Last Updated on October 30, 2025
A cue card for the question “Describe a Time When You Needed to Search for Information from the Internet” can be found in this IELTS speaking blog. The IELTS Exam speaking test consists of three parts — an introduction, the cue card round, and a follow-up discussion round. You will have 11 to 15 minutes to present your ideas clearly and fluently to the examiner.
This article provides three model answers for this IELTS Speaking Cue Card, along with follow-up questions, a related vocabulary list, and a short conclusion to help you effectively prepare for similar IELTS Cue Card topics.
IELTS Speaking Part 2 – IELTS Cue Card
In IELTS Speaking Task 2 (Part 2), you’ll receive a cue card with a topic and prompts. You’ll have 1 minute to prepare and must speak for 1–2 minutes.
The topic here is “Describe a Time When You Needed to Search for Information from the Internet.” This is one of the most common IELTS Cue cards, as it focuses on technology, self-learning, and problem-solving — key areas of discussion in the IELTS Exam.
Cue Card Topic “Describe a Time When You Needed to Search for Information from the Internet”
You should say:
- What information you needed?
- When you searched for it?
- How you searched for it?
- And explain why you needed to search for it?
Describe a Time When You Needed to Search for Information from the Internet – Model Answers
Below are three model answers for this IELTS Speaking Cue Card, written in a natural and fluent style ideal for the IELTS Exam.
What information you needed and when you searched for it
I needed to learn more about the format of IELTS Speaking test and the most frequently used cue card topics. I was searching this information approximately a month prior to my exam.
How you searched for it
I searched Google and YouTube, using such phrases as IELTS Speaking Cue Card topics and tips to get Band 8 in IELTS. I located some useful websites and videos, which gave me a detailed explanation of the process.
Why you needed to search for it
I needed to know how the marking is done and work with real materials. It allowed me to feel confident that I understood the structure of the test and time management using online resources.
Conclusion
Not only did that search allow me to prepare quite well, but it also taught me that online information is invaluable, which is why it makes sense to use it as an excellent exampleof the IELTS Speaking Cue Card “Describe a Time When You Needed to Search for Information from the Internet”.
Model Answer 2 – Describe a Time When You Needed to Search for Information from the Internet
Introduction
I recall an occasion when I was required to find out information regarding healthy eating practices to present it in school.
What information you needed and when you searched for it
And that was in my last year in high school, and my subject was Nutrition and Well-being. I was interested in recent information on the dietary plans and the advantages of organic food.
How you searched for it
I relied on Google scholar and the Internet (such as WHO and Healthline), where I collected legitimate information. I also followed some short videos on the explanation of balanced diets.
Why you needed to search for it
I did not expect my presentation to be entertaining but rather informative and scientifically correct and the Internet offered me up-to-date facts unattainable in books.
Conclusion
The fact that it was an online research, and it further enhanced my knowledge on health, is a great example to this IELTS Cue Card topic of “Describe a Time When You Needed to Search for Information from the Internet.”
Model Answer 3 – Describe a Time When You Needed to Search for Information from the Internet
Introduction
One of the occasions when I had to utilize the Internet as the source of information was when I had to solve a problem with my laptop.
What information you needed and when you searched for it
It has occurred to me in the past year as I lost my computer in an emergency assignment. I had to discover a means of retrieving my files.
How you searched for it
I used YouTube and technology forums such as Reddit with the search query how to fix a laptop that is not booting. I used sequential tutorials that assisted me in resolving the problem.
Why you needed to search for it
The Internet was the only alternative as I was not able to attend a repair shop due to lockdown. The directions that I encountered were comprehensive and straightforward to adhere to.
Conclusion
This experience helped me feel the beauty in using the Internet as a fast problem-solving tool, which would be perfect indeed in the IELTS Speaking Cue Card Descriptive Speaking Have you ever needed to search information online.
Read more: Describe a friend you like to talk with
Follow-up Questions: Describe a Time When You Needed to Search for Information from the Internet
Follow-up questions for “Describe a Time When You Needed to Search for Information from the Internet” are often asked in IELTS Speaking Part 3 to evaluate your opinions and reasoning skills.
What do people generally use the Internet for?
Most people use it for studying, shopping, entertainment, and staying connected with others.
Do you think all information on the Internet is reliable?
No, not all of it. It’s important to check credible sources and verify facts before trusting them.
How has the Internet changed education?
It has made learning more accessible with online courses, tutorials, and digital libraries.
Do people rely too much on the Internet these days?
Yes, definitely. Many depend on it for even basic tasks, from navigation to communication.
What are the disadvantages of using the Internet too much?
It can lead to distractions, misinformation, and over-dependence on technology.
Related Vocabulary – IELTS Speaking Cue Card
| Word/Phrase | Meaning | Example Sentence |
| Search engine | A website that helps you find information | Google is the most widely used search engine. |
| Reliable source | Information that is trustworthy and accurate | Always choose reliable sources when doing research. |
| Online resource | Digital material used for learning or reference | Students rely heavily on online resources today. |
| Browse | To look for information casually | I often browse the Internet for new articles. |
| Data accuracy | The correctness of information | It’s essential to check data accuracy before citing facts. |
| Fact-checking | Verifying information to ensure truthfulness | Fact-checking prevents the spread of fake news. |
| Tutorial | A step-by-step guide, often online | I followed a video tutorial to fix my laptop. |
| Cyber literacy | The ability to use digital tools wisely and safely | Cyber literacy is becoming an essential life skill. |
Conclusion
Preparing for the IELTS Speaking Cue Card “Describe a Time When You Needed to Search for Information from the Internet” helps candidates practice real-life scenarios involving technology and problem-solving. Such IELTS Cue Card topics are popular in the IELTS Exam as they test your ability to speak naturally about everyday situations.
FAQs
Cue cards in IELTS Speaking Part 2 are short task cards with a topic and prompts that you must speak about for 1–2 minutes.
You can score 8.5 by improving fluency, pronunciation, and vocabulary while practicing answers for common IELTS Speaking Cue Card topics daily.
Yes, IELTS Cue Card topics are often repeated across test sessions with slight changes in wording.
Start with a natural, confident line like, “A time when I needed to search for information from the Internet was when I was preparing for my IELTS Exam.”
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