Mastering the IELTS Speaking Test: How to Excel When Describing a Challenging Task

The IELTS Speaking test often includes questions about personal experiences, and one common topic is describing a difficult task you’ve completed. This theme has appeared frequently in past exams and is likely to remain relevant in future tests. Let’s explore how to tackle this topic effectively and boost your Speaking score.

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

In this section, the examiner may ask general questions related to tasks and challenges. Here’s a sample question with a suggested answer:

Examiner: Do you enjoy challenging tasks?

Candidate (Band 8-9 response): Absolutely. I find challenging tasks incredibly stimulating and rewarding. They push me out of my comfort zone and provide opportunities for personal growth. Overcoming obstacles gives me a sense of accomplishment that I rarely experience with easier tasks.

Part 2: Long Turn

Here’s a sample cue card on the topic:

Describe a time when you had to complete a difficult task
You should say:

• What the task was
• Why it was difficult
• How you completed it
• And explain how you felt after completing the task

Sample Answer (Band 8-9)

I’d like to talk about a time when I had to organize a charity event for my university. This task was particularly challenging because it required coordinating multiple aspects simultaneously.

The event was a large-scale fundraiser for a local children’s hospital, involving a charity run, an auction, and various entertainment activities. The difficulty lay in the sheer scope of the project and the tight deadline we were working against. We had just six weeks to put everything together, which seemed almost impossible at first.

To tackle this daunting task, I broke it down into smaller, manageable steps. First, I assembled a team of dedicated volunteers and delegated responsibilities based on each person’s strengths. We created a detailed timeline and held regular check-ins to ensure we were on track.

One of the biggest hurdles was securing sponsors and donations for the auction. This required persistent networking and persuasive communication skills. I reached out to local businesses and leveraged social media to spread the word about our cause.

As the event date approached, we faced several last-minute challenges, such as a vendor cancellation and unexpected weather concerns. However, our team’s flexibility and quick thinking allowed us to adapt swiftly and find alternative solutions.

Against all odds, the event was a resounding success. We exceeded our fundraising goal by 20% and received overwhelmingly positive feedback from attendees and the hospital staff.

After completing this task, I felt an immense sense of pride and accomplishment. The experience was emotionally and physically draining, but the positive impact we made on the children’s hospital was incredibly rewarding. This challenging task taught me valuable lessons about leadership, teamwork, and perseverance that I continue to apply in my personal and professional life.

University students organizing charity event

Follow-up Questions

Examiner: How do you typically approach difficult tasks?

Candidate (Band 8-9 response): When faced with a challenging task, I adopt a systematic approach. First, I analyze the problem thoroughly to understand its complexities. Then, I break it down into smaller, manageable components. This allows me to tackle each aspect methodically without feeling overwhelmed. I also believe in seeking input from others who may have relevant expertise or experience. Collaboration and brainstorming often lead to innovative solutions that I might not have considered on my own.

Examiner: Do you think people learn more from easy tasks or difficult ones?

Candidate (Band 8-9 response): In my opinion, difficult tasks offer far greater learning opportunities. While easy tasks may help reinforce existing skills, challenging tasks push us beyond our current capabilities. They force us to acquire new knowledge, develop problem-solving skills, and build resilience. The process of overcoming obstacles and finding creative solutions is where true growth occurs. Moreover, the sense of achievement from completing a difficult task can boost confidence and motivation, encouraging us to take on even greater challenges in the future.

Part 3: Two-way Discussion

Examiner: How has technology changed the way people approach difficult tasks?

Candidate (Band 8-9 response): Technology has revolutionized task management in numerous ways. Firstly, it has greatly enhanced our access to information and resources. With the internet at our fingertips, we can quickly research solutions, consult experts, and learn new skills necessary for tackling complex tasks. Additionally, project management software and collaboration tools have made it easier to break down large projects, delegate responsibilities, and track progress in real-time.

However, technology also presents new challenges. The constant connectivity can lead to information overload and decreased focus. Moreover, the ease of finding quick solutions online might discourage deeper problem-solving skills and critical thinking. It’s crucial to strike a balance between leveraging technology and maintaining our ability to think independently and creatively.

Examiner: Do you think employers should give their staff more difficult tasks to complete?

Candidate (Band 8-9 response): I believe that assigning challenging tasks to employees can be highly beneficial, both for the individual and the organization. Difficult tasks provide opportunities for professional growth, allowing employees to develop new skills and expand their capabilities. This can lead to increased job satisfaction and employee retention, as people feel valued and see a clear path for advancement.

However, it’s essential to strike the right balance. Tasks should be challenging yet achievable, pushing employees slightly beyond their comfort zone without overwhelming them. Employers should also provide adequate support and resources to ensure success. This might include mentoring, training programs, or access to specialized tools.

Additionally, recognizing and rewarding employees for successfully completing difficult tasks is crucial. This reinforces a culture of growth and encourages continued effort in tackling challenging projects.

Professional solving complex problem at work

Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores

1. Daunting task /ˈdɔːntɪŋ tɑːsk/ (adjective + noun): A task that seems difficult to deal with in anticipation; intimidating.
   Example: Organizing the charity event seemed like a daunting task at first.

2. To break down /breɪk daʊn/ (phrasal verb): To separate something into smaller parts or stages.
   Example: I broke down the project into manageable steps to make it less overwhelming.

3. Perseverance /ˌpɜːsɪˈvɪərəns/ (noun): Continued effort to do or achieve something despite difficulties, failure, or opposition.
   Example: Completing the task required a great deal of perseverance.

4. To overcome obstacles /ˌəʊvəˈkʌm ˈɒbstəkəlz/ (verb phrase): To succeed in dealing with or gaining control of difficult situations.
   Example: We had to overcome several obstacles to finish the project on time.

5. Resilience /rɪˈzɪliəns/ (noun): The capacity to recover quickly from difficulties; toughness.
   Example: Building resilience is crucial when facing challenging tasks.

Examiner’s Advice

To excel in the IELTS Speaking test, particularly when describing difficult tasks:

1. Practice storytelling: Develop the ability to narrate your experiences coherently and engagingly.
2. Expand your vocabulary: Learn and use a variety of descriptive words and idiomatic expressions related to challenges and problem-solving.
3. Work on fluency: Aim for smooth delivery without long pauses or hesitations.
4. Provide specific details: Use concrete examples to illustrate your points and make your answers more vivid and memorable.
5. Show reflection: Demonstrate your ability to analyze experiences and draw insights from them.
6. Stay relevant: Always keep your answers focused on the question asked, using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) when appropriate.

By incorporating these elements into your responses, you’ll be well-equipped to handle any question about challenging tasks and demonstrate your English proficiency effectively in the IELTS Speaking test.