Describe Something You Do Regularly That Helps You Work And Study Better: IELTS Speaking Cue Card

You should say

What is it?
When did you apply it?
How has it helped you?
Explain how you feel when you do it.

23 unique answers with expert feedback

How has meditation changed your approach to studying?

Meditation has significantly improved my focus and concentration. It allows me to approach my studies with a clear mind, reducing anxiety and enhancing my ability to absorb information. I find that I retain what I learn much better after meditating.

What techniques do you use during meditation?

I primarily use mindfulness meditation techniques, focusing on my breath and being present in the moment. Sometimes, I also incorporate guided meditations that help me visualize calmness and positivity, which enhances my overall experience.

Have you noticed any changes in your daily life since you started meditating?

Yes, absolutely! Since I started meditating, I've become more patient and less reactive to stress. My relationships have improved because I'm more present and attentive. Overall, I feel more balanced and in tune with my emotions and surroundings.

Band 7

00:00

Firstly, I would like to mention that I am a working professional who is working in an IT company from 9 to 5 as well as a student who is preparing for his masters. So one thing that I do regularly is hitting the gym. I am a fitness enthusiast and I have been hitting gym for consequently last two years. This practice has not changed me physically but also mentally. I have evolved not only as a person but I have started to feel more confident and better about myself. I try to go to gym at least 5 days a week to practice strength training as well as yoga and meditation. Working out has a significant effect on my mind as well as my body, also my soul. So after working out, endorphins release which not only increase my concentration which helps me to boost my productivity at my workplace and to focus more on my studies without getting distracted. Furthermore, it has increased my mindfulness and I have become more aware of my surroundings and I have started to live in the present moment without being worried about what will happen in the next moment or in the future. Additionally, I try to reduce my phone time and laptop screen time so that I can increase my consciousness as well as mindfulness even more so that I can increase my study hours without interruption and checking my phone after every minute or second. I would like to mention that these small activities and changes in my daily routine have made a vital impact on my overall progress as an IT employee as well as a full-time student.

Follow up questions

How do you balance your work and study commitments effectively?

I prioritize my tasks by creating a schedule that allocates specific time blocks for work and study. I also set clear goals for each session, which helps me stay focused and manage my time efficiently. This way, I can ensure that neither my job nor my studies suffer.

What other activities do you think can improve productivity?

Besides working out, I believe activities like reading, practicing mindfulness, and engaging in hobbies can significantly enhance productivity. They help refresh the mind and provide a break from routine, which can lead to better focus and creativity when returning to work or study.

Have you noticed any changes in your performance at work or studies since you started this routine?

Yes, since I started my gym routine, I've noticed a marked improvement in my concentration and overall performance. I feel more energized and motivated, which has positively impacted my work efficiency and my ability to absorb information while studying.

Band 6-7

00:00

The activity that I do regularly that helps me to work and study better is meditation. I used to try it daily for 15 to 20 minutes. I am doing this activity from last 2 to 3 months. It helped me a lot in order to overcome stress, anxiety and pressure. In the last 3-4 months when there was my campus placements going on, I used to face a lot of stress and burden on my head. That when will I get placed, when will I get my first dream job and many more. And in that stress I was not able to sleep properly in the nights. So my cousin recommended me to try this activity at least 15 to 20 minutes a day which helped me to reduce my stress, anxiety and pressure. When I started doing this activity, I felt very boredom. I felt distracted by every small moment near me. Like if some pen got dropped on the ground, I quickly felt distracted from this activity. But later on with time, when 15 to 20 days passed, I felt very relaxed doing this. And now from the last one month, I often started chanting mantras while doing the meditation which kept my mind relaxed and helped me to stay focused.

Follow up questions

How has meditation changed your daily routine?

Meditation has become a crucial part of my daily routine. I now prioritize it every morning, which sets a positive tone for my day. It helps me manage my time better, as I feel more focused and productive after meditating, allowing me to tackle my studies and work more efficiently.

What other techniques do you use to manage stress?

In addition to meditation, I also practice deep breathing exercises and take short breaks during my study sessions. I find that going for a walk or listening to calming music helps me clear my mind. These techniques, along with meditation, create a balanced approach to managing stress.

Do you think meditation can benefit others in similar situations?

Absolutely! I believe meditation can be beneficial for anyone facing stress or anxiety, especially students and professionals. It provides a moment of peace and clarity, helping individuals to refocus and regain control over their thoughts, ultimately improving their performance in work and studies.

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Band 6-7

00:00

Although I've tried many things that could help me to focus better on work and study, but they haven't turned out good. So I decided to research about some things that we could do to focus better on our work and study. Well, after a long time of research, I found out about meditation and reading this huge paragraph on meditation, I decided that I should give it a try. So from the next morning, I started doing meditation. It has proven to be really good for me and it helped me control my emotions. Moreover, I don't get irritated and angry very easily like I used to in the past. However, focusing first on meditation took a long time for me, but I got a hang of it and it has helped me in a huge way, helped me to improve my focus on my work and studies and improve my ideas and concentration. Meditation also helped me to focus on my health as it is really beneficial for your body and for your body health and mind health.

