Mastering the IELTS Speaking Task: How to Describe a Life-Changing Decision

The IELTS Speaking test often includes questions about significant life events and decisions. One common topic that candidates may encounter is describing a decision that had a big impact on their life. This topic has appeared frequently in past IELTS exams and is likely to remain relevant in future tests. Being prepared to discuss such a personal and influential decision can greatly enhance your performance in the Speaking section.

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

In Part 1, the examiner may ask you some general questions about decision-making. Here are a few examples:

1. Do you find it easy to make decisions?
2. How do you usually make important decisions?
3. Have you ever regretted a decision you made?

Let’s look at a sample answer for the first question:

Examiner: Do you find it easy to make decisions?

Candidate (Band 6-7):
“Well, it depends on the situation. For small decisions, like what to eat or wear, I find it quite easy. But when it comes to bigger decisions, especially ones that might affect my future, I sometimes struggle. I often weigh the pros and cons carefully before making a choice.”

Candidate (Band 8-9):
“I’d say my ease in decision-making varies considerably depending on the gravity of the situation. For trivial matters, such as daily choices about meals or attire, I’m quite adept at making quick decisions. However, when it comes to more consequential decisions, particularly those with long-term implications for my personal or professional life, I tend to be more deliberative. In such cases, I often find myself meticulously analyzing the potential outcomes and seeking advice from trusted individuals before reaching a conclusion.”

Decision making process illustration

Part 2: Long Turn

Now, let’s look at a potential cue card for this topic:

Describe a decision that had a big impact on your life

You should say:
- What the decision was
- When you made this decision
- Why you made this decision
- And explain how this decision impacted your life

Here’s a sample answer for Band 6-7:

“I’d like to talk about a decision that really changed my life – choosing to study abroad for my master’s degree. I made this decision about three years ago, just after finishing my bachelor’s degree in my home country.

The main reason I decided to study abroad was to gain international experience and improve my English skills. I felt that this would give me better job opportunities in the future. Also, I was really interested in experiencing a different culture and meeting people from around the world.

This decision had a huge impact on my life. First of all, it greatly improved my language skills. Living in an English-speaking country forced me to use English every day, which really boosted my confidence. Secondly, I made friends from different countries, which broadened my perspective on many issues. Finally, the experience of living independently in a foreign country made me more mature and self-reliant.

Overall, studying abroad was a challenging but rewarding experience. It opened up new opportunities for me and helped me grow both personally and professionally.”

Now, let’s look at a more sophisticated answer that could achieve Band 8-9:

“I’d like to share with you a pivotal decision that had a profound impact on my life trajectory – the choice to pursue my postgraduate studies abroad. This decision was made approximately three years ago, shortly after I completed my undergraduate degree in my home country.

The primary impetus behind this decision was multifaceted. Firstly, I was driven by an insatiable curiosity to immerse myself in a different cultural milieu and to broaden my horizons both academically and personally. Secondly, I recognized the immense value of international exposure in today’s globalized job market. Lastly, I saw it as an opportunity to hone my linguistic proficiency in English, which I considered crucial for my future career prospects.

The ramifications of this decision were far-reaching and multidimensional. Perhaps most notably, it led to a quantum leap in my language skills. The daily immersion in an Anglophone environment catalyzed my fluency and nuanced understanding of English. Moreover, the experience of navigating life in a foreign country fostered a sense of self-reliance and adaptability that I hadn’t previously possessed.

Academically, exposure to diverse teaching methodologies and cutting-edge research expanded my intellectual boundaries and cultivated a more critical and analytical approach to my field of study. The multicultural environment of the university also provided a platform for cross-cultural exchange, allowing me to forge friendships with individuals from myriad backgrounds. This not only enriched my personal life but also instilled in me a more nuanced, global perspective.

A student studying abroad in a library.

In retrospect, while the decision to study abroad was fraught with challenges, it has proven to be unequivocally transformative. It has not only enhanced my academic and professional credentials but has also contributed significantly to my personal growth, shaping me into a more well-rounded, culturally sensitive individual with a truly global outlook.”

