CELPIP Speaking 2026 Tip #3: Task 1: How Many Pieces of Advice Should You Give?

CELPIP Speaking 2026 Tip #3:  Task 1: How Many Pieces of Advice Should You Give?

The CLB 12 Strategy for Giving Advice

One of the most common questions CELPIP candidates ask is:

"How many pieces of advice should I give in Speaking Task 1?"

The answer is simple.

For a high score, give two strong pieces of advice and explain each one clearly.

Many lower-level candidates try to impress the examiner by giving four or five suggestions. Unfortunately, this usually creates problems.

They run out of time.

They speak too quickly.

Their ideas become underdeveloped.

As a result, their responses sound rushed and disorganized.

CLB 11–12 candidates take a different approach.

They provide:

✓ Two pieces of advice

✓ One reason for each

✓ A short explanation or example

This approach allows them to speak naturally for the full sixty seconds.

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The Perfect CLB 12 Structure

Use the following framework:

Introduction

↓

Advice 1 + Reason + Example

↓

Advice 2 + Reason + Example

↓

Brief Closing

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Recommended Time Allocation

Part Time

Introduction 5 seconds

Advice 1 20 seconds

Advice 2 20 seconds

Conclusion 5-10 seconds

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Step 1: Introduce Your Advice

Begin by acknowledging the person's situation.

Informal Situations (Friend, Family Member)

Useful Phrases

If I were you, I'd...

Honestly, I think you should...

My advice would be to...

Personally, I'd suggest...

One thing you could do is...

Why don't you...?

You might want to...

Have you thought about...?

Example

Question:

Your friend is stressed because of university assignments. Give some advice.

Introduction:

Hey, I'm sorry to hear you're feeling stressed. If I were you, I'd focus on managing your time better and taking short breaks throughout the day.

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Semi-Formal Situations (Coworker, Neighbor, Classmate)

Useful Phrases

I would recommend that you...

I would suggest that you...

One option would be to...

It might be a good idea to...

You may want to consider...

In your situation, I would probably...

Another recommendation would be to...

Example

Question:

Your coworker is struggling to meet deadlines. Give some advice.

Introduction:

I understand that missing deadlines can be frustrating. In your situation, I would recommend improving your time management and prioritizing important tasks first.

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Step 2: Give Your First Piece of Advice

Always explain why.

Formula

Advice + Reason + Example

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Informal Example

Question:

Your friend is gaining weight and wants to become healthier.

Advice 1

Honestly, I think you should start exercising regularly because physical activity can improve both your fitness and your mood. For example, even going for a thirty-minute walk every evening could help you lose weight and feel more energetic.

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Semi-Formal Example

Question:

Your coworker wants to improve productivity.

Advice 1

I would recommend creating a daily schedule because it can help you stay organized and manage your workload more effectively. For instance, making a to-do list every morning can ensure that important tasks are completed on time.

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Step 3: Introduce Your Second Piece of Advice

Use transition expressions.

Useful Transition Phrases

Informal

Another thing you could do is...

Also, I'd suggest...

Besides that,...

On top of that,...

Another idea would be to...

Semi-Formal

Another recommendation would be to...

Additionally, I would suggest...

Furthermore,...

Another effective strategy would be to...

In addition,...

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Step 4: Give Your Second Piece of Advice

Again, explain your reasoning.

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Informal Example

Also, I'd suggest reducing the amount of junk food you eat. Eating healthier meals can significantly improve your overall well-being. For example, replacing soft drinks with water and eating more fruits could make a noticeable difference.

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Semi-Formal Example

Additionally, I would suggest setting realistic goals. This can prevent you from becoming overwhelmed and help you maintain steady progress. For example, dividing a large project into smaller tasks often makes it easier to meet deadlines.

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Step 5: Finish Naturally

Do not simply stop speaking.

Conclude your answer.

Informal Closing Phrases

Anyway, I hope these suggestions help!

I hope everything works out for you.

I'm sure you'll feel better soon.

Best of luck!

Semi-Formal Closing Phrases

I hope you find these suggestions helpful.

I believe these strategies will improve your situation.

I hope everything goes well.

Best wishes.

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Full CLB 12 Sample (Informal)

Question

Your friend has recently moved to a new city and feels lonely. Give some advice.

Sample Answer

Hey, I'm sorry you're feeling lonely. If I were you, I'd start by joining local clubs or community groups because it's a great way to meet new people who share similar interests. For example, you could join a sports club, a gym, or even a book club.

Another thing you could do is stay connected with your old friends and family through video calls. This can provide emotional support while you're adjusting to your new environment. For instance, scheduling regular calls every weekend could help you feel less isolated.

Anyway, I hope these suggestions help, and I'm sure you'll make new friends soon.

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Full CLB 12 Sample (Semi-Formal)

Question

Your coworker has been feeling stressed due to an increasing workload. Give some advice.

Sample Answer

I understand that dealing with a heavy workload can be stressful. In your situation, I would recommend prioritizing your tasks according to their importance. This can help you focus on urgent responsibilities first and avoid feeling overwhelmed. For instance, creating a daily task list could significantly improve your productivity.

Another recommendation would be to take short breaks throughout the day. Regular breaks can reduce stress levels and improve concentration. For example, taking a ten-minute walk during lunch may help you return to work feeling refreshed.

I hope you find these suggestions helpful, and I wish you the very best.

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Common Mistakes Made by CLB 5–7 Candidates

❌ Giving four or five pieces of advice.

❌ Providing advice without explanation.

❌ Speaking in bullet points.

❌ Using overly formal language with friends.

❌ Running out of time before finishing.

❌ Forgetting to conclude.

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Examiner's Tip

Remember:

Two well-developed pieces of advice will always score higher than five undeveloped ones.

Quality matters far more than quantity in CELPIP Speaking Task 1.

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CLB 12 Formula

Introduction → Advice 1 + Reason + Example → Advice 2 + Reason + Example → Closing

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