Describing a good decision you made recently is a common topic in IELTS Speaking tests. This subject allows examiners to assess your ability to reflect on personal experiences, articulate your thoughts clearly, and demonstrate your English language skills. Let’s explore how to excel in this topic across all parts of the IELTS Speaking test.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In this section, the examiner may ask general questions about decision-making. Here’s a sample question with a suggested answer:
Q: How do you usually make decisions?
A: Well, I typically approach decision-making in a systematic way. First, I gather all the relevant information and weigh the pros and cons. Then, I consider the potential outcomes and their impact on my life and those around me. Sometimes, I also seek advice from trusted friends or family members, especially for more significant decisions. Ultimately, I try to make choices that align with my values and long-term goals.
Describe a person you know who has chosen a career in the medical field can be another interesting topic to discuss in your IELTS Speaking test, as it allows you to demonstrate your vocabulary related to professions and personal qualities.
Part 2: Long Turn
Cue Card
Describe A Good Decision You Made Recently
You should say:
- What the decision was
- When you made this decision
- Why you made this decision
- And explain why you think it was a good decision
Sample Answer (Band 8-9)
I’d like to talk about a significant decision I made recently, which was to enroll in a specialized digital marketing course. I made this decision about three months ago when I realized that my current skill set needed an upgrade to stay competitive in the job market.
The primary reason behind this decision was the rapidly evolving nature of the marketing industry. With the increasing importance of digital platforms, I felt it was crucial to enhance my knowledge in areas like search engine optimization, social media marketing, and data analytics. I also noticed that many job listings in my field were requiring these specific skills, which further motivated me to take this step.
I consider this a good decision for several reasons. Firstly, it has already started to pay dividends in my current job. I’ve been able to implement new strategies that have significantly improved our online presence and customer engagement. Secondly, it has opened up new career opportunities for me, with several companies expressing interest in my updated skill set. Lastly, this decision has boosted my confidence and reignited my passion for my career, making me feel more fulfilled professionally.
In retrospect, investing in my professional development through this course was undoubtedly a wise choice. It has not only enhanced my career prospects but also contributed to my personal growth, making me more adaptable and forward-thinking in an ever-changing professional landscape.
IELTS Speaking: Describing a good decision to take a digital marketing course
Follow-up Questions
Q: How has this decision affected your daily life?
A (Band 8-9): This decision has profoundly impacted my daily routine. I now dedicate at least an hour each day to studying and practicing new digital marketing techniques. It’s been quite invigorating to apply these fresh concepts to my work, and I find myself constantly brainstorming innovative ideas for campaigns. Moreover, I’ve noticed a significant boost in my productivity and time management skills, as I’ve had to balance my job, the course, and my personal life more efficiently.
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Q: Do you think young people make better decisions than older people?
A (Band 6-7): I think it depends on the situation. Young people might make better decisions about new technology or trends because they’re more familiar with them. But older people usually have more life experience, which can help them make better decisions in many areas. Both age groups have their strengths when it comes to decision-making.
A (Band 8-9): That’s an intriguing question with no straightforward answer. While young people often possess a fresh perspective and may be more adept at navigating contemporary issues, particularly those related to technology and social trends, older individuals typically benefit from a wealth of life experience that can inform their decision-making process. It’s also worth noting that decision-making skills aren’t solely age-dependent but are influenced by factors such as education, personal experiences, and individual cognitive abilities. Ultimately, the quality of decisions often hinges more on the individual’s critical thinking skills and their ability to analyze situations objectively, rather than age alone.
Describe a sportsperson or athlete you admire can be an excellent opportunity to showcase your vocabulary related to sports, achievements, and personal qualities in your IELTS Speaking test.
Q: How can companies ensure they make good decisions?
A (Band 6-7): Companies can make good decisions by gathering lots of information before deciding. They should also involve different people in the decision-making process to get various perspectives. It’s important for them to consider both short-term and long-term effects of their choices. Having a clear set of goals can also help guide their decisions.
A (Band 8-9): For companies to ensure they make sound decisions, they need to implement a multi-faceted approach. Firstly, establishing a robust data analytics system is crucial for informed decision-making. This allows companies to base their choices on concrete evidence rather than mere intuition. Secondly, fostering a culture of diverse thinking within the organization can lead to more comprehensive decision-making processes. This involves encouraging input from various departments and hierarchical levels, ensuring a wide range of perspectives are considered. Additionally, companies should implement rigorous risk assessment protocols to anticipate potential outcomes of their decisions. Lastly, regular review and adaptation of decision-making strategies is essential, allowing companies to learn from past experiences and continually refine their approach.
Corporate decision-making process flowchart
Key Vocabulary and Phrases
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Significant decision [ˌsɪɡˈnɪfɪkənt dɪˈsɪʒən] (adjective + noun): An important choice that has a major impact.
Example: Choosing a university was a significant decision in my life. -
To pay dividends [peɪ ˈdɪvɪdendz] (idiom): To yield benefits or rewards.
Example: His hard work in the gym has really started to pay dividends in his athletic performance. -
To open up opportunities [ˈəʊpən ʌp ˌɒpəˈtjuːnətiz] (phrasal verb): To create new possibilities or chances.
Example: Learning a new language can open up many career opportunities. -
To boost confidence [buːst ˈkɒnfɪdəns] (verb + noun): To increase self-assurance or self-belief.
Example: Receiving positive feedback from my manager really boosted my confidence. -
Invigorating [ɪnˈvɪɡəreɪtɪŋ] (adjective): Energizing or revitalizing.
Example: The crisp morning air was invigorating and helped me start the day with enthusiasm.
Describe a piece of good news you heard about someone you know well is another topic that can help you demonstrate your ability to express emotions and describe personal experiences in your IELTS Speaking test.
Examiner’s Advice
To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test when discussing a good decision you made:
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Elaborate on your answers: Provide detailed explanations and examples to support your points.
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Use a range of vocabulary: Incorporate advanced words and phrases relevant to decision-making and its outcomes.
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Demonstrate critical thinking: Show your ability to analyze the decision-making process and its consequences.
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Maintain fluency: Practice speaking on this topic to ensure smooth delivery without unnecessary pauses.
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Show enthusiasm: Convey genuine interest in the topic through your tone and expressions.
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Structure your response: Organize your thoughts logically, especially in Part 2’s long turn.
Remember, the key to success in IELTS Speaking is not just about what you say, but how you say it. Practice regularly, record yourself, and seek feedback to continually improve your speaking skills.
Describe a decision you made that was influenced by someone close to you can be an interesting way to combine personal experiences with decision-making processes in your IELTS Speaking test.
