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All IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 Types (+Tips & Examples)

IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 can be a challenging test for many students. One of the reasons for this is the variety of question types that may appear on the test, including bar charts, line graphs, pie charts, tables, maps, diagrams, and more. However, understanding the different types of questions and how to approach them can make all the difference in achieving a high score.

In this blog post, we will explore all of the different types of IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 questions that may come up on the test. We will also provide examples and tips on how to approach each type of question, so you can feel confident and prepared on the test day.

Types of IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 Question

Here are all of the different IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 question types you need to know:

1. Describing a Line Graph

Line graphs are used to show trends or changes over time.

Line Graph type - IELTS academic writing task 1 question example

  • What is the chart representing?
  • What is the unit of measurement?
  • Is there a specific time frame or interval shown?
  • How many lines are displayed on the chart?
  • What is the tense used in the description of the chart?
  • Study the x-axis and y-axis labels and the units of measurement.
  • Look for trends, fluctuations, and significant points on the graph.
  • Introduction: Paraphrase the question.
  • Identify the main trend(s) or pattern(s) in the graph.
  • Highlight the main trends or patterns.
  • Provide a broad description of the data, including any significant changes or fluctuations.
  • Describe the trend and the significant changes.
  • Break down the data by showing specific data points and trends.
  • Compare and contrast the data if applicable.
  • Use linking words and phrases to connect the data points and trends.
  • Use a variety of verbs to describe trends, such as “rise,” “increase,” “grow,” “fall,” “decrease,” “drop,” and “level off.”
  • Use adjectives to describe the degree of change, such as “dramatic,” “significant,” “moderate,” or “slight.”
  • Use linking words and phrases to connect ideas and show relationships, such as “while,” “although,” “despite,” and “due to.”
  • Use the simple present tense to describe general truths or ongoing trends, such as “the data shows,” “the graph indicates,” or “the trend is.”
  • Use the past tense to describe specific data points or changes, such as “in 2015, the figure was,” “there was a sharp increase in,” or “the numbers fell dramatically.”
  • Sample line graph and model answer:

Line Graph type - IELTS academic writing task 1 question sample

It is important to identify the key features of the graph, such as:

  • The highest and lowest points
  • The overall trend
  • Any significant changes

2. Describing a Bar Graph

Bar graphs are used to compare data between different items or groups.

Bar Graph type - IELTS academic writing task 1 question example

  • What is the main subject of the bar chart?
  • What are the units of measurement used?
  • Are the bars arranged in any particular order?
  • How many categories or groups are being compared?
  • What is the overall trend displayed in the chart?
  • Identify the different categories on the x-axis and the values on the y-axis.
  • Look for comparisons and contrasts between the bars.
  • Identify the main differences or similarities between the categories.
  • Compare the highest and lowest bars and any significant differences.
  • Provide a brief description of the data, including any significant differences.
  • Describe the comparison between the items or groups.
  • Break down the data by showing specific data points and comparisons between the categories.
  • Highlight the significant differences.
  • Use linking words and phrases to connect the data points and comparisons.
  • Use appropriate adjectives to describe the size or quantity of each category, such as “large,” “small,” “significant,” or “minor.”
  • Use linking words and phrases to compare and contrast categories, such as “in contrast,” “on the other hand,” and “similarly.”
  • Use the simple present tense to describe general truths or ongoing comparisons, such as “the chart shows,” “the data indicates,” or “the difference is.”
  • Use the past tense to describe specific data points or comparisons, such as “in 2015, the figure for A was,” “B had a higher percentage than,” or “there was a significant contrast between.”
  • Sample bar graph and model answer:

Bar Graph type - IELTS academic writing task 1 question sample

  • The highest and lowest bars
  • The most and least popular items
  • Any significant differences

3. Describing a Pie Chart

Pie charts are used to show data percentages of a whole.

Pie Chart type - IELTS academic writing task 1 question example

  • What does the pie chart represent?
  • What are the percentages or proportions shown?
  • Are there any significant differences between the sections of the chart?
  • What is the largest or smallest section of the chart?
  • What conclusions can be drawn from the chart?
  • Identify the different categories and their corresponding percentages.
  • Look for the largest and smallest slices and any notable differences.
  • Identify the largest and smallest slices and any significant differences.
  • Compare the largest and smallest slices and any significant differences.
  • Provide a brief description of the data.
  • Describe the proportions of the groups
  • Highlight the most and least represented groups
  • Use percentages and fractions to describe each category.
  • Use adjectives to describe the degree of difference between categories, such as “marked,” “slight,” or “significant.”
  • Use linking words and phrases to show relationships between categories, such as “corresponding to,” “accounting for,” and “contributing to.”
  • Use the simple present tense to describe general truths or ongoing proportions, such as “the pie chart illustrates,” “the data suggests,” or “the largest slice is.”
  • Use the past tense to describe specific data points or proportions, such as “in 2015, the percentage for C was,” “D accounted for a smaller proportion than,” or “there was a slight shift in the distribution from.”
  • Model answer:

Pie Chart type - IELTS academic writing task 1 question sample

It is important to identify the key features of the chart, such as:

  • The largest and smallest segments
  • The most and least represented groups

4. Describing a Table

Tables are used to present data measurements in a structured format.

Table type - IELTS academic writing task 1 question example

  • What is the main topic or subject of the table?
  • What are the categories or variables being compared?
  • How are the values arranged within the table?
  • Are there any significant differences or patterns in the data?
  • What are the highest or lowest values in the table?
  • Study the headings and units of measurement for each column and row.
  • Look for patterns, rankings, and comparisons.
  • Identify the highest and lowest values and any significant differences.
  • Break down the data by showing specific data points and comparisons between the rows and columns.
  • Highlight the most and least profitable professions.
  • Use appropriate adjectives to describe the size or quantity of each row or column, such as “lowest,” “highest,” “most,” or “least.”
  • Use linking words and phrases to compare and contrast rows or columns, such as “in contrast,” “on the other hand,” and “similarly.”
  • Use the simple present tense to describe general truths or ongoing rankings or comparisons, such as “the table presents,” “the data compares,” or “the figures show.”
  • Use the past tense to describe specific data points or rankings, such as “in 2015, the number for X was,” “Y had the highest total of,” or “there was a significant difference between Z and.”

