The IELTS Speaking test has three sections, lasting a total of 11–14 minutes. Each section has a different time limit and requires the candidate to respond fluently.

In Part 2 of the IELTS Speaking test, the candidate is given a cue card, also known as a task card. The candidate must speak for about 2 minutes on the given topic while maintaining fluency and coherence.

For this sample cue card, we will discuss the topic: Describe a crowded place you have been to. This topic requires the candidate to talk about a location they have visited that was full of people, sharing details about the experience, atmosphere, and personal impressions.

You should say:

• When you went there?
• Where the place is? Who you went there with?
• And explain how you felt about the place?
•  

When you went there?

One of the most crowded places I’ve ever been to was during the MahaKumbh Mela in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, which is known as the largest religious gathering in the world. I had the opportunity to visit this spiritual event, which started on January 14th, and it left a lasting impact on me.

Where the place is? Who you went there with?

I went there with my family on last weekend, and we travelled by bus, which took a long time, but the journey was full of excitement as we were heading toward such a monumental event. As we arrived, I couldn’t help but feel awe-struck by the sheer number of people who had gathered from all over the world, all there to witness and take part in the festival. The gathering takes place at the confluence of the three holy rivers – the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati – known as the Triveni Sangam. People come here with deep religious beliefs and emotions, believing that taking a holy dip in the waters of the Sangam would cleanse them of all their sins and bring peace to their souls.

And explain how you felt about the place?

The atmosphere was incredibly spiritual, with monks and saints everywhere, offering prayers, chanting, and performing rituals. The crowd was overwhelming, yet there was a sense of unity and devotion among everyone present. The excitement and energy were palpable as we witnessed the immense devotion of people, old and young alike, walking together in long lines to take their dip at the Triveni Ghat.

Despite the crowds, I felt a sense of calm and peace wash over me as I joined the people at the Ghats, dipping into the water with the belief that it would cleanse not just the body but also the mind and soul. It was a very emotional experience to witness so many people comes together for a common purpose, their belief in the power of spirituality uniting them.

The festival was a mix of joy, devotion, and belief in the greater good. It was motivating to see the dedication of the pilgrims, and it really made me reflect on the power of faith and the human spirit. Even though the place was extremely crowded, it felt as though I was part of something much larger than myself, something truly historic.

FOLLLOW UPS:

Did you like to go to crowded places?

The decision to go to a place largely depends on my mood and the nature of the location. If the place is enjoyable and offers a good experience, I would gladly visit, whether with family or friends. However, if I am not comfortable with the idea, I tend to avoid such outings by providing a reasonable explanation or excuse. There are occasions when I may need to attend a place or event even For example, social obligations such as weddings or family gatherings require attendance, I try to focus on the positive aspects, like spending time with loved ones or fulfilling cultural expectations. As for public places, such as malls, while I appreciate them for shopping or leisure activities, I tend to avoid crowded areas. I prefer quieter environments where I can enjoy my time without feeling overwhelmed by the rush. Ultimately, my choice to go somewhere is influenced by the circumstances, the people involved, and my personal comfort level.

Which place seems crowded in your city?

Crowded places in cities often include markets and religious sites, where people gather for a variety of reasons. These locations attract individuals from all walks of life—some come to work, others to relax or simply wander around. Generally, cities are densely populated due to urban growth and industrialization. Traffic congestion is common, especially near bus stations, train terminals, and busy roads. Markets and shopping centres also experience large crowds, as they serve as popular spots for shopping, entertainment, and social interaction. The influence of social media has a significant impact, with many people visiting these places to celebrate events, dine out, or engage in leisure activities.As cities continue to grow and modernise; crowded areas have become a regular part of urban life. These spaces act as gathering points for people to connect, shop, and enjoy themselves, contributing to the vibrant and fast-paced atmosphere in most cities.

What type of problems occurs in crowded areas?

In busy, crowded areas, several issues tend to surface due to the large number of people and vehicles. One of the biggest challenges is traffic jams, as more people means more cars, bikes, buses, and three-wheelers on the roads. This creates a constant flow of congestion and long delays, making travel difficult. Along with the traffic, the increased number of vehicles significantly worsens air pollution, with harmful fumes filling the air and affecting the environment and public health. Another serious concern in crowded places is the rise in criminal activities. The density of people makes it easier for pickpockets to operate, and there’s a higher chance of snatching and even robberies happening in the chaos. Public spaces also become breeding grounds for unwanted behaviours, such as teasing or harassment, as people may feel more anonymous in the crowd and act inappropriately. While these areas are often lively and full of energy, the downside is that they come with problems related to safety, pollution, and general discomfort..

Is there any place which looks uncrowned?

Indeed, there are places that maintain a sense of tranquillity and appear uncrowded, typically in the countryside or rural regions. These areas are characterized by low population density, limited infrastructure, and sparse transportation options. With vast expanses of open land, minimal housing, and a lack of modern amenities, these locations offer a serene escape. However, this also means a lack of entertainment facilities or vibrant public life, creating a stark contrast to the bustling nature of urban environments. While most areas in cities are overcrowded, there are still pockets of calm in places situated on the periphery of metropolitan areas, such as mountainous regions or rural retreats, which are far less populated. Additionally, cultural sites like museums and historical landmarks, while valuable in terms of heritage, may appear uninspiring to many and therefore attract fewer visitors. Their relatively subdued nature can make them seem underwhelming or boring to those seeking more dynamic, modern forms of entertainment, thus contributing to their uncrowded appearance during normal times.

Which place do you visit often? 

Due to my hectic schedule, I rarely get the chance to visit places often. However, when I do, I prefer going to peaceful locations like the mountains, especially since I live in the northern part of my country, known for its beautiful mountainous regions. I love visiting these serene spots with my family and friends to enjoy nature and unwind. I also enjoy visiting religious places for spiritual peace, as these sites help me find calmness from my busy lifestyle. Rather than visiting crowded or superficial places, I find these religious spots more meaningful and grounding. Spending quality time with my loved ones is also important to me, so I often visit the homes of family and friends to strengthen our bonds. Additionally, I like to visit educational institutions and museums to stay updated with new information and engage in enriching experiences that broaden my perspective.

Check out other IELTS speaking cue card topics

Describe a character from a movie

Describe an invention that is useful in daily life

Describe a product you bought, but returned

Describe a successful businessperson you know

Describe a successful business person you admire

Describe a time when you were stuck in a traffic