“Describe a difficult thing you did and succeeded” is a popular IELTS Speaking Part 2 question included in the exam. Refer to the sample paper to get a high score on this topic!
Describe a difficult thing you did and succeeded.
You should say:
- What it was?
- How did you complete it?
- Why it was difficult?
And how you felt about doing it.
Sample band 8.0+:
I would like to talk about a difficult thing I succeeded in doing, which was completing a challenging project at work. I worked in the IT industry and was tasked with developing a new software application for a client within a tight deadline.
The project was difficult because it involved a complex set of requirements and technical specifications that needed to be implemented in a short timeframe. Additionally, the team faced several roadblocks, such as software compatibility issues and unexpected changes in client requirements, which caused delays and increased the project’s complexity.
To tackle these challenges, I took a leadership role in the project and worked closely with my team to devise a plan and allocate resources effectively. We developed a project roadmap that divided the work into manageable segments and assigned responsibilities to team members based on their expertise. We also established clear communication channels with the client and provided regular updates on the project’s progress.
Although the project was challenging, we ultimately succeeded in delivering the software application on time and within the client’s specifications. This accomplishment not only earned us the client’s trust and satisfaction but also boosted our team’s confidence and morale.
In conclusion, completing the challenging software development project was a significant achievement for my team and me. It required us to stay focused, be resilient, and work together effectively to overcome obstacles and achieve our goals. This experience taught me the importance of effective planning, communication, and leadership in project management, and has prepared me to take on even more challenging projects in the future.
Follow Question Part 3
- What kinds of jobs require people to be confident?
“Confidence is an important trait in various jobs, especially those that involve interactions with people, such as sales, public speaking, and leadership positions. Jobs that require making critical decisions under pressure, such as emergency responders, doctors, and pilots, also require confidence. Additionally, jobs that involve creative thinking and problem-solving, such as research and development, entrepreneurship, and the arts, may require confidence to take risks and pursue unconventional approaches.” - On what occasions should children be encouraged?
“Children should be encouraged on a regular basis, especially when they achieve something significant or make progress toward their goals. Encouragement can also be given when they display positive behavior, such as showing kindness, being helpful, or taking responsibility for their actions. Additionally, children should be encouraged when they face challenges or setbacks, as this can help them build resilience and a growth mindset.” - What challenges do young people face today?
“Young people face a range of challenges in today’s world. One of the biggest challenges is the rapidly changing job market, which can create uncertainty and make it difficult to find stable employment. Additionally, social media and technology can lead to feelings of isolation, pressure to conform, and cyberbullying. Furthermore, issues such as climate change, political instability, and social justice can also be sources of anxiety and concern for young people.” - What can we do to overcome the thought that everything was difficult?
“To overcome the thought that everything is difficult, it can be helpful to reframe our mindset and focus on the positives. One effective strategy is to break down tasks into smaller, more manageable steps, and celebrate each small accomplishment along the way. It can also be helpful to seek support from friends, family, or colleagues, and to learn from past successes to build confidence.”