Table type - IELTS academic writing task 1 question sample

It is important to identify the key features of the table, such as:

  • The highest and lowest values
  • The most and least profitable professions

5. Describing a Map

Maps are used to show a location or a facility such as a street map and a plan of a building or site.

Map type - IELTS academic writing task 1 question example

  • What does the map show?
  • What is the scale of the map?
  • Are there any significant features or landmarks highlighted on the map?
  • What is the overall trend or pattern shown in the map?
  • What conclusions can be drawn from the map?
  • Identify the key features of the map, such as roads, buildings, landmarks, and areas of open space.
  • Look for patterns, such as the layout of streets or the distribution of buildings.
  • Identify any changes or developments over time.
  • Summarize the main stages and the overall process.
  • The location of the shops or facilities.
  • Highlight the distance between them.
  • Describe the key features of the map in a logical and organized way.
  • Use linking words and phrases to connect the different features.
  • Use prepositions to describe the location of features, such as “to the north of,” “adjacent to,” or “surrounded by.”
  • Use adjectives to describe the size, shape, or function of features, such as “large,” “narrow,” or “commercial.”
  • Use the simple present tense to describe general truths or ongoing features or locations, such as “the map displays,” “the data identifies,” or “the area is.”
  • Use the past tense to describe specific data points or locations, such as “in 2015, the building was,” “there used to be a park where,” or “the river flowed through.”

Map type - IELTS academic writing task 1 question sample

It is important to identify the key features of the map, such as:

  • The location of different shops or facilities
  • The distance between them

6. Describing a Process/Diagram

Process diagrams are used to show the stages or steps in a process and their order.

Process/Diagram type - IELTS academic writing task 1 question example

  • What is the process being shown in the diagram?
  • What are the main stages or steps in the process?
  • Are there any key inputs or outputs shown in the diagram?
  • Are there any significant changes or transformations in the process?
  • What is the final outcome or result of the process?
  • Identify the different stages or steps in the process and their order.
  • Look for the inputs, outputs, and transformations that occur.
  • Look for any significant changes or developments.
  • Identify the main stages of the process and the inputs, outputs, and transformations that occur.
  • Describe the main steps and the significant changes of the process in detail and the key features of each.
  • Use linking words and phrases to connect the different stages.
  • Use appropriate verbs to describe each stage of the process, such as “input,” “transform,” or “output.”
  • Use linking words and phrases to show the sequence of stages, such as “after,” “before,” “subsequently,” and “finally.”
  • Use the simple present tense to describe general truths or ongoing stages or transformations, such as “the diagram represents,” “the data outlines,” or “the process involves.”
  • Use the past tense to describe specific data points or stages, such as “in the first step, the input was,” “there was a change in the output from,” or “the transformation led to.”

Process/Diagram type - IELTS academic writing task 1 question sample

It is important to identify the key features of the diagram, such as:

  • The starting and ending points
  • The main steps

7. Describing Combination

A combination task may include two or more types of graphs or diagrams, and it requires candidates to compare and contrast the information presented.

Combination type - IELTS academic writing task 1 question example

  • What types of charts or diagrams are included in the combination?
  • What is the main topic or subject of the combination?
  • How are the various elements of the combination related to each other?
  • What is the overall trend or pattern shown in the combination?
  • What conclusions can be drawn from the combination?
  • Study the different elements of the visual representation and how they relate to each other.
  • Look for patterns, trends, and comparisons between different types of data.
  • Identify the different elements of the visual representation and how they relate to each other.
  • Describe each element in detail and the key features of the different types of graphs or diagrams
  • Compare and contrast the data presented.
  • Use linking words and phrases to connect the different elements and show their relationships.
  • Use appropriate language for each type of visual representation and show how they are related to each other.
  • Use linking words and phrases to connect ideas and show relationships, such as “whereas,” “in comparison,” “in addition,” and “moreover.”
  • Use appropriate tenses for each type of visual representation and make sure they are consistent throughout the analysis.
  • Use linking words and phrases to connect ideas and show relationships between different tenses, such as “while,” “although,” “despite,” and “due to.”

Combination type - IELTS academic writing task 1 question sample

In conclusion, the IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 test can be challenging, but understanding the different types of questions and how to approach them is crucial to achieving a high score. By familiarizing yourself with line graphs, bar charts, pie charts, tables, maps, and combinations thereof, you can feel confident and prepared on test day.

Remember to focus on the key trends, comparisons, components, data points, and features, and use specific data to support your analysis. With these tips and examples in mind, you can be well on your way to achieving your desired score.

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IELTS Writing Task 1

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“Explore this comprehensive guide on IELTS Writing Task 1 and learn how to improve your writing skills and avoid common mistakes to achieve that band score! “

Interpreting visual data and summarizing information accurately is a vital skill for higher education and global communication and this skill is evaluated in IELTS Writing Task 1 exam. It is, thereby, a crucial component of both the Academic and General Training modules.

In this comprehensive guide, we will examine all aspects of IELTS Writing Task 1, exploring its different formats, question types with IELTS exam examples, tips for success, and common mistakes to avoid.

Understanding IELTS Writing Task 1

Task 1 of  IELTS Writing assesses the candidate's ability to interpret and present information in a clear and coherent manner. It requires candidates to describe visual information or frame a letter in a minimum of 150 words in 20 minutes.

