Abstarct: Mastering speaking skills is a priority for many language learners, especially for IELTS candidates, given the challenge of the speaking component. While many candidates rely on IELTS preparatory courses for success, the instructional methods and strategies used remain largely underexplored. This study aims to investigate the methods and strategies employed in IELTS speaking preparation courses. Nine Iranian IELTS instructors from the cities of Tehran, Mashhad and Dezful participated in the study. The study employed Straussian grounded theory approach, and interviews were conducted using semi-structured questions. The Corbin and Strauss grounded theory (1990) frxamework was used to analyze the data. The findings identified two main themes: Strategy-baxsed approach and blended approaches. Strategy-baxsed approach included assessment rubric familiarization, question familiarity, exposure to sample answers phrases, prefabricate phrases, discourse markers, topic development techniques and providing feedback, while blended approaches included topic- baxsed approach, vocabulary-focused approach and grammar-focused approach. This study holds clear implications for both IELTS teachers and IELTS centers in determining effective teaching methods for the speaking preparatory courses they offer.