15 most REPEATED and Important IELTS Speaking Part 2 cue card topics for August 2025, with Band 9 sample answer
1. Describe a digital app that changed how you learn English
You should say:
what the app is
how you used it
what skills it improved
and explain why it made a difference
Sample Answer (230 words | 9 idioms):
Clicking on that English‑learning app was a game changer in my studies. The app, “LinguaMaster,” allowed me to hit the ground running, with audio lessons to brush up my vocabulary and grammar. Straight off the bat, I noticed my listening skills sharpened—since the dialogues were so realistic, I could pick up on native intonation and pronunciation. Using its built‑in recorder, I could talk the talk and walk the walk by comparing my voice to model speakers.
Within a few weeks, I was over the moon when I aced a practice listening test. I also hit the nail on the head with its writing prompts, as the automated feedback helped me fine‑tune sentence structure and coherence. The spaced‑repetition quizzes ensured I didn’t let the grass grow under my feet when reviewing vocabulary.
Moreover, its forum section allowed me to rub shoulders with learners worldwide, making study feel like a team effort. The streakstreak counter made me feel on top of the world for keeping learning momentum. It transformed dry grammar rules into child’s play and turned study time into a walk in the park.
Thanks to this app, my spoken fluency and confidence soared. It didn’t just help—it knocked it out of the park, and I wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone wanting to boost their English in an enjoyable way.
2. Describe a time you helped a stranger
You should say:
what happened
who the stranger was
how you helped
and what you learned
Sample Answer (230 words | 8 idioms):
One sunny afternoon I was walking back from work when I noticed an elderly man struggling to carry groceries across the road. Without a second thought, I gave him a hand and helped balance the bags. He looked like he was about to bite off more than he could chew, so I gently offered assistance.
Once we crossed, I realised his bundle included a baker’s dozen of items, and he had no idea how to navigate his smartphone to call a taxi. I decided to take the bull by the horns, tapped the app for him, and ordered a cab. While we waited, he shared stories of his youth. It felt like we were two peas in a pod, chatting away as time flew by.
When the taxi arrived, he insisted on paying me back, but I told him “no way” and said it was small potatoes compared to what I got from the experience. He insisted on giving me some homemade cookies, which I accepted with a smile. Seeing his relief and gratitude, I felt like I’d hit the jackpot—not with money, but with heartfelt connection.
That day taught me that such small gestures can make someone’s day. It reaffirmed the idea that kindness shouldn’t be held under lock and key—it should be shared from the heart.
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3. Describe a memorable journey you took
You should say:
where you went
how you travelled
what you saw
and why it’s unforgettable
Sample Answer (230 words | 8 idioms):
Last December, I took a road trip from Chennai to the Kodaikanal hills and it was nothing short of magical. I hit the road early, and as soon as the engine roared to life, I felt pumped up like never before. The twisty mountain roads offered breath‑taking views, and I pulled over to soak it all in—misty valleys, lush forests, and crisp air.
At one point, I reached a viewpoint and the sunrise was out of this world. It felt like the hills were dressed in gold. I snapped tons of photos, but nothing could capture the whole shebang. I savoured each moment as though I’d hit pay dirt with the clear skies and serene landscapes.
On the second day, I explored the botanical gardens and trekked through pine forests. The sound of rustling leaves was music—truly like music to my ears. I even bumped into a local artist selling paintings, and we chatted until sunset—it felt as if I had struck up a friendship in mere minutes.
The journey ended with a lakeside walk, with horses grazing nearby and the reflection of the hills shimmering in the water. I returned home feeling on cloud nine—refreshed, inspired, and ready to take on life’s next challenge. It was a journey that knocked my socks off, both visually and emotionally.
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4. Describe a book that influenced you
You should say:
what the book is
who recommended it
what it taught you
and explain why it influenced you
Sample Answer (230 words | 9 idioms):
The book that genuinely turned my world upside down was Atomic Habits by James Clear. A friend gave it to me, saying it was right up my alley as I was trying to build better daily routines. The author explains how small changes, when compounded, can move the needle significantly.
As soon as I dived in, I realised how I’d been letting old habits run ramshackle, and this book helped me put my life back on track. The concept of “habit stacking” made me see the light—for instance, attaching reading ten pages to my morning tea routine. Before long, I was reading daily and journaling with consistency; I felt like I was cracking the code to productivity.
