Describe a time when you had a problem with using the computer: IELTS Speaking Cue Card

You should say

When did it happen?
Where did it happen?
What was the problem?
How did you solve the problem in the end?

118 unique answers with expert feedback

What steps do you take to prevent computer issues now?

Since that incident, I have developed a routine of regularly backing up my files on Google Drive and using an external hard drive. I also ensure that my software is updated and run regular maintenance checks to keep my computer running smoothly.

How do you feel about technology's impact on daily life?

I believe technology has greatly improved our efficiency and connectivity. However, it also comes with challenges, such as technical issues and the need for constant updates. It's essential to find a balance and be prepared for potential problems.

Have you ever faced similar issues with other devices?

Yes, I have encountered problems with my smartphone as well. Once, it crashed while I was trying to send an important message. That experience made me realize the importance of having backups and being cautious with technology across all devices.

Band >7

00:00

So the time I had a problem with my computer is at my fifth grade. So this was the first time that our family bought this computer and this is also an initial stage of developing the computer all over our households. The problem that I had with the computer is of turning on the computer. So this was the basic issue and I think you can see as a silly issue but for me as a completely new guy to computer I don't know about which one is the monitor, CPU, mouse or something like that. So that is the starting of stage of my life and I thought of plugging into it the power socket but it never started. I mean we should be clicking on the CPU right? So at that time I didn't know that and then I also had a trouble that none of my family members also knows about the computer as we are from the poor side of the family we never had a chance to work with computer and I had finally after trying many couple of times after reading manuals I finally have figured out how to turn on the computer and I also surfed into the computer after the excitement of turning it on and this was the one of the most memorable incident that has happened in my life with the computer and I think that made me feel like I could do whatever that I want in the computer. After that my computer had many issues but I have solved it myself and this was the first issue so it made me not to forget it.

Follow up questions

How did you feel when you finally turned on the computer?

I felt a huge sense of accomplishment and excitement. It was like unlocking a new world of possibilities. I remember feeling proud of myself for figuring it out, especially since no one in my family could help me. It motivated me to learn more about computers.

What other problems have you faced with computers since then?

I've faced various issues, like software crashes and hardware malfunctions. Each time, I tried to troubleshoot and learn from the experience. It taught me a lot about technology and problem-solving, and I became more confident in handling computer-related issues.

Do you think learning to use a computer is important for children today?

Absolutely! In today's digital age, computer skills are essential. They open up opportunities for education, communication, and future careers. Teaching children how to use computers can empower them and help them navigate the world more effectively.

Band 7

00:00

This is something that happened to me while at my current role as a Financial Analyst. We are given a laptop by our office and it works pretty well most of the time. However, during last month there was an important project which had the deadline on the same day. And my laptop suddenly died. This has never happened before. So I did not give it much thought. I tried to charge it and switch it back on again. However, it did not switch on. I tried to consult a nearby store and asked him what the problem was. They took a look at the batteries and told me that the battery is not working and that it will take a lot of time to change it. I could not afford to waste time as I had to submit my work on the very same day. I came back home and when I talked to my brother who is an engineer, we came to know that the battery is not an issue. It is the charger that is not working. Without wasting a moment, I talked to all of my friends and tried to get a spare charger from them that would work on my laptop. However, I was unable to do that. But as it said, every dark cloud has a silver lining. I quickly put on my thinking cap and called one of my colleagues through my phone. And I guided him on how to complete the pending work on his laptop through my instructions. This resulted in me delivering the project on time and after a few days, a spare charger was provided to me by the company.

Follow up questions

How did you feel when your laptop stopped working?

I felt a surge of panic initially because the deadline was looming. I was worried about not being able to submit my project on time, which added to my stress. However, I quickly realized I needed to stay calm and think of a solution.

What steps do you usually take to troubleshoot computer issues?

Typically, I start by checking the power source and connections. If that doesn't work, I look for any visible issues or error messages. I also consult online resources or ask colleagues for help if needed, as I did in this situation.

Have you ever faced similar issues with technology in the past?

Yes, I have faced similar issues before, such as software crashes or internet connectivity problems. Each time, I learned to be more prepared and to have backup plans in place, like saving my work frequently and having access to alternative devices.

Practice other cue cards

Band 7

00:00

One time I had a serious problem using a computer was during my final school project submission last year. It was a very stressful experience because the deadline was approaching and I had spent weeks working on the assignment. The issue happened just a day before the submission. I was using my laptop to complete the final editing of my presentation and suddenly the screen froze and then went completely black. I tried restarting it several times but it wouldn't turn on properly. I believe it was a system crash due to the software error or maybe a virus. I panicked at first because I hadn't saved my latest work to any external drive or cloud. Luckily, I contacted a local technician immediately and he managed to recover my file using a special tool. He also reinstalled the operating system to fix the issue. It took several hours but thankfully I got my presentation back and submitted it just in time. This incident taught me a lesson about the importance of backup and regular system maintenance. Since then, I always save my work on Google Drive and keep my antivirus updated. Although it was a frustrating experience, it made me more responsible and tech savvy.

