Are you preparing for the IELTS Speaking test and wondering how to tackle challenging topics? One question that often appears is “Describe a person who is good at making decisions under pressure.” This article will guide you through answering this question effectively, providing sample responses and expert tips to help you achieve a high band score.
IELTS Speaking Examiner
Understanding the IELTS Speaking Test Structure
Before we dive into the specific question, let’s briefly review the structure of the IELTS Speaking test:
- Part 1: Introduction and Interview (4-5 minutes)
- Part 2: Long Turn (3-4 minutes)
- Part 3: Two-way Discussion (4-5 minutes)
Now, let’s focus on how to answer questions related to describing a person who is good at making decisions under pressure.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In this section, the examiner may ask general questions about decision-making and pressure. Here are some possible questions and sample answers:
Sample Question 1: Do you think you’re good at making decisions?
Band 6-7 Answer:
I’d say I’m fairly good at making decisions. I usually try to weigh the pros and cons before deciding on something important.
Band 8-9 Answer:
I’d like to think I’m quite adept at decision-making. I typically employ a systematic approach, carefully analyzing the potential outcomes and considering both short-term and long-term implications before reaching a conclusion.
Sample Question 2: How do you usually handle pressure?
Band 6-7 Answer:
I try to stay calm under pressure. Taking deep breaths and focusing on the task at hand helps me manage stressful situations.
Band 8-9 Answer:
I’ve developed several strategies to cope with pressure effectively. Firstly, I prioritize tasks and break them down into manageable steps. Additionally, I practice mindfulness techniques, such as deep breathing and meditation, which help me maintain clarity and focus even in high-stress scenarios.
Part 2: Long Turn
In this section, you’ll be given a cue card with a topic and some bullet points. Here’s a sample cue card related to our main topic:
Describe a person who is good at making decisions under pressure
You should say:
- Who this person is
- What kind of decisions they make
- How you know this person
- And explain why you think this person is good at making decisions under pressure
Sample Answer (Band 8-9)
I’d like to talk about my former manager, Sarah Thompson, who is exceptionally skilled at making crucial decisions under pressure. I had the privilege of working with her for three years at a fast-paced tech startup in Ho Chi Minh City.
Sarah is the Chief Operations Officer of the company, and her role requires her to make high-stakes decisions on a daily basis. These decisions often involve allocating resources, prioritizing projects, and resolving complex technical issues that could significantly impact the company’s performance and reputation.
I first met Sarah when I joined the company as a junior developer. From the outset, I was impressed by her composure and clarity of thought, even in the most challenging situations. One particular incident that stands out was when our main server crashed just hours before a major product launch. Sarah swiftly assessed the situation, weighed the potential solutions, and made the bold decision to postpone the launch by 24 hours. This decision, although difficult, ultimately saved the company from a potential PR disaster and allowed us to resolve the technical issues thoroughly.
I believe Sarah excels at making decisions under pressure for several reasons. Firstly, she has an incredible ability to remain calm and focused in stressful situations. This composure allows her to think clearly and rationally, even when others around her are panicking. Secondly, Sarah has developed a systematic approach to decision-making. She quickly gathers relevant information, considers multiple perspectives, and anticipates potential outcomes before making a choice. Lastly, her extensive experience in the industry has honed her intuition, enabling her to make quick yet informed decisions when time is of the essence.
Sarah’s decision-making skills have not only led to the company’s success but have also inspired and empowered her team members. Her ability to navigate high-pressure situations with grace and effectiveness has made her a role model for aspiring leaders like myself.
Examiner’s Follow-up Questions
- How do you think people can improve their decision-making skills?
- Are there any disadvantages to being good at making decisions under pressure?
Band 8-9 Answer for Question 1:
I believe there are several ways people can enhance their decision-making abilities. Firstly, gaining experience in various situations is crucial, as it builds a repertoire of knowledge to draw from. Secondly, practicing mindfulness and stress-management techniques can help maintain clarity of thought under pressure. Additionally, developing critical thinking skills through activities like chess or debate can sharpen one’s ability to analyze complex situations. Lastly, seeking mentorship from experienced decision-makers and reflecting on past decisions to learn from both successes and failures can significantly improve one’s decision-making prowess.
