Explanation
Exercises
B1 Upper-Intermediate Writing · Lesson 6

Write About a Decision You Regretted or Were Proud Of

Learn to explain a decision, the alternatives you considered, its consequences, and your later reflection.

B1 Upper-IntermediateReflective narrative30 min120–130 words
Lesson progress
Explanation · 1 / 4
Study the structure and model before completing the three exercises.
Learning objective

Write a reflective account of a decision, including the situation, options, reasons, consequences, and whether you still agree with your choice.

Model text

A decision I am proud of was leaving a comfortable job to take a six-month professional course. At the time, I had a stable salary and friendly colleagues, so changing direction felt risky. I could have stayed where I was, but I knew I was no longer learning anything new. After discussing it with my family, I saved enough money for several months and enrolled in the course. The first weeks were difficult because I had to study every day and manage my budget carefully. However, I gradually developed new skills and met people from different industries. Three months after finishing the course, I found a job that was more challenging and interesting. Looking back, I am proud that I accepted short-term uncertainty in order to create better long-term opportunities.

How to write

1
Explain the situation before the decision
2
Present the options you considered
3
Give reasons for your choice
4
Describe the consequences
5
Reflect on whether it was the right decision

Useful language

I had to decide whether to...I could have...In the end, I chose to...One reason was...As a result,...Looking back, I...
B1 Upper-Intermediate focus: Develop each main idea with a reason, example, consequence, or reflection. Use a wider range of linkers, but keep the text natural and easy to follow.
Exercises:
1
2
3
Exercise 1 · Language in the model text

Write About a Decision You Regretted or Were Proud Of

Read the model text closely. Choose the answer that best explains its grammar, vocabulary, linking, or register.

Analyse how the model uses language to achieve the writing purpose.
Exercise 1 · 2 / 4
You need at least 5 correct answers out of 6.
1
Why does the model use “could have stayed”?
2
What does “so” express in the second sentence?
3
Why is “After discussing it with my family” placed before the main clause?
4
What does “However” signal after the difficult first weeks?
5
Why does the writer use “more challenging and interesting”?
6
What is the purpose of “in order to create better long-term opportunities”?
Exercise 2 · Structure & development

Write About a Decision You Regretted or Were Proud Of

Use the model text to analyse how its ideas are ordered, connected, developed, and supported.

Analyse the organisation of this specific model text and the function of its details.
Exercise 2 · 3 / 4
You need at least 5 correct answers out of 6.
1
Why does the opening mention that the old job was comfortable?
2
Which sentence presents the central internal conflict?
3
Why are saving money and discussing the decision included?
4
What role do the difficult first weeks play?
5
Which event provides concrete evidence that the decision produced a better opportunity?
6
How does the final sentence organise the main lesson?
Exercise 2 · Structure & development

Write About a Decision You Regretted or Were Proud Of

Use the model text to analyse how its ideas are ordered, connected, developed, and supported.

Analyse the organisation of this specific model text and the function of its details.
Exercise 2 · 3 / 4
You need at least 5 correct answers out of 6.
1
Why does the opening mention that the old job was comfortable?
2
Which sentence presents the central internal conflict?
3
Why are saving money and discussing the decision included?
4
What role do the difficult first weeks play?
5
Which event provides concrete evidence that the decision produced a better opportunity?
6
How does the final sentence organise the main lesson?