the long-term impact of your goals and how they align with your personal values.

6. Combining Multiple Aspects into One Introduction

This is where you can blend information about your name, hometown, studies, job, and hobbies in one comprehensive, fluid introduction.

Sample:

• “Hi, I’m Priya Sharma from Pune. I’m studying Economics at Symbiosis University because I’m fascinated by how economic policies shape societies. Outside of my studies, I love playing tennis and volunteering with a local charity that focuses on education for underprivileged children.”

Practice Exercise:

• Try combining all these aspects into a single introduction. Challenge yourself to weave your name, background, education, work, and interests into a concise and engaging narrative. This will give you the confidence to handle a variety of introductory questions smoothly.

These exercises are designed to help you think on your feet, ensuring you stay composed when the real test begins. Remember, it's not just about speaking well; it's about sounding natural and confident.

Also Read: 50+ Essential Idioms for IELTS Speaking to Improve Fluency.

Next, let's explore various topics and questions the examiner may randomly select and ask in a group setting.

Understanding the Next Sections of the IELTS Speaking Test

In the IELTS Speaking test, after Part 1, the examiner moves on to Part 2 and Part 3, where you'll be asked questions based on randomly selected topics, among the IELTS cue cards.

These questions are grouped by theme. It’s essential to familiarize yourself with these IELTS speaking topics, as they can appear in any order. 

Let’s explore these topics ahead!

1. Personal Experiences and Background

These questions focus on your life experiences, upbringing, and background. The examiner might ask you to talk about an event, a memory, or something that shaped your personality.

Here are some practical examples:

Example	Practical Answer
Can you describe an important event in your life?	I remember moving to a new city for university; it shaped my independence and broadened my view on life.
What was your favorite childhood memory?	My favorite memory is a family trip to the mountains, which made me appreciate nature more.
Tell me about a person who has influenced you a lot.	My grandmother influenced me profoundly by teaching me the importance of kindness and hard work.
Describe a significant life-changing moment.	Volunteering for a local charity changed my perspective on empathy and societal issues.
What has been the happiest day of your life?	Graduation was the happiest day for me, as it marked the end of a long journey with my family by my side.

Quick Tip:
When answering these questions, don't just talk about the event. Share how it impacted you, how it changed your perspective, and what you learned from it.

2. Hobbies and Leisure Activities

These questions focus on your interests and how you spend your free time. They're meant to help you discuss everyday topics naturally and engagingly.

Here are some practical examples:

Example	Practical Answer
What do you do in your free time?	I love playing badminton as it keeps me fit and helps me de-stress after a busy day.
Do you prefer indoor or outdoor activities?	I prefer outdoor activities like hiking, which allow me to connect with nature.
Have your hobbies changed over the years?	Yes, I used to play video games, but now I enjoy reading personal development books.
What hobby do you enjoy the most?	Cooking is my favorite hobby. I love trying out new recipes and experimenting with flavors.
How did you develop your interest in your favorite hobby?	I developed an interest in painting in high school, and it became my creative outlet.

3. Work and Education

Here, you’ll be asked about your current studies or job, your plans, and your opinions on education and career. The examiner is testing how well you can talk about topics that are a significant part of your life.

Here are some practical examples:

Example	Practical Answer
What are you studying, and why did you choose that field?	I’m studying Computer Science because technology fascinates me and I want to contribute to solving real-world problems.
Tell me about your job. What are your responsibilities?	As a marketing manager, I strategize campaigns and analyze consumer behavior to drive growth.
How do you think education will change in the future?	Education will become more digital, with more personalized learning options through online platforms.
What motivated you to choose your career path?	I chose marketing because I enjoy understanding consumer behavior and finding ways to engage with audiences.
What challenges do you face at work?	The biggest challenge is keeping up with the fast-changing trends in digital marketing.

Quick Tip:
Be sure to discuss not just what you do but why you do it. This shows your ability to think critically and explain your motivations clearly.

