Describe A Difficult Decision That You Made And Had A Good Result: IELTS Speaking Cue Card
You should say
- What was the decision?
- When did you make the decision?
- How long did it take you to make the decision?
- Explain why it was a difficult decision to make.

43 unique answers with expert feedback
Cue 1:What was the decision?
- Clearly state the decision you made, providing context about the situation.
- Mention the potential outcomes of the decision to highlight its significance.
Example
The difficult decision I made was to leave my stable job in a multinational company to pursue my passion for photography. I had been working there for over three years, and while it provided financial security, I felt unfulfilled.
Cue 2:When did you make the decision?
- Specify the time frame when you made this decision, such as a particular month or year.
- Share any relevant events that led up to this decision to give it more context.
Example
I made this decision in early 2022, after attending a photography workshop that reignited my passion. The workshop made me realize that I wanted to turn my hobby into a career.
Cue 3:How long did it take you to make the decision?
- Discuss the duration it took you to arrive at this decision, emphasizing any internal conflict.
- Mention any discussions you had with friends or family that influenced your decision-making process.
Example
It took me about two months to make this decision. I spent countless nights weighing the pros and cons, and I also spoke to my family and friends, who encouraged me to follow my dreams.
Cue 4:Explain why it was a difficult decision to make.
- Describe the fears or concerns you had about making this decision.
- Explain how the fear of failure or uncertainty contributed to the difficulty of the decision.
Example
This was a difficult decision because I was afraid of financial instability and the fear of failing in a competitive field. Leaving a secure job felt risky, and I worried about what others would think of my choice.
Conclusion
Example
In the end, I took the leap and started my own photography business. It was challenging at first, but I am now thriving and feel more fulfilled than ever. This decision taught me the importance of following my passion and believing in myself.
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: Vague Responses
Providing vague or unclear answers can make it difficult for the examiner to understand your experience. Specific details help create a clearer picture of your decision-making process.
Tip
Use specific examples and details when describing your decision to make your response more engaging and informative.
2: Rushing Through the Explanation
Rushing through your explanation can lead to missing important points. It may also make your answer sound unstructured and less convincing.
Tip
Take your time to explain each cue clearly, ensuring you cover all aspects of the decision-making process.
Neglecting Emotional Impact
Ignoring the emotional aspects of your decision can make your response less relatable. Emotions often play a significant role in difficult decisions.
Tip
Include how you felt during the decision-making process to add depth and connect with the examiner.

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