Talk about a time you learned a new skill.: IELTS Speaking Cue Card

You should say

What skill was it?
When did you learn it?
Where did you learn it?
How do you feel about it?

23 unique answers with expert feedback

What challenges did you face while learning to drive?

Initially, I found the concept of driving quite confusing. I struggled with coordinating the pedals and steering, and I was nervous about being on the road. However, with practice and guidance from my instructor, I gradually overcame these challenges.

How did you feel after you learned to drive?

After I learned to drive, I felt a great sense of accomplishment and freedom. It was empowering to know that I could navigate on my own and travel wherever I wanted. It also made me more confident in my abilities.

Do you think learning to drive is important for everyone?

Yes, I believe learning to drive is an important skill for many people. It provides independence and can be essential for commuting to work, running errands, or traveling. However, it's also important to consider public transport options for those who may not need a car.

Band 6-7

00:00

So, I recently come to know that I have a skill and that is called content creator. So, I love to create new videos and it's my dream to become a star. I used to get inspired by lots of actor and actress and I have learned it from there to how to roll on camera. Furthermore, I started learning it when I was a child, I was using my phone and I don't know how the front camera got open and I literally saw myself for like more than 5 to 7 times and that day I realized I am not afraid of camera. So, I started shooting myself and I created so many videos and I uploaded them on internet and I got so good response from the audience and if I have a future in this, I will definitely going to take a part. In addition, it will also help my parents, they will also get the fame from it like me. It was my childhood dream to shoot and upload and now I can easily upload any stuff related to my home, related to cosmetic.

Follow up questions

What challenges did you face while learning to create videos?

Initially, I struggled with technical aspects like editing and lighting. I had to learn how to use editing software and understand camera angles. Sometimes, I felt shy in front of the camera, but I overcame that by practicing regularly and gaining confidence through feedback from my audience.

How do you think being a content creator can impact your future?

Being a content creator can open many doors for me, such as collaborations with brands and opportunities in the entertainment industry. It can also help me build a personal brand and connect with a larger audience, which could lead to a successful career in media or acting.

Who are your biggest inspirations in the content creation field?

I draw inspiration from various actors and content creators who have made a mark in the industry. People like Casey Neistat and Emma Chamberlain inspire me with their unique styles and authenticity. Their journeys motivate me to pursue my passion and stay true to myself in my content.

Band 6-7

00:00

One skill which I am very much proud of that I learned is probably photo retouching which also called as photo editing. I learned that during my internship One skill that I am still proud that I knew this or I learned this is probably photo retouching. During my internship my boss taught me how to photo retouch One skill that I still use and I still I am still proud that I learned this is probably photo retouching or photo editing. During my internship my boss taught me how to edit photos because as a part of I did my internship as a photographer and as a photographer it is important to learn photo retouching because that's how you know this is exactly what you wanted your client to look. I never knew that photo retouching was that easy and it is very natural to me as I am good at identifying the color balance and the temperature as it took so it also been very much helping me professionally and also it helps me to improve me as a professional

Follow up questions

How has photo retouching impacted your career as a photographer?

Photo retouching has significantly enhanced my career by allowing me to deliver high-quality images that meet client expectations. It has also helped me build a strong portfolio, showcasing my skills and attracting more clients. The ability to edit photos effectively has become a crucial part of my professional identity.

What challenges did you face while learning photo retouching?

Initially, I struggled with understanding the various tools and techniques available in photo editing software. It took time to develop my eye for detail and to learn how to balance colors effectively. However, with practice and guidance from my boss, I gradually overcame these challenges and became proficient.

Do you think learning new skills like photo retouching is important for personal growth?

Absolutely! Learning new skills like photo retouching not only enhances professional capabilities but also boosts confidence and creativity. It opens up new opportunities and keeps the mind engaged. Continuous learning is essential for personal and professional development in any field.

Practice other cue cards

Describe a risk you took that you thought would lead to a terrible result but ended up with a positive result

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Describe a piece of good advice that you gave to someone

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Describe a difficult skill you learned.

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Describe A Skill That You Learned In Your Childhood

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Describe an ambition that you haven't achieved.

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Describe A Resolution You Made In The New Year

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Describe a time you taught something new to a younger person?

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Describe A Time When You Needed To Search For Information

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Describe Something You Do That Can Help You Concentrate On Work/Study

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Describe a thing you did to learn another language?

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Describe the type of home you'd like to reside in.

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Describe A Volunteering Experience You Have Had

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Describe A Time When You Helped Someone

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Describe An Success You Are Proud Of

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Describe a natural talent you want to improve.

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Describe an exercise you know.

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Describe something you taught to your friend/relative.

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Describe a time when you changed your opinion

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Describe An Activity You Do To Keep Fit

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Describe a difficult task that you completed at work/study that you felt proud of

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Describe an event that ended in failure.

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Describe A Positive Change In Your Life

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Describe an achievement/success you are proud of

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Describe a long-term goal you would like to achieve.

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Describe an activity you enjoyed in your free time when you were young.

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Describe a daily routine that you enjoy

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Describe A Difficult Decision That You Made And Had A Good Result

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Describe Something You Do Regularly That Helps You Work And Study Better

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Describe a skill that was difficult to learn

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Describe an important thing you learned (not at school or college)

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Describe a book you recently read.

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Describe a piece of advice you recently received.

