Choose a task. Prepare. Speak.
Use this timer beside a fresh Speaking prompt. Pick the matching task, read the instructions, then start. The clock moves automatically from preparation to speaking. Task 5 includes its separate silent choice stage.
This is a silent timer. Keep the page visible for stage changes. Time continues if you switch tabs; Pause stops it. Reset returns to the first stage. This page does not record your voice.
Pause and skip are study controls. For a realistic timed attempt, let each stage run without pausing. If you want to keep a recording, start your own voice recorder before the speaking stage or use the PrepEx Practice Hub.
CELPIP Speaking preparation and response times
These timings are listed in the official Speaking Pro study pack, pages 5 and 21. Both CELPIP-General and CELPIP-General LS include the Speaking section. Use the instructions shown on your actual test.
| Task | Preparation | Speaking |
|---|---|---|
| 1 · Giving Advice | 30 seconds | 90 seconds |
| 2 · Personal Experience | 30 seconds | 60 seconds |
| 3 · Describing a Scene | 30 seconds | 60 seconds |
| 4 · Making Predictions | 30 seconds | 60 seconds |
| 5 · Comparing and Persuading | 60 seconds to choose silently, then 60 seconds to prepare | 60 seconds |
| 6 · Difficult Situation | 60 seconds | 60 seconds |
| 7 · Expressing Opinions | 30 seconds | 90 seconds |
| 8 · Unusual Situation | 30 seconds | 60 seconds |
How to practise Task 5's three stages
First, compare the two starting options and choose one without speaking. When the timer changes to Prepare, reveal the other person's new option in your practice material. Plan how to persuade that person that your choice is better. When Speak appears, address the person and explain the differences that matter. The timer handles the clocks; it does not reveal or choose the options for you.
For a staged task with the option reveal built in, use the Speaking practice exercises. Keep the same chosen option throughout the preparation and response stages.
A useful ten-minute practice routine
- Read one fresh prompt. Identify who you are speaking to, your purpose and any decision you need to explain. For picture tasks, keep the complete picture visible.
- Use preparation for notes. Write a few keywords in a sensible order. A full script can consume preparation time and make your delivery sound read aloud.
- Complete one timed response. Start when Speak appears. Develop your points with reasons or details; do not rush simply to fit more words into the minute.
- Listen back once. Choose a specific change: explain the second reason, make a reference clearer, or leave enough time to finish the decision.
- Try again, then transfer. Repeat the response with that improvement. Later, use a different prompt to check whether the skill carries over.
If planning is the main problem, practise outlining without a clock first. If your response is already clear but ends abruptly, rehearse the same ideas more economically. These are different practice needs; speeding up will not solve both.
What to review when the timer finishes
Finishing on time is useful, but the clock cannot assess your Speaking level. Review the communication itself:
- Purpose: did you advise, describe, predict or persuade as the prompt requested?
- Development: could the listener understand why your main ideas matter?
- Clarity: were references such as “they” or “that one” clear without seeing your notes?
- Delivery: did pauses help the listener follow you, or repeatedly interrupt a sentence?
- Ending: did you finish the central message before time ran out?
Write down one observation with an example from your recording. “Add a reason after my second suggestion” is more actionable than “improve fluency.” The worked Speaking revisions show how to make this kind of focused change, and the Speaking sample collection provides complete responses to study.
Common questions
Does this timer record or grade my voice?
No. This is a practice timer. It does not access your microphone or produce a score. Use your own recorder if you want to review your response.
Can I pause during the official test?
The pause and reset controls here are study tools. They do not represent controls you can use to pause the official test.
Why does Task 5 have three stages?
Comparing and Persuading includes a selection stage, preparation for the persuasion response, and the spoken response. The timer keeps those stages separate.
Should I keep the timer visible?
Yes. Keep this page open and visible during practice. If your browser suspends the page, check the displayed stage before continuing. This is a practice aid rather than the official test interface.
Sources and last check
Official sources checked November 12, 2026. These original PrepEx exercises and teaching examples are independent preparation materials. Official sources govern test format and scoring.