• IELTS

Describe a Difficult Decision That You Once Made - IELTS Cue Card

11988 Reads
3 min Read

By:CANAM Group
Updated On:Nov 28,2023 01:08 PM IST

Boost your IELTS Speaking scores today! Go through this descriptive blog and learn all about answering the cue card section effectively. Worry no more because we have got you covered. Scoring high marks has never been easier!

• Format of "Describe a Difficult Decision that You Once Made" IELTS Cue Card
• Sample Answer 1 to 'Describe a Difficult Decision that You Once Made' IELTS Cue Card
• Sample Answer 2 to 'Describe a Difficult Decision That You Once Made' IELTS Cue Card

Describe a Difficult Decision you made.webp

The CUE card section is an integral component of the IELTS Speaking Test. It generally measures an individual's ability to speak on a particular topic at length, both fluently and coherently. In this task, a candidate must speak for a maximum of two minutes on a given topic, followed by a question round. Other than that, an extra minute is also provided to the individual to prepare for the said topic.

'Describe a Difficult Decision You Once Made' is one of the many CUE card topics in the IELTS Speaking test. Therefore, students must ensure that their answer includes an introduction, a main body and a suitable conclusion to showcase their English language proficiency. Please read this blog to know more about the questions and how to attempt them with some model answers.

Format of "Describe a Difficult Decision that You Once Made" IELTS Cue Card

Although there is no set format to answer a cue card topic in the IELTS Speaking section, students can include the following in their answer-

• When did you make it?

• What was it?

• Why was the decision difficult to make?

• Conclusion

Sample Answer 1 to 'Describe a Difficult Decision that You Once Made' IELTS Cue Card

Introduction

Making decisions is an inevitable part of life. Every day, we make several decisions - some trivial, some rather complex, and some life-changing.

When did you make it?

A few years ago, upon completing my college graduation, I was left with a tough decision to make. Today, I am going to share this challenging decision with you.

What was it?

Since I was a child, it has always been my dream to become a successful journalist. After completing my Bachelor's studies, I was offered my dream job in an upcoming company. Even though I was elated to hear this news, I had to make a hard decision. The job required me to relocate to a different city, meaning I had to leave my family. I was highly disheartened as I wasn't anticipating this at all.

Why was the decision difficult to make?

It was undoubtedly tricky as I had to choose between my family and fulfilling my dreams. As much as I disliked it, my family encouraged me to take this giant leap of faith, so I ultimately decided to move to a different city.

Conclusion

Looking back, I am proud that I made this decision and faced my fears, which was all possible due to my family's support and encouragement. Even though I remain busy at work, I visit my family once every month and stay connected with them as much as possible.

Sample Answer 2 to 'Describe a Difficult Decision That You Once Made' IELTS Cue Card

Introduction

Each day comes with a new beginning and a responsibility of making difficult decisions. Today, I will be sharing with you one such tough decision I had to make.

When did you make it?

Completing matriculation is a pivotal part of every student's life. However, it was challenging for me as I had to make a difficult decision in my life.

What was it?

It was regarding choosing the stream for further study. After my matriculation, I was confused about choosing between medicine and humanities.

Why was the decision difficult to make?

As a child, I always dreamt of becoming a dentist like my father, but on the other hand, I also wanted to pursue my passion for dancing and becoming a choreographer. Therefore, choosing between the two streams took a lot of work. Although perplexed, after consulting with my parents, I decided to take up the medical stream and continue dancing as a hobby.

Conclusion

I am glad that I overcame this confusion and made this tough decision. My parent’s guidance helped me a lot, and I am sincerely grateful to them.

Conclusion

‘Describe a Difficult Decision You Once Made’ is one of the many IELTS speaking cue card topics students may be asked in the IELTS Speaking test. This section judges the test-taker's ability to think promptly and communicate effectively in a short period. To prepare for the IELTS test and live your dream of studying abroad, connect with the expert language trainers of Canamprep.

FAQ

Describe the IELTS cue card section.

An essential part of the IELTS Speaking test is the cue card section, wherein applicants are given a random cue card containing a task or a topic. Each student is required to speak on that given topic for 1 to 2 minutes. An extra minute is provided before preparing.

How can one prepare for the cue card section?

Practice is key while preparing for the IELTS Speaking cue card section. One should practice speaking on various topics and use a timer to time themselves. One can also record themselves or speak in front of the mirror to work on their fluency and confidence.

Can an individual ask the examiner to repeat the cue card topic?

Yes, one can request the examiner to repeat the cue card topic. However, one must always pay close attention to the questions.

What format should one follow while answering the cue card?

There is no format that one must stick to while answering the cue card. However, it is appreciated if a person introduces the topic first, followed by a few main points, and ends with a conclusion.

Are the topics on the cue card repeated?

IELTS speaking cue cards are shuffled every four months, which means there is always a chance of repetition of a particular topic.

Get great articles direct to your inbox

The latest news, articles, and resources, sent straight to your inbox every month.

