Describe a program on computer/a mobile app on the phone that you use

This guide explains how to answer the IELTS Speaking Part 2 topic “Describe a program on a computer or a mobile app that you use.” You will learn how to organize your ideas, describe features clearly, use technology-related vocabulary, and deliver a natural response to achieve a higher band score.

I. Cue Card – Describe a Program on Computer or a Mobile App on the Phone That You Use

Cue Card – IELTS Speaking Part 2

Describe a program on computer or a mobile app on the phone that you use.

You should say:

• What the program/app is

• How you knew about it

• How you use it

• And explain why it is useful to you

How to Generate Ideas Quickly

To answer this topic smoothly, structure your answer around four clear points or use brainstorming diagrams in IELTS speaking.

• What: Name the program or app (e.g. Zalo, Facebook, Google Maps, Microsoft Word, Duolingo, a banking app…)

• How you knew: Through friends, social media, school, work, or advertisements

• How you use it: Daily for chatting, studying, working, making payments, navigation, entertainment, etc.

• Why useful: Saves time, connects people, improves skills, makes life easier, helps you relax, convenient

To structure your answer effectively, refer toanswer speaking part 2 in IELTS.

Brainstorming Table (Optional)

II. Band 5.0–6.0 Sample – Speaking Part 2 & 3

At Band 5.0–6.0 sample answers for the topic “Describe a program on computer or a mobile app on the phone that you use.” - The sample is presented with simple vocabulary, clear grammar, and you can improve further by learning how to expand answers in IELTS speaking.

1. Speaking Sample Answer – Part 2

Describe a program on computer or a mobile app on the phone that you use.

You should say:

• What the program/app is

• How you knew about it

• How you use it

• And explain why it is useful to you

Sample Answer (Band 5.0–6.0):

One app I use a lot is Zalo. Zalo is a chat app that is very popular in my country for sending messages and making calls. I learned about it a few years ago when my friends told me to try it.

I use Zalo every day to talk to my family and classmates. Sometimes, I also share pictures or join group chats with my colleagues. It is easy to use and works fast, even with slow Internet.

I think Zalo is useful because it helps me stay in touch with people easily, especially when I am busy or far from home. It also helps me save money because calls and messages are free.

2. Speaking Sample Answer – Part 3

At the Band 5.0–6.0 level, Part 3 answers should be short, clear to improve your fluency and coherence IELTS speaking.

Question 1: Why do people use computer programs or mobile apps?

People use apps and programs because they make life easier. For example, we can send messages, watch videos, or find information quickly.

Question 2: Are there any bad effects of using apps or technology too much?

Yes, if people use apps all day, they may become lazy or unhealthy. They watch too much or forget to talk with real friends.

Question 3: Do old people and young people prefer different types of apps?

Yes. Young people usually like social media or games. Older people often use apps for news, reading, or talking with family.

Improve your responses withanswer speaking part 3 in IELTS.

3. Vocabulary Highlight

At the Band 5.0–6.0 level, use simple but clear words about technology, communicating, and app features. 

Vocabulary by Topic

Common Sentence Starters

• “I use this app to…”

• “It helps me…”

• “I like it because…”

• “This program is very useful for…”

• “Many people in my country use it.”

4. Grammar and Structures

At Band 5.0–6.0, clear and simple grammar is most important. Most answers use present simple for routines and opinions, and sometimes past simple for past events. 

Tense Usage – Present Simple & Past Simple

Basic Sentence Structures

Common Sentence Starters

Frequent Grammar Mistakes

III. Band 7.0+ Sample – Speaking Part 2 & 3

At Band 7.0+, your responses should:

• Address all cue card points and add extra details or opinions

• Use advanced and topic-specific vocabulary

• Demonstrate flexible, accurate grammar and natural linking devices

• Balance description, evaluation, and personal experience

1. Speaking Sample Answer – Part 2

Describe a program on computer or a mobile app on the phone that you use.

You should say:

• What the program/app is

• How you knew about it

• How you use it

• And explain why it is useful to you

Sample Answer (Band 7.0+):

One app I rely on almost daily is Google Maps. I first discovered it several years ago, when a friend recommended it to help me navigate a new city during a holiday. Ever since, it has become my go-to tool for travel, finding restaurants, or even checking traffic conditions.

