Speaking about important decisions made under time pressure is a common topic in IELTS examinations, similar to describe a decision you made that surprised others. Let’s explore how to effectively address this topic across all speaking parts.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview Questions
Common questions include:
- Do you usually make quick decisions?
- How do you feel about making important decisions?
- What kind of decisions do you make daily?
Sample Answer (Band 8-9)
“I tend to be quite analytical when making decisions, but I can also be decisive when necessary. In my experience, weighing the pros and cons quickly but thoroughly is essential, especially in time-sensitive situations.”
Part 2: Cue Card
Topic
Describe a time when you had to make an important decision quickly.
You should say:
- What the decision was
- Why you had to make it quickly
- What the result was
- And explain how you felt about making this decision
Just as with describe a time when you made a difficult decision, this topic requires careful consideration of your response structure.
Sample Answer (Band 8-9)
“I’d like to talk about a crucial decision I had to make regarding my career path. Last year, I received an unexpected job offer from a prestigious company that required me to relocate overseas. The catch was that I only had 24 hours to respond.
The situation was particularly challenging because I was already in a stable position at my current company. However, the new opportunity offered significant career advancement and the chance to work in an international environment.
I had to evaluate multiple factors rapidly – my career growth, family implications, and financial considerations. After intensive deliberation and discussions with my family, I decided to accept the challenge.
The outcome was overwhelmingly positive. The new role has enhanced my professional expertise and provided me with invaluable international exposure. Looking back, while the pressure was intense, I’m thoroughly satisfied with how I handled the situation.”
Part 3: Discussion Questions
Similar to situations where describe a situation where you had to work under pressure, these questions explore deeper aspects of decision-making.
Q: How can people improve their decision-making skills?
Sample Answer (Band 8-9)
“I believe people can enhance their decision-making abilities through several approaches. Firstly, developing analytical thinking by practicing problem-solving exercises helps create a systematic approach to decisions. Additionally, gaining diverse experiences and learning from past choices contributes to better judgment. It’s also crucial to maintain emotional intelligence when making decisions under pressure.”
Key Vocabulary and Phrases
- Weigh up options /weɪ ʌp ˈɒpʃənz/ – to carefully consider alternatives
- Critical thinking /ˈkrɪtɪkəl ˈθɪŋkɪŋ/ – analytical evaluation
- Under time constraints /ˈʌndə taɪm kənˈstreɪnts/ – with limited time
- Make an informed decision /meɪk ən ɪnˈfɔːmd dɪˈsɪʒən/ – decide based on good information
- Consider implications /kənˈsɪdər ˌɪmplɪˈkeɪʃənz/ – think about consequences
Examiner’s Tips
- Structure your response clearly with a beginning, middle, and end
- Use specific examples to support your points
- Demonstrate range in vocabulary and grammar
- Show natural fluency while maintaining accuracy
- Include relevant details while staying focused on the main topic
For those interested in improving concentration during such responses, consider reviewing describe a situation where you found it hard to concentrate.