Describe a time when your computer broke down IELTS Cue Card

Roshan.webp

Author

24-06-2025

Describe a time when your computer broke down

In the IELTS test, the IELTS speaking module consists of three sections: introduction round, cue card round and follow-up discussion. In this regard, we have provided 3 model answers and 5 follow-up questions on the topic “Describe a time when your computer broke down”. Review them thoroughly and enhance your performance in the Cue card (IELTS Speaking) and scores.

 

IELTS Speaking Part 2: Cue Card

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

IELTS Listening Practice Test Demo

 

In the speaking cue card, you will get questions with the topic “Describe a time when your computer broke down,” which you can refer to create the content. You have to prepare the content for 1 minute, and speak for about 2 minutes. After the cue card round is over, the examiner will ask follow-up questions based on your cue card topic and the content you have spoken.

Describe a time when your computer broke down 

You should say
When it was?
What you were doing?
What did you do about it?
And how you felt about it?

Describe a time when your computer broke down  - Model answer and Follow up questions

3 Model answers on “Describe a time when your computer broke down” and 5 follow-up questions are given below for your reference in this article.

Describe a time when your computer broke down Model answer 1

Introduction

I am quite careful with my belongings, but occasionally unforeseen circumstances would completely alter the scenario. As a result of technological progress, computers have become a vital part of our daily life. Consequently, when this mechanism breaks down, our lives come to a halt. Here, I'd like to discuss a moment when I was completing an assignment on my laptop.

When it was? And What you were doing? 

What transpired was that I was working on an assignment late at night while using my laptop in bed. I didn't realise when I fell asleep, but when I awoke the next day, my laptop was on the floor, having fallen while I was sleeping. I instantly picked it up and discovered that the laptop's screen was severely damaged. I attempted to turn it on, but it did not function. At the time, I felt terrible and was afraid to inform my family about it.

What did you do about it?

Therefore, I consulted a buddy, who advised me to visit the nearest Apple store to assess the damage. The technician there informed me that the display has been broken and must be replaced with a new one immediately. He informed me that the replacement would cost 40,000 rupees. As I had already spent so much on the laptop, I was stunned to know that the repair would cost so much.

And how you felt about it?

Therefore, I returned home disappointed. Suddenly, I recalled that one of my other friends in Delhi had also encountered the same issue. I, therefore, called him and explained the situation. He informed me that I could have it repaired at Delhi's IT market for just 5000 rupees, with the expert replacing my screen with a secondhand one. I then decided to inform my family about it. They initially shared my sadness but then advised me to be more careful with my electrical devices in the future and provided me with money for repair. I ultimately travelled to Delhi to have it fixed. The technician replaced the display, and fortunately, the used display appeared brand-new, so I was able to use my laptop once more.

Conclusion

Evidently, I have learned the lesson the hard way, as I am now very cautious about how I utilise electronic technology.

Describe a time when your computer broke down Model answer 2

Introduction

  • Computers are currently an integral component of our daily lives. 
  • Numerous members of contemporary society believe that the computer is a boon of modern science that makes our lives more convenient and comfortable.

When it was? AND What you were doing?

  • Last year, I encountered a similar circumstance.
  • Due to the corona epidemic, my city was under lockdown.
  • My client allowed me to work from home in order to keep the firm going.
  • I began working from the comfort of my home by bringing a computer from my office.
  • I appreciated the newfound independence that working from home afforded me.
  • However, I once spilled coffee on the computer while using it.
  • Suddenly, the machine ceased to function.

What did you do about it?

  • I have attempted to fix the issue using my limited computer repair expertise.
  • To my sorrow, I was unsuccessful.
  • I had packed up the system and taken it to a repair shop.
  • The damage was severe, and the engineer had to repair several components.
  • He spent four hours repairing the equipment.
  • After repair, the system resumed normal operation.

And how you felt about it?

  • I breathed a sigh of relief when the system resumed functioning.
  • Since I was working on a project for a client of my company's high calibre.
  • This issue may have had terrible consequences.
  • However, thanks to God, the situation was rectified on time.

Conclusion

  • Thus, with that experience, I made a promise to myself that from now on, I will never place food on my computer desk.

Describe a time when your computer broke down Model answer 3

Introduction

I vividly recall the numerous situations in which my computer has malfunctioned in the midst of crucial activities. Well, I recollect clearly the difficulty I had to confront at once.

When it was?

This occurred to me roughly a year ago. In fact, I possess two PCs. One is a desktop computer, while the other is a laptop. My desktop computer is somewhat old, whereas my laptop is brand new.

What you were doing? 

My cousin needed to complete an assignment, so he asked me to use my laptop for a few hours. His computer was not functioning properly. I was initially hesitant to give it to him due to my possessive nature. Then I considered assisting him. Thus, I consented to give him.

What did you do about it?

The following day, when he came to pick up the computer, I attempted to start it in order to demonstrate several functions that would make it easier for him to operate. Surprisingly, my laptop would not start. I was stunned and stunned. I laboriously attempted to restart it but to no avail. My cousin was really furious, and he initially believed that I was doing it on purpose.

I contacted the computer technician, who stated that he will resolve the issue in one week. My friend, a hardware engineer, said the same thing when I phoned him.

