You do not have to choose one study method for every situation. A clear answer can explain why you prefer working alone for one activity and discussion for another.
The work-and-study question set in IELTS Speaking Excellence: 50 Step-by-Step Practice Sessions includes this contrast. The original practice below develops a conditional preference.
Replace an empty “it depends”
“It depends” can be a useful beginning, but the listener needs to know what it depends on. Name the task, the stage of learning or the kind of help you need.
Original response
“I prefer studying alone when I am drafting an essay because I can organise my thoughts without interruption. Once I have a draft, discussing it with someone else helps me notice unclear points.”
Make the comparison fair
The example compares different purposes rather than declaring one method universally superior. It also gives a reason for each preference. You can hold a clear view while recognising another method's value.
Add the missing condition
Draft: “Group study is good, but studying alone is good too.”
Possible development: “Group study is useful when we need to exchange ideas. I prefer working alone when I need to concentrate on a detailed first draft.”
The revised answer explains when each option helps.
Keep the example personal and accurate
Use your actual habits if the question concerns you. You need not copy a model's postgraduate course or research experience. A familiar example from language learning is sufficient.
Practise the same structure with reading, planning and revising: preference, situation and reason. Then change the question so you must adapt the response rather than repeat it word for word.
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IELTS Speaking — Course 9
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Source: IELTS SP - 189-1.epub, Jobins Training. Examples labelled original or illustrative were written for this article. Independent exam preparation; no affiliation with or endorsement by the examining body. Practice does not predict an official score.