The IELTS Speaking test is designed to assess your speaking skills through a real-life conversation with an examiner. It includes three parts: Introduction and Interview, Long Turn, and Two-way Discussion. Your performance is evaluated across various criteria such as fluency, coherence, lexical resource, grammatical range, and pronunciation. Among the many topics you may encounter, “Describe A Person Who Is Very Skilled At Solving Problems” is a common one, reflecting on your ability to articulate and elaborate on characteristics and experiences.

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

In Part 1, candidates are usually asked general questions about themselves and a range of familiar topics. Here are some typical questions related to the theme:

1. Do you think problem-solving skills are important? Why or why not?
2. Can you tell me about a time when you had to solve a difficult problem?
3. Who in your life do you admire for their problem-solving abilities?

Sample Question and Answer

Question: Do you think problem-solving skills are important? Why or why not?

Answer: Yes, I firmly believe that problem-solving skills are crucial because they enable individuals to navigate through challenges and find effective solutions. For example, in the workplace, being able to solve problems efficiently can improve productivity and foster a positive environment. Additionally, these skills are essential in daily life, as they help people make better decisions and overcome obstacles with confidence.

Part 2: Long Turn

Cue Card

Describe a person who is very skilled at solving problems.

You should say:

• Who the person is
• How you know him/her
• What types of problems he/she solves
• And explain why you think he/she is skilled at solving problems.

Sample Answer

One person who stands out as very skilled at solving problems is my former boss, Mr. Johnson. I had the privilege of working under him at a tech company.

Mr. Johnson is renowned for his exceptional problem-solving abilities, especially in high-pressure situations. I first realized his capabilities during a critical project when our team faced a significant technical glitch. While everyone was anxious, he remained composed and encouraged us to brainstorm potential solutions. Ultimately, he proposed a creative solution that not only resolved the issue but also improved our overall system.

His ability to think logically and remain calm under pressure is what makes him outstanding. He often tackles complex problems ranging from technical challenges to team conflicts with unwavering determination. In my opinion, his skills stem from his extensive experience and a genuine passion for continuous learning.

Moreover, his approach of breaking down problems into manageable parts and seeking innovative solutions inspires those around him. Therefore, I truly admire Mr. Johnson and find his problem-solving skills to be exemplary.

problem solving skills

Follow-up Questions

1. How does this person’s problem-solving skill impact the team?
2. Can you describe a specific situation where this person solved a problem creatively?

Sample Answer for Follow-up Question:
His problem-solving skills have a profound impact on the team. For instance, during a company-wide software transition, many were struggling with the new system. Mr. Johnson conducted a series of workshops to guide us through the changes, addressing concerns with practical solutions. His proactive approach not only mitigated the transition difficulties but also boosted team morale and cohesion.

Part 3: Two-way Discussion

Sample Examiner Questions and Answers

Examiner: In your opinion, what qualities are necessary for someone to be a good problem solver?

Candidate: I believe that critical thinking, creativity, and resilience are essential qualities for a good problem solver. Critical thinking enables individuals to analyze problems deeply, creativity helps in finding novel solutions, and resilience ensures that they persist despite setbacks.

Examiner: Why do you think some people are better at problem-solving than others?

Candidate: It could be due to a combination of factors such as experience, training, and innate ability. People who frequently engage in challenging tasks tend to develop better problem-solving skills. Additionally, those who have undergone specific training, such as engineering or management courses, may have a more structured approach to solving problems. Lastly, some individuals naturally possess a keen analytical mind which makes them adept at handling complex issues.

Examiner: How can educational institutions better prepare students to solve real-world problems?

Candidate: Educational institutions can foster problem-solving skills by incorporating more practical projects and case studies into their curriculum. Encouraging collaborative learning and critical thinking exercises can also be beneficial. Moreover, providing students with opportunities to work on real-world challenges, such as through internships or competitions, can greatly enhance their problem-solving abilities.

Vocabulary and Structures for High Scores

To achieve high scores, it’s critical to use a variety of vocabulary and grammatical structures. Here are some key words and phrases:

• Privilege (noun): /ˈprɪvəlɪdʒ/ – A special right or advantage. Ex: “It’s a privilege to work under such a talented problem solver.”
• Exceptional (adjective): /ɪkˈsɛpʃənl/ – Unusually good. Ex: “He has an exceptional ability to maintain composure.”
• **Creative solution (noun phrase): A novel and effective way to solve a problem. Ex: “He proposed a creative solution that resolved the issue.”
• **Calm under pressure (phrase): Maintaining calmness in difficult situations. Ex: “His ability to stay calm under pressure is remarkable.”
• **Innovative solutions (phrase): New and creative ideas to solve problems. Ex: “He encourages finding innovative solutions to challenges.”

Example of Use

“In high-pressure situations, Mr. Johnson maintains an exceptional composure and often comes up with creative solutions that address the root of the problem effectively.”

Tips for Practicing for the IELTS Speaking Test

1. Regular Practice: Engage in daily speaking practice with a partner or language group.
2. Mock Tests: Take full-length practice tests to simulate the actual test environment.
3. Record Yourself: Record and review your responses to identify areas for improvement.
4. Expand Your Vocabulary: Learn new words and practice using them in context.
5. Seek Feedback: Get constructive feedback from teachers or peers to refine your speaking skills.

Adhering to these tips can significantly enhance your performance and help you achieve your desired band score in the IELTS Speaking test.