Working under pressure is a common experience that IELTS examiners often ask about in the Speaking test. This topic has appeared frequently in past exams and is likely to remain relevant in future tests. Being able to articulate your experiences of handling pressure effectively can significantly boost your speaking score.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In this section, the examiner may ask questions like:
- Do you often work under pressure?
- How do you usually handle pressure at work or in your studies?
- Do you think pressure can be beneficial sometimes?
Let’s look at a sample answer for the first question:
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“Well, I’d say I frequently encounter pressure in both my professional and academic life. As a project manager, I often face tight deadlines and have to juggle multiple tasks simultaneously. Similarly, during my studies, I’ve had to balance coursework with part-time work, which can be quite demanding. However, I’ve found that a certain level of pressure actually helps me stay focused and motivated, pushing me to perform at my best.”
This answer demonstrates a good range of vocabulary, complex sentence structures, and a thoughtful response to the question.
Part 2: Long Turn
Cue Card:
Describe a situation where you had to work under pressure.
You should say:
- What the situation was
- When and where it happened
- Why you were under pressure
- How you handled the situation
IELTS Speaking Cue Card: Describe a situation where you had to work under pressure
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“I’d like to talk about a particularly challenging situation I faced during my final year at university. It was the last week before my dissertation submission, and I suddenly realized that a significant portion of my data analysis was flawed due to a software glitch.
This happened in my small student apartment, where I had been working tirelessly for weeks. The pressure was immense because the dissertation accounted for a large part of my degree, and there was absolutely no possibility of getting an extension.
The reason I was under such intense pressure was multifaceted. Firstly, I had less than a week to redo weeks’ worth of complex statistical analysis. Secondly, I needed to rewrite several chapters based on the new results. Lastly, I was acutely aware that my entire academic future could be jeopardized if I didn’t manage to complete everything on time.
To handle this high-stakes situation, I immediately devised a strategic plan. I prioritized the most critical analyses and worked on them first. I also reached out to my supervisor and a few classmates for support. They were incredibly helpful in double-checking my work and offering emotional support. I cut out all distractions, working almost around the clock, taking only short breaks for meals and power naps.
The experience was extremely stressful, but it taught me valuable lessons about time management, the importance of double-checking data, and how to perform under pressure. Remarkably, I managed to submit my dissertation on time, and it even received a high grade, which was immensely satisfying given the circumstances.”
Examiner’s follow-up questions:
- Do you think you work better under pressure?
- How do you think employers can help reduce workplace stress?
Sample Answers:
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(Band 8-9) “That’s an interesting question. I believe that a moderate amount of pressure can actually enhance my performance. It tends to sharpen my focus and motivate me to be more efficient. However, excessive or prolonged stress can be counterproductive. I’ve learned to distinguish between productive pressure and harmful stress, and I try to maintain a balance that allows me to perform optimally without burning out.”
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(Band 8-9) “I think employers can play a crucial role in mitigating workplace stress. Firstly, they can foster a supportive work culture where open communication is encouraged, and employees feel comfortable discussing their concerns. Additionally, offering flexible working arrangements, such as remote work options or flexible hours, can help employees better manage their work-life balance. Employers could also provide resources for stress management, such as mindfulness workshops or access to counseling services. Finally, setting realistic deadlines and ensuring fair workload distribution can significantly reduce unnecessary pressure on employees.”
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Examiner: Do you think the ability to work under pressure is becoming more important in today’s society?
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“Absolutely, I believe the ability to work under pressure is becoming increasingly crucial in our fast-paced, globalized world. With rapid technological advancements and ever-changing market demands, professionals across various fields are expected to adapt quickly and deliver results in high-pressure situations.
In the corporate world, for instance, companies often operate in volatile markets where quick decision-making can make or break a business. Similarly, in fields like healthcare or emergency services, the ability to remain calm and effective under extreme pressure can literally be a matter of life and death.
Moreover, the rise of the gig economy and remote work has blurred the lines between personal and professional life, often leading to increased pressure to be constantly available and productive. This trend has been further exacerbated by the recent global pandemic, which has forced many to juggle multiple responsibilities in challenging circumstances.
However, it’s important to note that while the ability to handle pressure is valuable, it shouldn’t come at the cost of long-term well-being. There’s a growing recognition of the importance of mental health and work-life balance. So, while we need to be able to perform under pressure, we also need to develop strategies for managing stress and maintaining our overall health and happiness.”
Person working under pressure at office desk
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
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To juggle multiple tasks – [dʒʌɡl ˈmʌltɪpl tɑːsks] – To handle several responsibilities at the same time.
Example: “As a working parent, I often have to juggle multiple tasks throughout the day.” -
To devise a strategic plan – [dɪˈvaɪz ə strəˈtiːdʒɪk plæn] – To create a well-thought-out course of action.
Example: “Before starting the project, we sat down to devise a strategic plan.” -
To cut out all distractions – [kʌt aʊt ɔːl dɪˈstrækʃnz] – To eliminate anything that diverts attention from the task at hand.
Example: “To meet the deadline, I had to cut out all distractions and focus solely on my work.” -
To foster a supportive work culture – [ˈfɒstər ə səˈpɔːtɪv wɜːk ˈkʌltʃər] – To encourage the development of a positive workplace environment.
Example: “Good managers strive to foster a supportive work culture where employees feel valued.” -
To remain calm and effective – [rɪˈmeɪn kɑːm ænd ɪˈfektɪv] – To stay composed and productive in challenging situations.
Example: “The key to success in emergency situations is to remain calm and effective under pressure.”
Examiner’s Advice
To excel in the IELTS Speaking test, particularly when discussing working under pressure:
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Practice articulating complex ideas: Try to explain your thoughts clearly and coherently, using a range of vocabulary and structures.
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Develop relevant examples: Prepare personal anecdotes that demonstrate your ability to handle pressure effectively.
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Show balanced thinking: Discuss both positive and negative aspects of pressure, demonstrating critical thinking skills.
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Use idiomatic expressions appropriately: Incorporate phrases like “juggle multiple tasks” or “cut out all distractions” naturally in your responses.
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Focus on fluency and pronunciation: Regular practice will help you speak more smoothly and clearly, especially when discussing potentially stressful topics.
Remember, the key to success is not just knowing what to say, but how to say it effectively and naturally.
IELTS Speaking Test Preparation Strategies
By following these guidelines and practicing regularly, you can significantly improve your performance in the IELTS Speaking test, particularly when discussing challenging topics like working under pressure. Good luck with your preparation!
