How to Describe a Time When You Made a Big Decision in the IELTS Speaking Exam

The IELTS Speaking Test evaluates a candidate’s ability to communicate effectively in English in an academic setting. It consists of three parts and assesses several criteria, including fluency, coherence, lexical resource, grammatical range, and accuracy.

I. Introduction

When answering questions in the IELTS Speaking Test, it’s crucial to understand what the examiner is looking for. They aim to gauge your ability to speak clearly, coherently, and with a broad vocabulary. A frequent theme in the test is discussing significant events or decisions in your life, such as “Describe a time when you made a big decision.” This type of question tests your descriptive and narrative abilities.

II. Main Content

Common Questions in Part 1: Introduction and Interview

In Part 1, the examiner will ask you general questions about your life. Here are some common questions related to our theme:

1. What is the biggest decision you have ever made?
2. Can you describe a difficult choice you had to make recently?
3. How do you usually make important decisions?

Example Answer:

Q: Can you describe a difficult choice you had to make recently?

A: Recently, I had to decide whether to accept a promotion at work, which required relocating to a new city. It was challenging because, while it presented a great career advancement opportunity, it also meant leaving my family and friends behind. Ultimately, I weighed the pros and cons and chose to accept the offer, believing it would benefit my professional growth.

Part 2: Cue Card and Model Answer

In Part 2, you will be given a cue card with several bullet points to address.

Cue Card Example:
Describe a time when you made a big decision. You should say:

• What the decision was
• What the alternatives were
• Why you made the decision
• How you felt about the decision afterward

Model Answer:

One of the biggest decisions I have ever made was to pursue my master’s degree abroad. The alternatives were to either continue working in my home country or to study locally. Ultimately, I decided to study overseas because I believed it would provide me with better opportunities and a more diverse cultural experience. After much deliberation and discussion with my family and mentors, I chose a renowned university in the UK. Initially, I felt nervous and excited at the same time, but looking back, I strongly feel that it was the right decision. The experience has significantly broadened my perspectives and opened many doors for my career.

studying-abroad|international-student|A photo of a student studying abroad, with a backpack, sitting on a bench in front of a university building, smiling at the camera.

Part 3: Two-way Discussion

In Part 3, the examiner will ask questions related to the topic in Part 2 but at a more abstract level.

Examiner Questions:

• What are the factors that typically influence major decisions in people’s lives?
• Do you think people today are more indecisive than in the past?
• How important is it to consider the long-term impacts of a decision?

Suggested Answers:

Q: What are the factors that typically influence major decisions in people’s lives?

A: Major decisions are often influenced by a variety of factors, including personal values, career aspirations, financial stability, and advice from family and friends. Social influences and cultural norms also play a crucial role, as does the perceived risk and benefit associated with the decision.

Q: How important is it to consider the long-term impacts of a decision?

A: It is extremely important to consider the long-term impacts of a decision. Short-term benefits might be attractive, but understanding how a decision will affect your future can lead to more sustainable and beneficial outcomes. Thinking ahead helps avoid regrets and ensures that one’s life goals align with their current choices.

Essential Vocabulary and Structures

To excel, incorporate advanced vocabulary and various grammatical structures:

• Decision-making: contemplate, deliberate, weigh pros and cons
• Personal Growth: broaden perspectives, career advancement, diverse cultural experience
• Feelings: nervous, excited, overwhelmed, confident

Vocabulary List:

1. Contemplate /ˈkɒntəmpleɪt/ (v.): to think deeply about something
   • I had to contemplate the consequences of moving abroad.
2. Deliberate /dɪˈlɪbəreɪt/ (v.): to think about something very carefully
   • After deliberating for weeks, I finally made the decision to resign.
3. Broaden perspectives:
   • Living in different countries has really broadened my perspectives.
4. Pros and cons:
   • Weighing the pros and cons of the job offer took some time.

III. Tips for a High IELTS Speaking Score

• Practice regularly: Familiarize yourself with common topics and practice speaking about them.
• Use a range of vocabulary: Demonstrating a wide lexis will impress the examiner.
• Stay coherent: Organize your thoughts logically to ensure clarity.
• Be confident: Speak clearly and confidently, even if you need a moment to think.

In conclusion, understanding how to describe a significant decision effectively can greatly enhance your performance in the IELTS Speaking Test. Use the strategies and vocabulary provided to frame your answers cohesively and impressively.