Follow up questions

What specific techniques do you use in your meditation practice?

I usually start with deep breathing exercises to calm my mind. Then, I focus on a mantra or visualize a peaceful scene. I try to maintain a posture that keeps me alert yet relaxed, and I gradually increase the duration of my sessions as I get more comfortable.

How has meditation changed your daily routine?

Meditation has become a vital part of my morning routine. I wake up earlier to ensure I have time for it before starting my day. It sets a positive tone for my day, making me more productive and less stressed as I tackle my work and studies.

Have you noticed any changes in your relationships since you started meditating?

Yes, definitely. Since I’ve become more emotionally balanced through meditation, I find it easier to communicate and connect with others. I’m less reactive and more patient, which has improved my relationships with friends and family.

Band 6-7

00:00

Initially during my college time, few months ago I had to work and study but I really find it difficult when I have to work for 8 hours and also study some subjects. So I tried finding ways and tried to research about different ways that I can concentrate on my work and study better. So one video came and I found it and I find that yoga and meditation is very good that helps you regularly concentrate on your work and study better. So I started practicing yoga and meditation early in the morning when I wake up. I perform yoga and meditation and after that I just finish my routine work that is refreshing myself and then I start study and work on the weekend days. So it helped me really lot. I find it like I got influenced by yoga and meditation and there was no hassle in my work and my study. It usually went with a smooth flow and I used to work very good and it was very convenient for me to work and study in a better way and there were many circumstances when I had a lot of work but due to yoga and meditation I used to concentrate on my work and I had accumulated the strength that I can take all the pressure and without feeling depressed or getting anxious I used to complete my work easily and steadily.

Follow up questions

How did you first learn about yoga and meditation?

I came across yoga and meditation while researching ways to improve my focus. I watched a video that explained the benefits and decided to give it a try. It seemed like a practical solution to help manage my workload and study effectively.

What specific yoga or meditation techniques do you practice?

I usually start with some basic yoga stretches to wake up my body, followed by a 10-15 minute meditation session. I focus on my breath and try to clear my mind, which helps me feel more centered and ready to tackle my tasks for the day.

Have you noticed any changes in your productivity since starting these practices?

Absolutely! Since I started yoga and meditation, I've noticed a significant improvement in my concentration and productivity. I feel less stressed and more capable of handling my workload, which has positively impacted my studies as well.

Show all 23 answers

Cue 1:What is it?

Begin by clearly stating the activity you do regularly that enhances your work and study efficiency.
Provide a brief overview of how this activity fits into your daily routine.

Example

One activity that I do regularly to help me work and study better is practicing yoga. I incorporate it into my morning routine, dedicating about 30 minutes each day to various yoga poses and breathing exercises.

Cue 2:When did you apply it?

Mention when you started this practice and what prompted you to begin.
Share any specific events or experiences that led you to realize its importance.

Example

I started practicing yoga about two years ago when I was preparing for my final exams in college. I felt overwhelmed with stress and anxiety, and a friend suggested yoga as a way to calm my mind and improve my focus.

Cue 3:How has it helped you?

Explain the specific benefits you have experienced from this activity.
Discuss how it has positively impacted your work and study habits.

Example

Yoga has significantly improved my concentration and reduced my stress levels. I find that after a session, I am more focused and productive when studying or working on assignments. It has also helped me develop a better work-life balance.

Cue 4:Explain how you feel when you do it.

Describe your emotions and physical sensations during and after the activity.
Share how these feelings contribute to your overall well-being and productivity.

Example

When I practice yoga, I feel a sense of peace and clarity. The breathing techniques help me release tension, and I often feel rejuvenated afterward. This positive energy carries over into my studies, making me feel more motivated and engaged.

Conclusion

Example

In conclusion, practicing yoga has become an essential part of my daily routine. It not only helps me manage stress but also enhances my focus and productivity, making it easier for me to excel in my studies and work.

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 answer unclear. Avoid general statements that do not provide specific details about your regular activity.

Tip

Be specific about what you do regularly. Use clear examples and details to illustrate your points.

2: Ignoring the Cues

Failing to address all the cue prompts can lead to an incomplete answer. Make sure to cover each cue to provide a well-rounded response.

Tip

Structure your answer by directly addressing each cue in order. This ensures you cover all aspects of the question.

Lack of Personal Reflection

Not sharing your personal feelings or experiences can make your answer less engaging. It's important to connect emotionally with your response.

Tip

Include how you feel about the activity and its impact on your work and study. Personal reflections make your answer more relatable.

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