Describe a skill that was difficult to learn: IELTS Speaking Cue Card

You should say

What skill was it?
When, why, and how did you learn it?
How do you feel about it?

30 unique answers with expert feedback

What techniques did your teacher use to help you improve your public speaking skills?

My teacher used various techniques, such as practicing in front of a small group first, providing constructive feedback, and encouraging me to focus on my message rather than the audience's reactions. She also suggested breathing exercises to calm my nerves before speaking.

How has overcoming your fear of public speaking impacted other areas of your life?

Overcoming my fear has significantly boosted my confidence in social situations and academic presentations. I find it easier to express my ideas in group discussions and even in casual conversations. It has also opened up opportunities for me to participate in more extracurricular activities.

Do you think public speaking is an essential skill in today's world? Why or why not?

Yes, I believe public speaking is essential today. It helps in effective communication, whether in professional settings or personal interactions. Being able to convey ideas clearly can lead to better collaboration and can enhance career prospects, especially in leadership roles.

Band 6-7

00:00

So, the skill that was difficult to learn was digital marketing skill, so I would like to start with a beginning when I recently completed my graduation and I was preparing for my CAD exam, I scored a less marks, however, I got a few calls from B.School but I didn't want to join that as it was not a top-notch college, however, I did try to learn a skill so that I can get a job for myself, so I have tried to do the R&D on what skills said I should learn, so I came across this digital marketing skill to get a job, so initially it was little hard for me as I am from a non-tech guy, but initially I cracked the skillset thing and I have placed in MNC, apart from that the soft skill that is required for this job is immensely important because without that you can't communicate with the client as my client was UK-based client, so I need to talk with them and also I should have a technical skill that was required, I was very over the moon when I learnt this skillset and I was able to communicate with my clients and also in this skill you should have a basic logical reasoning skillset and also apart from logical reasoning skill you should also have a good communication skill to interact with the client, I was over the moon, it's kind of once in a blue moon is that where people find it difficult or else the skillset is easy to learn but for me it was difficult as it was a technical thing as I am from non-tech guy.

Follow up questions

What resources did you use to learn digital marketing?

I utilized various online platforms like Coursera and Udemy, which offered comprehensive courses on digital marketing. Additionally, I read blogs and articles from industry experts, and I also joined online forums to discuss and clarify my doubts with peers.

How has learning this skill impacted your career?

Learning digital marketing has significantly boosted my career prospects. It not only helped me secure a job in an MNC but also enhanced my confidence in communicating with clients. This skill has opened up numerous opportunities for me in the tech industry.

What challenges did you face while learning this skill?

The main challenges were understanding technical jargon and applying theoretical knowledge practically. As someone from a non-tech background, I found it difficult to grasp certain concepts initially, but consistent practice and seeking help from mentors helped me overcome these hurdles.

Band 6-7

00:00

The skill which I always wanted to learn and I found most difficult to learn was driving. I started learning the skill around like when I was around 15 years of age. What I used to do is, I used to take papa's scooter and go out. And what problems did I face generally were like, I was fully wounded, I was full of scratches, many a times I was like bleeding. So all these things sometimes acted like hurdles but I was so willing to learn driving that my mental capability was stronger than my physical capability. What, when did I learn, as I told it was around 15 years of age when I started with two wheelers and gradually I reached, I started learning from the driving school when I was around 22 years of age and it took me around 15 to 20 days from driving school to learn. But that also didn't make me that proficient. Then one day my uncle taught me with lot of patience, he was very patient. The way he taught me, the thing I was not able to learn for last, I think, 8 years, I was able to learn within 5 minutes. So what I learnt through this is that sometimes things which we keep on

Follow up questions

What motivated you to learn driving despite the challenges?

I was motivated by the desire for independence and the ability to travel freely. Driving would allow me to explore new places and not rely on others for transportation. The thrill of mastering a skill also pushed me to overcome the difficulties I faced.

How did your uncle's teaching style differ from your previous experiences?

My uncle was very patient and understanding, which made a huge difference. Unlike my previous instructors, he took the time to explain things clearly and allowed me to practice at my own pace. This supportive environment helped me grasp the concepts quickly.

What other skills do you find challenging, and why?

I find learning new languages challenging because of the complexity of grammar and vocabulary. Unlike driving, where I can practice physically, language learning requires consistent practice and immersion, which can be difficult to achieve.

