CELPIP Speaking Task 6 is where many people either sound too aggressive or too apologetic.
The task usually works better when you sound respectful, explain the problem clearly, state your decision, and offer a reasonable alternative if possible.
#What the examiner wants from Task 6
This task usually asks you to deal with conflict, refusal, or disagreement. A strong answer usually includes:
- direct address to the other person
- a respectful tone
- a clear explanation of the problem
- a clear decision
- one compromise or alternative
#The easiest conflict-handling structure to remember
The safest pattern is:
- Address the person directly.
- Explain the issue.
- State your decision.
- Give two reasons.
- Offer a compromise.
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Choose your role clearlyDecide who you are speaking to and what relationship you have with them. That helps you control tone right away.
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Write one problem sentenceIf the situation is about an unfair fee, a missed event, or confidential information, reduce it to one clear issue before you start speaking.
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State the decision directlyDo not hide your decision. The listener should understand quickly what you can or cannot do.
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Support with two practical reasonsA difficult decision sounds more reasonable when it is supported by clear logic instead of emotion alone.
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Offer a respectful alternativeA short compromise often improves tone and makes the response sound mature and solution-focused.
#A master CELPIP Speaking Task 6 template
Hi [Name], I wanted to talk to you about [situation]. I understand [their need or point of view].
The problem is [issue], and it affects [impact].
Because of that, I’ve decided to [your decision]. First, [reason one]. Second, [reason two].
What I can do instead is [alternative or compromise]. That way, [fair result].
I hope you understand, and I want us to handle this respectfully.#What changes depending on the situation
#If the issue is unfair or financial
Focus on:
- what was agreed before
- why the new demand is not reasonable
- what fair resolution still works
#If the issue is personal or emotional
Focus on:
- appreciation
- honesty
- one alternative that protects the relationship
#If the issue is professional
Focus on:
- standards
- trust
- consequences
Do not explain the situation without addressing the person
Task 6 is a role-play. If you only describe the situation generally, the response sounds less complete. Use direct second-person language so it feels like a real conversation.
#A worked example
Opening: Address the person directly and stay polite.
Problem: Explain that the original quote was lower and the extra charge appeared too late.
Decision: State that you cannot accept the additional amount.
Reasons: Explain fairness and lack of prior notice.
Compromise: Offer to pay the agreed amount immediately and confirm the rest with the office.
#Timing plan for Task 6
You get 60 seconds to prepare and 60 seconds to speak. A practical prep split is:
- 15 seconds for role and tone
- 15 seconds for the problem and decision
- 20 seconds for two reasons
- 10 seconds for compromise and close
That prep time is enough if your structure is stable.
#Final checklist before you finish
- Did I address the person directly?
- Did I explain the issue clearly?
- Did I state my decision instead of avoiding it?
- Did I give at least two reasons?
- Did I sound respectful while still sounding firm?
- Did I offer a reasonable alternative or next step?
#Frequently asked questions
Should I apologize a lot in Task 6?
Do I always need a compromise?
What if I feel the other person is clearly wrong?
What is the most common mistake?
#Final takeaway
For Task 6, you do not need to sound harsh to sound strong.
If you remember one thing, remember this:
respect first, decision next, reasons after, compromise last.