Page 6 - OPIC-Intermediate

Chapter 1 Self Introduction

Unit 2: Personality and Character

In addition to your brief self introduction, try to tell more about yourself. Let us
discuss some of your good and bad qualities.

Answer A:
I think I am perseverant. I strive in doing my tasks. I always think nothing can stop me. People
tell me I am persistent and determined in finishing a job. One time, I barely slept for two days just
to finish a project. I think that is my weak point. I tend to forget my own needs. I even got sick
before because of it. However, finishing a project makes me contented. To correct my bad point,
I give myself time to relax. Overall, I use both my good and bad points to make myself better.

Points to emphasize in answering:
Start with your good points.
- Give a direct answer.
[example: I think I have perseverance.]
- Try to point out a specific area.
[example: I strive in doing my tasks.]
- Support your answer with a concrete example. Citing testimonials from other
people or relating an experience are good examples.

Introduce your bad point in a positive way.
- Give details. [example: I tend to forget my own needs.]
- Give suggestions on how to correct or use your bad points in a positive way.
[example: To correct my bad point, I give myself time to relax.]

Conclude the discussion.
[example: Overall, I use both my good and bad points to make myself better.]

Vocabulary

perseverant - strong-minded in finishing a given task
strive - to exert effort
persistent - has strong will in doing something
determined - has firm decision in doing something
barely - scarcely; almost not
tend - have a tendency
contented - satisfied with things
overall - all in all

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