The section on breaking bad habits resonated deeply—how to nip them in the bud before they take hold. I also applied the two-minute rule, which helped me clear the hurdle of starting any new task. Within a month, I had read multiple books and improved both my writing and focus.
It wasn’t just theory—it offered practical tools that hit the nail on the head. Thanks to this book, I managed to quit scrolling on my phone at night, replaced it with reading, and slept better. It was not just a read—it was a wake‑up call, and I look back and feel I nailed it with this life‑changing pick.
5. Describe a positive change in your community
You should say:
what the change was
how it came about
how people responded
and why it was good
Sample Answer (230 words | 8 idioms):
Last year, my neighbourhood launched a weekend community clean‑up drive, and it was a breath of fresh air—literally. The idea came out of the blue, when a few eco‑minded neighbours rallied via WhatsApp. The local council also chipped in with supplies.
On the first Sunday, we gathered at 8 AM and would dive into cleaning streets, planting saplings, and repainting benches. It felt like we were doing our bit for the environment. The turnout was nothing short of amazing; even kids joined in, lugging buckets of water and trash. The atmosphere was electric, and everyone was on the same page about beautifying the place.
The response was overwhelming: by month’s end, the area looked spotless, there was less litter, and traffic slowed because pedestrians were more visible. People also started to stop their scooters and chat—it turned into a social hub rather than just a road. The sense of pride was palpable.
What struck me is how this simple initiative hit home the importance of community action. It wasn’t rocket science—it was about people coming together and pulling their weight. Now, every month, the drive continues, and our neighbourhood feels like a breath of fresh air—cleaner, greener, and more united.
6. Describe an occasion when you received constructive feedback
You should say:
when it happened
who gave the feedback
what you learned
and explain how it affected you
Sample Answer (230 words | 8 idioms):
A couple of years ago, after I delivered a presentation at work, my senior mentor pulled me aside and gave some constructive feedback that changed everything. At first, I was taken aback, but I soon realised it was a game changer. She pointed out that although my content was solid, my tone came across as too formal and stiff.
Immediately, I decided to step up my game by adding personal anecdotes and adjusting my body language. A few days later, I rehearsed in front of a small group, and they said I seemed more approachable. When I delivered the final version, I was on cloud nine—the audience was nodding and engaged the whole time. My mentor smiled and said I had nailed it.
From that moment, I realised that feedback is not criticism—it’s a wake‑up call to improve. Whenever I faced any task after that, I would first ask, “What could be done better?” It felt like I was walking on air, knowing I had grown as a communicator.
That experience taught me that a nudge in the right direction can help me reflect and deliver better than ever. It not only boosted my confidence but also helped me raise the bar in other projects too. I’ll never forget the day when a few honest words helped me soar off the charts.
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7. Describe a festival or cultural event you enjoyed
You should say:
what the event was
where and when it happened
what you saw or did
and explain why it left an impression
Sample Answer (230 words | 8 idioms):
Last autumn, I attended the Diwali Hues Festival in my hometown, and the experience was nothing short of spectacular. The moment I walked in, I saw fireworks lighting up the sky like a thousand tiny stars. The music was foot-stomping, and people were dancing in bright costumes—it was a sight to behold.
Local artisans showcased rangoli art, puppetry, and traditional dance. I tried henna painting and sampled laddoos and jalebis that were to die for. I felt truly in my element, surrounded by colour and culture. Families chatted animatedly under fairy lights, creating an atmosphere that was charged with energy.
What set it apart was the sense of unity—it was a melting pot of generations, from grandparents telling stories to kids chasing sparklers. I struck up conversations with strangers, feeling as snug as a bug in a rug in the festive spirit.
By the end of the night, I was on cloud nine, exhilarated by the celebration and cultural bonding. That event wasn’t just fun—it was a wake-up call to my roots and how cultural events can bring people together in a meaningful way.
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8. Describe a challenge at work or school and how you overcame it
You should say:
what the challenge was
why it was difficult
how you tackled it
and what the outcome was
Sample Answer (230 words | 8 idioms):
During my final year at university, I faced my biggest challenge yet—organising a symposium with tight deadlines and limited resources. At first, I felt like I was between a rock and a hard place, juggling academics and coordination. But rather than throw in the towel, I decided to roll up my sleeves and get cracking.