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Describe a plan that you had to change recently

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Describe Something Healthy You Enjoy Doing

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Describe an important decision made with the help of other people

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Describe Something You Do To Keep Fit And Healthy

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Describe Something That Helps You Concentrate

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Describe a habit your friend has and you want to develop.

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Describe an impressive talk/conversation you had that you remember well

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Describe an article about health that you read.

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Describe a goal you set that you tried your best to achieve

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Band 6-7

00:00

The new skill that I learned in recent times during my college days when I was pursuing bachelors in mass media and communication was Adopt Photoshop. So it's a software app wherein you use tools to edit movies, films, pictures, advertisements, posters and flyers. So it is actually a tough app comparing to the app that we used Canva. Adopt Photoshop is a little bit more complicated than other apps. So the skill that I developed was during my college days when we used to learn video editing specifically as our subject and it was taught by my favorite teacher Manashree ma'am. So she taught us different tools on how to make a poster, a flyer, a visiting card or any such brand endorsements if you want to create any and I never thought it's my cup of tea but as I started practicing Adopt Photoshop on my laptop, I started developing a new skill such as editing which I never thought I would have done as it is not something that I like. I usually like spending more time on field management and more creative fields instead of sitting on a laptop doing editing but surely it is going to help me for my future and I love editing. It is a great skill. I think everyone should have a basic knowledge about editing.

Follow up questions

What challenges did you face while learning Photoshop?

Initially, I found the interface overwhelming and the tools complex. It took time to understand how to use layers and effects effectively. However, with practice and guidance from my teacher, I gradually overcame these challenges and became more comfortable with the software.

How do you think learning Photoshop will benefit your career?

Learning Photoshop has equipped me with valuable editing skills that are essential in the media industry. It allows me to create visually appealing content, which is crucial for branding and marketing. This skill will enhance my employability and open up more creative opportunities in my career.

Would you recommend learning Photoshop to others? Why?

Absolutely! I believe that having a basic understanding of Photoshop is beneficial for anyone interested in creative fields. It enhances one's ability to communicate visually and can be a significant asset in various professions, from marketing to graphic design.

Band 6-7

00:00

I have a few skills which has helped me always. First one is I am expert in making resumes and working in Microsoft Word. And I have a certificate of this. That is a diploma in Microsoft Office. There I learn about the Microsoft Excel, Word, Access and Paint also. And I am doing a banking and insurance course. Therefore, I am good in accountancy than other students. Because in first year I make my seat in accountancy well. I got good marks in every accountancy exam. And I am good in calculations. And I am good in communicating to someone in Hindi but not English. And I can convince to others for do any work. And I am good leader. And this many skills are not enough but the very big skill of mine is learning ability. I want to learn anything new or old which is I cannot learn previously. That's why these skills make me more powerful and make me more efficient and more skill holder.

Follow up questions

What motivated you to learn Microsoft Office skills?

I wanted to enhance my employability and improve my productivity. Microsoft Office is widely used in various jobs, so I thought it was essential to master these tools to stand out in the job market.

How do you think your communication skills can be improved?

I believe practicing English more often would help. Engaging in conversations, watching English movies, and taking language courses could enhance my fluency and confidence in speaking English.

Can you share an experience where your learning ability helped you succeed?

During my banking and insurance course, I had to grasp complex concepts quickly. My ability to learn efficiently allowed me to understand the material better and perform well in exams, which boosted my confidence.

Show all 23 answers

Cue 1:What skill was it?

Clearly state the skill you learned and provide a brief description of it.
Explain why you chose to learn this particular skill.

Example

I learned how to play the guitar. I had always been fascinated by music and wanted to express myself creatively through playing an instrument.

Cue 2:When did you learn it?

Mention the time frame when you started learning the skill.
Include any specific events or circumstances that motivated you to begin learning at that time.

Example

I started learning the guitar about two years ago during the lockdown. With more free time at home, I decided it was the perfect opportunity to pick up a new hobby.

Cue 3:Where did you learn it?

Describe the setting where you learned the skill, whether it was formal or informal.
Mention any resources you used, such as online classes, tutorials, or a teacher.

Example

I learned the guitar primarily through online tutorials on YouTube. I also enrolled in a virtual class with a local music teacher who guided me through the basics.

Cue 4:How do you feel about it?

Share your feelings about learning this skill and how it has impacted your life.
Reflect on any challenges you faced and how you overcame them.

Example

Learning the guitar has been a rewarding experience. Initially, I struggled with finger placements and strumming patterns, but with practice, I became more confident. Now, I feel a great sense of accomplishment when I play my favorite songs.

Conclusion

Summarize the significance of the skill in your life.
Mention any future plans related to this skill.

Example

In conclusion, learning to play the guitar has enriched my life and provided a creative outlet. I plan to continue improving my skills and perhaps even perform at local events 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 it difficult for the examiner to understand your experience. Specific details help create a clearer picture of your learning process.

Tip

Use specific examples and details about the skill, such as what it was and how you learned it, to enhance your response.

2: Ignoring the Cues

Neglecting to address all the cues can lead to an incomplete answer. Each cue is designed to guide your response and ensure you cover important aspects of your experience.

Tip

Make sure to address each cue in your answer, providing a structured response that flows logically from one point to the next.

Overly Short Answers

Giving overly short or one-word answers can come across as unengaged or uninterested. This limits your opportunity to showcase your language skills and personal insights.

Tip

Expand on your answers by adding personal feelings and reflections about the skill you learned, making your response more engaging.

IELTS Cue Cards asked last week

Reported by Leap students who gave IELTS

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.