4. Family and Relationships

This section may ask you about family dynamics, relationships with friends, or how you interact with people. These questions are designed to help you explore your social side and communication skills.

Here are some practical examples:

Example	Practical Answer
How do you usually spend time with your family?	I spend weekends with my family, cooking meals together and going on short outings.
Tell me about a close friend of yours.	I have a childhood friend who has always supported me, especially during challenging times.
Do you think relationships are meaningful in life? Why?	Relationships are essential because they provide emotional support and foster personal growth.
How do you maintain relationships with friends?	I keep in touch with friends through regular catch-ups and stay connected via social media.
What values do you consider important in a friendship?	Honesty, trust, and mutual respect are the foundation of every friendship.

5. Technology and Communication

Technology is a central theme in modern life, and questions about it often touch on how it has impacted society, communication, and even personal life.

Here are some practical examples:

Example	Practical Answer
How do you communicate with your friends and family?	I communicate with my family through video calls, and with friends via text messages.
What role does technology play in your education or work?	Technology is integral to my education; I use online tools to manage assignments and research.
Do you think social media has a positive or negative impact on society?	Social media has both positives and negatives—while it helps us stay connected, it can also create unrealistic expectations.
How do you think technology has changed relationships?	Technology has made communication faster, but sometimes it leads to less meaningful interactions.
What is your opinion on the use of smartphones in daily life?	Smartphones have made daily tasks easier, but excessive use can reduce face-to-face interaction.

Quick Tip:
Consider both the positive and negative aspects of technology in your responses. Showing a balanced perspective helps you demonstrate critical thinking.

6. Travel and Places

In this topic, you'll be asked about places you've visited, places you'd like to go, and the impact of travel on your life. These questions often bring in cultural awareness and personal preferences.

Here are some practical examples:

Example	Practical Answer
Tell me about a place you have visited that you liked.	Paris was an unforgettable experience; I loved exploring historical sites like the Louvre.
Is there a place you would like to visit in the future?	I would love to visit Japan to immerse myself in its culture and history.
What are the advantages of traveling to other countries?	Traveling broadens perspectives and exposes you to new cultures, enhancing personal growth.
Do you enjoy visiting historical places?	Yes, I love visiting historical places as they offer a glimpse into different cultures' pasts.
How does traveling affect your perspective on life?	Traveling has made me more open-minded and appreciative of diverse ways of life.

The key is to practice giving detailed, thoughtful answers while maintaining a calm and conversational tone.

Also Read: Cue Card Topics With Answers for IELTS: Your Ultimate Guide to Ace Your Speaking Test

Now, let’s shift focus to the most frequent errors candidates make during the IELTS speaking test and how you can avoid them.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in Self-Introductions

With more than 4 million tests taken worldwide in recent years, almost a third of people have scored a 7.0 or higher, and the average overall IELTS band score was more than 6.0.

While preparing, it's easy to fall into certain traps during your self-introduction. Some candidates focus too much on memorizing their responses, while others may rush through answers or use language that doesn't quite fit. 

Let's look at these mistakes and discuss how to avoid them.

1. Overly Rehearsed Responses

Memorizing answers to common questions may seem like a good strategy, but it can backfire. If your response sounds too rehearsed, it will come across as unnatural. 

The examiner is not just evaluating your knowledge but also your ability to converse naturally in English. Over-rehearsing can also make you sound stiff or robotic.

Example:

• “Hello, my name is Ravi Kumar. I am 24 years old, and I am from Delhi. I am currently pursuing a degree in Business Administration at XYZ University, and I hope to work in marketing in the future.”

This response sounds like a script and lacks a conversational flow.

Tip:
Instead of memorizing a set response, practice discussing different aspects of your life without focusing on the exact wording. Try to answer as if you were speaking to a friend. This will help you sound more natural and confident.

