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How to answer personal preference questions


Personal preference type questions

To answer the personal preference type question, you need to talk about what kind of person you are and then connect it to answer the question. After presenting your general preference, give an example that is pertinent to the general preference. And then conclude why your preference is important for you or for society. So this is the schema:

How to answer personal preference questions quickly and fully:

  1. Begin talking about your personality

  2. Connect your personality to answer the question (1 is the reason for my preference for X)

  3. Provide a specific example of X

  4. Conclude with why my preference is important for me or for society 

Independent speaking question

Would you prefer to live in a big city or a small town?

Response 1:

I am a social person who enjoys being surrounded by people and activities. I also love the opportunities that a big city offers, such as a diverse culture, a variety of job opportunities, and a vibrant arts and culture scene.Therefore, I would prefer to live in a big city. For example, I am currently studying in San Francisco, which is a big city with a lot to offer. I can easily find restaurants with food from all over the world, go to museums and concerts, and meet people from different backgrounds.I believe that living in a big city is important for me because it allows me to grow as a person and experience new things. It also gives me the opportunity to make a difference in the world, as big cities are often centers of innovation and social change.

Response 2:

I am a quiet person who enjoys nature and a sense of community. I also value having close relationships with my neighbors and friends.Therefore, I would prefer to live in a small town. For example, I grew up in a small town in the Midwest. I knew all of my neighbors, and we often helped each other out. I also loved being surrounded by nature, and I could always find a quiet place to relax and enjoy the outdoors. I believe that living in a small town is important for me because it gives me a sense of belonging and community. It also allows me to live a more relaxed and simple life.

Academic discussion question

Again you should use the same structure. If the question is a binary style (either this or that), you can also add why you would not choose the other option. 

  1. Begin talking about your personality

  2. Connect your personality to answer the question (1 is the reason for my preference for X, and avoidance of Y)

  3. Provide a specific example of X

  4. Conclude with why my preference is important for me or for society 


Some people prefer a job dealing with different tasks, while others prefer a job that deals with tasks following the routine and predictable. Which do you prefer and why?


response 1

As a high-energy individual who thrives on overcoming challenges, I prefer a job with diverse tasks. Routine and predictable work makes me feel restless. I thrive in roles that involve learning new things and applying creativity to solve problems, so a job like management consulting is perfect for me. Management consultants help organizations identify and overcome challenges in a variety of industries, from healthcare to finance. They use their creative thinking and analytical skills to assess issues, develop strategies, and implement solutions. Each project is unique, and consultants work with different clients, industries, and issues. This dynamic environment provides ample opportunities to learn and grow, which is essential for my job satisfaction and personal fulfillment.


response 2

As a detail-oriented and perfectionistic individual, I prefer jobs with routine and predictable responsibilities. I thrive when I have a sense of control over my work and know what I need to do and when I need to do it. Switching to different tasks frequently can be stressful for me, so I prefer jobs that allow me to focus on one task at a time and ensure that it is completed to the best of my ability. One example of a job that requires a high level of precision and routine is that of an air traffic controller. Air traffic controllers must follow strict protocols to ensure the safety of passengers and crew. This repetitive nature may seem tedious to some, but it is essential for the smooth operation of the air traffic control system. The predictability of their tasks allows air traffic controllers to remain focused and make crucial split-second decisions with confidence. By flawlessly executing their routine tasks, air traffic controllers play a vital role in ensuring the safety of air travel.