The IELTS Speaking test often includes questions about personal experiences, and one common topic is describing a challenging situation. This article will provide valuable insights and examples to help you excel in answering questions related to “describe a time when you did something challenging” in your IELTS Speaking exam.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In this section, the examiner may ask general questions about challenges and difficult situations. Here are some possible questions and sample answers:
- Do you enjoy challenging yourself?
Band 6-7 answer:
“Yes, I do. I think challenges help us grow and learn new things. For example, I recently started learning a new language, which has been quite challenging but also rewarding.”
Band 8-9 answer:
“Absolutely. I firmly believe that pushing oneself out of one’s comfort zone is essential for personal growth and development. For instance, I recently took on the challenge of organizing a charity event in my community, which was both daunting and incredibly fulfilling.”
- What kind of challenges do you face in your daily life?
Band 6-7 answer:
“I face various challenges in my daily life, such as managing my time effectively between work and studies. It can be difficult to balance everything, but I try my best to prioritize tasks.”
Band 8-9 answer:
“In my day-to-day life, I encounter a range of challenges, from juggling professional responsibilities with personal commitments to staying motivated in pursuit of long-term goals. One particular challenge I’ve been grappling with recently is maintaining a healthy work-life balance while pursuing further education alongside my full-time job.”
Describe a nature walk you would like to take can also be a challenging experience, especially if it involves exploring unfamiliar terrain or overcoming physical obstacles.
Part 2: Long Turn
Cue Card
Describe a time when you did something challenging
You should say:
- What the challenge was
- When and where it happened
- Why it was challenging
- How you felt about it
Sample Answers
Band 6-7 answer:
“I’d like to talk about a challenging experience I had last year when I participated in a marathon. It was my first time running such a long distance, and it took place in my hometown. The challenge was to complete the full 42 kilometers without stopping.
It was challenging because I had never run that far before, and I wasn’t sure if my body could handle it. I had to train for several months, gradually increasing my running distance and improving my endurance.
During the marathon, I felt a mix of excitement and nervousness. There were moments when I wanted to give up, especially around the 30km mark when my legs were really hurting. But I pushed through and managed to finish the race.
I felt incredibly proud and accomplished when I crossed the finish line. It taught me a lot about perseverance and the importance of setting goals.”
Band 8-9 answer:
“I’d like to recount a particularly challenging experience I had two years ago when I undertook the task of organizing a large-scale international conference on environmental sustainability in my city.
The challenge lay in coordinating an event of this magnitude, which involved managing multiple stakeholders, including speakers from various countries, local authorities, and over 500 attendees. It took place over three days at our city’s main convention center.
What made this endeavor especially challenging was the multifaceted nature of the task. I had to simultaneously handle logistics, create an engaging program, secure sponsorships, and ensure smooth communication between all parties involved. Moreover, as it was my first time organizing an event of this scale, I was constantly pushing the boundaries of my capabilities.
Throughout the process, I experienced a rollercoaster of emotions. There were moments of doubt and anxiety, particularly when faced with unexpected hurdles such as last-minute cancellations or technical issues. However, these were balanced by periods of excitement and anticipation as I saw the event taking shape.
The conference was ultimately a resounding success, garnering positive feedback from attendees and speakers alike. Reflecting on the experience, I feel an immense sense of pride and accomplishment. It not only honed my organizational and leadership skills but also reinforced my belief in the power of perseverance and teamwork when tackling complex challenges.”
IELTS Speaking: Describing a marathon challenge
Follow-up Questions
- How did you prepare for this challenge?
Band 6-7 answer:
“I prepared by setting a training schedule and gradually increasing my running distance. I also watched videos about marathon running techniques and asked advice from more experienced runners.”
Band 8-9 answer:
“My preparation was multifaceted and methodical. I devised a comprehensive training regimen that included not only incrementally increasing my running distances but also incorporating strength training and flexibility exercises. Additionally, I delved into the scientific aspects of endurance running, studying nutrition, hydration strategies, and proper recovery techniques. I also sought mentorship from seasoned marathon runners and participated in several smaller races to gain experience and refine my approach.”
- What did you learn from this experience?
Band 6-7 answer:
“I learned that I’m capable of achieving more than I thought possible. The experience taught me the importance of perseverance and setting clear goals.”
Band 8-9 answer:
“This experience was incredibly enlightening and transformative. Primarily, it reinforced the notion that our perceived limitations are often self-imposed. I discovered reserves of mental and physical strength I didn’t know I possessed. Moreover, it highlighted the critical role of meticulous planning and adaptability in tackling significant challenges. Perhaps most importantly, I gained a deeper appreciation for the power of community support and the synergy between physical and mental resilience in overcoming obstacles.”
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Examiner: “Do you think people today face more challenges than in the past?”
Band 6-7 answer:
“I believe people today face different types of challenges compared to the past. While we have more technological advancements that make some aspects of life easier, we also have to deal with issues like information overload and increased competition in the job market. It’s hard to say if these challenges are more difficult, but they are certainly different.”
Band 8-9 answer:
“That’s an intriguing question that requires careful consideration. I would argue that while the nature of challenges has evolved, their overall impact on individuals remains significant. In contemporary society, we grapple with unprecedented issues such as information overload, rapid technological changes, and global interconnectedness, which can lead to increased stress and anxiety. However, it’s crucial to acknowledge that past generations faced their own set of formidable challenges, such as limited access to education, healthcare, and opportunities for social mobility.
