Similar to describe a time when you felt a sense of accomplishment, this topic frequently appears in IELTS Speaking tests and requires candidates to demonstrate their ability to discuss personal experiences with challenges and achievements.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview Questions
Common questions examiners may ask:
- Do you enjoy challenging tasks? Why/why not?
- What kind of challenges do you face in your daily life?
- How do you usually deal with difficulties?
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“I absolutely thrive on challenges because they push me out of my comfort zone and help me grow. When facing difficulties, I typically break them down into manageable steps and tackle them systematically. This approach has proven incredibly effective in both my academic and professional life.”
IELTS Speaking examiner interviewing candidate about challenging experiences
Part 2: Cue Card
Describe a task you found challenging but rewarding
You should say:
- What the task was
- Why it was challenging
- How you completed it
- And explain why you found it rewarding
Just as describe a recent challenge you overcame, here’s a model answer that demonstrates excellent vocabulary and structure:
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“I’d like to talk about an incredibly demanding project I undertook last year – organizing a major international conference for young entrepreneurs. The task was particularly daunting because it involved coordinating with participants from 15 different countries and managing a team of 20 volunteers.
The main challenge lay in juggling multiple responsibilities simultaneously. I had to handle everything from securing sponsorships to arranging accommodation for international delegates. The language barriers and time zone differences made communication especially tricky.
To tackle this mammoth task, I developed a comprehensive strategy. First, I created a detailed timeline with clear milestones. Then, I delegated responsibilities based on team members’ strengths. We used project management software to track progress and held regular virtual meetings to ensure everyone was aligned.
The conference turned out to be an overwhelming success, attracting over 300 participants. What made it truly rewarding was seeing young entrepreneurs form valuable connections and launch collaborative projects. The positive feedback we received validated all our hard work, and the skills I gained through this experience have been invaluable for my professional growth.”
Candidate describing organizing international conference experience
Follow-up Questions:
For those interested in describe a situation where you found it hard to concentrate, examiners often ask these follow-up questions:
Q: How did you maintain motivation during difficult moments?
A: “I kept my focus on the end goal and regularly reminded myself of the potential impact this conference could have. Additionally, I celebrated small victories along the way, which helped maintain team morale.”
Part 3: Discussion Questions
Q: Why do some people avoid challenging tasks?
A: “People often shy away from challenges due to fear of failure or lack of confidence. However, as shown in describe an activity you did that was challenging, taking on difficult tasks is crucial for personal growth.”
Q: How can societies better prepare young people for life’s challenges?
A: “Educational institutions should incorporate problem-solving scenarios into their curricula and promote resilience-building activities. Additionally, mentorship programs can provide valuable guidance and support.”
Key Vocabulary and Expressions
- To thrive on challenges
- To tackle systematically
- To take initiative
- To overcome obstacles
- To demonstrate resilience
- To push boundaries
- To step out of one’s comfort zone
Essential vocabulary and expressions for describing challenging tasks
Examiner’s Tips
- Use specific examples to illustrate your points
- Demonstrate range of vocabulary through synonyms
- Maintain proper pace and clarity
- Show genuine enthusiasm when describing achievements
- Structure your response logically with clear transitions
Remember to practice these patterns regularly to achieve natural fluency in your responses.
