Describing a time when you felt anxious but managed to stay calm is a common topic in IELTS Speaking tests. This theme explores your ability to handle stress and articulate your experiences clearly. Let’s dive into how you can effectively tackle this topic and maximize your score.

Describe a time when you managed to stay calm in a crisis

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

In this section, the examiner may ask general questions about anxiety and staying calm. Here’s a sample question with a suggested answer:

Examiner: Do you think it’s important to stay calm in difficult situations?

Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
Absolutely, I believe maintaining composure in challenging circumstances is crucial. It allows us to think more clearly and make rational decisions, which is essential when facing adversity. By remaining calm, we’re better equipped to analyze the situation objectively and find effective solutions. Moreover, it can have a positive impact on those around us, potentially diffusing tension and creating a more constructive atmosphere.

Part 2: Long Turn

Cue Card:
Describe A Time You Felt Anxious But Stayed Calm
You should say:

• When and where it happened
• Why you felt anxious
• How you managed to stay calm
• And explain how you felt afterwards

Sample Answer (Band 8-9):

I’d like to share an experience from last year when I had to deliver a crucial presentation to a large audience at a conference in my field. It was a pivotal moment in my career, as I was representing my company and presenting our latest research findings.

The anxiety began to build up as I waited backstage, watching the audience file in. My heart was racing, and I could feel my palms getting sweaty. The pressure was immense because I knew that potential investors and industry leaders were in attendance, and the success of this presentation could have significant implications for our company’s future.

To manage my anxiety and stay calm, I employed several techniques. Firstly, I focused on my breathing, taking slow, deep breaths to regulate my heart rate and oxygenate my brain. I also used positive self-talk, reminding myself of my thorough preparation and expertise in the subject matter. Additionally, I visualized a successful outcome, imagining myself confidently delivering the presentation and receiving a positive response from the audience.

As I stepped onto the stage, I maintained a poised demeanor, making eye contact with individuals in the audience to establish a connection. Throughout the presentation, I concentrated on my message and the value I was providing, rather than my own nervousness. This shift in focus helped me deliver the content smoothly and engage effectively with the audience.

After the presentation, I felt an overwhelming sense of relief and accomplishment. The positive feedback I received from attendees and colleagues boosted my confidence significantly. This experience taught me the importance of staying composed under pressure and how effective coping strategies can make a substantial difference in high-stakes situations.

Anxious speaker delivering presentation to large audience

Follow-up Questions

Examiner: How do you think people can learn to stay calm in stressful situations?

Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
I believe that developing calmness in stressful situations is a skill that can be cultivated through various methods. Firstly, practicing mindfulness and meditation regularly can help individuals become more aware of their thoughts and emotions, allowing them to respond to stress more effectively. Additionally, exposure therapy, where people gradually face anxiety-inducing situations in a controlled manner, can build resilience over time. It’s also crucial to develop a toolkit of coping strategies, such as deep breathing exercises, positive self-talk, and visualization techniques, which can be employed in high-pressure moments. Lastly, seeking professional guidance, like cognitive-behavioral therapy, can provide personalized strategies for managing anxiety and maintaining composure under stress.

Part 3: Two-way Discussion

Examiner: How do you think technology affects people’s ability to handle stress?

Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
Technology has a paradoxical impact on stress management. On one hand, it provides numerous tools and resources that can help alleviate stress. For instance, meditation apps, online therapy platforms, and stress-tracking devices can all contribute to better stress management. These digital solutions offer accessible and often personalized ways to cope with anxiety and promote relaxation.

However, technology can also be a significant source of stress itself. The constant connectivity afforded by smartphones and social media can lead to information overload and the pressure to be always available. This can result in what’s often termed “techno-stress,” where individuals feel overwhelmed by the demands of digital communication and the rapid pace of technological change.

Moreover, the comparison culture fostered by social media platforms can exacerbate feelings of inadequacy and anxiety, particularly among younger generations. The curated nature of online personas can create unrealistic standards and heighten stress levels.

That being said, I believe the key lies in mindful and balanced use of technology. By setting boundaries, such as designated “offline” times, and being selective about the tech tools we engage with, we can harness the stress-reducing potential of technology while mitigating its negative effects. Additionally, digital literacy education can play a crucial role in helping people develop a healthier relationship with technology, enabling them to use it as a tool for managing stress rather than a source of it.

Describe a time when you had to deal with a stressful situation

Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores

1. Pivotal moment /ˈpɪvətl ˈməʊmənt/ (noun phrase): A crucial or decisive point in time.
   Example: The job interview was a pivotal moment in my career.

2. To employ techniques /tuː ɪmˈplɔɪ tekˈniːks/ (verb phrase): To use specific methods or strategies.
   Example: She employed various relaxation techniques to manage her anxiety.

3. Poised demeanor /pɔɪzd dɪˈmiːnə/ (noun phrase): A calm and composed manner.
   Example: Despite the pressure, she maintained a poised demeanor throughout the presentation.

4. To diffuse tension /tuː dɪˈfjuːz ˈtenʃn/ (verb phrase): To reduce or alleviate stress in a situation.
   Example: His humor helped to diffuse the tension in the room.

5. Exposure therapy /ɪkˈspəʊʒə ˈθerəpi/ (noun): A type of behavioral therapy used to treat anxiety disorders.
   Example: Exposure therapy can be effective in helping people overcome specific phobias.

How to describe a time you had to deal with an unexpected situation in IELTS Speaking

Examiner’s Advice

To excel in the IELTS Speaking test when discussing anxiety and staying calm:

1. Practice describing emotional experiences using a rich vocabulary.
2. Develop a repertoire of personal anecdotes related to managing stress and anxiety.
3. Be prepared to discuss both the physical and mental aspects of staying calm.
4. Use a variety of tenses accurately to narrate your experiences.
5. Incorporate idiomatic expressions naturally in your responses.
6. Practice speaking about stress management techniques in detail.
7. Be ready to discuss the broader implications of stress and calmness in society.

Remember, the key to a high score is not just about what you say, but how you say it. Aim for fluency, coherence, and a natural conversational style while showcasing your language skills.

Describe a situation when you felt very relieved

IELTS Speaking test examination room setup

By following these guidelines and practicing regularly, you’ll be well-prepared to discuss times when you felt anxious but stayed calm in your IELTS Speaking test, demonstrating both your language proficiency and your ability to handle challenging situations.