Follow up questions

How did you feel when your computer crashed right before the deadline?

I felt extremely anxious and stressed when my computer crashed. The pressure of the impending deadline made it even worse. I was worried about losing all my hard work and not being able to submit my project on time.

What steps do you take now to prevent similar computer issues?

Now, I always make sure to save my work on Google Drive and use an external hard drive for backups. I also regularly update my antivirus software and perform system maintenance to keep my computer running smoothly.

Have you ever faced any other technical issues while studying?

Yes, I've encountered other technical issues, like internet connectivity problems during online classes. Each time, I learned to stay calm and find quick solutions, like using my mobile data or seeking help from friends.

Band 7

00:00

I was in standard 10 preparing for my science project. I had to create a PowerPoint presentation on my project. The project was based on the topic thermodynamics. I completed the project but when it came to the point where I had to make my own presentation using a computer, I was confident that I could really do it but I was not that tech savvy during that time. So I started doing it and there it was. I wanted to create a really tempting PowerPoint presentation to impress the teacher but I got stuck in the middle. I asked my brother to help me out but it was quite shameful to ask my younger brother to teach me how to operate a computer but I knew learning can never be shameful at. I swallowed my pride and asked him to really teach me how to make an amazing presentation that could catch any reader's eye. He taught me how to use the various tools, AI to enhance the presentation and I could finally be able to complete it before the deadline and submit it to my teacher. Surprisingly everybody in my class loved the presentation especially my teacher who said that it was an outstanding presentation and it really stood out amongst everybody else.

Follow up questions

What specific features did you use in PowerPoint to enhance your presentation?

I used various features like animations, transitions, and smart art to make my slides visually appealing. I also incorporated images and graphs to illustrate my points better, which helped in making the presentation more engaging.

How did you feel about asking your brother for help?

Initially, I felt a bit embarrassed asking my younger brother for help, but I realized that seeking assistance is part of learning. It turned out to be a positive experience, and I appreciated his guidance, which helped me improve my skills.

What did you learn from this experience about using technology?

I learned that technology can be challenging, but with practice and help from others, I can overcome those challenges. It also taught me the importance of being open to learning new skills, regardless of my initial confidence level.

Show all 118 answers

Cue 1:When did it happen?

Mention a specific time frame, such as a particular day or month, to give context to your experience.
Explain any relevant circumstances that led to the problem occurring at that time.

Example

It happened about three months ago, during the peak of my final exams. I was preparing for my computer science paper, and I had planned to complete my project that evening.

Cue 2:Where did it happen?

Describe the location where you were using the computer, such as your home, a library, or a friend's place.
Include details about the environment that might have contributed to the situation.

Example

I was at home, sitting at my study desk in my room. It was a quiet evening, and I had all my study materials spread out around me, creating a focused atmosphere.

Cue 3:What was the problem?

Clearly state the issue you faced with the computer, such as a software crash or hardware failure.
Explain how this problem affected your ability to complete your tasks.

Example

Suddenly, my computer froze while I was running a crucial software program for my project. I panicked because I hadn’t saved my work in a while, and I was worried about losing everything.

Cue 4:How did you solve the problem in the end?

Discuss the steps you took to resolve the issue, including any troubleshooting methods or help you sought.
Mention the outcome and what you learned from the experience.

Example

I took a deep breath and decided to restart my computer. Thankfully, when it rebooted, I found that the auto-recovery feature had saved my work. I also learned the importance of saving my work frequently and started using cloud storage for future projects.

Conclusion

Example

This experience taught me valuable lessons about technology and the importance of being prepared for unexpected issues. Now, I always make sure to back up my work regularly, which has made my study sessions much less stressful.

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

Using vague language can make your response unclear. Avoid general statements that do not provide specific details about the problem or the situation.

Tip

Be specific about the time, place, and nature of the problem. Use clear examples to illustrate your experience.

2: Ignoring the Cues

Not addressing all the cues can lead to an incomplete answer. Each cue is designed to help structure your response effectively.

Tip

Make sure to answer all the cues in order. This will help you stay organized and cover all important aspects of your experience.

Lack of Problem-Solving Detail

Failing to explain how you solved the problem can make your response less engaging. It's important to show your thought process and actions.

Tip

Describe the steps you took to resolve the issue. Highlight any challenges you faced and how you overcame them to add depth to your answer.

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