IELTS Speaking examiners look for candidates’ ability to communicate effectively, coherence and fluency, lexical resource, grammatical range and accuracy, and pronunciation. One of the common topics involves describing a significant decision. This article provides comprehensive guidance on how to tackle such questions, with detailed examples and key vocabulary.

I. Introduction

The IELTS Speaking test comprises three parts: Introduction and Interview (Part 1), Long Turn (Part 2), and Two-way Discussion (Part 3). Candidates are often required to discuss various personal experiences. One frequently asked question is about making important decisions. Understanding how to structure your responses and employing useful vocabulary can significantly increase your chances of achieving a high score.

II. Main Content

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

In this part, examiners ask general questions about the candidate’s life. Common topics include family, work, and leisure activities.

Example Question and Suggested Answer:

Question: “Do you find it easy to make decisions?”
Answer:
“To be honest, it depends on the context. For everyday decisions like what to eat or what to wear, I find it relatively easy. However, when it comes to major decisions, such as career choices or financial investments, I tend to deliberate more thoroughly. Weighing the pros and cons and seeking advice from trusted individuals are common steps I take before reaching a conclusion.”

Part 2: Long Turn

Candidates are given a cue card with a topic and have one minute to prepare a two-minute talk.

Example Cue Card:

Describe a time when you had to make an important decision.
You should say:

• What the decision was
• Why you made the decision
• How long it took to make the decision
• And explain why it was important.

Example Answer:

“One of the most formative decisions I’ve ever made was choosing to study abroad for my tertiary education. Initially, I was torn between pursuing higher studies in my home country or venturing overseas. The decision stemmed from my desire to broaden my perspectives and immerse myself in a multicultural environment.

Weighing the pros and cons, I decided on an overseas university. This process took me about three months, including researching institutions, consulting with family and friends, and preparing application materials. This decision proved crucial as it not only provided me with top-notch education but also enhanced my career prospects and enriched my life experiences. It taught me independence, adaptability, and resilience, which have significantly shaped my personal and professional life.”

Part 3: Two-way Discussion

Here, examiners discuss the topic in a broader and more abstract context, encouraging deeper analysis.

Example Questions and Suggested Answers:

Question: “What factors do you think are most important when making a big decision?”
Answer:
“I believe several factors are crucial. First and foremost, gathering relevant information to understand the options is essential. Secondly, considering the long-term impacts rather than short-term gains is vital. It’s also important to take one’s values and priorities into account to ensure alignment with personal goals. Financial implications, potential risks, and outcomes must also be considered carefully.”

Question: “Do you think it’s better to make decisions alone or consult others?”
Answer:
“While making decisions independently can promote self-reliance, consulting others often provides diverse perspectives and reduces the risk of blind spots. Input from experienced individuals can highlight potential pitfalls and advantages that one might overlook. Thus, a balanced approach that incorporates both self-reflection and external advice is generally the most pragmatic.”

important_decision

III. Essential Vocabulary and Structures for High Scores

Key Vocabulary:

1. Formative decision /ˈfɔːrmətɪv/ (adj): Influential and essential in development.
2. Immerse /ɪˈmɜːrs/ (v): To deeply involve oneself in an activity.
3. Weigh the pros and cons (idiom): Consider the positive and negative aspects.
4. Independence, adaptability, resilience (n): Key personal qualities developed from experiences.
5. Blind spots (idiom): Areas of ignorance or inattention.

Example Sentences:

• “Opting to study abroad was a formative decision in my life.”
• “I wanted to immerse myself in a new culture to broaden my horizons.”
• “Before deciding, I always weigh the pros and cons to ensure I’m making a balanced choice.”
• “Facing challenges away from home helped me develop independence, adaptability, and resilience.”
• “Consulting others can help reveal potential blind spots in your decision-making.”

IV. Examiner’s Advice for High Scores

• Stay Calm and Coherent: Structure your answers logically; introduce, develop, and conclude each response clearly.
• Use Rich Vocabulary: Employ a range of words and phrases accurately. Avoid repetition and use idiomatic expressions where appropriate.
• Showcase Pronunciation and Grammar: Speak clearly and correctly, vary your sentence structures, and use complex sentences effectively.
• Practice Regularly: Record yourself speaking, review, and seek feedback. Practice with sample questions and attempt mock speaking tests.

By preparing diligently and enhancing your vocabulary and answering strategies, you can excel in the IELTS Speaking test, particularly on topics such as making important decisions. Prioritize clarity, coherence, and confidence in your responses.

For related practice topics, you might find these helpful:

• Describe a Time When You Did Something You Regret
• Describe a Time When You Had to Give Someone Advice