Describe An Occasion When You Got Incorrect Information: How to answer?
The examiner gives you a cue card containing a topic and some points you must discuss.
For instance, here is how the cue card for the topic ‘Describe an occasion when you got incorrect information’ will be:
Now that we know the points to discuss in our ‘Describe an occasion when you got incorrect information’ practice test topic, let's see how to prepare for it and provide a practical example.
Introduction
- Introduce the occasion when you received incorrect information.
- Briefly explain the significance of the misinformation and its impact on you.
- Set the stage for recounting the experience of discovering the error.
Example: ‘I recall receiving incorrect information regarding a job interview. This caused immense confusion and frustration, leaving me disheartened and disappointed.’
When did you get it?
- Mention the time frame when you received the incorrect information.
- Describe the sources through which the misinformation was conveyed.
- Provide context about the situation in which the incorrect information was received.
Example: ‘Last year, I was actively searching for a job when I received an email notification about an upcoming interview for a position I had applied to weeks before.’
How did you get it?
- Describe the method through which you received the incorrect information.
- Provide details about who conveyed the misinformation.
- Explain any factors responsible for the circulation of incorrect information.
Example: ‘I received an email notification from the company's HR department. The email had all the regular details, such as the interview date, time, location, and preparation instructions. Since it came from a reputable source, I didn't doubt its authenticity and accepted it without second thoughts.’
How did you find it was incorrect?
- Explain the events that led you to figure out the misinformation.
- Describe any activities you did to verify the accuracy of the information.
- Share your reaction upon finding out about the error.
Example: ‘On the interview day, the receptionist told me no interview was scheduled. I showed her the email notification I had received. After checking, it was found that there had been a mistake in scheduling.’ Initially, I felt frustrated and disheartened by the misinformation. It made me question the reliability of communication channels. However, I learned to double-check information instead of taking it at face value.
And how do you feel about it?
- Express your emotional response to discovering the misinformation.
- Reflect on the impact of the incorrect information on your feelings, plans, or trust in the source.
- Mention any lessons learned from the experience.
Example: ‘Initially, I felt frustrated and disheartened by the misinformation. It made me question the reliability of communication channels. It also taught me to double-check information instead of taking it at face value.’
Conclusion
- Summarise your experiences of receiving incorrect information.
- Give some light on any lessons learned from the situation.
- Consider the broader implications of the experience on your outlook or behaviour.
Example: ‘The incident taught me that checking information before taking action is essential. Although it was frustrating, it made me approach future situations more carefully. It showed me that being critical and attentive to detail is essential when communicating.
Also Read: Detailed Overview of IELTS Exams!
Describe An Occasion When You Got Incorrect Information: Sample Answers
We have created three sets of samples for the topic ‘Describe an occasion when you got incorrect information’ to help you better prepare for the speaking test. These sample answers will help you understand how to discuss the cue card points in different ways.
Introduction:
I once made a flight reservation, but unfortunately, I received incorrect information about it. This caused a chain of unexpected events and led to frustration on my end.
When did you get it?
Last summer, I planned to visit my family overseas and booked my flight tickets online through a well-known travel booking website.
How did you get it?
Just a few days before my departure, the airline sent me an email verifying my flight information. The email included all the typical details, such as the flight number, departure time, and gate number.
How did you find it was incorrect?
Upon reaching the airport on the day of my flight, the airline staff informed me that there was no reservation under my name for the flight I had booked. This news caused me confusion and frustration, as I was sure I had made a reservation. After investigating the matter, it turned out that there was a glitch in the system, and my reservation had not been properly processed.
And how do you feel about it?
The incident taught me the significance of verifying essential details, particularly concerning travel arrangements. Although it was a difficult situation, it emphasised the need to be cautious and attentive in ensuring the correctness of information, especially regarding vital matters like flight bookings.
Conclusion:
The incident taught me the significance of verifying essential details concerning travel arrangements. Although it was a difficult situation to handle, it emphasised the need to be cautious and attentive in ensuring the information's correctness, especially regarding vital matters like flight bookings.
Describe An Occasion When You Got Incorrect Information: Follow-Up Questions
Let us now discover some of the follow-up questions that can be asked about our topic, ‘Describe an occasion when you got incorrect information.’
The follow-up questions are asked in the discussion round (part 3 of the IELTS speaking test), lasting 4-5 minutes.
Conclusion
We hope that the practice test was helpful to you. But remember that more than one practice test is required for a good band score. Hence, you should check out more practice resources to perform better in the exams.
Also, we offer various resources to help you prepare for the exam. You can also attend our free IELTS masterclass to discover tips and tricks for cracking the IELTS exam.
