“Describe a difficult decision that you once made” is not a tough topic, but to be able to answer this topic correctly, you need a good vocabulary and the ability to develop natural ideas.
In this article, readingielts.com will share with you sample answer topic “Describe a difficult decision that you once made” to help you prepare for the IELTS Speaking Part 2.
Describe a difficult decision that you once made
Cue Card
You should say:
– what decision it was
– what difficulties you faced
– how you made the decision
– and explain why it was a difficult decision.
Sample answers
It was when I prepared the application form for the university entrance exam that I had to make an important but difficult decision. At that time, I was at a crossroads, where I had to decide which university to apply for. Actually, my interest was in economics, which was taught in two separate universities, one of which specialized in international trade while the other focused more on the national economy.
Fortunately, my sister, who graduated from an economics college, gave me some sound advice. Having weighed up the pros and cons of each school, she encouraged me to choose the university specializing in international trade. Finally, I applied for this school after thinking carefully about all the options.
At present, I feel so satisfied with the learning environment of this university that I am always thankful for my decision as well as my sister’s advice. Without her guidance, I probably wouldn’t be as content with my university life as I am.
Vocabulary
| Meaning | Example | |
| at a crossroads: [expression] | at an important point in someone’s life or development | His life was at a crossroads – whether to join the army or to continue studying at university. |
| sound advice: [adjective and noun combination] | sensible and reliable advice | My parents gave me sound advice about my choice of career. |
| weighed up the pros and cons: [expression] | considered carefully the advantages and disadvantages of something | Having weighed up the pros and cons, I decided that it would be more useful for me to learn English rather than French. |
| learning environment: [noun phrase] | the conditions that affect the behaviour and development of people who are learning a subject | The school had the latest technology, the buildings were modern and the teachers were very helpful – it was the perfect learning environment. |
Some IELTS Speaking part 2 topics you may like:
- (Update 2024) Describe a businessman that you admire – IELTS Speaking Part 2 Free
- (Update 2024) Describe a time when you saw two of your friends argued – IELTS Speaking Part 2
- (Update 2024) Describe a natural talent (sports, music, etc) you want to improve – IELTS Speaking Part 2 Free
- (Update 2024) Describe a town or city where you would like to live in the future – IELTS Speaking Part 2 Free
- (Update 2024) Describe a person who impressed you most when you were in primary school – IELTS Speaking Part 2
IELTS Speaking Part 3 : Follow up Questions
1. What’s the most important factor in decision-making?
Well undoubtedly, there are a number of potential factors affecting the process of decision-making. However, I guess the most significant would be that while making choices, people had better keep an objective view on the problem. Like for instance, when we are in two minds about something, taking that issue into consideration from as many aspects as possible might provide us with a well- rounded perspective. Hence, the risk of arriving at the wrong decision is likely to be reduced.
2. Should parents make decisions for their children?
From my point of view, that would be more of a hindrance than a help. Children should have the chance to make their own decisions and choose the best way to live their life. If parents take control of their kids, they may not only be put under pressure but they also don’t have an opportunity to learn from failure. Instead, parents had better provide support and keep an eye on their children in order to make sure that they are still on the right track.
3. What can people learn from wrong decision?
Well, as a matter of fact, nobody is perfect and it is inevitable that people may encounter hardships as a result of wrong decision-making before gaining success in life. Learning from past experience is an effective way to minimize the risk of repeating the same mistakes.
Therefore, a poor decision not only teaches us the lesson of failure but it also gives us the courage to pick ourselves up and keep moving forward in order to reach our long-term goals.
4. Do you like to make quick decisions?
To be honest, even though the ability to decide quickly is an essential life skill, I’m not so keen on making impulsive choices. Instead, I would rather weigh up the pros and cons of the issue before arriving at the conclusion, especially when it comes to a life decision. Making choices on the spur of the moment stands a chance of causing serious consequences which can have long-lasting impacts on ourselves and make us regret them for the rest our lives.
5. Do you think adults always make better decisions than children?
Well, there is no doubt that adults have more experience than children as they live longer but it is not the case that they are able to make right choices all the time. Undoubtedly, grown-ups have a tendency to complicate the matter and hence sometimes screw up the situation. On the other hand, children tend to be more carefree and have simpler mindsets, which allow them to approach the issue directly.
You can find out more information about IELTS Speaking Part 2 at the British Council website:
https://takeielts.britishcouncil.org/take-ielts/prepare/free-ielts-practice-tests/speaking/part-2
