Describe a time you solved a problem
Describe a time you solved a problem.
You should say:
- what the problem was
- when it happened
- how you solved it
And explain how you felt after solving it.
Practise this cue card with a timer Use it in a full mock
One-minute preparation plan
Structure it like a mini case study: problem, options, action, result.
| Cue card point | What to note (keywords only) |
|---|---|
| What the problem was | 1–2 specific details: a name, a place, a time, or an example |
| When it happened | 1–2 specific details: a name, a place, a time, or an example |
| How you solved it | 1–2 specific details: a name, a place, a time, or an example |
| And explain how you felt after solving it. | Your main reason plus how it affected you—save 30 seconds for this |
Sample answer
I'd like to talk about a problem I solved at work last year, when I was organising a training day for about eighty employees.
Two days before the event, the hotel where we'd booked the conference room called to say there'd been a flood in the building and they had to cancel. Everything had already been arranged: speakers, catering, travel for staff from other offices.
My first reaction was panic, but I made a list of what absolutely had to happen. I phoned every suitable venue within a reasonable distance and found that a local university had a lecture hall available, because students were on holiday. Then I contacted the caterer, who agreed to deliver to the new address for a small extra fee, and I sent clear updated instructions, with a map, to everyone attending.
The day went ahead as planned, and most people said they preferred the new venue. Afterwards I felt exhausted but proud. It taught me that breaking a big problem into small, practical steps makes even a crisis manageable, and my manager trusted me with bigger projects after that.
About 184 words, roughly two minutes at a natural pace. This is an original example written for SpeakingIELTS to show structure and vocabulary—use it for ideas, not as a script to memorise. Real test cards are worded differently, and examiners notice rehearsed answers.
Useful words and phrases
- my first reaction was panic
- absolutely had to happen
- within a reasonable distance
- went ahead as planned
- exhausted but proud
- makes even a crisis manageable
Try using three of these in your own answer. For more topic vocabulary, see the vocabulary helper.
Part 3 follow-up questions
After this cue card, the examiner moves to a Part 3 discussion on the same theme. Give an opinion, a reason and an example for each.
- What problems do young people commonly face?
- Is it better to solve problems alone or with others?
- Should schools teach problem-solving skills?
- How do people in your country usually deal with conflicts at work?
- Are some people naturally better at solving problems?
Practise these Part 3 questions
Check your own answer
Record yourself, then listen once and ask: did I cover every point, keep talking for close to two minutes, link ideas clearly, and explain my reasons at the end? The self-evaluation checklist covers all four speaking criteria.