Band 8-9 Answer for Question 2:
While being adept at making decisions under pressure is generally advantageous, there can be some potential drawbacks. One concern is that individuals who excel in high-pressure situations might inadvertently create a stressful environment for themselves or their team, constantly seeking challenging scenarios. Additionally, there’s a risk of overconfidence, where one might rely too heavily on their ability to make quick decisions, potentially overlooking important details or alternative perspectives. It’s crucial to maintain a balance and recognize when a more measured, collaborative approach might be beneficial, even for those who thrive under pressure.
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
In this section, the examiner will ask more abstract questions related to the topic. Here are some potential questions and sample answers:
Question 1: How important is quick decision-making in today’s fast-paced world?
Band 8-9 Answer:
In today’s rapidly evolving world, the ability to make quick decisions is increasingly crucial. The pace of technological advancement and global interconnectedness means that opportunities and challenges can arise suddenly, requiring swift action. However, it’s essential to strike a balance between speed and thoroughness. While quick decision-making can provide a competitive edge in many industries, it shouldn’t come at the expense of careful consideration. The most effective decision-makers are those who can rapidly assess situations, draw on their experience and knowledge, and make informed choices within tight timeframes. This skill is particularly valuable in fields like finance, technology, and emergency services, where delays can have significant consequences.
Question 2: Do you think schools should teach decision-making skills to students?
Band 8-9 Answer:
Absolutely. I believe that integrating decision-making skills into the curriculum is essential for preparing students for the complexities of modern life and work. Schools could implement this in various ways, such as through case studies, role-playing exercises, and project-based learning that requires students to make choices and deal with consequences. Teaching decision-making frameworks, critical thinking, and problem-solving techniques would equip students with valuable life skills. Moreover, emphasizing the importance of gathering and analyzing information, considering different perspectives, and evaluating potential outcomes would help students develop a more systematic approach to decision-making. This education would not only benefit them in their future careers but also in their personal lives, fostering more confident and capable individuals.
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
To elevate your speaking performance, incorporate these advanced words and phrases:
Adept at /əˈdept æt/ (adjective): Very skilled or proficient at something.
Example: She’s adept at analyzing complex data quickly.High-stakes /haɪ steɪks/ (adjective): Involving important outcomes or serious consequences.
Example: CEOs often face high-stakes decisions that affect the entire company.Composure /kəmˈpoʊʒər/ (noun): The state of being calm and in control of one’s emotions.
Example: Her composure during the crisis impressed everyone in the room.Anticipate /ænˈtɪsɪpeɪt/ (verb): To expect or predict something will happen.
Example: A good leader must anticipate potential challenges and plan accordingly.Hone /hoʊn/ (verb): To refine or perfect something over time.
Example: Years of experience have honed her decision-making skills.Inadvertently /ˌɪnədˈvɜːrtəntli/ (adverb): Without intention; accidentally.
Example: By always solving problems quickly, he inadvertently became the go-to person for crises.
Expert Tips from an IELTS Speaking Examiner
As an experienced IELTS Speaking Examiner, I recommend the following strategies to excel in your test:
- Practice regularly: Engage in conversations about decision-making and pressure situations to build fluency.
- Develop your vocabulary: Learn and use advanced words and phrases related to the topic.
- Structure your answers: Use clear organization in your responses, especially in Part 2.
- Provide specific examples: Use personal anecdotes or real-world scenarios to illustrate your points.
- Show critical thinking: In Part 3, demonstrate your ability to analyze complex ideas.
- Stay calm: Remember, the examiner is assessing your language skills, not judging your personal experiences.
By following these tips and using the sample answers as inspiration, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle questions about decision-making under pressure in your IELTS Speaking test. Remember, practice makes perfect, so keep honing your skills!
For more IELTS Speaking practice, check out our articles on describing a time when you had to adapt to a new role and describing a person who has a strong sense of justice.