The key skills tested in Task 1 include:

  • Understanding Visual Data or Prompts:  Candidates must accurately interpret the visual data provided or prompts for letters and convey the main trends, comparisons, and significant points accurately.
  • Organizational Skills:  Structuring the response effectively is essential, including introducing the topic, providing an overview or a purpose, and presenting key details logically.
  • Language Accuracy:  Candidates are evaluated on their ability to use a range of vocabulary, grammatical structures, and cohesive devices to express ideas precisely.

IELTS Writing Writing Task 1 Question Types

You have to keep in mind that Task 1 differs for both IELTS General and Academic purposes. So, the different types of questions in these two types of IELTS exam are given below.

Question Types in IELTS Writing Task 1

IELTS Academic Writing Task 1

You will be required to represent data relevant to an academic context that are shown in one or more figures, such as graphs, charts, tables, diagrams, or processes in Task 1 of  IELTS Academic .

There are typically seven types of questions in IELTS Writing Task 1 Academic:

  • IELTS table chart
  • IELTS bar chart
  • IELTS Writing Task 1 - Line graph
  • IELTS pie charts tips and strategies
  • IELTS Map Diagram
  • IELTS Process diagram
  • Combination (Mixed) charts

For a deeper comprehension of the subjects, it is crucial to regularly practice using the  IELTS writing task 1 practice tests with answers.

IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 Samples

Check out the recent Writing Task 1 topics with IELTS Writing Task 1 sample answers:

  • Village of Stokeford in 1930 and 2010- Map
  • Paradise Island Map – IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 Answers
  • IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 Example 4 : Development of the village of Rye mouth – Map
  • IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 Topic: The development of cutting tools in the stone age – Diagram
  • IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 Example 3: Civic Centre – Map
  • Changes in Modes of Travel in England Between 1985 and 2000- IELTS Writing Task 1 (Table)
  • IELTS Academic Writing Task 1: Main Reasons why Agricultural Land Becomes Less Productive
  • Cinema Viewing Figures for Films by Country, in Millions- Table
  • Number of Medals Won by the Top Ten Countries in the London 2012 Olympic Games- Table
  • IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 Topic 12: Internet use in six categories by age group – Table
  • IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 Topic : Annual pay for doctors and other workers – Bar chart
  • Division of Household Tasks by Gender in Great Britain- Bar Graph
  • IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 Topic 11: Different methods of waste disposal in four cities – Bar Chart
  • Amount of Leisure Time Enjoyed by Men and Women of Different Employment Statuses- Bar Chart
  • Number of Computer and Internet users in Different Arab Countries- Bar Graph
  • The Changes In Ownership Of Electrical Appliances And Amount Of Time Spent Doing Housework In Households – IELTS Writing Task 1
  • IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 Topic : The Percentage of Female Members of Parliament in 5 European Countries
  • IELTS Writing Task 1 – The graph below shows different sources of air pollutants in the UK Sample Answers
  • IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 Topic: Price changes for fresh fruits and vegetables – Line Graph
  • Demand for Electricity in England- Line Graph and Pie Chart
  • Average Household Expenditures in a Country in 1950 and 2010- Pie Chart
  • Methods of Transportation for People Traveling to a University – Pie Chart
  • Percentage of Water Used for Different Purposes in Six Areas of the World- Pie Chart
  • Online shopping sales for retail sectors in Canada – IELTS Writing Task 1 Pie chart
  • IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 Topic 09 : Consequence of deforestation – FlowChart
  • Academic IELTS Writing Task 1 Recycling process of wasted glass bottles Sample Answers
  • Water Cycle Diagram – IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 Answers
  • IELTS Writing Task 1 Process Chart 2024 – Process Diagram with Sample Answers
  • Percentage of Food Budget the Average Family Spent on Restaurant Meals- Pie Chart + Line Graph
  • Amount of Money Per Week Spent on Fast Food in Britain- Bar Graph + Line Graph
  • Water use Worldwide and Water Consumption- Line Graph and Table

IELTS General Writing Task 1

The candidate must compose a letter outlining details from IELTS GT Writing Task 1 or providing an explanation of a circumstance.

There are three types of letters for IELTS General writing task 1:

  • IELTS General Writing Task 1 Sample Formal Letters
  • IELTS General Writing Task 1 Sample Semi-Formal Letters
  • IELTS General Writing Task 1 Informal Letters

Candidates are assessed on their ability to engage in personal contact, elicit and offer general factual information, express needs, likes, and dislikes, as well as their opinions, in the IELTS general writing task 1.

IELTS General Writing Task 1 Samples

Here are some latest Writing Task 1 topics with sample answers for IELTS General Training:

Formal Letter

  • Formal Letter to Change Hostel Room- IELTS Writing Task 1
  • You Have Seen an Advertisement for a Community College- Formal letter
  • Last Week You Were on a Flight to London- Formal Letter
  • One of Your Friends Wants to Apply for a Job- Formal letter

Semi Formal Letter

Informal Letter

Evaluation Criteria for IELTS Writing Task 1 

The purpose of the IELTS Writing Task 1 question is to assess a candidate's writing abilities.

  • Four criteria are used to assess a candidate's IELTS score: Task Achievement,   Coherence & Cohesion in IELTS Writing , IELTS Lexical Resource and  IELTS Grammatical Range & Accuracy.
  • For IELTS Writing Task 1, each component is worth 25% of the candidate's final score.

Therefore, these are standardized measures that a student needs to follow throughout their answer to achieve their desired IELTS band score . Check the table given below:

9
8
7
6
5

Top Tips for Success in IELTS Writing Task 1

Candidates must follow some IELTS preparation tips in order to master IELTS Academic writing task 1 and IELTS GT writing task 1. So, given below are some top tips to structure your answers for IELTS Writing Task 1.

