Mastering IELTS Speaking: How to Ace the “Describe a Thing You Bought That You Are Happy About” Question

The IELTS Speaking test often includes questions about personal experiences and preferences. One such topic that frequently appears is describing a purchase that brought you joy. This article will guide you through answering this question effectively, helping you achieve a high band score in your IELTS Speaking exam.

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

In Part 1 of the IELTS Speaking test, the examiner may ask you some general questions about shopping and purchases. Here are some common questions you might encounter:

1. Do you enjoy shopping?
2. What was the last thing you bought for yourself?
3. How often do you go shopping?
4. Do you prefer shopping online or in physical stores?

Let’s look at a sample answer for the question “What was the last thing you bought for yourself?”:

Sample Answer (Band 7-8):

“The last thing I bought for myself was a new smartwatch. I had been eyeing it for a while, and I finally decided to treat myself last month. It’s been incredibly useful for tracking my fitness goals and managing my daily schedule. I’m quite pleased with the purchase as it’s made my life more organized and efficient.”

Describe a gift you gave that had special meaning is another common topic in IELTS Speaking. Understanding how to approach different types of questions will help you perform better in the exam.

Part 2: Long Turn (Cue Card)

In Part 2, you might receive a cue card with the following task:

Describe a thing you bought that you are happy about.

You should say:
- What it is
- When you bought it
- Why you bought it
- And explain why you are happy about buying it

Here are sample answers for different band scores:

Band 6-7 Sample Answer:

“I’d like to talk about a laptop I bought last year. I purchased it in August when my old computer started having problems. I needed a new one for my studies and work. I’m happy about this purchase because it’s much faster than my old laptop and has a better battery life. It helps me work more efficiently and I can use it for a long time without charging. Overall, it was a good investment for my needs.”

Band 8-9 Sample Answer:

“I’d like to tell you about a state-of-the-art espresso machine I recently acquired. I made the purchase about three months ago after deliberating for quite some time. The primary motivation behind this purchase was my growing interest in specialty coffee and desire to hone my barista skills at home.

I’m absolutely thrilled with this purchase for several reasons. Firstly, it has significantly elevated my morning routine. The ability to craft cafe-quality beverages in my own kitchen has been a game-changer. Moreover, it’s become a talking point when friends visit, often leading to engaging conversations about coffee culture and brewing techniques.

What’s particularly satisfying is how this machine has sparked a new hobby. I’ve found myself delving into the intricacies of coffee roasting, grinding, and extraction methods. It’s not just about the end product, but the entire process has become a meditative and enjoyable experience.

Lastly, I’ve noticed a considerable reduction in my expenses on coffee shop visits. While the initial investment was substantial, it’s proving to be cost-effective in the long run. All in all, this purchase has enriched my daily life in ways I hadn’t anticipated, making it a decision I’m incredibly pleased with.”

IELTS Speaking: Describing a happy purchase – espresso machine

Follow-up Questions:

1. How did you research this product before buying it?
2. Has this purchase changed any of your daily habits?

Sample Answers (Band 8-9):

1. “Before making the purchase, I conducted extensive research. I pored over numerous online reviews from both experts and users, compared specifications of different models, and even visited several stores to see the machines in action. I also consulted with some coffee enthusiast friends to get their insights. This thorough approach ensured I made an informed decision that aligned with my needs and expectations.”

2. “This purchase has undoubtedly transformed my daily routine. I now wake up earlier, eager to experiment with different coffee blends and brewing techniques. It’s also fostered a greater appreciation for the craft of coffee-making, leading me to be more mindful of the source and quality of the beans I use. Additionally, I’ve noticed I’m entertaining at home more frequently, as friends often drop by to enjoy a cup of my homemade espresso.”

Describe a product you bought online is another topic that might come up in your IELTS Speaking test. Being prepared for various subjects will help you feel more confident during the exam.

Part 3: Two-way Discussion

In Part 3, the examiner will ask more abstract questions related to the topic. Here are some possible questions and sample answers:

1. Do you think people are buying more things online now than in the past?

Sample Answer (Band 7-8):
“Yes, I believe there’s been a significant shift towards online shopping in recent years. This trend has been driven by several factors, such as the convenience of shopping from home, a wider variety of products available online, and often more competitive prices. The COVID-19 pandemic has also accelerated this shift, as many people turned to online shopping during lockdowns. However, I think physical stores still have a role to play, especially for items where people prefer to see and touch before buying.”

2. How do you think consumer behavior has changed in the last decade?

Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“Consumer behavior has undergone a radical transformation in the past decade. The most notable change is the shift towards digital platforms for both research and purchases. Consumers are now more informed than ever before, often meticulously comparing products and prices across multiple websites before making a decision.

There’s also been a growing emphasis on sustainability and ethical consumption. Many consumers now prioritize brands that demonstrate environmental responsibility and fair labor practices. This has led to the rise of eco-friendly and socially conscious brands.

Another significant change is the increased demand for personalization. Consumers now expect products and services tailored to their individual preferences, which has been made possible by advances in data analytics and AI.

Lastly, there’s been a notable shift towards experiential purchases. Many consumers, especially younger generations, are prioritizing experiences over material possessions, leading to growth in sectors like travel and entertainment.

These changes reflect broader societal shifts and technological advancements, and they’re likely to continue evolving in the coming years.”

Changes in consumer behavior: online shopping trend

Describe a recent purchase you made is a similar topic that could be useful to prepare for your IELTS Speaking test.

Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores

To achieve a high score in IELTS Speaking, it’s crucial to use a range of advanced vocabulary and complex sentence structures. Here are some key terms and phrases that can elevate your response:

1. Acquisition /ˌækwɪˈzɪʃən/ (noun): The act of buying or obtaining something.
   Example: “My recent acquisition of a high-end camera has rekindled my passion for photography.”

2. Deliberate /dɪˈlɪbəreɪt/ (verb): To think about or discuss something very carefully.
   Example: “I deliberated for weeks before making such a significant purchase.”

3. Elevate /ˈelɪveɪt/ (verb): To raise or lift something up, often used figuratively.
   Example: “This new software has really elevated my productivity at work.”

4. Cost-effective /ˌkɒst ɪˈfektɪv/ (adjective): Providing good value for the amount of money paid.
   Example: “Although expensive initially, the solar panels proved to be a cost-effective solution in the long run.”

5. Enrich /ɪnˈrɪtʃ/ (verb): To improve or enhance the quality or value of something.
   Example: “Learning to play the piano has enriched my life in ways I never expected.”

Examiner’s Advice

To excel in the IELTS Speaking test, particularly when describing a purchase you’re happy about, consider the following tips:

1. Structure your answer: Use the cue card prompts to organize your thoughts logically.
2. Provide specific details: Instead of general statements, offer concrete examples and personal experiences.
3. Use a range of vocabulary: Incorporate advanced words and phrases relevant to the topic.
4. Vary your sentence structures: Mix simple and complex sentences to demonstrate your language proficiency.
5. Show enthusiasm: Since you’re describing something you’re happy about, let your positive emotions come through in your tone and word choice.
6. Practice reflective thinking: Be prepared to explain why you’re happy about the purchase, not just describe the item itself.

Remember, the key to success in IELTS Speaking is not just about what you say, but how you say it. Confidence, fluency, and the ability to express your thoughts clearly are all crucial factors.

Describe a trip that didn’t go as planned is another topic you might encounter. Preparing for a variety of subjects will help you feel more confident and perform better in your IELTS Speaking test.

By following these guidelines and practicing regularly, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle the “Describe a thing you bought that you are happy about” question and similar topics in your IELTS Speaking test. Good luck with your preparation!