IELTS Speaking Practice: Do You Prefer Mornings or Evenings? Why?

This IELTS Speaking Practice focuses on Part 1 and Part 3 style questions related to daily routines, preferences, and lifestyle. The topic “Do you prefer mornings or evenings?” is very common in IELTS exams because it allows you to show your ability to describe habits, explain reasons, and use contrasting structures (e.g., although, while, on the other hand).
Below is a full mock exam script with sample answers, vocabulary, and tips to help you speak naturally for about 2 minutes.

️ Part 1: Introduction and Interview (Simple Questions)

Q1: Are you a morning person or an evening person?
A1: I would say I’m more of a morning person. I feel fresh and productive early in the day. I like to start my tasks early because my mind is clearer and I can focus better before things get busy.

Q2: What do you usually do in the morning?
A2: I usually wake up around 6:30 a.m., have a cup of coffee, and check my emails. Then I go for a short jog or do some stretching. After that, I take a shower and prepare breakfast. I try to start working or studying by around 8:00 a.m.

Q3: How do you feel in the evening?
A3: In the evening, I usually feel relaxed but a bit tired. I like to spend time with my family, watch a show, or read something light. I rarely study or do serious work at night because my concentration isn’t as strong as in the morning.

Q4: Has your preference changed over time?
A4: Yes, definitely. When I was a student, I used to stay up late at night. But now that I have more responsibilities, I’ve learned to wake up earlier. I realized mornings are more peaceful and help me plan my day better.

Vocabulary for Part 1

• Morning person / Night owl – someone who prefers mornings or nights

• Productive – able to get things done efficiently

• Fresh start – a clean and positive beginning of the day

• Wind down – to relax after work or study

• Recharge – to regain energy

• Concentration level – how well you can focus

Example sentence:

I’m more productive in the morning because that’s when my concentration level is at its highest.

Part 2: Cue Card (Long Turn)

Describe whether you prefer mornings or evenings.

You should say:

• what time of the day you prefer

• what you usually do at that time

• how you feel at that time

• and explain why you prefer mornings or evenings

Model Answer 1: The Early Riser

I definitely prefer mornings. I love how peaceful and refreshing they feel. When I wake up early, the air is cooler, and there’s almost no noise around. It gives me a sense of calm and focus that I don’t get at any other time of the day.

Usually, I start my mornings with a cup of green tea while reading the news on my phone. Then, I go for a quick jog before taking a shower and having breakfast. This routine helps me stay energized throughout the day.

I prefer mornings because they make me feel more productive. When I get things done early, I feel a sense of accomplishment. Also, natural sunlight helps lift my mood. Evenings, on the other hand, often make me feel sleepy and less motivated.

So overall, mornings are my favorite time because they give me clarity, positivity, and a head start on everything I want to do.

Model Answer 2: The Night Owl

Personally, I prefer evenings. I’m not really a morning person — it usually takes me a while to fully wake up. In the evenings, I feel more relaxed and creative. The day’s responsibilities are over, so I can focus on things I truly enjoy.

Around 7 or 8 p.m., I like to listen to music, cook dinner, or go for a walk. Sometimes I study or work on personal projects because that’s when ideas come to me easily. The quietness of the night gives me time to think deeply.

I prefer evenings because they feel more personal and free. There’s no pressure or rush like in the morning. I can unwind, reflect, and recharge. For me, evenings are when I feel most like myself.

☀️ Model Answer 3: The Balanced Person

It’s a tough choice, but I slightly prefer mornings. I enjoy how calm and bright they are, but I also appreciate the peacefulness of evenings. Still, mornings have a special energy that pushes me to start the day right.

In the morning, I usually make coffee and review my to-do list. I might also play some soft music while preparing breakfast. The combination of sunlight and fresh air helps me feel awake and focused.

I prefer mornings because they set the tone for the rest of my day. If I start strong, everything else seems to go more smoothly. Even though evenings are great for relaxing, I think mornings are more meaningful for productivity and positivity.

Model Answer 4: The Creative Night Thinker

I prefer evenings because that’s when I feel most inspired. I’m the type of person who becomes more active after sunset. Maybe it’s the cooler weather or the quiet atmosphere, but I can really focus on creative work at that time.

During the evening, I usually sit at my desk, write in my journal, or brainstorm new ideas. Sometimes I play the guitar or watch movies that spark my imagination. I also like going for a late-night walk to clear my mind.

I prefer evenings because they allow me to slow down and reflect. My creativity flows better when everything is calm and the world seems to move slower. Mornings might be good for routine tasks, but evenings are when my imagination truly wakes up.

️ Model Answer 5: The Morning Optimist

Without a doubt, I prefer mornings. For me, mornings symbolize hope and new opportunities. The sky is bright, the air is cool, and everything feels possible. It’s like a clean slate every single day.

I usually wake up early, make a cup of coffee, and do some stretching or yoga. Then I sit by the window and enjoy the sunrise while listening to calm music. It’s my quiet moment before the world gets busy.

I prefer mornings because they help me feel optimistic and confident. When I finish a few tasks before noon, I already feel accomplished. I also love the feeling of sunlight streaming into my room — it boosts my energy instantly.

Overall, mornings give me balance, motivation, and peace of mind — everything I need to start my day on a positive note.

Summary of Tone & Purpose

Part 3: Discussion Questions (Advanced Level)

Q1: Why do some people prefer to work or study at night?
A1: Some people feel more creative and less distracted at night. The quiet environment allows them to concentrate deeply without interruptions. Others might simply have a natural body rhythm that keeps them more alert during late hours.