  • Understand the Task Requirements:  Read the instructions carefully and identify the main features and key trends in the visual data.
  • Plan Your Response:  Spend a few minutes organizing your ideas before you start writing. This will help you structure your response effectively.
  • Use a Variety of Vocabulary:  Demonstrate your lexical range by avoiding repetition and employing synonyms to describe the data accurately.
  • Focus on Significant Details:  Highlight the most important information and avoid including unnecessary details that do not contribute to the overall understanding of the required details.
  • Practice Time Management:  Allocate enough time to each task and aim to complete Writing Task 1 within the recommended 20 minutes.
  • Use Synonyms  - Don't just copy words from the prompt. Paraphrase with your own vocabulary.
  • Include Units of Measurement  - Use measurement units like millions, percentage, tons, dollars. This shows attention to detail and highlights obvious contrasts or similarities between data trends to make logical comparisons.
  • Use Linking Words  - IELTS Writing Task 1 Connectors  add like "while", "in addition", "on the other hand" connect your ideas and show cohesion.
  • Stick to Plain English -  Don't try to sound overly complex. Keep your language clear and concise.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in IELTS Writing Task 1

While analyzing visuals or framing the letter might seem straightforward, Task 1 can trip you up if you're not careful. Here are some key mistakes to avoid:

  • Misinterpreting Data/Prompts:  Ensure that you accurately understand the information presented in the visual data before attempting to describe it.
  • Ignoring Task Instructions:  Pay attention to the specific requirements of each task and avoid straying from the given topic.
  • Overlooking Grammar and Spelling:  Proofread your response carefully to eliminate grammatical errors and spelling mistakes.
  • Lack of Coherence and Cohesion:  Ensure that your response is well-structured and cohesive, with clear connections between sentences and paragraphs.

The IELTS Writing Task 1 test may seem challenging, but with dedication and the right strategies, you can conquer it. Remember, consistent practice, a focus on improvement, and a clear understanding of the format are key to achieving your desired band score. If you need any sort of guidance, feel free to  interact with our IELTS experts  or  be a part of IELTS webinars . So, take a deep breath, pick up your pen, and embark on your journey to IELTS writing mastery!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the format of IELTS Writing Task 1?

How much time should I spend on IELTS Writing Task 1?

Do I need to include my opinion in IELTS Writing Task 1?

Should I include an introduction and conclusion in IELTS Writing Task 1?

How can I improve my vocabulary for describing visual data in Task 1?

Where can I find practice materials for Task 1?

What should I do if I don't understand the visual data in Task 1?

Should I include every detail from the visual data in my response?

Is there a specific paragraph structure I should follow in Task 1?

How can I practice for IELTS Writing Task 1?

Practice IELTS Writing Task 1 based on report types

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IELTS Writing Task 1 Samples

Here you will find IELTS Writing Task 1 Samples for a variety of common tasks that appear in the writing exam.

The model answers all have tips and strategies for how you may approach the question and comments on the sample answer.

It's a great way to help you to prepare for the test. 

IELTS PIe Chart

The amount of money that a children's charity located in the USA spent and received in one year, 2016.

Model Answer >>>

IELTS Table

The Proportions of Pupils Attending Four Secondary School Types Between Between 2000 and 2009.

The city of Brandfield. City planners have decided to build a new shopping mall for the area, and two sites, S1 and S2 have been proposed.

IELTS Process

Process Diagram

The process that is used to manufacture bricks for the building industry.

IELTS Bar Chart

The components of GDP in the UK from 1992 to 2000.

IELTS Bar Chart

The scores of teams A, B and C over four different seasons.

IELTS PIe Chart

The electricity generated in Germany and France from all sources and renewables in the year 2009.

IELTS Bar Chart

British Emigration to selected destinations between 2004 and 2007.

IELTS Line and IELTS Bar Chart

Line and Bar Chart

Visits to and from the UK from 1979 to 1999, and the most popular countries visited by UK residents in 1999.

IELTS Line Graph

Thefts per thousand vehicles in four countries between 1990 and 1999.

IELTS PIe Chart and Bar Chart

Pie and Bar Chart

The percentage of persons arrested in the five years ending 1994 and the most recent reasons for arrest.

IELTS Bar Chart

The different modes of transport used to travel to and from work in one European city in 1960, 1980 and 2000.

IELTS Table

The proportion of monthly household income five European countries spend on food and drink, housing, clothing and entertainment.

IELTS Process

How chocolate is produced.

IELTS Bar Chart

The monthly spending in dollars of a family in the USA on three items in 2010.

IELTS Process

How tea leaves are processed into five tea types.

IELTS PIe Chart

Pie and  Bar Chart

The percentage of women in poverty and the poverty rates by sex and age in the United States in 2008.

IELTS Line Graph

Line and Pie Chart

The number of books that were borrowed in four different months in 2014 from four village libraries, and the pie chart shows the percentage of books, by type, that were borrowed over this time.

IELTS Line Graph

Four countries of residence of overseas students in Australia

IELTS Map

Development of the village of Ryemouth between 1995 and present.

IELTS PIe Chart

Public Sector Employment in 2015 and 2020.

IELTS Table

Cultural Activities of Differing Age Groups

types of essay ielts task 1

Construction of Tourist Facilities on an island.

types of essay ielts task 1

Average House Price Comparison.

types of essay ielts task 1

Average carbon dioxide (Co2) emissions per person

types of essay ielts task 1

Leisure Activities amongst Australian children.

types of essay ielts task 1

Structure used to generate electricity from wave power.

types of essay ielts task 1

Bar & Pie Chart

Men and women attending various evening courses

types of essay ielts task 1

Changes to Grange Park.

Pie Chart small

Populations in Yemen and Italy.