2. Providing Irrelevant Information

While it’s important to be descriptive in your answers, providing irrelevant details can distract from your main points. If you go off-topic, the examiner might find it difficult to follow your response, which could affect your clarity score.

Example:

• “I’m from Chennai. It's a really hot place, and there's a lot of traffic. I like to play cricket, and I also enjoy swimming. In the evenings, I often go to the beach with my friends, and I like the sound of the waves. My parents also go for long walks in the morning, and sometimes we visit my grandparents' house.”

While some of this information is relevant, it’s too much and veers off track. The examiner didn’t ask for details about your family or your grandparents.

Tip:
Stick to the core question. If you’re asked about your hometown, talk briefly about its key features and why it’s significant to you, but avoid going into unnecessary details that don’t directly address the question.

3. Speaking Too Fast or Too Slow

Speaking too quickly is a common mistake, especially when you're nervous. This can make your speech difficult to understand, and it may give the impression that you're rushing to get through the test. 

On the other hand, speaking too slowly can make your answers sound less confident and can test your ability to articulate thoughts clearly.

Example of speaking too fast:

• “I’mfromBangaloreandI’mcurrentlyworkingasthemarketingheadinlocalagencyandIreallyenjoyworkingwithclientsanddevelopingstrategies!”

This rapid-fire delivery makes it hard for the examiner to catch every word, which can harm your clarity score.

Example of speaking too slowly:

• “I... am... from... Jaipur... and... I... am... studying... engineering...”

Speaking too slowly can make your answers sound forced or hesitant.

Tip:
Aim for a moderate pace. Record yourself speaking and listen to the playback. This will help you adjust your speed and identify if you're talking too fast or too slow.

4. Using Complex Vocabulary Incorrectly

Using sophisticated vocabulary can make you sound impressive, but it’s crucial to use words you are comfortable with. 

Overloading your response with complex words that you don't fully understand can result in mistakes, making your speech sound awkward or even incorrect. Remember, clarity and accuracy are more important than using “big” words.

Example:

• “I’m from Kolkata, which is an urbane city with a diverse populace. The vibrancy of the city is unparalleled, and I’m particularly fond of its monumental architecture and indomitable culture.”

In this example, “urbane,” “diverse populace,” and “indomitable” sound out of place and unnatural for a self-introduction.

Tip:
Use words you know well and are confident with. For example, instead of “urbane,” simply say, “a modern city.” Focus on clear, simple language that conveys your thoughts effectively.

Also Read: Mastering IELTS Speaking: The Ultimate Vocabulary Enhancement Guide

Avoiding these common mistakes in your self-introduction is key to making a positive impression in the IELTS speaking test.

Now, let’s discuss strategies that can help you excel in the speaking section and achieve a high IELTS band score.

Tips to Score Band 7 and Above in IELTS Speaking

Achieving a Band 7 or higher in the speaking section requires clear communication, effective use of vocabulary, and a solid command of grammar for IELTS. 

The examiners assess various criteria to determine your band score. By focusing on specific areas, you can significantly improve your performance. 

Let's explore the IELTS tips & tricks that will contribute to a high score:

1. Fluency and Coherence

Fluency means speaking smoothly, without long pauses, while coherence ensures your ideas are logically organized. To score Band 7 or higher, aim for a steady pace and clear transitions between thoughts.

• Avoid long pauses: Use some top phrases for speaking tests, such as “That reminds me of…” or “For example,” to keep the conversation flowing.
• Expand your answers: Instead of short responses, explain your point in more detail.

2. Lexical Resource

This assesses your range of vocabulary. To score Band 7+, use both common and less common words naturally, avoiding repetitive language.

• Use synonyms: Instead of repeating “I like,” try “I enjoy” or “I’m fond of.”
• Stay relevant: Ensure your vocabulary fits the question context.

3. Grammatical Range and Accuracy

This evaluates your ability to use a variety of grammar structures. To score Band 7, combine simple and complex sentences with minimal mistakes.

