How to Answer ‘Describe a time when you had to study hard for something’ in the IELTS Speaking Test

The IELTS Speaking test is designed to assess your English language proficiency across a range of criteria, such as fluency, vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation. It usually consists of three parts: Introduction and Interview, Long Turn, and Two-way Discussion. As an IELTS Speaking Examiner, I often encounter questions about specific experiences, including “Describe a time when you had to study hard for something.” In this article, we’ll explore strategies to effectively tackle this question and how you can achieve a high score.

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

In Part 1, the examiner will ask general questions about yourself. These questions are assessed based on your ability to communicate clearly and in detail.

Common Questions in Part 1

1. What are the subjects you enjoyed the most at school?
2. How do you usually study for exams?
3. Do you prefer studying alone or with others?
4. Can you describe a time when you had to study very hard?

Sample Answer for Part 1

Examiner: Can you describe a time when you had to study very hard?
Candidate: Certainly! There was a time during my final exams in high school when I had to study incredibly hard. I particularly struggled with mathematics, and I knew that I needed a solid grade to secure my admission to my desired university. Therefore, I spent countless hours revising, practicing past papers, and even attending additional tutoring sessions. It was an intense period, but ultimately, it paid off as I managed to score highly.

Part 2: Long Turn

In Part 2, you will be given a cue card with a topic. You will have one minute to prepare and then speak for up to two minutes.

Cue Card Example

Describe a time when you had to study hard for something. You should say:

• What it was
• Why you needed to study hard
• How you prepared
• And explain how you felt after the hard work.

Sample Answer for Part 2

Well, the time that stands out most vividly was during my university entrance exams. I had always been a diligent student, but this was a different level of intensity altogether.

As for the reason, I needed to secure a scholarship for financial reasons. Failure was not an option. This immense pressure pushed me to my limits.

My preparation was rigorous: I established a strict study schedule, allocated time for each subject, and sought help from my teachers and peers. I also took practice tests to assess my understanding and identify areas for improvement.

After all the hard work, I felt a profound sense of accomplishment. Not only did I pass with flying colors, but I also earned the scholarship. The experience taught me valuable lessons in perseverance, discipline, and the rewards of hard work.

studying-hard|student studying hard for exams|A photo of a student studying hard for exams, surrounded by books and papers, with a focused expression on their face.

Follow-up Questions for Part 2

1. What strategies do you think are effective for studying hard?
2. Can you describe any challenges you encountered while studying hard?
3. How did you manage your stress during that period?

Suggested Answers for Follow-up Questions

Strategies for studying hard:

1. First and foremost, creating a clear, actionable study plan is crucial. It helps you stay organized and manage your time effectively.
2. Another strategy is to take regular breaks to avoid burnout. This keeps your mind fresh and productive.

Challenges encountered:

1. One significant challenge was staying motivated. The pressure sometimes felt overwhelming, and it was tough to stay focused.
2. I also encountered difficulties with certain topics, which required additional time and resources to understand.

Managing stress:

1. I managed my stress by incorporating physical exercise into my daily routine to clear my mind and stay healthy.
2. Additionally, I practiced mindfulness and meditation techniques, which helped me stay calm and composed during the high-pressure period.

Part 3: Two-way Discussion

In Part 3, the discussion becomes more abstract and analytical. The examiner will ask questions related to the Part 2 topic but on a broader scale.

Examiner Questions and Suggested Answers

Question: Do you think it’s important to study hard at school?

Answer: Absolutely, studying hard at school is essential. It not only builds a strong academic foundation but also instills a sense of discipline and perseverance that is necessary for future challenges. Hard work early on sets the stage for lifelong learning and success.

Question: How has studying hard changed over the years with the advent of technology?

Answer: Studying hard has evolved significantly with technology. Access to online resources, educational apps, and digital textbooks has made information more accessible. However, it also presents distractions, so managing one’s time and focusing on the task at hand remains crucial.

Question: Can hard work compensate for a lack of natural talent in academics?

Answer: Yes, to a large extent, hard work can compensate for a lack of natural talent. Consistent effort often leads to improvement and mastery over time. Many successful individuals attribute their achievements more to their hard work and determination than to innate ability.

Vocabulary and Structures for High Scores

Important Vocabulary and Phrases

• Diligent [ˈdɪlɪdʒənt] (adj.): showing care and effort.
• Rigorous [ˈrɪɡərəs] (adj.): extremely thorough and careful.
• Perseverance [ˌpərsɪˈvɪrəns] (n.): continued effort to do or achieve something despite difficulties.
• Mindfulness [ˈmaɪndflnəs] (n.): the quality of being aware and present.
• Scholarship [ˈskɑːlərʃɪp] (n.): a grant or payment made to support a student’s education.

Example Sentences

1. Being diligent in your studies can lead to remarkable academic achievements.
2. Her rigorous study schedule prepared her thoroughly for the exams.
3. Perseverance is key to overcoming academic challenges.
4. Mindfulness practices can significantly reduce stress during exam preparation.
5. Winning the scholarship was a testament to his hard work and dedication.

Examiner’s Tips for Scoring High in Speaking

1. Practice Regularly: Regular speaking practice is essential. Try to speak English every day, even if it’s just for a few minutes.
2. Expand Your Vocabulary: Learn new words and phrases and practice using them in sentences.
3. Record Yourself: Record your speaking and listen to it to identify areas for improvement.
4. Seek Feedback: If possible, get feedback from a teacher or a native speaker.
5. Stay Calm and Composed: During the test, take a deep breath and stay calm. A relaxed mind will help you perform better.

By mastering these techniques and practicing diligently, you can greatly improve your chances of achieving a high score in the IELTS Speaking test.