Describe a thing you cannot live without IELTS Cue Card

In the IELTS Speaking test, candidates face random topics in the Cue Card section, requiring quick thinking. They get 1 minute to prepare and then speak for 2-3 minutes on the IELTS speaking cue card topic assigned to them. This part of the test evaluates their confidence and speaking skills. One such topic, “Describe a Thing You Cannot Live Without,” assesses their personal feelings about something vital in their daily life. This question can vary widely based on what each individual deems essential.

Describe a thing you cannot live without

1.  

Check Out our YouTube Channel to Practice Full-Length IELTS Listening Tests Daily

You should say:

What it is?
How often do you use it?
Why is it important to you?

Model answer 1

Introduction 
One thing I absolutely cannot live without is my smartphone. In today's digital age, it has become an essential part of my daily life, serving multiple purposes that are crucial to my personal and professional routines.

What is it?
My smartphone is a multifunctional device that I use for communication, information access, and organization. It is a sleek, modern gadget with a wide range of applications that cater to almost every aspect of my life.

How often do you use it?
I use my smartphone every day, almost constantly. From the moment I wake up until I go to bed, it remains by my side. I rely on it for staying in touch with my friends and family, accessing news and information, and managing my daily tasks. It's fair to say that it is in use throughout the day for various purposes.

Why is it important to you?
My smartphone is incredibly important to me for several reasons. Primarily, it keeps me connected with my loved ones. I use it to send and receive text messages, make phone calls, and engage on social media platforms like Facebook and WhatsApp. For work, it helps me stay on top of emails and participate in video conferences.

Moreover, my smartphone is my primary source for information. Whether I need to browse the internet, read the latest news, or search for specific information, it's like having a world of knowledge at my fingertips. This instant access to information is incredibly convenient and invaluable.

Additionally, it serves as a personal organiser. I depend on it for setting reminders, organizing my calendar, and jotting down notes. This helps me stay organized and ensures that I don't forget important appointments or tasks.

Conclusion 
In summary, my smartphone is something I cannot live without because it keeps me connected with loved ones, offers instant access to information, and helps me stay organized every day. In today's society, smartphones have become essential for communication and access to information, much like cars for transportation and the internet for various daily activities. These things have become essential components of modern life.

Model answer 2

Introduction

An indispensable thing in my life is my laptop. I use it extensively every day, and its importance to me cannot be overstated.

What it is?

My laptop is a multifunctional device that I depend on for both personal and professional tasks. As a freelance graphic designer, it serves as my primary tool for creating designs, editing images, and communicating with clients. Besides work, it also plays a significant role in my personal life by providing entertainment and keeping me connected.

How often do you use it?

I use my laptop daily for a considerable amount of time. On average, I spend about 8 to 10 hours each day working on my laptop, as it is essential for my job. Beyond work, I use it during my leisure time to stream movies and TV shows, play games, and listen to music.

Why is it important to you?

My laptop is vital to me for multiple reasons. Professionally, it is indispensable for my work as a graphic designer. I rely on it to create and edit designs, which are core aspects of my job. It also enables smooth communication with my clients, allowing me to send and receive emails and participate in video calls.

Personally, my laptop is my primary source of entertainment and organization. I use it to stream movies and TV shows, play games, and listen to music. It is also where I store and organize my photos, videos, and important documents. Additionally, I use it for research, reading e-books, and keeping up with current events.

The significance of my laptop extends beyond its practical uses. It represents freedom and connectivity, allowing me to stay in touch with friends and family around the world through video calls and messaging apps. It helps me stay informed about global events, access educational resources, and engage with online communities. In many ways, it has become an extension of myself, providing a gateway to the digital world.

Conclusion

In conclusion, my laptop is something I cannot live without because it is vital for my work, offers endless entertainment and connectivity, and serves as a versatile tool for both personal and professional aspects of my life. It is integral to my daily routine and has become an indispensable part of my existence.

Model answer 3

Introduction 
This is a fascinating question, and I’m excited to share my answer. The one thing I cannot live without is my books. As a passionate bibliophile, I read books every day and always carry one with me wherever I go.

What it is?
As mentioned, books are the one thing I cannot live without. My journey into the world of reading began when I was 14 years old. My brother gave me a book titled "Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone" by J.K. Rowling, and I was instantly hooked. Since then, reading has become a vital part of my life. Books allow me to express myself and provide endless opportunities for learning and growth. My friends and family sometimes worry that I might lose touch with the real world, but books are my constant companions.

How often do you use it?
I use my books every single day. In the morning, I start my day by reading a thoughtful book to set a positive tone. During my commute, whether on the bus or the metro, you will always find me engrossed in a book. At night, before going to bed, I make it a point to read at least a couple of pages to wind down my day. So, to answer your question, I read very often—practically every chance I get.

Why is it important to you?
Books are incredibly important to me for several reasons. They are my primary source of knowledge and inspiration. Each book I read offers a new perspective and helps me grow as an individual. Reading also provides a sense of comfort and solace. It's my way of disconnecting from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and diving into different worlds and experiences. Moreover, having a book with me at all times ensures that I am never bored, no matter where I am.

Conclusion 
In conclusion, I cannot imagine my life without books. They have shaped me into who I am today, offering new insights and perspectives with every read. While my love for books sometimes means I spend less time with my family and friends, the benefits far outweigh this downside. Reading keeps me away from excessive phone usage, making me more focused and mindful. Though I plan to balance my time better, books will always be the one thing I cannot live without.

IELTS speaking part 3 - Describe a thing you cannot live without follow-up questions

Follow-up questions for “Describe a thing you cannot live without” are given below. In the actual exam, The IELTS speaking part 3 - follow up question session is conducted for 4-5 minutes  where you have to discuss questions about a general topic or question on your cue card.

1. Can people reduce their dependence on technology nowadays?
Yes, by limiting screen time, doing offline activities, and spending more time with others face-to-face, they can. It's tough to completely avoid tech, but finding a better balance is possible with effort and commitment. Embracing hobbies and interests that don't involve screens can also help in reducing dependence on technology.

2. What are the things in today's society that people can't live without?
In today's world, smartphones are indispensable for communication and accessing information. Cars are also vital for transportation, while the internet has become a necessity for many. These items are now integral aspects of modern living.

3. Are there downsides to being heavily reliant on specific things?
 Yes, relying too much on certain things can have negative consequences. For instance, excessive smartphone and social media use can lead to addiction and strain personal relationships. Additionally, dependency on technology for essential services may make individuals vulnerable to disruptions or cyberattacks, highlighting the importance of balancing reliance on technology with awareness of its drawbacks.

4. How does education help individuals adjust to technological changes and dependencies?
Education plays a vital role by integrating digital literacy into curriculums, teaching responsible technology use. Continuous training in workplaces keeps professionals updated with evolving technologies. Overall, education empowers individuals to embrace technological advancements while managing potential challenges.

5. Do you believe today's generation prioritises their desires over their necessities?

Yes, the current generation often prioritises their desires over necessities, evident in their tendency to buy costly items like smartphones despite cheaper alternatives. Social media further fuels this trend, influencing them to spend on items they don't necessarily need but desire.

IELTS cue card topics

Check out the other IELTS cue card topics to practise

• Describe something that helps you in concentration
• Describe a song that is special to you
• Describe your favourite food