For Part 2 of the IELTS Speaking exam, also known as the IELTS Cue Card, you’ll need to refine your communication and grammar skills. To help you prepare, we’ve provided 3 sample answers and 5 follow-up questions on the topic “Describe a time when you were cheated” to enhance your performance in IELTS Speaking Task 2.

IELTS Speaking Part 2 - Cue Card

You will have one minute to prepare for the topic “Describe a time when you were cheated.” The topic will include 3–5 guiding questions, and you must speak for another two minutes. In total, Part 2 will last approximately 3–4 minutes.

Describe a time when you were cheated

You should say:

• What was the occasion/What the situation was?

• When did this happen?

• Who was the person?

• What did he/she hide?

• Why do you think the person did not tell the whole truth?

Describe a time when you were cheated — Model Answers and Follow-up Questions

To help you prepare, here are three sample answers for the cue card "Describe a time when you were cheated," along with 5 follow-up questions for IELTS Speaking Part 3.

Model Answer 1

Introduction

Although I usually don’t trust people easily, there was one time when I was deceived because I placed my trust in someone close to me.

What was the occasion/What the situation was?

It was during a dance competition where students, including myself, had to perform. We had been practising for months, and everyone knew I was one of the best dancers and deserved the centre spot. However, unknown to me, jealousy had developed among my closest friends.

When did this happen?

On the day of the competition, everything seemed perfect. We rehearsed twice, had our costumes ready, and our makeup was flawless.

Who was the person?

The person who betrayed me was my best friend, someone I had known since childhood. Unfortunately, she ruined my day and the effort our group had put in.

What did she hide?

She hid my costume on purpose. While everyone else changed into their outfits, I couldn’t find mine. After searching, I discovered it torn and stained. While I was left in tears, she took my central position on stage.

Why do you think the person did not tell the whole truth?

I believe jealousy drove her actions. She wanted the spotlight and knew that if she admitted her intentions, others would oppose her. So, she carefully planned this betrayal.

Conclusion

Ultimately, our team lost because the group was shocked and couldn’t perform well. If she had simply spoken to me, I would have let her take my place, and at least we could have won together.

Model Answer 2

Introduction

What was the occasion/What the situation was?

Our class teacher was nominating students for the roles of head boy and head girl. My best friend and I were both shortlisted. Initially, she declined the opportunity, making me believe I was the only candidate.

When did this happen?

On the day of the final selection, I relaxed, thinking I had no competition. However, she secretly told the teacher that I was unwilling to take responsibility and spread false statements about me.

Who was the person?

Sadly, it was my best friend, someone I trusted deeply. When her name was announced instead of mine, I felt completely betrayed.

What did she hide?

She lied about not wanting the role, giving me the impression I had no rivals. Behind my back, she worked to secure the position for herself.

Why do you think the person did not tell the whole truth?

She feared that if she told me or the teacher the truth, I might outperform her and secure the role. To avoid any opposition, she concealed her true intentions.

Conclusion

Looking back, I wish I had seen her real motives and stayed proactive rather than letting my guard down.

Model Answer 3

Introduction

I was quite innocent and unaware when I ordered clothes online for the first time. Unfortunately, I fell victim to an online scam.

What was the occasion/What the situation was?

While browsing Instagram, I found a page called "Beauty World" showcasing trendy clothes. Impressed by its presentation, I ordered several outfits for upcoming festivals and made a full payment by card.

When did this happen?

The promised delivery time was five days, but even after two weeks, I had not received my order. Despite multiple follow-ups, the seller kept giving excuses, blaming delays on COVID and other issues.

Who was the person?

The scammer was supposedly based in Delhi. Though the page had many followers, it turned out to be fraudulent. I later discovered that several others had also been scammed.

What did he hide?

He pretended to be a genuine seller, used impressive marketing tactics, and kept reassuring customers while never delivering any products.

Why do you think the person did not tell the whole truth?

Once many victims exposed him, he deleted the page to avoid legal consequences and further backlash.

Conclusion

This experience taught me a valuable lesson — to research thoroughly before making online purchases and never trust sellers blindly.

IELTS Speaking Part 3 — Describe a time when you were cheated (Follow-up Questions)

The following are 5 follow-up questions you may encounter in Part 3. Aim to give thoughtful, concise answers lasting around 4–5 minutes in total.

1. Do you believe there are occasions when it's appropriate to make a White lie?

   Yes, sometimes white lies can be harmless and are used to avoid hurting someone’s feelings. For example, telling a friend they look nice in an outfit you don't particularly like can help maintain harmony.

   
   

2. Do you believe that honesty alone is the most essential trait in a person?

   While honesty is crucial, other traits like intelligence, discipline, kindness, and a good sense of humour are equally important in shaping a well-rounded personality.

   
   

3. Do you believe that honesty should be emphasised in early childhood?

   Absolutely. Children are highly impressionable and learn from observing adults. Teaching honesty early can help develop their character and guide them towards socially acceptable behaviour.

   
   

4. Do you believe that being entirely honest at all times can be disadvantageous?

   While honesty is generally the best policy, being too blunt can sometimes hurt others’ feelings or create unnecessary conflicts. In certain situations, full honesty may not be appropriate or safe.

   
   

5. Some believe that liars are individuals with excellent memories; what do you think?

   Liars do need good memories to keep track of their stories. However, those with poor memories are often exposed quickly because they forget the details of their lies.