Describe An Important Decision You Made: IELTS Speaking Cue Card

You should say

What was it?
When did you make it?
What music does he/she like?
What was the result?
Explain how you felt about it.

34 unique answers with expert feedback

What challenges did you face when making this decision?

The main challenge was the uncertainty of leaving a stable job. I worried about finances and whether I would be able to adapt to studying full-time after being in the workforce. Additionally, I had to consider how this break would affect my career in the long run.

How do you plan to make the most of your study break?

I plan to engage fully in my studies by attending all lectures, participating in campus activities, and networking with fellow students. I also want to explore extracurricular opportunities that will enhance my learning experience and help me grow personally and professionally.

What skills do you hope to gain from your studies?

I hope to gain critical thinking and analytical skills, as well as improve my communication abilities. Additionally, I want to develop a deeper understanding of my field of study, which will prepare me for future job opportunities and challenges in my career.

Band 7

00:00

Today I would like to talk about a very important decision that I made regarding my life. This is a decision that I made to secure my future. The decision was my college decision, the country that I want to study my further education in and also the exams that I need to give along with that decision. So I was speaking with my mother and my counselor last month when she told me that I need to make a decision now as I would like to start my college next year. So it is an important decision for me from the perspective of my future as a student it is extremely important for us to gauge our scope of professional opportunities and also self-growth in our own career. A career is something that is extremely important for me in terms of money, in terms of self-growth and also how I would like to present myself to the world. I wanted to work, I still want to work in the field of aerospace engineering and for that I need to find opportunities that help me gain global exposure, have multiple peers in different kinds of field, have peers from different world backgrounds and also gain exposure in a lot of different environments that are maybe challenging technologically or even emotionally. The decision to take IELTS was one of the important decisions that came along in this journey since the aerospace field is very booming in the United States and along with the continent of Europe. It is important that I give this IELTS exam so that I can go over there and work with this opportunity.

Follow up questions

What factors influenced your choice of country for studying?

I considered several factors, including the reputation of universities in aerospace engineering, the availability of research opportunities, and the potential for internships in the industry. Additionally, I looked at the cultural environment and how it would contribute to my personal growth.

How did you prepare for the IELTS exam?

I prepared for the IELTS exam by taking practice tests, enrolling in an IELTS preparation course, and improving my English skills through reading and speaking with native speakers. I also focused on understanding the exam format to ensure I was well-prepared on test day.

What challenges do you anticipate in your chosen field?

I anticipate challenges such as keeping up with rapid technological advancements, working in diverse teams, and adapting to different cultural perspectives. Additionally, the competitive nature of the aerospace industry means I will need to continuously improve my skills and knowledge.

Band 7

00:00

Decision to shift my career from software to career counselling 5 years ago after volunteering for job fairs. Instead of music, helping people land dream jobs gave me immense satisfaction. Successfully helped over 10,000 people get hired. Fulfilled, purposeful and happy with my career choice. Ladies and gentlemen, today I want to share with you a life changing decision I made 5 years ago. I chose to shift my career from software development to career counselling and recruitment. It happened after I volunteered for job fairs in my community. Seeing people struggle to find employment resonated deeply when I helped some land their dream jobs. I felt immense satisfaction. One candidate thanked me with tears in her eyes saying my guidance changed her family's life. That moment solidified my purpose. Fast forward 5 years I have successfully helped over 10,000 people get hired across various industries. My work impact lives daily. This career choice fills me with fulfillment, purpose and happiness.

Follow up questions

What challenges did you face when shifting careers?

Transitioning from software to career counselling was challenging. I had to learn new skills, understand the job market, and build a network. Initially, I faced self-doubt and uncertainty about my decision, but my passion for helping others kept me motivated.

How did your background in software help you in career counselling?

My background in software development provided me with analytical skills and problem-solving abilities. Understanding technology trends helped me guide candidates in tech-related fields, and my experience in a corporate environment allowed me to relate to job seekers' challenges.

What advice would you give to someone considering a career change?

I would advise them to thoroughly research their new field, seek mentorship, and volunteer if possible. It's essential to understand the challenges and rewards of the new career. Passion and a genuine desire to help others can make a significant difference in their journey.

Practice other cue cards

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Describe a book you recently read.

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Band 7

00:00

It was 2019 when I had to take a very important decision in regards to my career. It was about changing my college and reapplying to a new college in India. I actually applied to the University of South Australia and I also got my offer letter and letter of acceptance. However, it was during COVID, so it was not reasonable to go to a different country, move there and start a life during that period because we all know what happened during COVID and how we all were suffering, so it was not convenient. So I had to take admission in India and I got admitted to university in Punjab. It was great, the decision made me choose a different course and it really helped me throughout my college life. I learned so much about management and technology because my course was Bachelor of Business Administration and Information Technology. Although I made this decision in my own terms, I would still think about it now and be happy that yes, it was a good decision and also very wise. I have now exposure to many things that I wasn't able to get through, but now I have understood the variety of work that is there in the corporate life and it has really helped me to take more wise decisions in the future and I'm very grateful about this decision that I made. Thank you.

