OET Speaking Tips: 3 Techniques to Boost Your Score
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Many OET candidates focus on grammar and vocabulary—but the OET Speaking test rewards candidates who can structure a consultation, reassure the patient, and show active listening. Below are three high-impact OET Speaking tips that signal control and professionalism to the examiner.
Technique 1: Menu Approach – Structure Your OET Speaking Consultation
Like ordering in a restaurant—“starter, then main”—set the agenda clearly so the patient knows what happens first and what comes next. Example:
- “First, I’d like to ask about your symptoms, and then we’ll discuss treatment options.”
This reassures the patient, keeps you in control, and shows the examiner you can provide structure.
Technique 2: Referring Back – Show Active Listening in OET Speaking
Pick up cues and reflect them back to show active listening and empathy.
- “Earlier you mentioned you were worried—could you tell me more about that?”
- “You said the pain started last week. How has it changed since then?”
This is underused by candidates but strongly rewarded in the clinical communication criteria.
Technique 3: Summarising – Confirm Understanding in OET Speaking
Confirm understanding at key points in the consultation. Two effective moments:
- After your questions: “Just to summarise: headaches for two weeks, mainly left-sided, occasional nausea. Is that correct?”
- Before next steps: confirm details before explaining tests or treatment.
Even if the patient corrects you, you demonstrate careful listening and clarification—exactly what examiners want.
How to Practise OET Speaking Skills
- Learn the criteria: understand what the clinical communication descriptors require.
- Practise behaviours: turn each criterion into repeatable phrases/techniques and role-play them.
- Watch real consultations: shows like GPs: Behind Closed Doors, 24 Hours in A&E, or Surgeons: At the Edge of Life to hear natural phrasing.