Describe a person who encouraged you to achieve a goal - IELTS Speaking Part 2, 3

In life, we often receive encouragement and support from those around us, giving us the confidence to overcome challenges. The topic “Describe a person who encouraged you to achieve a goal” in IELTS Speaking Part 2 and Part 3 not only requires you to convey personal experiences clearly but also assesses your storytelling skills, emotional expression, and language flexibility.

This article will guide you on how to build a compelling story for Part 2 and develop insightful arguments for Part 3, helping you express your ideas confidently and naturally.

IELTS Speaking Part 2 requires you to speak continuously for 1 to 2 minutes about a given topic on a cue card. You will have 1 minute to prepare and organize your ideas. These topics often revolve around personal experiences, such as people, events, or interests. In this section, it is important to start naturally, cover all the prompts provided, and conclude smoothly within the time limit.

Describe a person who encouraged and helped you achieve a goal

You should say:

• Who this person is

• What this person encouraged you to do

• How this person has helped you

• And explain why their encouragement helped you achieve the goal

To help you confidently tackle this topic, here is a detailed outline with sample ideas that you can adapt and expand.

Cue card: Describe a person who encouraged you to achieve a goal recently

Sample answer:

I would like to tell you how important my mother was in getting me accepted into a specialized high school.

This happened near the end of ninth grade, a time when I found myself at a crossroads, debating whether to take the entrance exam for a prestigious school far from home or choose a closer but less competitive option. I turned to my mother for advice, and she wholeheartedly encouraged me to follow the more ambitious path. She truly believed in my potential and assured me that with commitment and perseverance, I could succeed.

During my preparation, she supported me in every way. She helped create a thorough study plan, provided high-quality resources, and gave me practical tips on how to study effectively. Her constant support kept me motivated through long, exhausting study nights.

She also gave me emotional strength during the stressful wait for results. She reminded me that regardless of the outcome, I had already done my best. When I finally received the acceptance letter, we were both overwhelmed with joy.

Despite my doubts and anxiety, my mother’s strong belief in me gave me the courage to keep going. I am deeply grateful for her steady support, without which I would not have reached that milestone in my academic journey.

High-Scoring Vocabulary

• At a crossroads: at a critical decision-making point

• Deliberating: thinking carefully about something

• Wholeheartedly: with complete sincerity

• Dedication and perseverance: commitment and persistence

• Comprehensive study plan: detailed and complete study plan

• High-caliber: of very high quality

• Invaluable: extremely useful

• Source of emotional strength: someone who provides emotional support

• Nerve-racking: very stressful

• Unshakable belief: firm and unwavering belief

• Steadfast support: strong and consistent support

• Grappled with: struggled with

• Academic journey: educational path

Question: What will encourage children to learn more?

The most powerful factor is a child’s intrinsic passion. When children are truly interested in a subject, they are more likely to engage deeply and invest time in learning. Whether it's science, arts, or sports, children are naturally drawn to explore topics they love.

This natural curiosity can be nurtured by giving them access to the right resources and opportunities. When learning becomes enjoyable instead of a chore, it inspires lifelong curiosity and mental growth.

Vocabulary:

• Intrinsic passion

• Inclined to engage deeply

• Broaden their understanding

• Innate curiosity

• Delve deeper into

• Rewarding and fulfilling

• Tedious obligation

• Lifelong curiosity

• Intellectual growth

Question: Is money the only motivation for people to work hard?

I do not think financial gain is the only reason people work hard. While money is an important incentive, many are driven by passion, personal satisfaction, and a sense of purpose.

For instance, some people choose careers that align with their values and interests, which brings them fulfillment beyond income. Others are motivated by career advancement or recognition. Additionally, many are inspired by the desire to contribute to society or create meaningful change. So, money is just one part of a broader motivational framework.

Vocabulary:

• Monetary gain

• Financial remuneration

• Crucial incentive

• Non-material motivators

• Strive for excellence

• Personal gratification

• Upward mobility

• Professional recognition

• Altruistic motivation

• Societal welfare

• Motivational landscape

Question: Do you think children are more likely to achieve their goals if they are encouraged?

Absolutely. Encouragement plays a key role in helping children achieve their goals. Supportive words and actions give children the confidence and emotional stability they need to face difficulties.

Positive reinforcement from parents and teachers helps build a strong belief in their own abilities. It also promotes resilience and a willingness to keep going despite setbacks. A nurturing environment where they feel free to explore and make mistakes without fear is essential for their growth.

Vocabulary:

• Contend that

• Constitutes

• Catalyst

• Validation

• Emotional scaffolding

• Navigate adversity

• Positive reinforcement

• Self-efficacy

• Resilience

• Intellectual curiosity

• Experiential learning

• Nurturing environment

Common Vocabulary:

Useful Collocations:

• Striving for excellence

• Solve complex problems

• Reignite someone’s motivation

• Push myself beyond limits

• Goal-oriented behavior

• Ahead of the curve

• Formative stage of life

• Ignite curiosity and enthusiasm

Useful Idioms:

• At a crossroads

• Put my heart and soul into something

• Give it my best shot

• Have a say in

• Give someone a boost

• Stand by someone

• Spur someone on

• Give someone a pep talk

Boost Your IELTS Speaking with IDP

The topic “Describe a person who encouraged you to achieve a goal” is not just an exam question—it is also a chance to share authentic stories about those who have made a positive impact on your life. With well-prepared ideas, heartfelt language, and consistent practice, you can confidently and effectively tackle this topic.

IDP offers both IELTS General and Academic Speaking tests. You can choose the test type that suits your goal. If your first attempt doesn’t meet your expectations, you can take advantage of IELTS One Skill Retake to improve just one skill without redoing the entire test.

When you are ready, register for your IELTS test with IDP today.