Student Sample Graphs

You can also view graphs that have been written by students in the forums:

  • Student Graphs

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The Complete Guide to IELTS Writing Task 1

by Dave | IELTS Writing Task 1 | 2 Comments

This is the complete guide for everything you need for IELTS writing task 1 – including types of questions, samples, and more.

Find the newest/latest ielts writing task 1 questions and sample answers here ., a lot of my students seem surprised by task 1 writing because it wasn’t what they expected, and to be fair there are quite a few different types of questions , so here is a breakdown of all the basic info you need.  , if you want to read some sample essays that will also give you a leg up on the test here is a bar chart , pie chart , table , process , and a map , be sure to avoid the mistakes that most students make on writing by signing up for my exclusive ielts ebooks here on patreon., the test format, the ielts writing exam is a 60 minute test of your english writing ability and there are two parts – task 1 and task 2., for task 1 (academic) you will be given some data in the form of a chart, table, or process., you have around 20 minutes to write at least a 150 word summary of the data.the data comes in many different formats so you should practise all of them to be ready for your test., what does a task 1 question look like, the question has three main parts:, 1. task instructions – these are always the same for any academic task 1, 2. a statement that introduces the data., 3. the data itself – presented in a chart, table or diagram., the instructions, you can see from the  three examples below that the instructions can be found above and below the box, as well as the second sentence inside the box., every task 1 is the same. you need to:, – spend about 20 minutes and write at least 150 words., – write a summary of the main trends and key details, and make comparisons if possible..

types of essay ielts task 1

The First Sentence

Look again at the examples. the introductory statement/first sentence is the first sentence in the box., it is different for each question because the data is different each time., it is very useful as it gives you the following information:, 1. the type of data – chart, table, map, process etc., 2. other key information e.g. where, when, what, you should read this sentence carefully as you will need to paraphrase this information when you write an introduction to your task 1 essay., the data – 6 task types, the data is the information you have to describe in your task 1 essay. it will be presented in a chart, table or diagram., there are six basic types. let’s take a look:, 1. line graphs – e.g. describe changes to six different kinds of fuel consumption over a period of fifty years in the usa., 2. bar graphs or charts – e.g. describe changes to three different kinds of phone use over a period of eight years in the uk..

types of essay ielts task 1

3. Pie charts – e.g. describe changes to the age of the population over a period of fifty years in Italy and Yemen.

types of essay ielts task 1

4. Tables – e.g. describe and compare sales of two different products in five countries over five years.

types of essay ielts task 1

5. Process diagrams – e.g. describe the life cycle of a salmon.

types of essay ielts task 1

6. Maps – e.g. describe and compare two maps of an island before and after a development.

types of essay ielts task 1

How Different are the Different Types of IELTS Task 1s?

In some ways every task 1 is the same – they all have the same amount of time, same word length, and in general ask you to do the same thing., in other ways, they are very different – each task type requires different vocabulary and a different focus., so you should study and practise each task type separately, so that whichever one you get on your test day, you’ll be able to complete it successfully., how is task 1 scored, your essay is marked by a qualified ielts examiner., they will score your writing equally using four criteria:, 1. task achievement (answering the the question), 2. coherence and cohesion (clear and well organised), 3. lexical resource (vocabulary and spelling), 4. grammatical range and accuracy (grammar and punctuation), for each of the criteria you will get a ‘band score’ of 0-9., these will be added together and an average will be calculated and the final figure will be rounded down , even if you are close to the next band score., finally the two figures are added together and calculated as ⅓ x task 1 and ⅔ x task 2., this is then rounded down again . sorry – i didn’t write the test, for example, donald trump gets the following scores:.

 

KEY TIP: Task 2 is worth double the marks so make sure you don’t spend too long on Task 1. If you are a slow writer, do task 2 first !

Also notice that being marked down in one criteria can wreck your chances of getting the score you need., therefore it isn’t enough to get close to the score you want, especially as some examiners are very strict., you must make sure that through repeated practice that you are consistently getting the scores you need so you can be confident on the day., check out our marking service to know your scores, get personal corrections and guaranteed improvement., or at least you won’t be surprised now, recommended for you.

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Latest IELTS Writing Task 1 2024 (Graphs, Charts, Maps, Processes)

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Recent IELTS Writing Topics and Questions 2024

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The Complete Guide to IELTS Writing Task 2

The Complete Guide to IELTS Writing Task 2

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Your Guide to IELTS Band 7

IELTS Writing Task 1: The Essential Study Guide

Welcome to my complete guide to  IELTS Writing Task 1 . In this guide you will find out what you have to do, the different question types, and how to write a great piece of writing for Task 1.

IELTS Writing Task 1

IELTS Writing Academic Task 1

In IELTS Academic Writing Task 1, you need to write a short report about some information presented in a visual form. In other words, you need to turn visual information into a text.

How is IELTS Writing Task 1 assessed?

IELTS examiners will assess you in four different areas, each of which make up 25%of the total mark.

  • Task Achievement
  • Coherence and Cohesion
  • Lexical Resource
  • Grammatical Range and Accuracy

Here are some of the most common types of visual information given in task 1 of the IELTS writing test.

IELTS Writing Task 1 Bar Chart

In a bar chart, you will often be asked to  write a report which compares 2 things . In the above graph, you should describe differences at 2 different times (1992 and 2000) and also differences between the IT and service industries.

Read my sample answer for this bar graph question.

IELTS Writing Task 1 Line Graph

A line graph is similar to a bar chart, except you should describe trends (changes over a period of time). In the above line graph you should compare the changing trends between 1975 and 2000, and the differences between the three types of fast food.

IELTS Writing Task 1 Pie Chart

In a pie chart you may be given 2, 3 or 4 things to compare. In the above example you should compare revenue sources and expenditure types.

IELTS Writing Task 1 Data Table

In a table you will again compare at least 2 different things. Sometimes, a table will not include changes over time. In the above example you should compare the changes over time in different types of school.