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Band 6-7

00:00

A skill that was difficult to learn for me was like programming in java. Java is very difficult programming language and it is like most complex programming language that I have come through and it was very difficult for me to learn. But I have managed by a class on a YouTuber. It is a free YouTube channel that's available to all and it is by the name of Durgasar. It is like a course java we can prepare for and it was very interesting that I used to learn it and it was very enthusiasm to learn it and all the benefits that I can get is like a very good resume for me to have like to get a job. It will help me and on the basis of that I will be programming, I will be making applications I will be doing further things.

Follow up questions

What motivated you to learn programming in Java?

I was motivated to learn Java because I wanted to enhance my skills for better job opportunities. I realized that programming is a valuable skill in today's job market, and Java is widely used in many applications, which made me eager to learn it.

How did you overcome the challenges you faced while learning Java?

I overcame the challenges by being persistent and utilizing resources like online classes. The YouTube channel Durgasar provided clear explanations and practical examples, which helped me understand complex concepts better. I also practiced regularly to reinforce my learning.

What other skills do you think are important to learn alongside programming?

Alongside programming, I believe skills like problem-solving, critical thinking, and teamwork are essential. Additionally, learning about software development methodologies and version control systems can greatly enhance a programmer's effectiveness in a team environment.

Band 6-7

00:00

The hardest skill I have learned is the travella from football and it is one of the most important skills to learn and also to become a professional footballer it is one of the major assets and travella is a beautiful pass to the other player and I feel travella is one of the most important skills in football and I am a big football fan so I found it very hard during my playing days and after I got to know a few techniques I realized that more practice was needed and that's when I realized I had to do more practice and once when I was thorough with it I could go well and I'm glad that I know the travella completely and I can also explain it to others this is a wonderful skill to learn and it has also been my toughest skill as well

Follow up questions

What techniques helped you learn the travella skill?

I learned various techniques such as foot positioning, body balance, and timing. Watching tutorials and practicing with experienced players also helped me understand the nuances of executing the travella pass effectively.

How has mastering the travella skill impacted your football performance?

Mastering the travella has significantly improved my passing accuracy and creativity on the field. It allows me to make more dynamic plays and assists, which has boosted my confidence and overall contribution to the team.

What advice would you give to someone struggling to learn a difficult skill?

I would advise them to be patient and persistent. Consistent practice is key, along with seeking feedback from others. It's also helpful to break down the skill into smaller parts and focus on mastering each component before putting it all together.

Show all 30 answers

Cue 1:What skill was it?

Clearly state the skill you found challenging to learn.
Provide a brief context about why this skill was important to you.

Example

The skill I found particularly difficult to learn was playing the guitar. I have always been passionate about music, and I wanted to play my favorite songs for my friends and family.

Cue 2:When, why, and how did you learn it?

Mention when you started learning this skill and the motivation behind it.
Describe the methods you used to learn, such as taking classes or self-study.

Example

I started learning the guitar about two years ago when I was in college. I wanted to impress my friends at a gathering, so I signed up for a local music class. Initially, I struggled with finger placements and strumming patterns, but I practiced daily and sought help from my instructor.

Cue 3:How do you feel about it?

Share your feelings about the learning process and the skill itself.
Reflect on how this skill has impacted your life or your confidence.

Example

Looking back, I feel proud of my perseverance. Although it was frustrating at times, learning the guitar has been incredibly rewarding. It has boosted my confidence and allowed me to connect with others through music.

Conclusion

Summarize the key points you made about the skill.
Express any future intentions regarding this skill or similar skills.

Example

In conclusion, learning to play the guitar was a challenging yet fulfilling experience. I plan to continue improving my skills and perhaps even perform at local events in the future.

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 Descriptions

Avoid giving unclear or general answers. Being vague can make it difficult for the examiner to understand your experience and feelings about the skill.

Tip

Provide specific details about the skill, including examples of challenges you faced and how you overcame them.

2: Ignoring Emotional Impact

Not expressing how you feel about the skill can make your answer less engaging. Emotions help to connect your experience to the examiner.

Tip

Share your feelings about learning the skill, such as frustration, joy, or pride, to make your response more relatable.

Lack of Structure

A disorganized answer can confuse the listener. It's important to present your thoughts in a clear and logical order.

Tip

Follow the cue prompts in order: start with the skill, then discuss when and how you learned it, and finish with your feelings about it.

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Anonymous student Band 7.5

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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.