Describe a time when missed or were late for an important meeting/event: IELTS Speaking Cue Card
You should say
- When it happened?
- What happened?
- Why you missed/were late for it?
- And explain how you felt about this experience.

3 unique answers with expert feedback
Cue 1:When it happened?
- Start by specifying the date and time of the event to provide context.
- Mention the location of the meeting or event to give a clear picture.
Example
It was on a rainy Monday morning last month when I was supposed to attend an important team meeting at the office at 10 AM.
Cue 2:What happened?
- Describe the events leading up to the meeting to create a narrative.
- Include any specific incidents that contributed to the situation.
Example
I had planned everything the night before, but as I was getting ready, I realized I had misplaced my car keys. I spent nearly 30 minutes searching for them, which made me late.
Cue 3:Why you missed/were late for it?
- Explain the reasons for your delay in a straightforward manner.
- Reflect on any external factors that may have contributed to the situation.
Example
I was late because of my own oversight in keeping my keys in a designated spot. The rain also made the roads congested, which added to my delay.
Cue 4:And explain how you felt about this experience.
- Share your emotions regarding the experience to make it relatable.
- Discuss any lessons learned or changes you made afterward.
Example
I felt embarrassed and anxious when I finally arrived, as I hate being late. This experience taught me to be more organized and to prepare for such situations in advance.
Conclusion
- Summarize the key points of your experience succinctly.
- Reflect on how this incident has impacted your approach to time management.
Example
In conclusion, being late for that meeting was a wake-up call for me. I now prioritize being punctual and have set reminders to avoid similar situations 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 Responses
Providing vague or unclear answers can make your response less engaging and informative. It may leave the examiner confused about your experience.
Tip
Be specific about the details of the event, including exact times and circumstances to create a clearer picture.
2: Lack of Emotion
Failing to express how you felt about the experience can make your answer seem flat. Emotions help to connect with the listener.
Tip
Share your feelings honestly, whether it was frustration, embarrassment, or regret, to add depth to your response.
Ignoring the Cues
Neglecting to address all the cues can lead to an incomplete answer. This may affect your fluency and coherence scores.
Tip
Make sure to cover each cue systematically, ensuring you explain when it happened, what occurred, and why you were late.

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