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Describe a time when you made a mistake

📋 Cue Card

Describe a time when you made a mistake.
You should say:

  • What the mistake was
  • When it happened
  • How you made the mistake
  • And explain what you learned from it

📑 Band 8+ Sample Answer

One mistake that I still remember clearly happened about two years ago when I was in my final year at university. I was working on an important group project and was responsible for putting together the final presentation.

I underestimated how long it would take to finish the slides and proofread everything. Instead of starting early, I procrastinated and left most of the work until the night before. As a result, I stayed up all night trying to complete it, and the next morning, I was so exhausted that I made a lot of small errors during the presentation.

Although our team passed the project, I felt guilty because my lack of preparation affected my teammates as well. From this experience, I learned the importance of time management and planning ahead. Now, I always try to start tasks early and break big projects into smaller steps to avoid last-minute stress.


💡 Useful Vocabulary (with meanings & examples)

Word/Phrase MeaningExample
UnderestimateTo think something is smaller or easier than it really isI underestimated how much time I needed to study for the exam.
ProcrastinateTo delay doing something that needs to be doneI tend to procrastinate when I feel overwhelmed by big tasks.
ProofreadTo read and correct mistakes in written workIt’s essential to proofread your essay before submitting it.
Time managementThe ability to use time effectively and productivelyGood time management is crucial for balancing study and work.
Last-minuteDone at the latest possible time before something happensHe always does his homework at the last minute.

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