The speaking and writing section has different question formats and one of the questions is to answer short questions. Answer short question assesses listening and speaking. The audio of 3-9 seconds long plays after which the test taker has to answer in just a few words in just 10 seconds. There might also be a video or an image displayed on the screen as part of the question. The subskills assessed in this section includes identifying the topic, theme or main ideas; understanding academic vocabulary; inferring the meaning of unfamiliar words.

The questions in this section do not require special knowledge; they test one’s general knowledge. Also, there is no negative marking hence the lowest score awarded is zero while the highest score attainable is 1 mark.

Tips on how to answer this section

Don’t rush

The trick is to deliver a speech that in normal circumstances would be clear and audible. Therefore don’t rush through your speech; all you have to do is flow naturally and not be in a hurry.

Do not pause longer than 3 seconds



When the status shows recording on the screen, start recording your answer without pausing. If you pause for longer than 3 seconds, the microphone will automatically switch off whether you are were done or not

Avoid filler words

Words such as right, okay, so and many more add no meaning to your content, therefore, using them just wastes valuable time that could have been dedicated to recording content that would get you marks. 

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Give short answers

Don’t ramble and don’t overdo it. You will only be awarded the correct marks for providing an accurate answer so whatever additional information you might want to provide will not get you extra marks.

Don’t panic

The question test general knowledge, not complicated questions specific for a certain industry. Therefore, the answer shouldn’t be complicated. It might even be a possibility that you have come across the question or its concept in life. No matter how complicated the question may be, the answer is always simple.

Don’t overthink the answer

Academicals people tend to make everything complicated by overthinking answers even when it is not necessary. As it has been mentioned earlier, the answers are simple therefore the use of complicated logic isn’t necessary. Overthinking may eventually cause a delay in recording your answer leading to microphone switching off or simply you might provide the wrong answer. Don’t overthink.

Have a good vocabulary knowledge

During preparation, it is important to work on improving vocabulary. Good vocabulary improves the chance to understand questions better even if the subject is not familiar. It also helps with knowledge of words and their synonyms.

Examples of questions and answer applicable to this section

Sample 1

Who takes care of the sheep?

Ans: Shepherd

Sample 2

What is the person who belongs to an organization called?

Ans: Member

Sample 3

The process of conducting an examination of a dead body is called?

Ans: Post-mortem