Of course! "Interesting idea" is a fantastic phrase to use in IELTS Speaking. It shows you are actively listening, processing what the other person says, and forming a thoughtful response. This is exactly what examiners are looking for.

Here’s a complete guide on how to use "interesting idea" effectively in your IELTS Speaking test, broken down by level.

Why "Interesting Idea" is a Great Phrase

• It's a conversation filler: It buys you a few seconds to think about your next point.
• It's positive and polite: It acknowledges the other person's contribution without necessarily agreeing with it.
• It shows active listening: It proves you've understood what they said.
• It's versatile: You can use it in Part 1, Part 2, and Part 3.

Level 1: Basic Use (Good for a Band 6.0)

At this level, you can use the phrase directly. It's simple, clear, and correct.

How to use it:

1. Listen to the examiner's question or follow-up.
2. Say, "That's an interesting idea."
3. Give a simple, direct answer.

Example in Part 1:

• Examiner: "Some people think it's important to travel abroad to learn about other cultures. Do you agree?"
• You: "That's an interesting idea. I partly agree because travelling does give you a first-hand experience. However, I also think you can learn a lot about other cultures through books and the internet."

Example in Part 3:

• Examiner: "Do you think people will read more books in the future?"
• You: "That's an interesting idea. On one hand, e-books are very convenient. On the other hand, there's something special about holding a real book. So, I'm not sure."

Level 2: Intermediate Use (Good for a Band 7.0)

To push your score higher, you need to add more detail and show a bit more language. Combine "interesting idea" with other phrases and structures.

How to use it:

• Add a linking phrase.
• Combine it with phrases of agreement or partial agreement.
• Use it to introduce a contrasting viewpoint.

Useful Combinations:

Example in Part 2 (Cue Card):

• Cue Card: "Describe a time you had to be creative to solve a problem."
• You: "...So, I was stuck. I thought about it for a long time and then had a really interesting idea. What I did was..." (Here, you're using it as an adjective to describe your own idea, which is also very good).

Level 3: Advanced Use (Aiming for Band 8.0+)

At this level, you use the phrase as a springboard for a more sophisticated and nuanced response. You show you can evaluate ideas, consider different angles, and use a wide range of vocabulary.

How to use it:

• Use it to signal that you are about to analyze or evaluate a concept.
• Combine it with more advanced linking words and complex sentences.
• Use it to transition smoothly between different points of view.

Useful Advanced Structures:

Example in Part 3:

• Examiner: "Some people argue that advertising is a necessary part of a modern economy. What's your view?"
• You: "That's a thought-provoking concept. While I can certainly see how advertising fuels competition and consumer choice, it also raises some serious concerns. For instance, there's the issue of manipulating consumer desires and the environmental impact of creating demand for new products. So, I'd say it's a double-edged sword."

Summary Table: How to Use "Interesting Idea"

Final Tips for the IELTS Speaking Test

1. Don't Overuse It: Use it 2-3 times maximum in the whole test. Overusing it makes it sound robotic.
2. Vary Your Language: Use the different variations we discussed (interesting point, fascinating idea, thought-provoking concept).
3. Be Natural: Say it with a tone of genuine interest. Your body language and intonation are just as important as the words.
4. It's a Tool, Not a Crutch: The goal is to use it to help you structure a better answer, not to fill silence.

By mastering this phrase and the different ways to use it, you can significantly improve the quality of your responses and impress the examiner. Good luck