• Use a mix of sentence types: Incorporate both simple and more complex sentences.
• Practice tenses: Ensure you can confidently use past, present, and future tenses.

4. Pronunciation

Clear pronunciation is crucial. It doesn’t require a native accent, but your speech should be understandable. Focus on stress, intonation, and sounds that might be difficult for you.

• Work on stress and intonation: Emphasize key words in a sentence to sound natural.
• Focus on challenging sounds: Practice sounds that you find difficult, especially those unique to English.

While the exam evaluates your ability to speak English, how you approach the questions can make a significant difference to your score. 

Also Read: 13 Tips to Score Band 7 in the IELTS Speaking Test

Let’s see some essential do’s and don’ts to keep in mind, ensuring that you maximize your performance!

Do’s and Don’ts in IELTS Speaking Exam

Knowing what to focus on and what to avoid during the IELTS Speaking test can make a substantial difference. These do’s and don’ts aren’t just about being technically correct; they also ensure you come across as a fluent, confident, and natural English speaker.

Below is a straightforward list to guide you through the test with a sharp focus on achieving a Band 7 or higher:

Do's	Don'ts
Be Confident: Confidence is essential. Even if you're unsure of the answer, speak clearly and confidently.	Don’t Memorize: Avoid rote learning responses. Sounding rehearsed will hurt your score.
Expand Your Answers: Instead of giving one-sentence answers, explain your thoughts in detail. This shows your fluency and ability to express yourself.	Don’t Rush: Speaking too quickly can affect your pronunciation and clarity. Maintain a steady pace.
Use Simple, Clear Vocabulary: Choose words that you are comfortable with. Overcomplicating your language can lead to mistakes.	Don’t Overuse Fillers: Words like “um” or “you know” can make your speech sound hesitant.
Show Enthusiasm: Let your interest in the topic show through. A passionate tone helps keep the conversation engaging.	Don’t Interrupt: Don’t try to finish the examiner’s sentences. Let them finish their questions.
Maintain Good Pronunciation: Focus on clarity. Pronounce words correctly, even if it means avoiding overly complicated vocabulary.	Don’t Repeat the Question: Instead of repeating the question, move directly into your answer. This keeps the conversation flowing.
Listen Carefully: Pay attention to the examiner’s questions. If you don’t understand, it’s okay to ask for clarification.	Don’t Speak Off-Topic: Stick to the question. Going off-topic can make you seem disorganized.
Use Varied Sentence Structures: Mix simple and complex sentences. This demonstrates your grammatical range.	Don’t Use Colloquialisms: Avoid overly casual phrases like “gonna” or “wanna.” Stick to standard English.
Stay Calm: Don’t panic if you make a mistake. Just correct it and continue. Examiners appreciate composure.	Don’t Overthink: Think about the conversation naturally, not as a test. Overthinking can hinder your ability to answer fluidly.

By following these do’s and don’ts, you can approach the IELTS Speaking exam with greater confidence, avoid common mistakes, and set yourself up for a top band score.

How Can upGrad Help You Ace Your IELTS Self-Introduction?

How you introduce yourself in IELTS is your first opportunity to make a strong impression. It’s your chance to showcase fluency, clarity, and confidence. By following the right strategies, you can set a positive tone for the rest of your exam and effectively demonstrate your communication skills.

If you’re serious about achieving your target score and reaching your goals abroad, don't let preparation stress hold you back. upGrad is here to help you with their customized IELTS free courses, e-books, and sample papers, such as:

• How to Introduce Yourself in the IELTS Exam
• Common IELTS Speaking Topics
• Common Idioms Asked in the IELTS
• IELTS Preparation Guide

Additionally, you can book a career counseling session with upGrad today to get expert guidance on your IELTS prep, study abroad options, and more. With personalized advice, you’ll be ready to tackle the IELTS with confidence!