Follow up questions

What factors influenced your decision to change colleges?

I considered several factors, including the quality of education, the reputation of the new college, and the course offerings. The opportunity to study a combination of business administration and information technology was particularly appealing, as it aligned with my career goals.

How did you feel about your decision during the COVID pandemic?

Initially, I felt uncertain and anxious about my decision due to the pandemic. However, as time passed, I realized that staying in India was the right choice. It allowed me to focus on my studies without the added stress of relocating during such a challenging time.

What skills did you gain from your new course?

My course equipped me with essential skills in management, technology, and critical thinking. I learned about project management, data analysis, and effective communication, which are crucial for success in the corporate world. These skills have significantly boosted my confidence.

Band 7

00:00

The most important decision that I have made and has impacted my life in a positive way is to be a working mother. I always thought that I'll not work after I give birth to my children and I'll be a stay-at-home mom. But somehow, I cannot let go of my work now. I remember I took sabbatical after my marriage to spend more time with my husband. My husband is in army, so he is continuously deployed at various places where I cannot accompany him. I realized that I am not a person who likes household chores much. I don't enjoy cooking. So, I didn't feel well at that time. That is when I decided that whatever happens, I'll always keep working. Now, I am a successful professional with 13 years of experience. I am a very happy mother of two kids. I am not able to give them my whole time, but whatever time I give to him is the quality time.

Follow up questions

How do you balance work and family life as a working mother?

Balancing work and family life is challenging, but I prioritize my time. I set a schedule that allows me to dedicate quality time to my children while ensuring I meet my professional responsibilities. I also communicate with my employer about my needs as a working mother.

What challenges did you face when returning to work after having children?

Returning to work after having children was tough. I faced challenges like adjusting to a new routine, managing childcare, and overcoming guilt about not being with my kids all the time. However, I found support from my family and colleagues, which made the transition smoother.

What advice would you give to other mothers considering going back to work?

I would advise them to assess their priorities and understand that it's okay to pursue a career while being a mother. Finding a supportive work environment and establishing a good support system at home can make a significant difference in managing both roles effectively.

Show all 34 answers

Cue 1:What was it?

Clearly state the important decision you made, providing context to why it was significant.
Include details about what led you to make this decision.

Example

The important decision I made was to pursue my master's degree abroad. After completing my undergraduate studies in India, I realized that further education would enhance my career prospects and provide me with a global perspective.

Cue 2:When did you make it?

Mention the time frame when you made this decision, including any relevant events leading up to it.
Explain how you felt at that moment and what influenced your timing.

Example

I made this decision in early 2022, just a few months after graduating. I had been contemplating my future and discussing options with my family and friends, which helped me finalize my choice.

Cue 3:What was the result?

Describe the outcome of your decision, including both positive and negative aspects.
Share any specific experiences or achievements that resulted from this decision.

Example

As a result of my decision, I was accepted into a prestigious university in the UK. This experience not only expanded my knowledge but also allowed me to meet people from diverse backgrounds, enhancing my interpersonal skills.

Cue 4:Explain how you felt about it.

Share your emotions regarding the decision before and after making it.
Discuss any challenges you faced and how you overcame them.

Example

Initially, I felt anxious about leaving my comfort zone and moving to a new country. However, once I arrived and started my studies, I felt a sense of accomplishment and excitement. Overcoming the challenges of adapting to a new culture made me more resilient.

Conclusion

Example

In conclusion, making the decision to pursue my master's degree abroad was a pivotal moment in my life. It not only shaped my career but also contributed significantly to my personal growth, and I am grateful for the experiences I gained during that time.

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: Lack of Specificity

Being vague about the decision can make your answer less engaging. Specific details help the examiner understand your experience better and showcase your language skills.

Tip

Focus on providing clear details about the decision, including the context and your thought process at the time.

2: Ignoring Emotional Impact

Failing to express how you felt about the decision can make your response less personal and relatable. Emotions add depth to your story.

Tip

Include your feelings before, during, and after making the decision to create a more compelling narrative.

Neglecting the Outcome

Not discussing the result of your decision can leave your answer incomplete. The outcome is crucial for understanding the significance of your choice.

Tip

Clearly explain the results of your decision and how it affected your life to provide a full picture.

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Describe your favourite food at a traditional festival or a special event in your country

Reported by

Anonymous student Band 7.5

Pitampura Test Centre, New Delhi

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.