This question frequently pops up in Part 1 of the IELTS Speaking test and often throws candidates off guard. It might seem casual, but it’s designed to assess your vocabulary, fluency, and ability to articulate personal reflections. Don’t worry, this article will equip you with the strategies and examples to answer this question confidently and effectively.
Understanding the Question’s Purpose
The examiner isn’t expecting a profound existential crisis in response to this question. Instead, they are listening for:
- Vocabulary related to personality traits, skills, and aspirations.
- Your ability to structure a coherent and extended response.
- Fluency and naturalness in your spoken English.
Choosing Your “One Thing”
Avoid generic responses like “I’d like to be more confident” or “I wish I were more organized.” While these are valid, they lack specificity. Instead, opt for something that:
- Is believable and relatable.
- Allows you to showcase a range of vocabulary.
- Opens up opportunities for further explanation.
Example:
Instead of saying, “I’d like to be more organized,” you could say:
“If I could change one thing about myself, I would work on my time management skills. I tend to be a bit scattered, especially when juggling multiple commitments.”
This response is more specific and sets the stage for you to elaborate on how you plan to improve your time management.
Structuring Your Response
A well-structured response will help you maintain fluency and demonstrate coherence. Here’s a simple framework:
- State the “one thing” directly.
- Briefly explain why you’ve chosen this aspect.
- Provide a concrete example to illustrate your point.
- Conclude with a positive note or future aspiration.
Example:
“If I could change one thing about myself, it would be my impatience. I sometimes rush into tasks without thinking them through properly. For instance, when writing essays, I tend to jump into writing before fully planning my arguments. In the future, I want to cultivate more patience and adopt a more methodical approach to problem-solving.”
How to improve time management skills
Dos and Don’ts:
Do:
- Be honest and genuine.
- Use a variety of vocabulary.
- Speak clearly and at a natural pace.
- Maintain a positive and enthusiastic tone.
Don’t:
- Memorize answers.
- Use overly complex language if you’re not confident.
- Dwell on negatives or self-criticism.
- Rush your answer.
Practice Makes Perfect
The key to acing the IELTS Speaking test is practice. Record yourself answering this question and analyze your performance. Focus on your fluency, vocabulary, and coherence. Remember, confidence is key!