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IELTSTM CUE CARD

Describe A Time You Had To Finish Something Quickly: IELTS Speaking Cue Card

Updated on Nov 13, 2024, 06:59

Overview

In the IELTS Speaking test, the cue card segment assesses your ability to speak coherently on a given topic. Cue cards prompt you to discuss specific subjects, allowing examiners to evaluate your communication skills and fluency. This portion of the exam aims to gauge your ability to express ideas clearly and effectively within a limited timeframe. When considering a topic like "Describe a time you had to finish something quickly," you're prompted to recall a personal experience that fits the criteria. 
 

Successful business people often embody qualities of efficiency and adaptability, as they frequently encounter situations demanding quick decision-making and problem-solving. Their ability to navigate challenges swiftly serves as a source of inspiration, mirroring the essence of this speaking task. In this content piece, we will explore sample answers for this topic to help you prepare effectively.

 

Cue Card/Topic: Describe A Time You Had To Finish Something Quickly

You should say

  • What it was?
  • When it happened?
  • How you finished it?
  • Why you had to finish it quickly?
  • Explain how you felt about it.
Sample Answer 1

Introduction:
 

  • Think back to a situation when you had to finish something quickly. For instance, I remember the time when I had to finish my work quickly during my college project submission last semester. 
  • It was a group assignment, and we had to present our project on sustainable agriculture within a tight deadline. 
  • The urgency stemmed from the fact that our professor had unexpectedly brought forward the submission date. 
  • This sudden change caught us off guard, but we knew we had to act fast to meet the new deadline.

 

Describing Your Experience/Opinion/Interest:
 

  • Firstly, we quickly convened a group meeting to reassess our project timeline and divide tasks more efficiently. 
  • My role was to gather data on local farming practices and their environmental impact. 
  • Despite the time pressure, I found the task intriguing as it aligned with my interest in environmental sustainability. 
  • However, the limited time meant we had to work tirelessly, often conducting research late at night. 
  • Despite the challenges, the shared goal of completing the project successfully kept us motivated and focused.

 

Key Highlights:
 

  • One of the key highlights of this experience was our ability to adapt and work cohesively as a team under pressure. 
  • We prioritised tasks based on their importance and delegated responsibilities accordingly. 
  • Additionally, we efficiently used available resources, such as online databases and academic journals, to gather relevant information quickly. 
  • Despite some setbacks, such as technical issues and conflicting schedules, we remained resilient and continued pushing forward towards our goal.

 

Conclusion:
 

  • In conclusion, the experience of having to finish our college project quickly taught me valuable lessons in time management, teamwork, and problem-solving. 
  • It showed me that even tight deadlines could be met successfully with determination and effective collaboration. 
  • Looking back, I feel proud of our accomplishments and grateful for the opportunity to overcome challenges and grow personally and academically.
Sample Answer 2

Introduction:

 

  • Think back to a situation when you had to finish something quickly. For instance, I remember a time when I had to wrap up something swiftly. 
  • It happened just a couple of months ago when I was planning a surprise birthday party for my sister. 
  • The plan was to organise everything without her noticing, and time suddenly became my biggest challenge when I realised her birthday was just a week away.

 

Describing Your Experience/Opinion/Interest:

 

  • So, I had to come up with a plan and start executing it quickly. 
  • First off, I had to gather a list of guests, plan the venue, and decide on the theme of the party. 
  • I was quite excited about the whole idea because I knew how much it would mean to my sister. 
  • However, I also felt a bit stressed out because there was so much to do in such a short time. But hey, who doesn't love a good challenge, right?

 

Key Highlights:

 

  • One of the most challenging parts was coordinating with the guests and ensuring everyone could make it on short notice. 
  • Thankfully, most of them were able to adjust their schedules. 
  • Another highlight was arranging the decorations and catering services within a tight timeframe. 
  • I had to make quick decisions about the menu and decorations to ensure everything was in place for the big day. 
  • Despite the time crunch, seeing the smile on my sister's face when she walked into the surprise party made it all worth it.

 

Conclusion:

 

  • In conclusion, the experience taught me a lot about time management and the importance of staying organised, especially when working under pressure. 
  • It also reinforced the joy of bringing happiness to others through thoughtful gestures. 
  • Despite the initial panic, everything came together beautifully, and it was a memorable celebration for my sister and our family.
Sample Answer 3

Introduction:

 

  • Think back to a situation when you had to finish something quickly. For instance, I remember it was during my internship at a marketing firm last summer when I had to complete a task quickly. 
  • My supervisor unexpectedly assigned me to prepare a presentation for an important client meeting scheduled for the next day. 
  • The tight deadline caught me off guard, but I knew I had to step up and deliver.

 

Describing Your Experience/Opinion/Interest:

 

  • So, I rolled up my sleeves and dove straight into the task. 
  • Firstly, I brainstormed ideas for the presentation content, focusing on the client's needs and preferences. 
  • Despite the time pressure, I found the challenge exhilarating, as it allowed me to showcase my creativity and problem-solving skills in a real-world scenario. 
  • However, I also felt a sense of urgency and responsibility to meet the client's expectations and uphold the company's reputation.

 

Key Highlights:

 

  • One of the highlights of this experience was the support I received from my colleagues. 
  • They readily offered advice and assistance, helping me gather relevant data and refine my presentation slides. 
  • Additionally, I leveraged technology to expedite the process, using design software to create visually appealing graphics and charts. 
  • Despite the initial stress, the collaborative effort and innovative approach enabled me to complete the presentation on time and to a high standard.