In a map question, you also have to describe some visual information, but it might not involve comparing different things. In the above example you have to compare the locations of different sites for a proposed shopping centre, in relation to different map features.

Process Diagram

IELTS Writing Task 1 Process

A process diagram is a completely different type of Task 1 question. You describe a process rather than change. In the above example you should describe the brick manufacturing process.

IELTS Writing General Training Task 1

In the General Training IELTS, you write a letter in response to a certain situation. For example, you might have to write:

  • a request for information
  • a complaint

In Task 1 you must write at least 150 words. Ideally, try to write between 170 and 180 words. Read what happens if you go below the word count .

Here is some vocabulary you should try to use in your Task 1 letter .

How do I write an Academic IELTS Writing Task 1?

There are 3 things you need to include in your report:

  • An introduction to the graph
  • An overview of the graph
  • The main details in the graph

Introduction

In your introduction, you describe the subject of the graph, chart or diagram. You should do this by writing, in your own words, the information in the question, title and x/y axes of the graph. When you write something in your own words, you are paraphrasing. IELTS examiners love good paraphrasing!

In the overview you describe the big picture – the main trends, or patterns in the data. But don’t refer to actual data.

Main Details

Then you describe the main details of the graph, chart or diagram in 2 to 3 paragraphs. You need to refer to the data here, but not every single item of data- just the ones that support the overview you gave in the previous chapter.

Read how I use this structure to answer a question about a bar chart .

IELTS Writing Walkthroughs

In the videos below, I write an IELTS Writing Task 1 report in real-time. I take you through the thought process behind writing a good IELTS report, so you can see how I do it.

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Academic Writing Task 1 Sample Essays and Answers

Home  »  IELTS academic task 1  »  Academic Writing Task 1 Sample Essays and Answers

This is your very best resource for writing task 1 IELTS academic sample answers.

The resources are organised into different task types so you can look at several IELTS writing task 1 samples for three common diagrams. Read IELTS Writing Task 1 sample answers and questions to learn how you can describe pie charts, bar charts & line graphs.

There may be a lot of IELTS writing task 1 samples (academic) with hints and tips online, but how can you know you are looking at the very best resources? Some of the ‘perfect’ essays online have been written by non-experts, and while they may be useful to you, they should not be taken as a definitive guide to this section of the test.

Improve your IELTS writing and achieve a great band score on the academic paper with these useful links and model answers.

Each sample answer demonstrates the type of writing skills you will need to successfully complete the IELTS writing module for IELTS writing task 1 and IELTS writing task 2.

Take a look at some  IELTS academic writing task 1  sample questions with IELTS sample charts to help you prepare for your  IELTS exam .

Each bar chart,  pie chart  and line graph question comes with a sample answer to show you how to describe and compare factual information. This may involve describing differences between monthly spending in two countries over a given period or the number of pupils attending different schools.

You will give an overall perspective and may need to describe an upward trend or a slight difference. There are strategies to help you with each particular graph.

Bar charts – IELTS academic writing task 1 samples with extra hints and tips

Bar chart of international student enrolment in British universities 2009-2014

Bar chart of average monthly revenue from retail telecommunication subscribers

Bar chart of increase in total consumption

Bar chart of life expectancy (2006)

Bar chart of percentage of eligible voters registered for each race by state and year

Bar chart of average weekly attacks

Bar chart of pet Owners

Bar chart showing foreign direct investment in Australia over 3 years

Bar chart describing expected city visits by country of origin for 2018 (thousands/year)

Bar chart IELTS academic task 1 sample essay 15: Average life expectancy per country

Bar chart describing calorie sources for UK males at different life periods. Percentage of total intake.

IELTS academic task 1 sample essay 29: Water service reading

IELTS academic task 1 sample essay 28: Waste hauling truck trips

Bar chart IELTS academic task 1 sample essay 4: Book sales by genre across time

IELTS academic task 1 sample essay 27: Unemployment rate in Asia

Bar chart IELTS academic task 1 sample essay 24: Power consumption (per location) for July 2015

Bar chart IELTS academic task 1 sample essay 23: Passenger served per airport terminal

Bar chart IELTS academic task 1 sample essay 21: Hazardous waste inventory 2014

Bar chart and line graph IELTS academic task 1 sample essay 20: Genset diesel monitoring

Bar chart IELTS academic task 1 sample essay 17: Coastline coverage by country

Bar chart IELTS academic task 1 sample essay 12: 5-year carbon dioxide emission in Japan

Bar chart IELTS academic task 1 sample essay 13: Active military manpower per country

Bar chart IELTS academic task 1 sample essay 9: Toyota car sales – Quarterly monitoring

Writing task 1 pie chart sample answers

Pie chart IELTS academic task 1 sample essay 2: 2014 world food consumption

Pie charts of council expenditure by three regions in the UK, 2014

Pie chart IELTS academic task 1 sample essay 11: 2014 deaths due to neurological condition

Pie chart IELTS academic task 1 sample essay 16: Billing distribution for the month of August 2015

Pie chart IELTS academic task 1 sample essay 18: Daily activity distribution per day

Pie chart IELTS academic task 1 sample essay 3: 2014 age distribution in Asia

Line graphs sample answers for task 1

Take a look at our IELTS writing task 1 line graph examples to help you get a  better score  for the academic writing task on your IELTS test. IELTS writing task 1 can be challenging but with practice you will get better and better. The resources below include an IELTS writing task 1 sample answer pdf.

