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‘Describe a difficult thing you did and succeeded’ could be an IELTS speaking test topic which should be presented clearly using appropriate words and phrases. You are required to give an introduction and narrate the difficult thing you did and how you made it successful.
Introduction: Understanding the ‘Describe’ Cue Card Questions
The “Describe” cue card questions in the IELTS Speaking Test are designed to assess your ability to speak at length about a specific topic. You’ll be given a cue card with a topic along with a few bullet points to guide your response.
You will be given one minute to prepare your response and 1 to 2 minutes to speak continuously. The assessment criteria is as follows:
Fluency: Ability to speak smoothly and logically.
Vocabulary: Use of a variety of words and phrases.
Grammar: Range and accuracy of grammatical structures.
Pronunciation: Clarity and naturalness of speech.
How to Approach “Describe a Difficult Thing You Did and Succeeded”
1: Most university students ........................ on campus in their first year.
- Read the cue card carefully and identify the key prompts.
- Use the 1-minute preparation time to brainstorm ideas.
- Jot down key points as bullet points. Do not waste time writing in sentences.
- Think of a logical order to present your ideas.
- Start with an introductory sentence.
- Briefly summarize the topic before diving into details.
- Cover each prompt in detail and add extra information where possible.
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Structuring Your Answer: The Ideal Format for “Describe a Difficult Thing You Did and Succeeded”
When tackling the IELTS cue card question “Describe a difficult thing you did and succeeded,” it’s important to structure your response clearly and expand on each part of the prompt.
You should include the following:
- What was the difficult thing you did
- Why was it difficult
- How did you work on it
- How did you feel after achieving it
Here is a step-by-step approach to structuring your answer:
1. Understand the Question
You should focus on a challenge you faced and how you successfully overcame that. The examiner is looking for your ability to explain events, describe feelings, and reflect on your experience.
2. Plan Your Response
Use your 1 minute preparation time to effectively plan your response. Quickly choose a specific event like learning a new skill, overcoming a fear, completing a project etc. Jot down key ideas. Include details like emotions, actions, and results.
3. Structure Your Response
Introduction: Briefly introduce the situation and the challenge.
Example: “One of the most difficult things I’ve ever done was preparing a presentation in English for an international audience during my first year at university.”
Body: Cover all the points you have jotted down
1. What it was:
Explain the task or challenge.
2. Why it was difficult:
Highlight specific obstacles.
3. How you worked on it:
Discuss steps you took to overcome the challenge.
4. How you felt after achieving it:
Share your emotions and what you learned.
5. Sum up the experience and its impact
Example Answer: A Model Response for “Describe a difficult thing you did and succeeded”
“One of the most difficult things I’ve done was learning to drive and passing my driving test. I started learning at 18, but I struggled with coordination and following traffic rules. It was difficult because I found it hard to focus on multiple things at once, like controlling the car, observing signals, and managing my nerves.
To overcome this, I practiced regularly with a patient instructor and watched online tutorials to improve my knowledge of road signs. I also took mock tests to prepare for the real exam. After months of effort, I finally passed on my second attempt.
I felt extremely relieved and proud because driving gave me independence. This experience taught me that persistence and preparation can help overcome even the toughest challenges.”*
Tips for Practicing and Preparing for the ‘Describe’ Cue Cards
Preparing for “Describe” cue cards in the IELTS speaking test requires strategic practice to build confidence, fluency, and the ability to organize your thoughts effectively. Here are some tips to help you practice:
1. Familiarize Yourself with Common Topics
Make a list of common topics and brainstorm ideas for each. You can use online resources or cue card lists to find practice topics. Cue cards usually revolve around common themes like:
People: Describe someone who inspires you, a close friend, etc.
Places: Describe a city you visited, a favourite place to relax.
Events: Describe a festival, a memorable trip, a special occasion.
Objects: Describe a gift you received, an electronic device you use.
2. Master the Structure
Use a logical structure to organize your response. It should include introduction about the topic, details, personal reflections and conclusion. Use a timer to practice speaking for 2 minutes, and ensure that you have covered all the points.
3. Build Your Vocabulary
Practice using descriptive adjectives, verbs, and idiomatic phrases to make your speech engaging. Expand your vocabulary for common topics like people, places, events, feelings etc.
4. Practice Regularly
Choose a random cue card topic and practice speaking for 2 minutes. Record yourself to evaluate fluency, grammar, and vocabulary.
You can also pair with a partner or friend or join an IELTS-speaking group online. Practice by taking turns acting as the examiner and the test-taker.
5. Mock Tests
Simulate real test conditions by using cue cards, a timer, and a recording device.
6. Use linking words and phrases to help improve fluency. Focus on speaking naturally and continuously, even if you make minor grammar mistakes.
7. Don’t worry about perfection. If you forget a word or detail, use general language to keep going.
8. Practice with a variety of topics especially unfamiliar ones to get comfortable improvising.
9. Focus on pronunciation and intonation.
10. Reflect and improve after each practice session. Identify weaknesses and work on them.
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