 

Conclusion:

 

  • The experience taught me valuable lessons in time management, adaptability, and teamwork. 
  • It reinforced the importance of staying calm and focused under pressure, as well as the power of collaboration in achieving shared goals. 
  • Ultimately, the successful delivery of the presentation not only impressed the client but also boosted my confidence and professional development.

When the cue card section commences, the examiner will hand you a cue card with the topic on it. You'll have one minute to prepare your response while the examiner observes your note-taking and preparation skills. After that, you will need to speak about the topic for up to two minutes.
 

To answer these cue cards effectively, break your response into small pieces: Introduction, describing your experience/opinion/interest, key highlights, and conclusion.

 

Introduction:
 

  • Briefly introduce the situation or task you had to complete quickly.
  • Mention when and where this happened to provide context.
  • State why it was important or challenging to finish the task swiftly.

 

Describing Your Experience/Opinion/Interest
 

  • Describe the task or situation in detail, including what it involved and why it needed to be completed quickly.
  • Explain any obstacles or constraints you faced while trying to finish the task.
  • Share your thoughts and feelings about the experience, including any strategies you used to complete the task on time.

 

Key Highlights:

 

  • Highlight the key actions or decisions you took to expedite the process.
  • Discuss any notable challenges you encountered and how you overcame them.
  • Emphasise the outcomes or results of completing the task quickly, including any lessons learned or achievements gained.
     

Conclusion:
 

  • Summarise the main points of your response, reiterating the significance of finishing the task quickly.
  • Reflect on what you learned from the experience and how it has influenced you.
  • End with a concluding statement that reinforces the importance of being able to work efficiently under pressure.

Follow-Up Questions

In the IELTS Speaking Test, after you describe a topic on the cue card, the examiner will ask follow-up questions to explore the topic further. This part of the test helps assess your ability to discuss ideas in more detail, express opinions, and provide explanations. It’s an opportunity to show your language skills more comprehensively. These questions will often relate to the experience you just described, allowing you to expand on your thoughts and insights.

Q1.Are you often busy?

Answer 1: Yes, I often find myself busy with various tasks and responsibilities, ranging from work commitments to personal errands. Managing my time effectively becomes crucial to ensure that I meet all my obligations without feeling overwhelmed. It's essential to strike a balance between productivity and relaxation to maintain overall well-being.
 

Answer 2: Generally, I find myself quite occupied with many activities, ranging from professional duties to personal engagements. This business often requires meticulous planning and organisation to ensure that I fulfil all my responsibilities effectively. While it can be challenging at times, I thrive on the sense of accomplishment that comes with managing my time efficiently.

Q2. What kind of pressure do people experience at work?

Answer 1: People often encounter various pressures in the workplace, such as meeting tight deadlines, handling heavy workloads, and striving to meet high-performance expectations. Additionally, there may be pressure from colleagues or supervisors to deliver results consistently and maintain professional standards. Managing these pressures effectively is essential to ensure productivity and well-being in the workplace.

 

Answer 2: Work-related pressures can manifest in different forms, including the need to perform well under tight deadlines, handle demanding tasks, and navigate challenging work environments. Additionally, there may be pressure to excel in one's role, meet targets, and adapt to changing work dynamics. Effectively managing these pressures is crucial for maintaining productivity, mental well-being, and overall job satisfaction.

Q3. Do you think children should learn through playing games or under pressure?

Answer 1: Children should primarily learn through playing games as it provides them with a conducive environment for exploration, experimentation, and creativity. Engaging in playful activities allows children to develop essential skills such as problem-solving, collaboration, and communication in a stress-free and enjoyable manner. It fosters a positive attitude towards learning and encourages active participation and engagement.


Answer 2: Learning through play is essential for children's holistic development as it stimulates their imagination, enhances cognitive abilities, and promotes social interaction. Unlike learning under pressure, which may lead to stress and anxiety, playing games allows children to learn at their own pace, make mistakes, and discover solutions independently. It creates a nurturing environment that nurtures curiosity, resilience, and a lifelong love for learning.

Q4. Why do some people spend a long time having a meal?

Answer 1: Some individuals may take their time during meals to fully appreciate the sensory experience of eating, including savouring the flavours, textures, and aromas of food. It provides an opportunity to relax, unwind, and enjoy the company of others, fostering social connections and bonding over shared meals. Additionally, lingering over meals can promote mindful eating practices, encouraging individuals to eat slowly and savour each bite.
 

Answer 2: Long meal times allow individuals to slow down and disconnect from the fast-paced nature of daily life, allowing them to enjoy a moment of respite and relaxation. It creates an atmosphere conducive to meaningful conversations, deepening relationships, and fostering a sense of community. Moreover, spending extended time at the table may contribute to better digestion and overall well-being, encouraging mindful eating habits and reducing stress levels.

FAQs

Q. Can I express my opinion during the test, even if it's different from the examiner's?

Ans. You're encouraged to share your thoughts during the test, even if they differ from the examiner's. The IELTS speaking test values your ability to communicate effectively and express your ideas clearly. Your opinions are important, so don't hesitate to express them confidently.

Q. How to crack the Cue Card task?

Ans. To do well in the Cue Card task, it's important to prepare strategically. Familiarise yourself with common topics and jot down key points. Listen carefully to the cue card task during the test, organise your thoughts, and speak clearly. Use simple language, share relevant examples, and maintain confidence throughout your response.

Q. How to make notes for cue card IELTS?

Ans. Making notes for the Cue Card task is essential for organising your ideas. Start by writing down keywords or phrases related to the topic. Use bullet points or a simple mind map to structure your thoughts logically. Keep your notes brief and easy to understand, so you can refer to them quickly during the speaking test while maintaining eye contact with the examiner.

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