Line graph IELTS academic task 1 sample essay 26: Thermal conductivity of material at 25C

Line graph IELTS academic task 1 sample essay 7: January 2015 temperature variation in the Philippines

Line and bar chart IELTS academic task 1 sample essay 5: Common budget items chart

Jump to a band 7 or it’s FREE

Line graph IELTS academic task 1 sample essay 1: Stock market quarterly watch 2014

Line graph IELTS academic task 1 sample essay 25: Production output for 3rd quarter of 2015

Line graph IELTS academic task 1 sample essay 14: Approval ratings of US President Churchill (10-year term)

Line graph IELTS academic task 1 sample essay 8: Temperature calibration data

PDF 30 academic task 1 essays

Line graph IELTS academic task 1 sample essay 22: Income tax comparison per civil status

As well as using the task 1 sample answers above, take a look at our IELTS writing  academic task 1 tutorials  to help you better prepare for your  IELTS exam and achieve a good IELTS writing band score for IELTS writing task 1. There are plans and tips for using tenses and paraphrasing in this writing section and lots of other resources.

Improve your task achievement, use high-level lexis and avoid common grammar mistakes. We’ll help you write the perfect IELTS writing task 1 overview paragraph, make sure you are able to describe the main features of your chart or diagram and give you the lexical resources you need to be successful. It’s important that you look at all the data but select the most important features in IELTS writing task 1.

Why not choose a writing task 1 sample question and try to do it by yourself? Then you can check the model answer for feedback. You probably won’t have time to attempt to write essays for every task 1 sample answer but you will be able to read all the IELTS task 1 writing samples by clicking on the links.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How to write ielts writing task 1.

  • If you are unsure, re-read some IELTS task 1 sample answers to be clear about the layout you need to use.
  • Take 3 -4 minutes to plan what you’re going to write
  • Take a step back and see the big picture. Understand what you need to do with that graph, chart, map or diagram in task 1.
  • Decide the main points to include.
  • Check for any possible comparisons
  • Choose your language i.e. words and sentence structures

Read  this article  for more tips.

Which tense to use in IELTS writing task 1?

This depends on the data in the graph, chart, map or diagram. First, look at the title given and the x and y axes to see if there are any dates used.  The writing task 1 academic samples can give you lots of different examples.

  • if the year is before the present year (i.e. 1999), use the past tense
  • if the year is after the present year (i.e 2020), use the future tense
  • if there is no year, use the present simple tense

Read  this article  for more details and extra writing task 1 samples.

Tutorials for Academic Task 1

  • How to get band 9 in task 1
  • 5-step plan for task 1
  • How to paraphrase in task 1
  • Academic task 1 marking criteria
  • Five essential writing skills for task 1
  • What tense to use in task 1
  • How to describe percentages
  • Vocabulary to describe a map

TED IELTS

  • A Beginner’s Guide to IELTS
  • Common Grammar Mistakes [for IELTS Writing Candidates]

Writing Correction Service

  • Free IELTS Resources
  • Practice Speaking Test

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How to Structure IELTS Writing Task 1 Essays

Posted by David S. Wills | Aug 24, 2020 | IELTS Tips , Writing | 1

How to Structure IELTS Writing Task 1 Essays

I have written many times about structure on this website, but mostly I have focused on task 2 . Today, however, I am going to take some time to show you how to structure IELTS writing task 1 essays . This often seems like a mystery but in fact it is quite simple and you can usually follow a pretty basic template.

I am going to divide this lesson into two parts. First, we will deal with the IELTS Academic exam and then we will look briefly at the IELTS General exam because these require different structures. Also, keep in mind that IELTS academic writing includes line graphs, pie charts, bar charts, maps, and more, so each of these might require some changes to the essay structure.

IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 Structure

When you do IELTS academic writing task 1, you may find yourself presented with one (or more) of the following:

  • Process diagram

These require quite different language but generally you can apply a similar essay structure to all of them. Whether you are writing about a line graph or a table, you can pretty much use this IELTS writing task 1 template :

Paragraph #1Explain the basic facts of the image
Describe the general trend
Paragraph #2Describe the first group of information
Paragraph #3Describe the second group of information

Let’s establish what “group of information” means

When you are doing IELTS Academic writing task 1, you need to examine the data and then describe it. To do this, you cannot just take a random approach and write about the different features of the data. Instead, you need to highlight the important parts.

This can be difficult, so let’s take an example.

someland smoking line graph

In this line graph, we only have two lines to write about. Clearly, we could write one paragraph about men and one paragraph about women. Easy! Our structure would look like this:

Paragraph #1It’s a line graph about smoking rates
Men increase; women decrease
Paragraph #2Describe the trend for men
Paragraph #3Describe the trend for women

To be honest, that is a very, very easy graph to describe so it was not a challenge. Let’s choose something more difficult to explore:

types of essay ielts task 1

This is not a terribly difficult line graph to describe, but it presents a challenge for our IELTS writing task 1 structure template. How should we group these three lines?

One option is to structure it like this:

Paragraph #1It’s a line graph about tourism
They have opposite trends
Paragraph #2Describe the trend for visitors on the island
Paragraph #3Describe the trend for visitors on ships

Another option is to break the information down according to time:

Paragraph #1It’s a line graph about tourism
They have opposite trends
Paragraph #2Describe the data during the first few years
Paragraph #3Describe the data during the final years

Grouping by Time vs Grouping by Type

The easiest way to group data for IELTS writing task 1 is to put them into different types. For example, in this line graph about a Caribbean island, we could potentially describe the number of people who stayed on the island in one paragraph and then the people who stayed on the ships in another paragraph.

But is this the best way?

When you write an essay with that structure, it becomes harder to compare the data. Remember that your question will always say “make comparisons where relevant.”

This suggests that grouping by time is better for one major reason: You can compare the different types of data over time. In this case, we can see the two sets of data are opposites, which gives us a great chance to make comparisons.

Sample Essay

Here is my sample essay about the Caribbean island.

