THE BIG IDEA: FACTS FIRST. DON’T GUESS.
1. “Something happened.”
Start the conversation, then name the event as clearly as you can.
2. “I saw…”
Describe something you personally observed.
3. “I didn’t see everything.”
Make the limits of your knowledge clear.
4. “It happened at…”
Use a time or a specific place: “It happened at about three.”
5. “It happened near…”
Name a nearby landmark when explaining the location.
6. “The person looked like…”
Describe what you remember, without adding details you are unsure about.
7. “I don’t know.”
A useful, honest answer when you do not know the answer.
8. “Can you repeat the question?”
Ask to hear the question again before answering.
9. “Can I show you?”
Ask whether you can show something that helps explain your account.
10. “Do you need my information?”
Ask what information the person needs from you.
Put it together
“I saw a car hit the fence near the entrance at about three. I didn’t see everything. I don’t know what happened before that.”
Use the Four Finger Rule
WANT TO: What do you want to accomplish?
HAVE TO: What facts do you have to explain?
NEED TO: What question do you need answered?
MIGHT: What might you need to repeat or clarify?
Prepare your first sentence and one backup question. If you do not understand, try: “Could you say that again, please?”
Stop memorizing English. Start using it.
Try Free Week 1 and prepare for your next real conversation.
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Related lesson: English for a lost passport.