Follow-up questions:

1. Do you think you would make the same decision if you had the chance again?
2. How do you think this decision has prepared you for future challenges?

Sample answer for question 1 (Band 8-9):

“Absolutely, I would make the same decision without hesitation. The experience of studying abroad has been so transformative and enriching that I can’t imagine my life without it. It has opened doors I never knew existed and has equipped me with a skill set that I believe will be invaluable throughout my career and personal life. The challenges I faced and overcame have built my resilience and self-confidence to a degree that I don’t think would have been possible had I stayed in my comfort zone. While there were certainly difficult moments, the personal growth and global perspective I’ve gained far outweigh any temporary discomfort I experienced.”

Part 3: Two-way Discussion

In Part 3, the examiner might ask more abstract questions related to decision-making and its impact on life. Here are some potential questions and sample answers:

Examiner: How do you think technology has changed the way people make decisions?

Candidate (Band 6-7):
“I think technology has had a big impact on how we make decisions. Now, we can easily access a lot of information online, which helps us make more informed choices. For example, when buying a product, we can read reviews and compare prices from different stores. However, sometimes having too much information can make it harder to decide. Also, social media can influence our decisions, as we often see what our friends are doing or buying.”

Candidate (Band 8-9):
“Technology has undeniably revolutionized the decision-making process in myriad ways. On one hand, it has democratized access to information, enabling individuals to make more informed choices based on a wealth of data, reviews, and comparisons available at their fingertips. This has particularly transformed consumer behavior, with people now able to conduct extensive research before making purchases or choosing services.

However, the abundance of information can be a double-edged sword. The sheer volume of data can lead to decision paralysis, where individuals struggle to make choices due to an overwhelming number of options. Moreover, the algorithmic curation of content on social media and search engines can create echo chambers, potentially skewing our perspective and influencing our decisions in subtle ways.

Another significant change is the rise of data-driven decision-making in both personal and professional contexts. Machine learning algorithms can now process vast amounts of data to provide insights and recommendations, which can be incredibly useful but also raises questions about the role of human intuition and experience in decision-making.

Lastly, the instantaneous nature of digital communication has accelerated the decision-making process in many areas of life. While this can lead to increased efficiency, it may also result in hasty decisions without adequate reflection. Balancing the speed and convenience offered by technology with the need for thoughtful consideration remains a key challenge in our digital age.”

A person using a smartphone to make a decision.

Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores

1. Pivotal /ˈpɪvətl/ (adjective): Very important and significant.
   Example: “Choosing my career path was a pivotal moment in my life.”
2. Ramifications /ˌræmɪfɪˈkeɪʃənz/ (noun): The consequences of an action or decision.
   Example: “I had to consider the long-term ramifications of moving to another country.”
3. To weigh the pros and cons (phrase): To consider the advantages and disadvantages before making a decision.
   Example: “Before accepting the job offer, I carefully weighed the pros and cons.”
4. Life-altering (adjective): Having a profound and lasting effect on one’s life.
   Example: “Getting married was a life-altering decision for me.”
5. To take the plunge (idiom): To commit to a course of action, especially after hesitation.
   Example: “After months of deliberation, I finally took the plunge and started my own business.”

Examiner’s Advice

To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test when discussing life-changing decisions:

1. Use a variety of vocabulary and complex sentence structures to demonstrate your language proficiency.
2. Provide specific examples and personal anecdotes to support your points.
3. Show your ability to discuss abstract concepts by relating your personal experiences to broader themes.
4. Practice speaking about different types of decisions to improve your fluency and confidence.
5. Remember to address all parts of the question, especially in Part 2, and elaborate on your answers in Part 3.

By following these tips and using the sample answers as inspiration, you can enhance your performance in the IELTS Speaking test when discussing significant life decisions. Remember, the key is to practice regularly and develop your ability to express your thoughts clearly and coherently on a wide range of topics.

If you’re looking for more practice, you might find it helpful to describe a challenge you faced at work or school or describe a piece of advice you received from a mentor. These topics can often involve important decisions and their impacts, providing excellent opportunities to further develop your speaking skills for the IELTS exam.