Describe An Important Decision You Made: IELTS Speaking Cue Card

You should say

What was it?
When did you make it?
What music does he/she like?
What was the result?
Explain how you felt about it.

43 unique answers with expert feedback

What challenges did you face when making this decision?

One of the main challenges was the fear of losing job security and income. Additionally, I worried about whether I would be able to adapt to studying full-time after being in a job for so long. It took a lot of reflection and weighing the pros and cons before I felt confident in my choice.

How has your experience been since you started studying?

Since I started studying, I have felt a renewed sense of purpose and excitement. The campus life has been vibrant, and I’ve made new friends. The offline lectures have allowed me to engage more with my professors and peers, making the learning experience much richer than online classes.

Do you think this decision will impact your future career?

Absolutely. I believe that taking this break to study will enhance my skills and knowledge, making me more competitive in the job market. The experiences and connections I’m building now will be invaluable for my future career, and I feel more prepared to pursue my goals.

Band 7

00:00

Today I would like to talk about a very important decision that I made regarding my life. This is a decision that I made to secure my future. The decision was my college decision, the country that I want to study my further education in and also the exams that I need to give along with that decision. So I was speaking with my mother and my counselor last month when she told me that I need to make a decision now as I would like to start my college next year. So it is an important decision for me from the perspective of my future as a student it is extremely important for us to gauge our scope of professional opportunities and also self-growth in our own career. A career is something that is extremely important for me in terms of money, in terms of self-growth and also how I would like to present myself to the world. I wanted to work, I still want to work in the field of aerospace engineering and for that I need to find opportunities that help me gain global exposure, have multiple peers in different kinds of field, have peers from different world backgrounds and also gain exposure in a lot of different environments that are maybe challenging technologically or even emotionally. The decision to take IELTS was one of the important decisions that came along in this journey since the aerospace field is very booming in the United States and along with the continent of Europe. It is important that I give this IELTS exam so that I can go over there and work with this opportunity.

Follow up questions

What factors influenced your choice of country for studying?

I considered several factors, including the quality of education, the reputation of universities in aerospace engineering, and the availability of internships and job opportunities in the field. Additionally, I wanted to experience a different culture and enhance my global perspective.

How did you prepare for the IELTS exam?

I prepared for the IELTS exam by taking practice tests, attending preparation classes, and focusing on improving my English language skills. I also studied the exam format and learned strategies for each section to ensure I could perform my best on the test day.

What challenges do you anticipate in your chosen career path?

I anticipate challenges such as staying updated with rapid technological advancements, competing with highly skilled professionals, and adapting to different work environments. Additionally, balancing work and continuous learning will be crucial for my success in aerospace engineering.

Band 7

00:00

Decision to shift my career from software to career counselling 5 years ago after volunteering for job fairs. Instead of music, helping people land dream jobs gave me immense satisfaction. Successfully helped over 10,000 people get hired. Fulfilled, purposeful and happy with my career choice. Ladies and gentlemen, today I want to share with you a life changing decision I made 5 years ago. I chose to shift my career from software development to career counselling and recruitment. It happened after I volunteered for job fairs in my community. Seeing people struggle to find employment resonated deeply when I helped some land their dream jobs. I felt immense satisfaction. One candidate thanked me with tears in her eyes saying my guidance changed her family's life. That moment solidified my purpose. Fast forward 5 years I have successfully helped over 10,000 people get hired across various industries. My work impact lives daily. This career choice fills me with fulfillment, purpose and happiness.

Follow up questions

What challenges did you face when shifting careers?

Transitioning from software to career counselling was challenging. I had to learn new skills, understand the job market, and build a network. Initially, I faced self-doubt and uncertainty about my decision, but my passion for helping others kept me motivated.

How do you measure the success of your career counselling?

I measure success through the number of clients I help secure jobs and their feedback. Positive testimonials and seeing clients thrive in their new roles are the best indicators of my impact. Additionally, I track job placement rates and follow up with clients to assess their satisfaction.

What advice would you give to someone considering a career change?

I would advise them to reflect on their passions and strengths. Volunteering or shadowing professionals in the desired field can provide insight. It's essential to be patient and persistent, as career transitions can be challenging but ultimately rewarding if aligned with one's purpose.

Practice other cue cards

Describe a difficult task that you completed at work/study that you felt proud of

View answers

Describe an event that ended in failure.

View answers

Describe A Positive Change In Your Life

View answers

Describe an achievement/success you are proud of

View answers

Describe a long-term goal you would like to achieve.

View answers

Describe Something You Do Regularly That Helps You Work And Study Better

View answers

Describe a skill that was difficult to learn

View answers

Describe an important thing you learned (not at school or college)

View answers

Describe a book you recently read.

View answers

Describe a piece of advice you recently received.

