Describe a time you missed an appointment – IELTS Cue Card with Sample Answers

IELTS Cue Card

Describe a time you missed an appointment – IELTS Cue Card Sample Answer 1

About a month ago, I had a scheduled appointment with my dentist for a routine check-up.

The appointment was with Dr. Thompson, who has been taking care of my dental needs for several years.

Unfortunately, I missed the appointment because I overslept due to a very late night of studying for exams, and I completely lost track of time in the morning.

I felt extremely disappointed and guilty for missing the appointment, as I value punctuality and had to reschedule, which disrupted both my schedule and my dentist’s.

Describe a time you missed an appointment – IELTS Cue Card Sample Answer 2

A couple of weeks ago, I had an important job interview appointment scheduled for a Monday morning.

The interview was with the hiring manager of a company I had been eager to work for.

Due to an unexpected public transport strike, I encountered severe delays and was unable to reach the venue on time.

I felt very frustrated and anxious about the situation, as I knew how important this opportunity was for my career, and I immediately contacted the company to apologize and reschedule.

Describe a time you missed an appointment – IELTS Cue Card Sample Answer 3

Last year, I had an appointment scheduled for a medical consultation to discuss some recurring health issues.

The appointment was with a specialist who I had been referred to by my general physician.

Regrettably, I missed the appointment because of a mix-up with the dates in my calendar and a sudden family emergency that demanded my immediate attention.

I felt a deep sense of regret and worry about my health, and I quickly rescheduled the appointment while making sure to set up multiple reminders to avoid a repeat of the situation.

Vocabulary You Can Use to Answer IELTS Speaking Part 2 Questions on Describe a time you missed an appointment

• Punctuality
  Meaning: The quality of being on time.
  Example: Punctuality is highly valued in professional settings.
• Reschedule
  Meaning: To arrange for a new time for an appointment or meeting.
  Example: I had to reschedule my appointment after missing it.
• Oversleep
  Meaning: To sleep longer than intended, causing one to be late.
  Example: I overslept and missed my early morning appointment.
• Regret
  Meaning: A feeling of sadness or disappointment over something that has happened.
  Example: I felt deep regret after missing my appointment.
• Apologetic
  Meaning: Feeling or showing regret or remorse.
  Example: I was very apologetic when I called to explain my absence.
• Anxious
  Meaning: Experiencing worry or unease.
  Example: I felt anxious about the repercussions of missing my interview.
• Inconvenience
  Meaning: A state or fact of being troublesome or difficult to deal with.
  Example: Missing the appointment caused a great inconvenience to both parties.
• Timetable
  Meaning: A schedule of events or appointments.
  Example: Keeping an accurate timetable can prevent such mishaps.

Describe a time you missed an appointment – IELTS Part 3 Follow-up Questions

1. How can people avoid missing appointments?

Using digital calendars, setting multiple alarms, and planning ahead are effective strategies to avoid missing appointments.

2. Do you think technology helps in managing schedules better?

Yes, technology plays a crucial role by offering reminders and scheduling apps that help manage our time more efficiently.

3. What impact does missing an appointment have on professional relationships?

Missing an appointment can harm professional relationships as it may be perceived as unprofessional and irresponsible.

4. Is it acceptable to miss appointments occasionally? Why or why not?

While occasional missed appointments might be understandable due to unforeseen circumstances, it is important to minimize them to maintain trust and reliability.

5. How do you usually feel when you miss an important engagement?

I usually feel stressed and disappointed because I value my commitments and the trust others place in me, which is why I make every effort to avoid such situations.

6. What measures can organizations take to reduce the number of missed appointments?

Organizations can implement automated reminder systems, offer flexible scheduling options, and establish clear communication channels to reduce missed appointments.

Vocabulary You Can Use to Answer IELTS Speaking Part 3 Questions on Describe a time you missed an appointment

• Punctual
  Meaning: Being on time.
  Example: Being punctual is essential for maintaining professionalism.
• Timely
  Meaning: Done or occurring at a favorable or useful time.
  Example: A timely reminder can prevent missed appointments.
• Accountable
  Meaning: Responsible for one’s actions.
  Example: Being accountable for your schedule helps build trust.
• Efficient
  Meaning: Performing or functioning in the best possible manner with the least waste of time and effort.
  Example: Efficient time management is key to avoiding delays.
• Reliable
  Meaning: Consistently good in quality or performance; dependable.
  Example: Reliable scheduling tools can help ensure you meet your commitments.
• Diligent
  Meaning: Having or showing care and conscientiousness in one’s work or duties.
  Example: A diligent approach to planning can minimize the risk of missing appointments.
• Remiss
  Meaning: Lacking care or attention to duty.
  Example: Being remiss in managing your schedule can lead to missed opportunities.

Tips for Answering Describe a time you missed an appointment

• Break down your answer into clear paragraphs, each addressing a specific cue card question.
• Provide a detailed account of the circumstances leading to the missed appointment.
• Explain how you felt and what steps you took afterward to rectify the situation.
• Use relevant vocabulary related to time management, responsibility, and punctuality.
• Practice your answer to ensure a smooth, coherent, and confident delivery.
• Reflect on what you learned from the experience and how it has improved your time management skills.
• Be honest about your emotions and describe any corrective measures you took to prevent future occurrences.
• Ensure your answer flows logically from one point to the next.