Table 3 Individual communication strategies used and usage patterns

1. Abandoning the message

I did not know how to say it because I do not have the information…So I could not include it. (Alice)

- Applied when thoughts are irrelevant to question

- Also when ideas or words inaccessible while speaking

2. Asking examiner’s help

I wasn’t clear about the question so I ask to repeat. (Don)

- Used when input question or expressions not understood, heard clearly or as time-buying measure when mind is drawing blank

3. Elaborating

I was trying to say something about my neighbour… to talk for a longer period. (Diane)

- Applied to keep response fluid, meet speaking test requirements or clarify a message

- Often resort to personal experiences or aspects not covered earlier

4. Pausing/slowing down

I spent time thinking about other meetings. At first, I did not think of… (Holly)

- Used to generate ideas, formulate speech or filter through a string of thoughts

5. Reformulating output

I was trying to structure the sentence -- a thought came and I was thinking how to express that also. So I started with ‘sort of’ and changed. (Bill)

- Used when a different idea had presented itself or useful language was inaccessible while responding