IELTS Speaking Part 2: Career Decisions
Work & careers
Answers and an explanation for each question appear once you add this activity to your own library.
Candidate Task Card
Describe a decision you made that changed the direction of your work or studies.
You should say:
- what the decision was
- when you made it
- what influenced you
- and explain how it changed your life.
You have 1 minute to prepare. Speak for 1-2 minutes.
Preparation hints:
- Jot down keywords for each bullet point instead of writing full sentences.
- Use narrative tenses (Past Simple, Past Continuous, Past Perfect) to sequence your story smoothly.
- Plan a reflective concluding comment to demonstrate evaluative depth.

A decision about work or study.
APIE · AI doodleSpeaking Practice: 90–120 Seconds
Record your response to the cue card. Aim to speak fluently for 1.5 to 2 minutes, addressing all four prompts systematically.
[Bài tập luyện nói]
Model answer and useful phrases
Well, I’d like to talk about a major decision I made in October 2021. At the time, I was working as a junior data analyst at a logistics firm in Leeds. To be honest, I felt quite uninspired in that role because the daily tasks were rather repetitive, and I didn't see much room for advancement.
So, after months of reflection, I started looking into software engineering and discovered an intensive twelve-week Front-End Web Development course. For several weeks, I carefully weighed up my options because leaving a stable monthly salary felt quite risky. What really tipped the balance was a frank, encouraging conversation with my manager, Sarah. She noticed my growing frustration and advised me to pursue what genuinely excited me. That support gave me the courage to take the plunge and hand in my resignation.
The course was demanding, but it offered invaluable hands-on experience building practical web applications. That shift marked a significant turning point in my career. It boosted my confidence immensely and prepared me well for the tech industry.
Looking back, I realise that stepping out of my comfort zone was essential for both personal and professional growth. I suppose it was a daunting move then, but it completely changed my life.
| Phrase | Meaning (English) | Example in another situation |
|---|---|---|
| weighed up my options | Considered the advantages and disadvantages before deciding | Before selecting a university, I weighed up my options for several months. |
| What really tipped the balance was | The crucial factor that forced a final decision to be made | I was hesitant about relocating, but what really tipped the balance was the higher salary. |
| take the plunge | To decide to do something major or risky after hesitation | After years of freelancing, she finally took the plunge and founded her own studio. |
| hands-on experience | Practical knowledge gained by doing something directly | The internship offered extensive hands-on experience with commercial contracts. |
| a significant turning point | A decisive moment marking a major, lasting change | Passing the board examination was a significant turning point in his medical career. |
| boosted my confidence | Strengthened one's self-belief and positive mindset | Delivering the opening keynote boosted my confidence in public speaking. |
| Looking back, I realise | Reflecting retrospectively with greater maturity or perspective | Looking back, I realise that failing that interview was actually a blessing. |
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