Making decisions is an integral part of our lives, and this topic frequently appears in IELTS Speaking tests. Similar to describe a time when you had to give advice, this topic tests your ability to articulate personal experiences effectively.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview Questions
Common questions include:
- Are you good at making decisions?
- How do you usually make important decisions?
- Do you often change your mind after making decisions?
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“I would say I’m fairly analytical when it comes to decision-making. I typically weigh the pros and cons carefully and often consult with trusted friends or family members before making significant choices. However, once I’ve made up my mind, I tend to stick to my decisions rather than second-guessing myself.”
IELTS candidate explaining decision-making process during speaking test
Part 2: Cue Card
Describe a decision you made that changed your life
You should say:
- What the decision was
- When you made it
- Why you made it
- And explain how it changed your life
Just as describe a person who enjoys taking risks, this topic requires detailed personal reflection.
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“I’d like to talk about my life-altering decision to pursue my master’s degree abroad. I made this decision three years ago when I was working as a junior analyst at a local firm. The catalyst for this choice was my growing realization that I needed to expand my horizons both professionally and personally.
What particularly prompted this decision was an enlightening conversation with an international colleague who shared his experiences studying abroad. I thoroughly researched various universities and programs, carefully weighing the financial implications and career prospects.
This decision has profoundly impacted my life in numerous ways. It has broadened my perspective, exposed me to diverse cultures, and significantly enhanced my career prospects. I’ve developed invaluable skills like adaptability and cross-cultural communication, which have proved instrumental in my professional growth.”
International student describing their experience studying abroad
Follow-up Questions:
- Do you think it’s important to plan before making big decisions?
- How do young people make decisions differently from older people?
Part 3: Discussion Questions
Similar to how to stay healthy ielts essay, this section explores broader implications of decision-making.
Q: How do you think technology affects people’s decision-making today?
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“Technology has revolutionized the way we make decisions. While it provides unprecedented access to information and enables us to make more informed choices, it can also lead to analysis paralysis due to information overload. Social media and online reviews have fundamentally altered our decision-making processes, though we need to be mindful of their potential biases.”
Key Vocabulary and Expressions
- To weigh options/alternatives
- Life-altering/life-changing (adj)
- To take the plunge (idiom)
- To have second thoughts
- To bear/reap the consequences
- Watershed moment (n)
- Paradigm shift (n)
Like describe a family trip that you enjoyed, using these expressions naturally will enhance your speaking score.
Examiner’s Tips
- Structure your response clearly with an introduction, main points, and conclusion
- Use a mix of simple and complex sentences
- Include specific examples to support your points
- Show reflection and personal insight
- Maintain good eye contact and natural gestures
Remember, just as do you think computers help society ielts cuecard, your response should be well-structured and demonstrate critical thinking.
