Planning Your Answer in 30 Seconds

By CELPass Editorial Team · 2 min read · Updated 2026-10-13

Thirty seconds feels like nothing, but it is enough to decide what you will say if you plan the same way every time. This lesson gives you one note format to use in every task.

Decide, don't write sentences

The most common planning mistake is trying to write a full first sentence. By the time it is finished, the preparation time is over and nothing else is planned. Instead, spend the time making decisions: your answer or choice, your two main points and one detail for each.

You can take notes on the paper provided at the test centre. Write single words or short phrases, not sentences.

The three-line note

Use the same three lines for almost every task. Here is an original CELPass example for Task 1, where a friend asks how to save money on groceries:

Main answer: plan + list (the one-line answer you will say first).
Point 1: weekly meal plan → less waste, e.g. Sunday 20 min.
Point 2: compare flyers / store brand → 20–30% cheaper.

That is all you need. When the speaking timer starts, you say the main answer, then talk through each point with its detail, then close. The detail is what turns a list of ideas into a developed answer.

Using 60 seconds in Tasks 5 and 6

Tasks 5 and 6 give you 60 seconds to prepare. Use the extra time for the listener, not more ideas: note who you are speaking to and the one thing they care about most (price, time, safety, their feelings). Then make each of your points answer that concern.

How to use preparation time (full post)

If your mind goes blank

Start with your main answer anyway. Saying it out loud often brings the next idea. If you still need a moment, use a natural bridge such as "Let me think about the most important reason" instead of silence, then continue with your first point.

Key points

Plan decisions, not sentences.
Three lines: main answer, point 1 + detail, point 2 + detail.
With 60 seconds, also note the listener's main concern.
If you blank, say your main answer first and keep going.

Exercise

Set a 30-second timer for each prompt and write a three-line note. Then compare with the sample notes.

Your cousin is moving to a new city and wants advice on making friends.
Talk about a time you learned a new skill.
Your neighbour asks whether to buy a car or use public transit.

Show answers

Main: join a group + say yes to invitations. Point 1: club or sports team → see the same people weekly. Point 2: accept work invitations → coffee, lunch, first friends.
Main: learned to swim at 30. Point 1: why, kids' lessons, felt left out. Point 2: how, 10 lessons, scared at first → now swims every Saturday.
Main: transit for now. Point 1: cost → pass vs insurance, gas, parking. Point 2: try 3 months, then decide; rent a car for trips.

Practise with free questions

Free questions in the CELPIP format, with answers and no account needed. Try a few now, while the lesson is fresh.

All lessons in this course

CELPass is an independent practice platform and is not affiliated with Paragon Testing Enterprises. CELPIP is a trademark of Paragon Testing Enterprises. Check the official CELPIP website and IRCC for current test rules and requirements.