Just like describe a holiday experience that didn’t go as planned, discussing surprising decisions requires careful preparation and structure. Let’s explore how to excel at this common IELTS Speaking topic.
Part 1: Introduction Questions
Common questions you may encounter:
- Do you usually make decisions quickly?
- How do you make important decisions?
- Do you prefer making decisions alone or with others?
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“I tend to be quite methodical when it comes to decision-making. For crucial matters, I usually gather all relevant information and weigh the pros and cons carefully before reaching a conclusion. However, I’m also capable of making swift decisions when circumstances require it.”
Part 2: Cue Card
Your task is to describe a decision you made that surprised others. You should say:
- What the decision was
- When you made it
- Why you made this decision
- And explain why it surprised others
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
Similar to describe a situation where you had to handle conflict, this topic requires clear reasoning and structured delivery.
“I’d like to talk about my life-changing decision to leave my stable corporate job to start an environmental conservation project. This happened about three years ago when I was working as a financial analyst at a prestigious bank.
The decision stemmed from my growing awareness of environmental issues and my desire to make a meaningful impact. After witnessing the devastating effects of plastic pollution during describe a time you attended a wedding or celebration in a coastal town, I felt compelled to take action.
My colleagues were completely taken aback because I was on track for a promotion and had built a solid reputation in the finance sector. However, I had carefully calculated the risks and had spent months developing a comprehensive business plan for my environmental initiative.
The decision proved to be tremendously rewarding, as our project has now gained significant traction and we’ve managed to implement several successful conservation programs.”
Part 3: Discussion Questions
Q: Why do some people find it difficult to make decisions?
A: (Band 8-9) “People often struggle with decision-making due to several factors. Firstly, there’s the fear of potential consequences and the burden of responsibility. Additionally, in today’s information age, people can suffer from analysis paralysis – having too much information at their disposal, making it challenging to reach a conclusive decision.”
Q: How has technology affected the way people make decisions?
A: (Band 8-9) “Technology has revolutionized decision-making processes in both positive and negative ways. While it provides us with unprecedented access to information and analytical tools, it can also lead to information overload. Furthermore, just as with describe a problem you encountered while shopping online, technology can sometimes complicate rather than simplify our choices.”
Key Vocabulary and Phrases
- Calculated risk: A risk that has been carefully considered
- Compelling reason: A very strong and convincing motivation
- Paradigm shift: A fundamental change in approach or assumptions
- Strategic move: A carefully planned action
- Watershed moment: A turning point
- To weigh the pros and cons: To consider the advantages and disadvantages
- To take the plunge: To finally make a bold decision
- To think outside the box: To think creatively and unconventionally
Just as with describe a time when you stood up for someone else, using these sophisticated expressions appropriately can significantly enhance your speaking score.