How to Describe a Time When You Were Very Focused on Achieving a Goal in IELTS Speaking

The IELTS Speaking test is designed to assess your English speaking abilities through a variety of questions and tasks. As an IELTS Speaking Examiner and seasoned instructor, I can tell you that clarity, coherence, and fluency are essential for scoring high. In this article, we will delve into how to effectively answer the question “Describe a time when you were very focused on achieving a goal.”

This type of question is commonly asked and will likely appear in Part 2: Long Turn of the IELTS Speaking test. Understanding the nuances of this question and being able to provide a detailed, structured response can significantly improve your score.

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

Common Part 1 Questions

1. Can you tell me about a hobby you enjoy?
2. Do you prefer to spend your free time alone or with friends?
3. What types of music do you like?

Sample Answer for a Selected Question:

Question: Do you prefer to spend your free time alone or with friends?

Answer: I generally prefer spending my free time with friends. Socializing with them not only helps me unwind but also provides a great opportunity to exchange ideas and stay updated with what’s happening in their lives. For instance, last weekend, we went hiking together, which was both enjoyable and a great way to maintain our fitness.

Part 2: Long Turn

Cue Card

Based on the keyword “Describe a time when you were very focused on achieving a goal,” here is a sample cue card:

Cue Card:
Describe a time when you were very focused on achieving a goal.

You should say:

• What the goal was
• Why this goal was important to you
• How you worked towards achieving this goal
• And explain how you felt when you achieved your goal

Sample Answer

Answer:

One time when I was very focused on achieving a goal was during my final year at university. My primary objective was to graduate with honors. This goal was incredibly important to me because it would not only make my family proud but also enhance my job prospects.

To achieve this, I devised a rigorous study schedule, dedicating specific hours of the day solely to studying and completing assignments. Additionally, I formed a study group with fellow classmates to discuss and tackle difficult topics, which was extremely beneficial.

Study Schedule for Achieving Goals

Every single action I took, from attending extra classes to consulting extensively with professors, was aligned with my goal. Staying organized and managing my time efficiently were crucial in this endeavor.

When I finally received my results and saw that I had graduated with honors, I was absolutely overjoyed. The sense of accomplishment that followed was immense, and it reinforced the belief that with dedication and hard work, any goal can be achieved.

Cue Card Follow-Up Questions:

1. Do you usually set goals for yourself?

   • Yes, I usually set both short-term and long-term goals for myself as they provide direction and a sense of purpose. For instance, one of my current goals is to improve my proficiency in a second language.

2. What factors do you consider when setting a goal?

   • I consider several factors such as the achievability, relevance, and the timeframe within which I aim to achieve the goal. I also take into account whether the goal aligns with my personal values and long-term aspirations.

Part 3: Two-Way Discussion

Examiner’s Questions and Sample Answers:

Question: Do you think it’s always necessary to set goals in life?

Answer: While setting goals is generally beneficial as it provides direction and motivation, it’s not always necessary. Some people thrive on spontaneity and prefer to seize opportunities as they come. However, for significant achievements like career milestones or personal development, having clear goals can be invaluable.

Question: How do short-term goals differ from long-term goals in importance?

Answer: Short-term goals are like stepping stones that offer immediate satisfaction and keep us motivated, while long-term goals often require sustained effort and have a more profound impact on our overall life trajectory. Both are important, but long-term goals usually shape our future more significantly.

Key Vocabulary and Structures for High Scores

Vocabulary

1. Focused /ˈfəʊkəst/: Paying particular attention to something.

   • Example: She remained focused on her studies despite the distractions.

2. Dedication /ˌdɛdɪˈkeɪʃən/: The quality of being committed to a task or purpose.

   • Example: His dedication to achieving his goals was commendable.

3. Achievability /əˌtʃiːvəˈbɪlɪti/: The fact of being able to be brought about or reached successfully.

   • Example: When setting goals, it’s essential to consider their achievability.

Useful Structures

1. When I finally received my results, I felt…

   • This structure helps convey your emotions and reactions, which is crucial for a high score in Fluency and Coherence.

2. To achieve this, I…

   • Using a sequence of actions shows clear, logical progression and organization in your response.

3. For instance, and Additionally,

   • These phrases help in providing examples and adding information, enriching the content of your answer.

Expert Tips for High Scores

1. Practice Regularly: Regular practice is key to improving your fluency and confidence. Make use of online resources and IELTS preparation materials.

2. Use Transition Words: Utilizing transition words like however, furthermore, and consequently helps in creating a cohesive and well-structured answer.

3. Self-Record: Record yourself speaking to self-evaluate your pronunciation, fluency, and coherence. It can be immensely helpful in identifying areas for improvement.

By following the guidelines and templates provided, you’ll be well-prepared to answer questions related to achieving goals, thereby increasing your chances of scoring high in the IELTS Speaking test.