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How to Stop Mumbling in the IELTS Speaking Test: Speak Clearly, Score Higher

Updated: Nov 7

One of the fastest ways to lose marks in your IELTS Speaking test isn’t grammar or vocabulary—it’s unclear speech. If you mumble, speak too softly, or swallow your words, the examiner may not understand you—even if your English is good. In this post, we’ll show you exactly how to stop mumbling and sound clear, confident, and natural in your IELTS Speaking exam.


Why Mumbling Hurts Your IELTS Score


When you mumble:

  • You sound nervous or unsure.

  • The examiner may not catch key words or ideas.

  • You lose points for pronunciation and fluency.


Mumbling can make a Band 7 speaker sound like a Band 5.5. Luckily, you can fix it.


What Causes Mumbling?


Several factors contribute to mumbling:

  • Speaking too fast.

  • Not opening your mouth enough.

  • Poor posture or slouching.

  • Low confidence or nervousness.

  • Thinking while speaking (and losing your sentence).


Understanding these causes is the first step to improvement.


How to Fix It: 5 Steps to Speak More Clearly


1. Slow Down Slightly


Fast speech often leads to unclear speech. Aim for a natural pace—not too fast, not too slow. Pause between ideas. Breathe. This gives you time to think and speak clearly.


2. Open Your Mouth & Use Facial Muscles


Clear sounds need clear shapes. Practice speaking in front of a mirror and watch how your lips and mouth move. Try exaggerating sounds when you practice:

“The climate is becoming more unpredictable each year.”


3. Record Yourself Regularly


Use your phone to record answers to IELTS questions. Then listen back:

  • Can you hear every word?

  • Are any syllables or sounds missing?

  • Do you trail off at the end of sentences?


Tip: Compare your recording with a native speaker sample on YouTube or IELTS websites.


4. Use Strong Word Stress & Intonation


Emphasise key words and vary your tone to avoid sounding flat or unclear. Practice stressing content words:

"I completely agree that governments should invest in public transport."


5. Practise with Tongue Twisters


Tongue twisters help improve mouth control and clarity. Try these slowly:

  • “She sells seashells by the seashore.”

  • “Red lorry, yellow lorry.”

  • “Truly rural.”


They’re fun—and they work!


Bonus: Confidence = Clarity


Nervousness makes us rush, mumble, and lose focus. Before the test:

  • Warm up your voice (read aloud for 5 minutes).

  • Sit up straight and breathe deeply.

  • Smile—it helps relax your face and voice.


The Importance of Clarity in Communication


Clear communication is essential in many aspects of life. Whether in exams, job interviews, or daily conversations, being understood is key. When you articulate your thoughts well, you convey confidence and competence. This can significantly impact how others perceive you.


Final Thoughts


Your ideas might be brilliant, but if the examiner can’t hear or understand them, you’ll lose marks.


  • Clear speech = higher pronunciation + fluency scores.

  • Practice daily, record yourself, and speak with confidence—you’ll sound like a Band 7+ candidate in no time.


Need help with IELTS Speaking? Join our expert-led practice sessions and get real-time feedback to fix mumbling, hesitations, and grammar slips. Book your free trial session today!


Remember: Clarity is not just about speaking; it’s about being heard and understood.

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