Describe A Period When You Were Busy: How to Answer?
Here’s how the cue card related to our topic will look like:
Based on the topic, the whole answer can be divided into small fragments, each discussing a specific area. We have broken it into fragments in our theme, which we will see with a practical example.
Introduction:
- You should introduce the busy period you will discuss in your speech.
- Then, briefly explain why you were busy during the period.
- You must have your language clear and maintain a smoother flow to make it easy to understand.
Example: ‘In my final year of university, I had a busy period due to the thesis work given with a short deadline and the preparation for the examination.’
When Was the Period?
- Here, you can specify the particular time period during which you were busy.
Example: ‘It all began in the second half of the last semester when I was given a project report to be completed by the end of the examination.’
Describe the Tasks That Kept You Busy:
- Provide details of the activities that kept you busy.
- You can discuss the deadlines, the responsibilities assigned to you, and the challenges (if any).
Example: ‘I had to collect data from many people for my thesis. I also had to invest time in analysing them and interpreting my results while giving time to my preparation work. Unfortunately, the report's submission date coincided with the end examination.’
Explain How You Managed The Time During The Period:
- You need to describe how you keep yourself organised.
- Explain some methods that help you plan your day and manage all the activities without compromising the other.
Example: ‘To manage my tasks simultaneously, I created a daily action plan outlining my needed tasks. I also specified the research, writing, and exam preparation timeline. Besides this, I also sought the support of my seniors and professors.’
Share How You Cope Up With the Busy Schedules:
- Discuss how you have handled the pressure of managing priority tasks together.
- You can explain the habits you adopted to keep yourself positive and active throughout the period.
Example: ‘I took frequent breaks whenever I felt like losing myself. I also walked quickly, meditated, and hung out with my friends. Also, I exercised regularly and ate rich meals to keep myself healthy and relieve the stress during the phase.’
Conclusion:
- You must describe the outcome of your busy periods and what you have learned.
- Provide an overall insight and end on a positive note.
Example: ‘Despite all the odds and evens, I have completed the assignment and performed better in the exams, too. Although challenging, it taught me how to manage my time effectively and multiple tasks smoothly. This will help me to be a better version of myself and excel in the professional world.’
Describe a Period When You Were Busy: Sample Answers
Find the Sample Answers for Describe a Period When You Were Busy IELTS Cue Card here.
Introduction:
One of the busiest times in my life was during my marketing internship last summer. It was a distinct experience that challenged me to level up and gain experience working in the dynamic corporate world.
When Was the Period?
This particular period was during my final semester. During this timeframe, I focused on my professional upliftment to prepare myself for the corporate world and perform better academically.
Describe the Tasks That Kept You Busy:
During my tenure, I was assigned various tasks, including market research operations, developing marketing methods, and client presentations. I was also involved in some projects with deadlines. I also had to attend team meetings and coordinate with team members actively.
Explain How You Managed The Time During The Period.
I have used many tools to manage my time efficiently. For example, I have used project management tools such as Asana to keep track of tasks and prioritise them according to deadlines. I have used digital calendars and software to schedule and manage client meetings. Also, I have broken down challenging tasks into small fragments and focused on each one at a time. I also used to seek the support of my managers whenever I got stuck during a task.
Share How You Cope Up With the Busy Schedules:
I had to take care of my personal well-being and give myself enough time to handle the tough times smoothly. A balanced work-life has always been my priority, and I always care for my health to keep myself active. I engage in various productive activities like cycling, walking, playing outdoor games, and listening to music to overcome stressful times and stay fit. These activities make me swiftly cope with these challenges and groom myself professionally.
Conclusion:
The internship experience was challenging, but it provided me with a great experience of working in the corporate world and maintaining a balance between work and personal life. I was able to manage time efficiently and achieve the desired results. This has resulted in brushing up my skills and growing professionally.
Describe a Period When You Were Very Busy: Follow-Up Questions
For our topic, “Describe A Period When You Were Busy”, here are the possible questions which the examiner might ask.
