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Common CELPIP Speaking Mistakes

These are the patterns we see most often in practice recordings. Each one is fixable with a small change in how you prepare and practise.

Practise Speaking Task 4

Mistakes and fixes

  • Writing full sentences during prep time → write three keywords instead.
  • Ideas with no examples → add one specific example for every main point.
  • Describing in Task 4 → Task 4 is about predictions; use "will probably".
  • Talking about the person in Task 6 → speak directly to them.
  • Running out of time mid-sentence → practise endings and watch the timer.
  • Long silences while searching for a word → paraphrase and keep going.
  • Vague words like "good", "nice", "thing" → choose precise alternatives.

Practise the fix

Pick one mistake per week and focus only on that. Record a task, check for the mistake in your transcript, and re-record.

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Practise Speaking Task 4Save your score — create free account

Frequently asked questions

Is it bad to correct myself?

Occasional self-correction is natural; frequent restarts make you harder to follow.

Should I fill all the time?

Aim to use most of it, finishing with a clear final sentence.

Do fillers like 'um' lower my score?

Occasional fillers are normal; frequent ones affect listenability.

Related

How to Improve Your CELPIP Speaking ScoreCELPIP Speaking Tasks ExplainedCELPIP Speaking Timing and Preparation TimeCELPIP Speaking Practice: All 8 Tasks