View answers

Describe a plan that you had to change recently

View answers

Describe Something Healthy You Enjoy Doing

View answers

Describe an important decision made with the help of other people

View answers

Describe Something You Do To Keep Fit And Healthy

View answers

Describe Something That Helps You Concentrate

View answers

Describe a habit your friend has and you want to develop.

View answers

Describe an impressive talk/conversation you had that you remember well

View answers

Describe an article about health that you read.

View answers

Describe a goal you set that you tried your best to achieve

View answers

Describe a talk you gave to a group of people

View answers

Describe a way/change that helps you save a lot of time

View answers

Describe a risk you took that you thought would lead to a terrible result but ended up with a positive result

View answers

Describe a piece of good advice that you gave to someone

View answers

Describe a daily routine that you enjoy

View answers

Describe A Difficult Decision That You Made And Had A Good Result

View answers

Describe an activity you enjoyed in your free time when you were young.

View answers

Band 7

00:00

It was 2019 when I had to take a very important decision in regards to my career. It was about changing my college and reapplying to a new college in India. I actually applied to the University of South Australia and I also got my offer letter and letter of acceptance. However, it was during COVID, so it was not reasonable to go to a different country, move there and start a life during that period because we all know what happened during COVID and how we all were suffering, so it was not convenient. So I had to take admission in India and I got admitted to university in Punjab. It was great, the decision made me choose a different course and it really helped me throughout my college life. I learned so much about management and technology because my course was Bachelor of Business Administration and Information Technology. Although I made this decision in my own terms, I would still think about it now and be happy that yes, it was a good decision and also very wise. I have now exposure to many things that I wasn't able to get through, but now I have understood the variety of work that is there in the corporate life and it has really helped me to take more wise decisions in the future and I'm very grateful about this decision that I made. Thank you.

Follow up questions

What factors did you consider when making your decision to change colleges?

I considered several factors, including the quality of education, the reputation of the new college, and the course offerings. I also thought about the impact of COVID-19 on my ability to study abroad and how staying in India would provide a more stable environment during uncertain times.

How did your experience in India differ from what you expected studying abroad?

Studying in India was different in many ways. I expected a more international experience, but I found that the local education system offered valuable insights into management and technology. The cultural context also enriched my learning, making it unique and relevant to my future career.

What skills did you gain from your course that you find most valuable?

I gained a variety of skills, particularly in management and technology. Skills like project management, data analysis, and teamwork were crucial. These skills have not only helped me academically but also prepared me for real-world challenges in the corporate environment.

Band 7

00:00

The most important decision that I have made and has impacted my life in a positive way is to be a working mother. I always thought that I'll not work after I give birth to my children and I'll be a stay-at-home mom. But somehow, I cannot let go of my work now. I remember I took sabbatical after my marriage to spend more time with my husband. My husband is in army, so he is continuously deployed at various places where I cannot accompany him. I realized that I am not a person who likes household chores much. I don't enjoy cooking. So, I didn't feel well at that time. That is when I decided that whatever happens, I'll always keep working. Now, I am a successful professional with 13 years of experience. I am a very happy mother of two kids. I am not able to give them my whole time, but whatever time I give to him is the quality time.

Follow up questions

How did your decision to work affect your family life?

My decision to work has brought a balance to my family life. While I can't be with my kids all the time, I make sure that the time I spend with them is meaningful. It has also set a positive example for them about the importance of pursuing one's career and passions.

What challenges did you face as a working mother?

As a working mother, I faced challenges like managing time effectively between work and family. There were moments of guilt when I couldn't be present for every school event. However, I learned to prioritize and communicate with my family about my commitments.

What advice would you give to someone considering becoming a working parent?

I would advise them to assess their priorities and understand that it's okay to seek a balance. Communication with your partner is key, and finding a supportive network can make a huge difference. It's important to remember that quality time with children matters more than quantity.

Show all 43 answers

Cue 1:What was it?

Clearly state the important decision you made, providing context to why it was significant.
Include details about what led you to make this decision.

Example

The important decision I made was to pursue my master's degree abroad. After completing my undergraduate studies in India, I realized that further education would enhance my career prospects and provide me with a global perspective.

Cue 2:When did you make it?

Mention the time frame when you made this decision, including any relevant events leading up to it.
Explain how you felt at that moment and what influenced your timing.

Example

I made this decision in early 2022, just a few months after graduating. I had been contemplating my future and discussing options with my family and friends, which helped me finalize my choice.

Cue 3:What was the result?

Describe the outcome of your decision, including both positive and negative aspects.
Share any specific experiences or achievements that resulted from this decision.

Example

As a result of my decision, I was accepted into a prestigious university in the UK. This experience not only expanded my knowledge but also allowed me to meet people from diverse backgrounds, enhancing my interpersonal skills.

Cue 4:Explain how you felt about it.

Share your emotions regarding the decision before and after making it.
Discuss any challenges you faced and how you overcame them.

