Describe a time when you felt incredibly sad.: IELTS Speaking Cue Card
You should say
- What made you feel sad?
- When and why did this happen?
- How did you tackle it?

33 unique answers with expert feedback
Cue 1:What made you feel sad?
- Clearly identify the event or situation that caused your sadness.
- Express your emotions honestly to convey the depth of your feelings.
Example
I felt incredibly sad when I lost my grandmother last year. She was not just my family but also my best friend, and her absence left a huge void in my life.
Cue 2:When and why did this happen?
- Provide a specific time frame for when this event occurred.
- Explain the circumstances surrounding the event to give context.
Example
This happened in the summer of 2022, just a few months after I graduated from college. I had always looked forward to celebrating my achievements with her, and her passing felt especially painful because I couldn’t share those moments with her.
Cue 3:How did you tackle it?
- Discuss the coping mechanisms you used to deal with your sadness.
- Mention any support systems, such as friends or family, that helped you through this time.
Example
To cope with my sadness, I started journaling my feelings and talking to my friends about my memories of her. I also participated in a local support group, which helped me connect with others who were experiencing similar losses.
Conclusion
- Summarize the impact of this experience on your life.
- Reflect on any lessons learned or changes in perspective.
Example
In conclusion, losing my grandmother taught me the importance of cherishing loved ones and expressing my emotions. Although I still miss her dearly, I’ve learned to celebrate her life and the memories we shared.
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: Being Vague or General
Avoid giving vague answers that lack detail. This can make your response less engaging and informative, which may lead to a lower score.
Tip
Provide specific examples and details about the event that made you sad. Use descriptive language to paint a clear picture.
2: Neglecting Emotional Impact
Don't overlook the emotional aspects of your experience. Failing to express how you felt can make your answer less relatable and impactful.
Tip
Share your feelings openly. Explain how the situation affected you emotionally and why it was significant.
Rushing Through the Response
Avoid speaking too quickly or skipping important points. This can lead to a disorganized answer and may confuse the listener.
Tip
Take your time to structure your response. Use the cues to guide your answer and ensure you cover all aspects clearly.

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