IELTS speaking examiner interviewing candidate in professional setting
Similar to describe a situation where you had to stay positive despite difficulties, this topic frequently appears in IELTS Speaking examinations, testing candidates’ ability to discuss personal challenges and achievements.
Part 1: Introduction Questions
Common questions you might encounter:
- Do you enjoy challenging yourself?
- What kinds of challenges do you face in your daily life?
- How do you usually deal with difficulties?
For instance, when asked “Do you enjoy challenging yourself?”, here’s a sample answer:
Band 8-9 Response:
“I absolutely thrive on challenges as they push me out of my comfort zone. For instance, I recently took on the challenge of learning Python programming while working full-time, which has been incredibly rewarding despite the initial difficulties.”
Part 2: Cue Card
Describe a challenging thing you did
You should say:
- What the challenge was
- When you did it
- How you dealt with it
- And explain why you found it challenging
Student preparing notes for IELTS speaking test cue card
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“I’d like to talk about when I undertook the challenge of organizing a large-scale international conference at my university. This ambitious endeavor took place last summer, and it proved to be one of the most demanding yet rewarding experiences of my life.
The conference brought together over 200 participants from 15 different countries, and as the lead coordinator, I had to oversee everything from venue arrangements to speaker schedules. What made it particularly challenging was the need to coordinate across multiple time zones and accommodate diverse cultural preferences.
To tackle this challenge, I implemented a systematic approach. First, I broke down the project into manageable tasks and delegated responsibilities to a team of ten volunteers. I also developed a detailed contingency plan for potential issues like technical glitches or last-minute cancellations.
The experience was challenging primarily because it required me to wear multiple hats – from being a project manager to a cultural liaison. However, it helped me develop crucial skills like strategic thinking and crisis management.”
Part 3: Discussion Questions
Similar to what subject are you studying ielts answer, these questions explore deeper perspectives:
Q: Why do some people avoid challenging situations?
Band 8-9 Response:
“People often shy away from challenges due to various psychological factors. The fear of failure can be particularly paralyzing, and many individuals prefer to stay within their comfort zones rather than risk potential disappointment. Moreover, some might have had negative experiences in the past that have made them apprehensive about taking on new challenges.”
Key Vocabulary and Expressions
- Undertake (verb) /ˌʌndəˈteɪk/ – to begin or attempt something, especially something that will take a long time or be difficult
- Ambitious endeavor (phrase) – a challenging project or task that requires significant effort
- Contingency plan (noun) – a plan designed for an outcome other than in the normal plan
- Wear multiple hats (idiom) – to perform different roles or tasks
- Paralyzing (adj) /ˈpærəlaɪzɪŋ/ – making someone or something incapable of action
Examiner’s Tips
- Structure your response clearly with a beginning, middle, and end
- Use specific examples to support your points
- Demonstrate range in vocabulary and grammar
- Maintain natural fluency while speaking
- Show genuine engagement with the topic
This type of question also relates to describe a subject you found challenging in school, as both require you to discuss overcoming difficulties.