I assembled a small team, delegated tasks smartly, and we held brainstorming sessions every evening. At one point, we nearly missed booking the venue—time was flying by, but we pulled it off thanks to sheer determination. I drafted emails, managed sponsors, and even burned the midnight oil to create promotional material.
On the day, the event went off without a hitch. Speakers praised the organisation, the audience turnout exceeded expectations, and colleagues said our effort was top-notch. I felt like I had hit the jackpot in terms of momentum and team synergy.
That experience taught me that even when circumstances look bleak, perseverance and strategic planning can help you turn the tide. It wasn’t just a logistical victory—it boosted my confidence and taught me the value of teamwork.
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9. Describe something you learned in childhood that helps you now
You should say:
what it was
how you learned it
how it helps you now
and why it’s valuable
Sample Answer (230 words | 8 idioms):
When I was a kid, my grandmother taught me the importance of saving—putting aside pocket money instead of spending it all. At the time, I thought she was just being old school, but it turned out to be a lifesaver later. I got into the habit of saving spare change in a box—thought it was small potatoes, but over time it grew into a noticeable amount.
Now, as an adult, that lesson helps me manage my finances responsibly. Whenever I get paid, I still pay myself first, saving before I spend. This has helped me build an emergency fund and invest wisely. Whenever I faced unexpected expenses, I didn’t have to rely on credit—it felt like having a safety net.
Interestingly, I still use a savings tracker app—so her advice proved to be spot on. It wasn’t rocket science—it was simple wisdom that’s now given me breathing space and structure. That childhood lesson shaped my mindset and continues to guide my financial decisions to this day.
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10. Describe a local shop or business you like
You should say:
what it sells
where it is
what makes it special
and why you like it
Sample Answer (230 words | 8 idioms):
Right near my apartment is a small café called Bean & Brew, and it’s an absolute gem. The moment you walk in, the aroma of freshly ground coffee hits you—it’s music to my ears. The owner knows me by name and always has a new pastry recommendation—it’s like being part of the family.
They roast beans in-house and serve single-origin brews that are out of this world. The décor is cosy, with board games stacked in a corner for patrons to while away time. Plus, they often host local music nights—it really takes the cake when it comes to community feel.
Whenever I go there to study or relax, I feel right at home. The wifi is strong, and the staff bring refills promptly—it’s service that’s second to none. Over the months, it’s become more than just a café—it’s a space I can recharge.
That little business has shown me the power of personal touch and consistency. It’s not flashy, but it’s top-notch in quality and character. I always recommend it to visitors—it’s my pride and joy in the neighbourhood.
✅ 11. Describe a person who speaks a foreign language well
Cue Card Question: Describe a person you know who speaks a foreign language fluently.
You should say:
Who this person is
What foreign language they speak
How they learned it
And explain how well they speak it
Sample Answer (230 words + idioms):
Although I’ve met many bilinguals, one person who truly blew me away is my close friend Aarav. He’s got a real knack for French, and to be honest, he speaks it like a native.
He picked it up during his college exchange program in Lyon. At first, he was thrown in at the deep end, struggling to string sentences together. But instead of throwing in the towel, he grabbed the bull by the horns. He started watching French shows, chatting with locals, and even thinking in French!
Now, he’s so fluent that even French tourists mistake him for one of their own. When I hear him speak, the words just roll off his tongue. He doesn’t just translate—he expresses.
What I admire most is that he didn’t learn it for show. He uses it to help students, translate documents, and sometimes even guide travelers. His accent is spot on, and he never puts a foot wrong with grammar.
Frankly, his dedication knocked my socks off. It’s safe to say that his language skills have opened doors left, right, and centre.
All in all, Aarav’s story proves that where there’s a will, there’s a way—and mastering a language is more about passion than perfection.
Idioms Used:
Blew me away
Got a knack for
Thrown in at the deep end
Throw in the towel
Grab the bull by the horns
Roll off the tongue
Put a foot wrong
Knocked my socks off
Left, right, and centre
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✅ 12. Describe a rule you don’t like but have to follow
Cue Card Question: Describe a rule (in school, work or home) that you don’t like but must follow.
You should say:
What the rule is
Where you need to follow it
Why you don’t like it
And explain how you feel about it
Sample Answer:
One rule that really gets under my skin is the “no mobile phone” policy in my workplace. From 9 to 6, phones must be on silent and kept away unless it’s an emergency.