And how you felt about it?

I was helpless because I could do nothing to rapidly restore it. I was disappointed and perplexed as to why the equipment had malfunctioned. It was aggravating and annoying, and I was concerned about losing vital data and photographs. I gave my laptop to be repaired and offered my desktop to my cousin. He felt grateful and content. My computer was eventually repaired, but it cost me a great deal of time, money, and effort. I learned that high-tech devices are useful, but we should not rely on them solely. Even though I did not lose any of my data, I learned the importance of hard drive backups.

Conclusion

After this occurrence, my PC crashed twice, although I maintained regular data backups. At last, I found the issue and learned a valuable lesson about keeping things updated. In addition, I learnt advanced device and troubleshooting procedures that helped me resolve computer-related issues in a short amount of time.

IELTS speaking part 3 - Describe a time when your computer broke down follow-up questions

You can review the follow-up questions for “Describe a time when your computer broke down”. In the speaking exam, this discussion round will be conducted for about 4-5 minutes where you elaborate on the answers to the examiner’s questions.

1.Why do individuals utilise computers?

I believe that individuals today use computers on a regular basis. People use computers to watch movies, create software, play games, and for job purposes. Furthermore, computers are being used as personal offices by people all over the world. With the use of computers, we can learn online, keep our photos, and even watch movies.
    
2.Should pupils (students) be permitted to use computers in class?

Computer use by pupils (students) at school must be permitted without a doubt since they need to do their homework and it helps them learn more. Additionally, they have the ability to create programmes and advance their technological expertise. They would add pictures to their courses to aid with comprehension and spice up the learning process. They will have to fetch the data from any place in the world as a result of this. Using a computer, they can instantaneously share their knowledge with their professors.

3.What do you think of those who are addicted to computers?

The majority of people believe that computer addiction is really harmful. However, my opinions differ. I believe that if you want to succeed in anything in life, you must have both enthusiasm and a certain level of addiction. We use computers to assist us in our work at the moment. Due to the fact that we are confined to our houses, we use computers to amuse ourselves and keep in touch with our loved ones. However, we also need to exercise outside and stand up every half an hour to an hour to give our eyes a break and move our bodies.

4.Do you believe that computers make life easier or harder?

Computers make life easier, but because we now undertake numerous jobs and demand speedy completion of each, it appears that they have complicated our lives. Imagine a period when we had to write letters to each person in order to share news, post them, and then patiently wait a week or more for a response. In contrast to that, we now only need to type it, push a button, and share it with everyone, therefore I believe they have simplified, not complicated, our daily lives.

5.What benefits do computers bring to academics?

Computers have various positive effects on academics, including facilitating student comprehension and creating an engaging atmosphere. In addition, they can be utilised to write programmes and improve their technological proficiency.

Related IELTS cue card topics

Check out the other IELTS cue card topics to practice

Conclusion 

To generate ideas on a different topic, you can use the above links of several speaking articles. Get a clear understanding of the speaking exam by reviewing our 3 Model answers and 5 follow-up questions on the topic “Describe a time when your computer broke down”.

Roshan.webp

About Author Roshan Sunthar

Roshan Sunthar is a study abroad expert as well as a renowned writer and author in international education. His academic excellence and 5+ years of work experience give him in-depth knowledge of international standardised exams and test preparation in IELTS, TOEFL, GRE, PTE, SAT, etc. The study materials he prepares incorporate exam-like questions. He’s also an expert in writing Statement of Purposes (SOPs) and Letter of Recommendations (LORs) for college admissions. He usually spends his leisure time watching English classics and documentaries, travelling, etc.

More Articles Post by Roshan Sunthar

Kanan.co is a trusted study abroad consultancy offering comprehensive services, resources, and solutions for students and education institutions. We support students at every stage of their global education journey, ensuring a smooth and guided experience. Along with test preparation for IELTS, GRE, TOEFL, and SAT, we provide expert services such as SOP writing, visa guidance, accommodation support, scholarship assistance, and education loan support. Our expertise and commitment to excellence make us a reliable partner for students pursuing international education.

kanan-logo1
kanan-ftr-fbkanan-ftr-igkanan-ftr-linkedinkanan-ftr-twitterkanan-ftr-youtube
kanan-ftr-phone1

+91 73555 73555

DMCA.com Protection Status
Mobile app
Mobile app

Global Headquarters

Kanan Int EdTech Inc

320 Bay Street, Suite 321 (Spaces), Toronto ON, Canada M5B 1N9

Indian Headquarters

Kanan International Pvt. Ltd.

D-wing, 2nd Floor, Trident Complex, Ellora Park Vadiwadi Road, Vadodara, Gujarat 390007

IT/ Digital Campus

Kanan International Pvt. Ltd

Old, New No 3, 2nd Floor, 1A, Dr Sadasivam Rd, T. Nagar, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600017

Our branches

  • Bardoli
  • Bharuch
  • Chennai
  • Dehradun
  • Gurugram
  • Himatnagar
  • Karnal
  • Nadiad
  • Navsari
  • Palanpur
  • Rajkot
  • Vadodara
  • Valsad
  • Vallabh Vidyanagar
  • Vapi

Copyright © 2026 KANAN.CO All rights reserved.