Q2: Do you think people’s energy levels depend on lifestyle or personality?
A2: I think it’s a mix of both. Personality plays a big role — some people are naturally more energetic in the morning, while others peak in the evening. But lifestyle habits like diet, sleep, and exercise also have a strong impact on our energy levels throughout the day.

Q3: How do schools and workplaces affect people’s daily rhythms?
A3: Most schools and companies follow a morning schedule, which forces people to adapt even if they are night owls. For example, students have to wake up early for classes. In a way, this system rewards morning people because it matches their natural rhythm better.

Q4: What are the advantages of starting your day early?
A4: Starting early allows people to use their time efficiently. There are fewer distractions in the morning, and people can plan their day with a clear mind. Moreover, early risers tend to have more time for self-care, like exercising or preparing healthy meals.

Q5: Do you think society values morning people more than night owls?
A5: Yes, to some extent. Many workplaces and schools operate on early schedules, so people who wake up early are often seen as more disciplined or responsible. However, this view is changing as flexible work hours and remote jobs become more common. Now, people can choose their own most productive time of day.

Key Grammar & Structures

1. Comparatives and Contrasts

   • I’m more productive in the morning than in the evening.

   • While evenings are relaxing, mornings are more efficient for work.

2. Reason and Cause Clauses

   • I prefer mornings because I can focus better.

   • Since I have a busy schedule, mornings help me get ahead.

3. Present Simple for Habits

   • I usually wake up early and start my day with coffee.

   • I often spend my evenings reading or relaxing.

4. Complex Sentences for Band 7+

   • Even though I enjoy peaceful evenings, I still think mornings give me more control over my day.

   • If I start my day late, I feel like I’ve already lost valuable time.

Tips for High IELTS Band Scores

• Show contrast: Compare both times of the day to demonstrate vocabulary range.

  “Although evenings are peaceful, mornings help me focus better.”

• Use natural expressions: Avoid repeating “I like mornings.” Instead, use phrases like “I feel at my best” or “That’s when I’m most active.”

• Use connectors: Words like however, while, in contrast, personally speaking improve coherence.

• Speak from experience: Add small details such as “I usually listen to soft music in the morning while preparing breakfast.” This makes your answer authentic.

Practice Task

Record yourself answering this question for 2 minutes:

“Do you prefer mornings or evenings? Why?”

Then listen to your recording and check:

• Did you explain why clearly?

• Did you use linking words like because, although, on the other hand?

• Did you speak naturally with correct intonation and pauses?

✅ Summary

In IELTS Speaking, topics like “mornings vs. evenings” test your ability to describe habits, express opinions, and show reasoning. To achieve a Band 7 or higher, focus on:

• Giving specific examples

• Using varied grammar structures

• Speaking with confidence and coherence

Whether you’re a morning person or a night owl, practice expressing your preference in detail — that’s what examiners are looking for.

FAQs

What is the examiner testing with the question “Do you prefer mornings or evenings?”

The examiner wants to assess how well you express preferences, give reasons, and compare two options. They listen for clear organization, a range of vocabulary for time and routines, accurate grammar (contrast clauses, conditionals), and natural pronunciation and fluency.

How long should my answer be in Part 2?

Aim to speak for about two minutes. Use 20–30 seconds to outline your points mentally, then develop each point with a brief example. Keep a steady pace and avoid long pauses or restarting sentences.

What structure can I use for a strong Part 2 answer?

Try a simple four-step structure: Position (I prefer mornings/evenings) → Routine (what you do) → Feelings (how you feel) → Reasons & Benefits (why it works for you). Finish with a one-sentence summary.

Which vocabulary helps me sound natural?

Use phrases like “set the tone for the day,” “wind down,” “a burst of energy,” “clear head,” “uninterrupted time,” “natural body clock,” and “burn the midnight oil.” Mix collocations with precise verbs like “recharge,” “unwind,” and “prioritize.”

What grammar points should I highlight?

Show range with contrast clauses (although, whereas, while), cause and effect (because, since, so), and conditionals (if I start early, I feel…). Use present simple for habits and present perfect for changes over time (my preference has changed).

How can I compare mornings and evenings effectively?

Use balanced comparisons: “While mornings give me clarity and focus, evenings allow me to unwind.” Add a reason and mini-example to each side to demonstrate coherence and development.

What kinds of examples work best?

Brief, concrete snapshots: a sunrise jog, late-night study session, preparing breakfast, or journaling at night. Tie each example to an outcome such as better focus, improved mood, or fewer distractions.

How can I extend my answers without repeating?

Add micro-reasons (light, temperature, noise level), consequences (productivity, sleep quality), and context (work schedule, family time). Use linking devices like “in addition,” “on the other hand,” and “as a result.”

What pronunciation tips help with this topic?

Chunk ideas into thought groups, stress key content words (morning, focus, productive, unwind), and use rising–falling intonation for contrasts. Avoid monotone delivery; vary pitch slightly when shifting between benefits and drawbacks.

How do I personalize my answer for a higher band?

Show change or nuance: “I used to be a night owl at university, but a demanding job nudged me toward early mornings.” Demonstrating development, compromise, or mixed preferences sounds authentic and sophisticated.

What mistakes should I avoid?

Don’t give a list without explanation, repeat the same reason, or drift off-topic. Avoid vague fillers. Replace “good/bad” with precise adjectives like “refreshing,” “restorative,” “stimulating,” or “draining.”

Can I mention health or productivity research?

Yes, but keep it light and personal: “I focus better in natural light, so mornings suit me.” The IELTS Speaking test values clear personal reasoning over long statistics or technical jargon.

IELTS Speaking Topics 300 – Practice Questions, Model Answers & Mock Tests [2025–2026 Guide]