Now, don’t get me wrong—I understand it keeps distractions at bay. But sometimes, it feels like overkill. What grinds my gears is that we can't even check a quick message or set a reminder without stepping out.
I remember once my mom wasn’t feeling well and tried to call me, but I missed it because of the policy. I was climbing the walls with worry until my lunch break.
Honestly, I think they’re throwing the baby out with the bathwater. A more balanced rule would do the trick. Maybe allow phones during breaks or for urgent matters.
That being said, rules are rules. I grin and bear it because my job matters. Still, I keep hoping they’ll ease up eventually.
This rule, though well-intentioned, sometimes feels like putting a lid on things that don’t need one.
Idioms Used:
Gets under my skin
Don’t get me wrong
Keeps distractions at bay
Grinds my gears
Climbing the walls
Throwing the baby out with the bathwater
Do the trick
Grin and bear it
Put a lid on
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✅ 13. Describe a product you bought that made you happy
Cue Card Question: Describe a product you bought that you were pleased with.
You should say:
What it was
Why you bought it
Why it made you happy
And explain if you would recommend it to others
Sample Answer:
One purchase that made me jump for joy was a smartwatch I bought last year. I was on the fence about it for months, but when I finally bit the bullet, it turned out to be a real game changer.
I got it mainly for health tracking—steps, sleep, heart rate—all at the flick of a wrist. What sealed the deal was its sleek design and water resistance.
It helped me stay on the straight and narrow. I began walking more, slept better, and even ditched my old alarm clock. It was like having a tiny coach on my wrist, cheering me on silently.
What’s more, it connected to my phone, and I could see calls, texts, even weather updates—all without pulling my phone out. Talk about hitting the jackpot!
I’ve recommended it to all my friends, and many of them are now in the same boat. It wasn’t just a gadget; it was an upgrade to my lifestyle.
Idioms Used:
Jump for joy
On the fence
Bit the bullet
Game changer
At the flick of a wrist
Sealed the deal
On the straight and narrow
Hitting the jackpot
In the same boat
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✅ 14. Describe a time when you received bad service
Cue Card Question: Describe a time when you were not happy with the service you received.
You should say:
Where it happened
What the service was
Why it was bad
And explain how you reacted
Sample Answer:
I once had a terrible experience at a restaurant that left a bad taste in my mouth—literally and figuratively!
I had gone to celebrate my friend’s birthday at a popular spot. We were over the moon to get a table quickly, but things soon went downhill. The waiter kept giving us the cold shoulder, forgot our order, and even brought the wrong dishes!
To top it off, the food was stone cold. When we raised our concerns, they brushed it off like water off a duck’s back.
I was fuming. I don’t usually raise a stink, but that day I put my foot down and asked to speak to the manager. After a heated conversation, they offered a 20% discount, but the evening was already spoiled.
That episode taught me that customer service can make or break an experience. We all expect to be treated fairly, and when that doesn’t happen, it leaves a sour note.
Idioms Used:
Left a bad taste in my mouth
Over the moon
Went downhill
Gave the cold shoulder
Stone cold
Water off a duck’s back
Raise a stink
Put my foot down
Left a sour note
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✅ 15. Describe a childhood friend you remember well
Cue Card Question: Describe a friend you had in childhood whom you still remember.
You should say:
Who the friend was
How you met
What things you did together
And explain why you remember this friend so well
Sample Answer:
One childhood buddy who still holds a special place in my heart is Rohan. We were thick as thieves during our school years, and almost inseparable.
We met in grade three when we were both caught drawing cartoons in our notebooks. Instead of punishing us, the teacher paired us for a group project—and the rest is history.
From flying paper planes to swapping lunchboxes, we did it all. We used to ride our bikes till the cows came home and dreamt of becoming astronauts together.
What sticks with me is his kindness. When I was going through a rough patch after losing my pet, he stood by me like a rock. His support meant the world to me.
Even though we lost touch after school, memories of those golden days come flooding back whenever I see kids playing outside. Some friendships, like fine wine, just get better with time.
Idioms Used:
Holds a special place in my heart
Thick as thieves
The rest is history
Till the cows come home
Going through a rough patch
Stood by me like a rock
Meant the world to me
Come flooding back
Like fine wine
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