I typically use Google Maps not only for directions but also to plan routes in advance and to discover interesting places I wouldn’t have found on my own. The app lets me check public transport times, save favorite locations, and read reviews before making decisions.

What makes Google Maps so useful is its convenience and accuracy. It saves me a lot of time, reduces stress when I’m in unfamiliar places, and even helps me avoid traffic jams. Personally, I think it’s indispensable for anyone who likes to explore or simply needs to get around efficiently.

2. Speaking Sample Answer – Part 3

Band 7.0+ responses in Part 3 should be fully developed, logical, and use advanced vocabulary and a range of structures.

Question 1: How have computer programs and mobile apps changed people's lives?

They have fundamentally transformed the way we work, communicate, and spend our free time. With apps for messaging, banking, and even health monitoring, people can accomplish tasks much more efficiently. For instance, remote work would be almost impossible without collaborative tools like Zoom or Google Drive. On a personal level, apps make it easy to stay connected and informed, no matter where you are.

Question 2: Do you think all apps are beneficial for society?

Not necessarily. While many apps make life easier or more enjoyable, some can have negative effects. For example, social media apps can spread misinformation or lead to addiction and reduced real-life interaction. I believe developers and users both need to be responsible, ensuring that technology serves positive purposes rather than creating new problems.

Question 3: Should older people be encouraged to use technology more?

Yes, I think so. Technology can help the elderly manage their health, stay in touch with family, and access important information. However, it’s essential to provide clear guidance and user-friendly designs, as some older people may find new technology confusing or intimidating. If done properly, technology can certainly enhance their quality of life.

3. Vocabulary Highlight

At Band 7.0+, strong answers use precise, varied, and topic-specific vocabulary about technology, daily habits, the impact of apps, and digital life.

Technology & App Usage

Impact & Features

Social & Cultural Aspects

4. Grammar and Structures

At Band 7.0+, you are expected to use a flexible mix of tenses, compound and complex sentences, and accurate structures to express nuanced opinions, describe experiences, and support your arguments.

Tense Usage – Flexible and Precise

Complex Sentence Structures

Advanced Style Tips

• Vary your sentence beginnings for rhythm, e.g. “Ever since I started using…”, “Another feature I appreciate is…”, “What really sets it apart is…”

• Use “if…would,” “although,” “while,” and “because” to combine thoughts smoothly.

• Balance facts with reflection, e.g., “It’s not just a navigation tool—it’s a way to discover new experiences wherever I go.”

IV. Examiner’s Comments – What a Band 7 Answer Sounds Like

To achieve Band 7.0 or above in IELTS Speaking — especially for a topic like “Describe a program on computer or a mobile app on the phone that you use” — candidates must do more than describe an app’s basic features. Examiners want to hear thoughtful, extended responses that combine real-life examples, precise language, and fluent delivery.

What Makes a True Band 7+ Answer?

• Addresses each cue card point clearly and with extra detail or reflection

• Uses specific vocabulary for digital life, not just “app” or “good”

• Explains usefulness, drawbacks, and personal impact with concrete examples

• Shows awareness of technology’s influence on habits, learning, or even society

• Provides thoughtful opinion and evaluation, not just plain description

Tips for Achieving Band 7+

• Go beyond describing features—explain how or why you benefit from using the app/program

• Demonstrate a mix of academic and everyday vocabulary: “streamline,” “enhance productivity,” “keeps me connected”

• Use advanced linking when comparing: “On the other hand…,” “For that reason…,” “What I find most useful is…”

• Practice expanding each bullet point with a personal example, reflection, or contrasting view

A Band 7+ answer doesn’t just say what the app is — it demonstrates how technology shapes your life and how you evaluate it in a modern, balanced way.

V. Master IELTS Like a Pro 

This article has provided a sample IELTS Speaking Part 2 on the topic "Describe a program on a computer/a mobile app on the phone that you use," explained by the instructors at PREP. If your goal is to achieve a Band 7 or higher, these IELTS resources are for you:

• IELTS online course: Score Big in IELTS With Our Expert Tips!