IELTS Cue Card Sample Question – Describe a Time When You Felt Relieved 

Sample Response 1:

“It was a few years ago that I traveled to visit my aunt in a city about which I knew very little. That was only the second time I’d been in the city. I first visited it almost 7 or 8 years ago, when things in that incredibly congested and large metropolis appeared a little different. The streets, for example, were widened, and many new businesses and buildings were constructed. Additionally, some of the businesses and shops relocated to new locations, which I was unaware of. 

None of this would be an issue for me, except my aunt had requested that I get her medication from a specific pharmacy. She was an asthmatic, and she used an inhaler from a foreign brand that was only available at a specific pharmacy in the city. I knew where the drugstore was, or at least I thought I did. However, when I arrived at that place, I discovered that the drugstore had relocated. I asked a few people there, but no one could tell me anything about it. Seeing no other options, I decided to enlist the assistance of the internet on my smartphone, despite my reservations. Thankfully, when I googled the pharmacy’s name on my phone, it provided me with its address and directions.

I sighed in relief when I discovered the pharmacy’s location. I immediately bought my aunt’s medication. It was such a relief. After all, I didn’t want my aunt to be inconvenienced as a result of my inability to locate a pharmacy and get her medication.” 

Follow-up Question 1: 

How has the internet improved navigation tools over the past few decades? 

Response: 

“I believe that the internet has greatly improved navigation tools over the last few decades. Thanks to the never-ending research, studies, and hard work of the people behind it all. These days, all you need is your smartphone, and you will be able to reach your destination. You can also track someone if you want to. That’s something no one would have thought was possible decades ago.”

Follow-up Question 2: 

Are there any other instances when you almost got lost? How did you handle the situation? 

Response: 

“Yes, there was a time when I was traveling alone, and I decided to explore the city. However, I lost track and got so excited going to different stores that I got lost. I found my way by asking directions from the people I saw on the streets. There was no Google Map at that time yet.”

Sample Response 2: 

“I’ve felt relieved a lot of times but let me share with you about a time when I felt the most relieved. It happened four years ago when I was a university student. The city where I live experiences severe traffic congestion occasionally, which is really inconvenient. As a result, we are frequently late for our appointments. 

I had a test at 8:30 a.m., and I thought it would start at 9:30 a.m. This occurred because I mistyped the exam timetable in my notepad. I studied hard and was expecting an A+ on the exam. I left my place at 8:15 a.m. on exam day because my commute to campus takes around 40 minutes. I should have arrived at least 30 minutes before the exam started, according to the schedule. But it was not the case! When I arrived at the test room around 10:15 a.m., I was surprised to find that the exam would be over in 15 minutes. I couldn’t think clearly about what I should do since I was concerned and anxious. 

At the time, I felt helpless and asked the teacher what I could do. He suggested that we meet after the exam. He asked me to explain why I was late for the exam. When I informed him what had happened, the coordinator scheduled an assessment for me in his office. He took ten minutes off the exam period as a penalty and ordered me to finish the exam and hand over the answer sheet to him. I was a little concerned about the situation. However, I was relieved that I was permitted to take the test. Because of my thorough preparation, I was able to answer all of the questions in a timely manner.”

Follow-up Question 1: 

What do you think could have happened had they not allowed you to take the test? 

Response: 

“Oh, I would have failed the subject and probably had to retake it. It’s a crucial exam, and that’s why I really studied hard for it. I was beyond grateful that I was given a chance to take it. I learned my lesson, and after that incident, I always double-check my schedule and reminders.” 

Follow-up Question 2: 

In situations that call for you to think quickly, do you make the right decisions? 

Response: 

“More often than not, I tend to ask my family and friends about what they think whenever I need to decide on something. Because of that, I usually make the right call. However, there are instances when I need to think quickly and can’t consult them, just like what happened on that exam. I could have taken the test when I arrived and answered it in 15 minutes. I’m thankful I did not because I might have failed it due to pressure.”