Example

Initially, I felt anxious about leaving my comfort zone and moving to a new country. However, once I arrived and started my studies, I felt a sense of accomplishment and excitement. Overcoming the challenges of adapting to a new culture made me more resilient.

Conclusion

Example

In conclusion, making the decision to pursue my master's degree abroad was a pivotal moment in my life. It not only shaped my career but also contributed significantly to my personal growth, and I am grateful for the experiences I gained during that time.

Following this structure will ensure you cover all the essential points while providing a clear and engaging response to the cue card topic.

Tips to answer this Cue Card

1: Lack of Specificity

Being vague about the decision can make your answer less engaging. Specific details help the examiner understand your experience better and showcase your language skills.

Tip

Focus on providing clear details about the decision, including the context and your thought process at the time.

2: Ignoring Emotional Impact

Failing to express how you felt about the decision can make your response less personal and relatable. Emotions add depth to your story.

Tip

Include your feelings before, during, and after making the decision to create a more compelling narrative.

Neglecting the Outcome

Not discussing the result of your decision can leave your answer incomplete. The outcome is crucial for understanding the significance of your choice.

Tip

Clearly explain the results of your decision and how it affected your life to provide a full picture.

IELTS Cue Cards asked last week

Reported by Leap students who gave IELTS

Describe your favourite food at a traditional festival or a special event in your country

Reported by

Anonymous student Band 7.5

Pitampura Test Centre, New Delhi

Answer

I like to taste different types of cuisine. Here I would like to talk about my favorite dish at my traditional festival of Onam which is Sadya. Sadya is popular in my city. We are experimenting these cuisines on Onam festival day. Onam is a famous festival in my city. All family members get together in my home and we make a delicious Sadya. There are many ingredients includes that Sadya. Moreover, we make a big feast that day as well as we create a lot of memories together and we wear that day the traditional dress called Sari and men wear the Dhotis. That festival is really important to us because the whole day we are conducting different kinds of games at our homes and all the family members came together. It's a memorable day in my life. This is the festival. We are making the Sambar and Aviyal. These all the kinds of foods are making with the vegetables.

Talk about a toy you liked in your childhood

Reported by

Anonymous student Band 8

Sector 34 Test Centre, Chandigarh

Answer

The toy which I liked in my childhood was a panda doll, which makes me pleasant and makes me more blush. The pandas are the most beautiful creatures of the world, which looks gigantic and has pooshy cheeks and they are like stars in the clouds and they dream in me. Furthermore, these have been given by my father. My father is a very very beautiful artistic person, who makes me think of that. Every day you will face every difficulties and make you suffer and move forward. Pandas are always seen in Japanese countries. It is my lifelong dream to visit a Japanese country and click a photo with the original pandas, which makes sounds better.

Describe a time you were in a place where you didn't know the local language

Reported by

Anonymous student Band 6.5

Whitefield Test Center, Bengaluru

Answer

As India is a very large country full of diversity, so there are many places which have their own language and speak their native language. The place which I visited and I didn't know about their language was Leladakh, which is about 300 km away from my hometown and it is a very good place as it consists of different kind of trees, animals and have many scenic views and I visited over there last year in summers as it was the best time to visit because it has many, it was cold over there and we had summers in our area so it was the best time to visit over there and I went over there with my whole family.

Describe a time when your friend damaged something you owned

Reported by

Anonymous student Band 7

Begumpet Test Centre, Hyderabad

Answer

When I was a kid, I had a little pencil box which had these four buttons which gave the pencil box an operative use. When you press the button, the box would open up. When you press the second button, a little part of it would slide out. Basically it was just a little electronical and a fun thing to have and I owned it when I was in 6th. One day after break, I was standing and talking there with one of my friends and another friend of mine was running through the hallway and accidentally she pushed my shoulder and my pencil box hit the ground and it broke into multiple pieces to the point that it was not functional anymore.

Describe a book you recently read

Reported by

Anonymous student Band 7.5

CBD Belapur Test Centre, Navi Mumbai

Answer

It Ends With Us is a book I read recently. It's by the author Colleen Hoare. It's mainly a story about two teenagers, Atlas and Lily, and how they just handle their life going through high school, adolescence, and just domestic violence at home. Both of them come from very, very different families. However, they have one common determining factor between them, which is domestic violence. The abuse that they've seen their moms go through is just insane, and they connect through that on a different level. They're actually in the same high school, but they never speak to each other until Atlas actually crashes into an empty house next to Lily's villa. When Atlas is homeless and he doesn't have anywhere to go, he just comes and breaks into the house next to Lily's, and Lily helps him with all the daily necessities like clothes and food, medicines and stuff. Furthermore, their friendship blossoms into love, but it doesn't really fructify as Atlas has to leave. This book really gave me a lot of knowledge about domestic abuse and how to deal with it.