What sets modern challenges apart is perhaps their complexity and far-reaching consequences. For instance, climate change and its ramifications present a multifaceted challenge that requires global cooperation and innovative solutions. Similarly, the COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted our vulnerability to global health crises and the need for adaptability in various aspects of life.
On the flip side, we have access to more resources, information, and support systems than ever before, which can mitigate the impact of these challenges. Ultimately, while the specific nature of challenges may have changed, the human capacity for resilience and problem-solving remains a constant factor in addressing them.”
Describe a situation where you had to make a compromise is another challenging scenario that tests one’s ability to navigate complex interpersonal dynamics and decision-making processes.
Examiner: “How can people develop the skills to overcome challenges?”
Band 6-7 answer:
“People can develop skills to overcome challenges by practicing problem-solving, learning from their mistakes, and seeking advice from others. It’s also important to stay positive and not give up when things get difficult.”
Band 8-9 answer:
“Developing the ability to overcome challenges is a multifaceted process that involves cultivating various skills and mindsets. Firstly, I believe that fostering a growth mindset is crucial. This involves viewing challenges as opportunities for learning and personal development rather than insurmountable obstacles.
Critical thinking and problem-solving skills are also essential. These can be honed through activities that encourage analytical thinking, such as puzzles, strategic games, or engaging in debates. Additionally, emotional intelligence plays a vital role in navigating challenges, particularly those involving interpersonal relationships or high-pressure situations.
Resilience is another key attribute that can be developed through gradual exposure to challenging situations and learning to bounce back from setbacks. This can be complemented by practicing stress management techniques like mindfulness or meditation.
Furthermore, effective communication skills are invaluable when facing challenges, as they enable individuals to articulate problems clearly, seek help when needed, and collaborate with others to find solutions.
Lastly, I believe in the importance of continuous learning and adaptability. In our rapidly changing world, the ability to acquire new skills quickly and adapt to new situations is crucial for overcoming evolving challenges.
By consciously working on these areas, individuals can build a robust toolkit for tackling a wide range of challenges throughout their lives.”
Developing skills to overcome challenges
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
To undertake (verb) /ʌndərˈteɪk/ – to take on or begin a task or responsibility
Example: “I undertook the challenge of learning a new language last year.”Multifaceted (adjective) /ˌmʌltiˈfæsɪtɪd/ – having many different aspects or features
Example: “Organizing the conference was a multifaceted challenge that required various skills.”To push the boundaries (idiom) – to extend the limits of what is possible or acceptable
Example: “By taking on this project, I was really pushing the boundaries of my abilities.”Rollercoaster of emotions (idiom) – a situation characterized by rapid and extreme changes in emotion
Example: “Preparing for the marathon was a rollercoaster of emotions, from excitement to self-doubt.”To grapple with (phrasal verb) /ˈɡræpəl wɪð/ – to struggle or contend with a difficult problem or issue
Example: “Many students grapple with the challenge of balancing studies and part-time work.”Perseverance (noun) /ˌpɜːrsəˈvɪərəns/ – continued effort and determination despite difficulties
Example: “Her perseverance in the face of numerous setbacks was truly admirable.”To delve into (phrasal verb) /delv ˈɪntuː/ – to research or investigate something thoroughly
Example: “I delved into various training methods to prepare for the marathon effectively.”Enlightening (adjective) /ɪnˈlaɪtnɪŋ/ – giving new and useful information
Example: “The experience of organizing the conference was truly enlightening.”Synergy (noun) /ˈsɪnərdʒi/ – the interaction of two or more elements to produce a combined effect greater than the sum of their separate effects
Example: “There was a powerful synergy between mental preparation and physical training in overcoming the challenge.”To mitigate (verb) /ˈmɪtɪɡeɪt/ – to make less severe or serious
Example: “Advanced technology can help mitigate some of the challenges we face in modern society.”
Describe a place in nature where you go to exercise can be linked to overcoming physical challenges and pushing one’s limits in a natural setting.
Examiner’s Advice
To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test when describing challenging experiences:
Use a wide range of vocabulary and complex sentence structures. Practice incorporating advanced words and phrases naturally into your responses.
Provide detailed and specific examples to support your points. This demonstrates your ability to communicate complex ideas effectively.
Show critical thinking by analyzing the situation from different perspectives and discussing its implications.
Maintain fluency by practicing speaking on various topics regularly. Focus on speaking confidently and at a natural pace.
Pay attention to pronunciation and intonation. Clear articulation and appropriate stress on words can significantly enhance your score.
Be prepared to expand on your initial answers, especially in Part 3. Practice developing your ideas and providing thoughtful, in-depth responses.
Stay on topic and structure your answers logically. Use discourse markers to connect your ideas smoothly.
Show your ability to reflect on experiences by discussing what you learned or how you grew from challenging situations.
Be honest and authentic in your responses. Examiners appreciate genuine answers that reflect your personal experiences and opinions.
Practice describing challenging experiences using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to ensure your answers are comprehensive and well-structured.
Remember, the key to success in the IELTS Speaking test is consistent practice and a willingness to engage with complex ideas and experiences. By following these tips and regularly practicing your speaking skills, you can improve your ability to articulate your thoughts on challenging experiences and other topics effectively.
Describe a time when you achieved something despite difficulties is another topic that allows you to showcase your ability to overcome challenges and reflect on personal growth.
IELTS Speaking Preparation Tips
Describe a person who enjoys exploring the outdoors can be related to overcoming physical challenges in nature, demonstrating resilience and adaptability.