Popular Universities to Study Abroad

World class education waiting for you.

International School of Management - Stuttgart Campus

Baden-Wurttemberg, Germany • 4 Programmes

Tuition Fee : EUR 11400-11400 / year

Fanshawe College - London Downtown Campus

Ontario, Canada • 18 Programmes

Tuition Fee : CAD 14500-16500 / year

Kaplan Group - University of Victoria

British Columbia, Canada • 94 Programmes

Tuition Fee : CAD 29500-32500 / year

University of Galway

Connacht, Ireland • 146 Programmes

Tuition Fee : EUR 15000-27500 / year

Southern Institute of Technology - Invercargill Campus

Southland, New Zealand • 63 Programmes

Tuition Fee : NZD 16000-19000 / year

Devry University - Arlington Campus

Virginia, USA • 11 Programmes

Tuition Fee : USD 0-0 / year

University of Chester - University Centre Shrewsbury

England, UK • 4 Programmes

Tuition Fee : GBP 12950-12950 / year

Navitas Group - SAE University College - Perth Campus

Western Australia, Australia • 25 Programmes

Tuition Fee : AUD 27500-33000 / year

View All Universities

Latest at CANAM

Events, webinar, college / university visits and more.

Virtual Global Admission Fair

Study in Canada, UK, USA, Australia, New Zealand, Germany

11:00AM

Virtual Event

Canada Applications Fair

Study in Canada • Application Days

Multiple Location • 11:00AM

In-Person Event

University Visit - Saskatchewan Polytechnic

Study in Canada • University Visit

Chennai • 11:00AM

In-Person Event

Top countries destinations

Popular university and colleges for Studying abroad.

Bond University Queensland
Central Queensland University - Rockhampton, North Campus Queensland
Charles Sturt University - Wagga Wagga Campus New South Wales
Deakin University - Geelong Waurn Ponds Campus Victoria
Engineering Institute of Technology - Perth campus Western Australia
Griffith University - Nathan Campus Queensland
La Trobe University - Bendigo Campus Victoria
LCI Melbourne - Art & Design School Victoria

Ara Institute of Canterbury - City Campus Southland
Aspire 2 International - Auckland Campus Auckland
Auckland University of Technology - City Campus Auckland
Eastern Institute of Technology - Hawke Bay Campus Hawke's Bay
Manukau Institute of Technology -Manukau Campus Auckland
Massey University - Auckland Campus Auckland
Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology (NMIT) - Nelson Campus Southland
New Zealand Institute of Business & Technology (NZIBT) Auckland
The University of Waikato - Hamilton Campus Hamilton

Kent state university Ohio
San Jose State University California
Wright State University Ohio
Clark University Massachusetts
Rowan University New Jersey
Arkansas State University Arkansas
University of Wisconsin Milwaukee Wisconsin
Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Illinois
University of Findlay Ohio

Popular English Language Proficiency Exams

IELTS Online

- Live Classes

Blogs and Articles

Curated content to keep you updated on the latest education trends, news and more.

MS in Pharmacy in USA

Have you ever thought about what it takes to break into the world’s largest pharmaceutical market? Generating more than 46% of the global pharmaceut...

Updated on • Jul 17,2025 05:33 PM IST • USA

PTE Accepted Universities in Australia

In recent years, PTE has emerged as one of the alternatives to IELTS to study abroad. Many top study-abroad destinations like USA, UK and New Zealand ...

Updated on • Jul 17,2025 05:09 PM IST • PTE

Part-Time Jobs for International Students in Australia

One of the most asked questions by our Indian students is about the part-time jobs for international students in Australia. Indeed, a part-time job pl...

Updated on • Jul 17,2025 03:44 PM IST • Australia

STEM MBA in USA

STEM MBA may be an odd-sounding combination of courses, but it is fulfilling if pursued. The perfect blend of science and commerce adds to this progra...

Updated on • Jul 12,2025 04:02 PM IST • USA

Highest Paying Jobs in India

Indian parents expect their children to follow a set pattern of going to school, getting into a college and finally pursuing a job. But what are the h...

Updated on • Jul 11,2025 11:32 AM IST • Education

CPT vs OPT: Meaning, Difference, and How to Apply

The USA has always been a popular study destination among international students for its wide variety of courses and post-study work opportuniti...

Updated on • Jul 11,2025 10:40 AM IST • USA

Masters in Computer Science in UK: Top Colleges, Eligibility, Scholarships

The UK is an excellent choice to study a Masters in Computer Science. It is a home to world-renowned institutions offering a high standard of educatio...

Updated on • Jul 10,2025 11:29 AM IST • study in the UK

Highest Paying Jobs in the World

With super-advanced technologies like AI entering every field, the assumptions are high that the job roles that exist today won't exist after some yea...

Updated on • Jul 08,2025 01:40 PM IST • Study Abroad

MBA in Australia for Indian Students: Best Universities, Requirements, Scholarship, Courses, Jobs

Master of Business Administration (MBA) has always been a popular postgraduate degree for Indian students to pursue in order to gain advanced sk...

