During the IELTS IDP test, paying attention to Signposting Language is a secret to help you locate information clearly and accurately. Join IDP to explore in detail what Signpost is, its role and how to apply it in the IELTS test.
1. What is Signposting Language?
In simple terms, signposting phrases are expressions used to guide listeners or readers through the flow of your speech or writing. These phrases help highlight the structure of your presentation and signal what’s coming next. In the IELTS test, especially in the Speaking and Listening sections, recognizing and using signposting language can improve both comprehension and delivery.
Signposting language is typically informal and mostly used in spoken English. These phrases are common in academic lectures, expert presentations, and public speaking settings. They are essential for:
Highlighting relationships between main and supporting ideas
Comparing and contrasting points
Adding examples and clarifications
Emphasizing key messages or ideas
2. Common Signposting Phrases in IELTS
Below is a list of commonly used signposting phrases in IELTS, categorized by purpose:
Purpose | Signposting Phrases |
Introducing the topic | - Today we are going to talk about... - Today I’ll be discussing... - The subject of my talk is... - What I’m going to be talking about today is... |
Outlining the structure | - In today’s lecture I’m going to cover three points. - First, we’ll look at... Then we’ll go on to... Finally, I’ll... - I’m going to divide this talk into three parts. |
Starting the first point | - Let’s start by talking about... - Firstly,... - To begin,... - I’ll start with... - The first advantage / reason / point is... |
Ending a point | - We’ve looked at... - I’ve just talked about... |
Moving to the next point | - Let’s move on to... - Now let’s turn to... - The next point I’d like to focus on is... - I’d now like to discuss... |
Summarizing / Concluding | - To sum up,... - So it is clear that... - Let’s briefly summarize what we’ve covered... - In conclusion,... - In summary,... - Overall,... |
3. Signposting Language Example in IELTS Listening
Let’s take an example from a typical IELTS Listening audio:
Transcript: “Good evening, and welcome to the British Council. My name is John Parker and I’ve been asked to talk to you briefly about certain aspects of life in the UK before you actually go there. So I’m going to talk first about the best ways of making social contacts there. Now you might be wondering why it should be necessary. After all, we meet people all the time. But when you’re living in a foreign country it can be more difficult, not just because of the language, but because customs may be different.”
Key Signposting Phrases in this example:
I’ve been asked to talk to you briefly about...
So I’m going to talk first about...
Not just because of... but because...
These phrases indicate what the speaker is going to discuss and help listeners follow along more easily.
Why Use Signposting Language in the IELTS Test?
Mastering signposting phrases can:
Help you structure your answers clearly in the Speaking test
Improve your coherence and fluency, which are key IELTS scoring criteria
Make it easier to understand academic lectures in the Listening test
Boost your confidence in public speaking or formal presentations
Tips to Practice Signposting Language for IELTS
Practice using different signposting phrases while answering sample IELTS Speaking questions
Listen to TED Talks, academic lectures, or podcasts to identify how native speakers use signposting in real time
Review the IELTS Speaking Band Descriptors to understand how coherence and cohesion affect your score
Use signposting in mock speaking tests to improve your fluency and logical flow
Prepare with IDP: Practice IELTS Online and On Computer
At IDP, you can choose to take the IELTS test on computer, offering a smooth experience with quick results. You can also try a free IELTS computer-based mock test to get familiar with the format and practice managing your time effectively.
Register for IELTS Online with IDP Today!
Whether you are aiming for the IELTS Academic or General Training test, signposting language will be a valuable tool to communicate your ideas clearly and confidently. Take the next step and book your IELTS test with IDP for the best preparation and flexible test options.