Describe a time you decided to wait for something
Describe a time you decided to wait for something
You should say:
- What you decided to wait for
- Why you made the decision
- How long you waited
- And explain what happened in the end
One minute to prepare, then speak for one to two minutes.
How to plan it in one minute
- Identify the object or event and explain your initial motivation for wanting it immediately.
- Use chronological transition words to clearly map out the duration of the waiting period.
- Reflect on the personal growth or tangible benefits gained by waiting to close the story.
Band 8 model answer
A couple of years ago, I decided to hold off on buying a high-end camera lens that I had been coveting for months. It was the Sony 70-200mm f/2.8, which is notoriously expensive, and I was tempted to dip into my savings to purchase it immediately. However, I made the conscious decision to wait because I realised that a new, updated version was rumoured to be hitting the market within six months. I felt that if I acted impulsively, I would be left with a depreciating piece of kit that would soon be considered obsolete. The waiting period was quite excruciating, if I’m honest. I spent those six months scrolling through photography forums, reading endless speculation and fighting the urge to visit the local camera shop every time I walked past it. I had to focus on my existing gear and push my creativity, which actually taught me a great deal about patience and making the most of what I already owned. Finally, the announcement arrived, and the new model was released. It was lighter, sharper, and featured a much faster autofocus system. Because I had waited, I was able to purchase the latest iteration as soon as it became available. Looking back, I am glad I exercised such restraint. Not only did I get the cutting-edge technology I wanted, but the experience also taught me the value of delayed gratification. It made the final purchase feel like a genuine reward for my discipline, and the lens has been an invaluable tool for my professional work ever since.
258 words, about two minutes at a natural pace. Details are invented; use your own.
Vocabulary from the answer
- coveting
- wanting something very much that you do not have
- depreciating
- becoming lower in value over a period of time
- obsolete
- no longer used because something newer exists instead
- excruciating
- extremely painful or difficult to experience or endure
- iteration
- a new version of a computer program or product
- restraint
- the quality of controlling your emotions or actions
- delayed gratification
- the act of resisting an impulse for later reward
- invaluable
- extremely useful or helpful in a practical way
Part 3 questions that follow this card
- What role does society play in shaping our attitudes towards this?
- Has the way people view this changed over the years?
- How do you think it will develop in the future?
- What are the benefits and drawbacks?
- Do you think the government should be involved in regulating this area?
Answer each in three to five sentences: position, reason, example, limit. See the Part 3 guide.
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Frequently asked questions
How should I start the cue card "Describe a time you decided to wait for something"?
Identify the object or event and explain your initial motivation for wanting it immediately.
How long should my answer be?
Speak for the full two minutes, about 220 to 280 words at a natural pace. The examiner will stop you at two minutes, which is a good sign, not a problem.
Can I use this model answer in the exam?
Use its structure and vocabulary, not its sentences. Examiners recognise memorised answers and mark fluency down; a shorter answer from your own memory scores higher than a recited one.
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