Updated on • Jul 08,2025 01:35 PM IST • Australia

Canada vs Australia: Which Country is Better for Indian Students in 2025?

Human life is filled with making choices every day. In 10th grade, we choose between arts and commerce, after 12th grade, the college, but those were ...

Updated on • Jul 07,2025 12:46 PM IST • Education

France vs Germany: Which Is Better for International Students?

In 2024, many vintage study destinations, including the Big 4, saw a drop in international enrolment, and this trend continues till this year. This le...

Updated on • Jun 30,2025 05:15 PM IST • Education

Top 10 Agricultural Universities in USA

Agriculture or farming is not merely the growing of crops or taking care of animals, but it’s the largest contributor (27%) to global employment. It...

Updated on • Jun 27,2025 05:25 PM IST • USA

Most In-Demand Future Careers in 2025

The world of work is changing faster than ever. Technology, climate change, aging populations, and space exploration are creating jobs we’ve never s...

Updated on • Jun 26,2025 04:41 PM IST • Education

How Much Do Nurses Make in the U.S.?

Do you also think, “How much is the salary of a nurse in the USA?”. If yes, then you are not alone. Being one of the noblest professions in the wo...

Updated on • Jun 23,2025 03:59 PM IST • USA

Study MBBS in the USA

There are innumerable professions, but a career in MBBS is respected and admired more than any other line of work. Many of us harbour a drea...

Updated on • Jun 21,2025 02:00 PM IST • USA

MBA in UK: Universities, Eligibility, Types, and Career Opportunities

Master of Business Administration from UK is a prestigious academic degree, especially when gained from the UK. Business schools in the UK are well kn...

Updated on • Jun 19,2025 04:09 PM IST • UK • study in the UK

Scholarships in France for Indian Students

Are you planning to study in France but are scared of the expensive tuition fees? But now there is no need to fear because you can take advantage of F...

Updated on • May 29,2025 05:22 PM IST • France

Intakes in Dubai for Indian Students

World-class universities, a multicultural environment and tax-free earnings are some of the benefits that attract Indian students to Dubai. However, i...

Updated on • May 27,2025 03:34 PM IST • Study in Dubai

France Student Visa 2025 – Requirements, Fees, Checklist & Application Process

Imagine this: Today is the day you will sit for your dream job interview. You practised all possible questions, wore formal attire, and collected all ...

Updated on • May 23,2025 03:36 PM IST • France

MBA in France for Indian Students in 2025

MBA is one of the most sought-after master’s programs worldwide. France is increasingly becoming popular as an overseas education destination. The r...

Updated on • May 22,2025 05:35 PM IST • France

Describe a Difficult Decision That You Once Made - IELTS Cue Card

Table of Contents

Format of "Describe a Difficult Decision that You Once Made" IELTS Cue Card

Sample Answer 1 to 'Describe a Difficult Decision that You Once Made' IELTS Cue Card

Introduction

When did you make it?

What was it?

Why was the decision difficult to make?

Conclusion

Sample Answer 2 to 'Describe a Difficult Decision That You Once Made' IELTS Cue Card

Introduction

When did you make it?

What was it?

Why was the decision difficult to make?

Conclusion

Conclusion

FAQ

Events, webinar, college / university visits and more.

Popular university and colleges for Studying abroad.

Bond University Queensland

Central Queensland University - Rockhampton, North Campus Queensland

Charles Sturt University - Wagga Wagga Campus New South Wales

Deakin University - Geelong Waurn Ponds Campus Victoria

Engineering Institute of Technology - Perth campus Western Australia

Griffith University - Nathan Campus Queensland

La Trobe University - Bendigo Campus Victoria

LCI Melbourne - Art & Design School Victoria

University Canada West British Columbia

University of Windsor Ontario

Dalhousie University Nova Scotia

Carleton University Ontario

Cape Breton University Nova Scotia

University of ottawa Ontario

University of saskatchewan Saskatchewan

University of regina Saskatchewan

University of guelph Ontario

Ara Institute of Canterbury - City Campus Southland

Aspire 2 International - Auckland Campus Auckland

Auckland University of Technology - City Campus Auckland

Eastern Institute of Technology - Hawke Bay Campus Hawke's Bay

Manukau Institute of Technology -Manukau Campus Auckland

Massey University - Auckland Campus Auckland

Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology (NMIT) - Nelson Campus Southland

New Zealand Institute of Business & Technology (NZIBT) Auckland

The University of Waikato - Hamilton Campus Hamilton

University of Warwick England

De Montfort University England

University of West London England

University of Strathclyde Scotland

Aston University England

University of Bath England

University of Liverpool England

Durham University England

Newcastle University England

Kent state university Ohio

San Jose State University California

Wright State University Ohio

Clark University Massachusetts

Rowan University New Jersey

Arkansas State University Arkansas

University of Wisconsin Milwaukee Wisconsin

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Illinois

University of Findlay Ohio

Popular English Language Proficiency Exams

IELTS Online