The line graph displays the numbers of tourists that visited an unnamed Caribbean island between 2010 and 2017. The tourists are divided into two groups – those staying on cruise ships and those staying on the island itself – and these had a loosely inverse correlation. The total number of visitors, however, rose more or less continuously throughout the eight-year period. In the first year recorded, which was 2010, there were about twice as many tourists staying on the island as those staying on cruise ships. A year later, the number staying on cruise ships doubled to a half million, but this dropped back to around a quarter million in 2012. When the figures for tourists on cruise ships dropped, the number staying on the island rose quickly and over the coming few years, as this sudden increased levelled off, the number of people who stayed onboard their ship continued to grow again. Between 2012 and 2017, there were more and more visitors staying on cruise ships. From just a quarter million, this rose to two million, while the figures for those on the island levelled off at just one and a half million and then dropped slightly in the penultimate year, before finishing at one and a half. This meant that, for the final two years, more tourists stayed on cruise ships than on the island.

Can you write more than 3 paragraphs?

I would like to make clear that there is no such thing as the correct IELTS writing task 1 essay structure. It is possible to write a great essay with 2 paragraphs, but it is also possible to do it with 4 paragraphs. I would not recommend writing more than 4 paragraphs and I would certainly not recommend writing just 1! This would show a total lack of understanding of Coherence and Cohesion.

(P.S. – Read all about the number of paragraphs for IELTS writing task 2 here .)

Anyway, let’s look at an example of an essay that might be best described with 4 paragraphs:

newport crime rate line graph

For this task, we have to decide how to group the data. I personally find that the trend for burglary is more interesting than the others because it has much more of a change, which tells me that it should be described first. You could definitely write a paragraph that grouped car thefts and robberies together, but one is much more common than the other, so it might not work well.

I would take this approach:  

Paragraph #1It’s a line graph crime rates
Burglary most common at start, but overtaken by car theft.
Paragraph #2Describe the trend for burglary
Paragraph #3Describe the trend for car theft
Paragraph #4Describe the trend for robbery

Of course, writing this much could mean taking a long time and potentially not finishing your essay. I have written an article about how many words you should write for IELTS, which you can read here .

Sample Essay – 4 Paragraphs

Ok, let’s look at the essay I wrote about crime rates in Newport.

The line graph shows changes in crime rates over a ten-year period in the city centre of Newport. Three types of crimes are listed, two of which ended the period at roughly similar levels to where they began, and one experienced a major drop. In 2003, which was the beginning of the recorded period, burglary was the most common type of crime in Newport, with just under 3,500 cases reported. This rose slightly the following year, before entering into a long downward trend, reaching a low of about 1,200 in 2008. After this, the number of burglaries reported fluctuated until 2012. The number of car thefts was about 2,800 in 2003, and ended the period slightly lower, at 2,700. During the decade-long period, it fluctuated, reaching low points in 2006 and 2008. Car theft was the second most common type of crime in 2003, but the fall in burglaries meant that from 2008 onwards, they were the most common crime in Newport. Robberies were the least common crime and followed a somewhat similar trend to that of car thefts, starting and ending the period with around 700 incidents. It fluctuated only slightly during the ten-year period.

IELTS Writing Task 1 Pie Chart Structure

The previous examples were both line graphs because these are the most common type of IELTS academic writing task 1 question. However, in order to ensure you understand fully, I will also include a pie chart and show you how to structure your essay.

This is actually the most difficult IELTS writing task 1 question I have ever seen!

pie chart about nutrients for ielts

So how could we produce an IELTS writing task 1 essay structure to fit this?

The obvious choice seems to be writing 3 paragraphs, with 1 paragraph for each of the pie charts. That’s sensible, right?

Well, personally I think that would make it harder to draw comparisons between these data. Instead, I will group the data in terms of meals . I will look at the main meals in one paragraph and then snacks in a final paragraph. This allows me to compare all 3 nutrients!

My structure would then look like this:

Paragraph #1There are 3 pie charts about nutrients
2 pie charts are the same; 1 is different
Paragraph #2Talk about breakfast, lunch, and dinner, comparing the various nutrients
Paragraph #3Talk about snacks

**Please note that this is a quite advanced structure and it is difficult to do. I am including it to show you how it is possible to take various approaches and produce a great essay.

Sample Answer

This is my answer to the very difficult question about nutrients:

The pie charts show information about three different kinds of nutrients and their prevalence in typical American meals. There are four kinds of meal mentioned, including snacks. The figures for sodium and saturated fat are loosely similar, but for added sugar they are quite different. Sodium and saturated fat are both extremely common in typical American dinners. According to the pie charts, 43% of sodium is consumed at dinner time as well as 37% of saturated fat, but just 23% of added sugar is found in American dinners. Almost a third of sodium eaten by Americans is consumed at lunch, alongside more than a quarter of saturated fat. Breakfasts contain the lowest amount of these potentially unhealthy ingredients, at 14% sodium and 16% for both saturated fat and added sugar. The figures for snacks look quite different. More than four tenths of the added sugar consumed by Americans came from snacks, which also contained a fifth of the saturated fats and about a sixth of sodium.

IELTS General Training Writing Task 1 Structure

When you take the IELTS General Training (GT) writing test, you will see that task 1 requires you to write a letter. As such, there is no “recommended essay structure” that you can use.

Instead, you should aim to write a letter that follows typical letter-writing conventions and to use paragraphs logically to guide your reader.

How can you structure an IELTS general writing task 1 letter?

I would strongly recommend this sort of approach:

Paragraph #1Say why you are writing
Paragraph #2Explain the issue
Paragraph #3Say what you want the other person to do

Of course, I will say here that you should not take this as a 100% perfect letter template . It is merely a suggestion and you should pay close attention to the actual task you are assigned. This template can usually be adapted to make a good letter, but sometimes you need to add or combine paragraphs. Also, we might have a short paragraph at the start and/or end of the essay to give some friendly greeting or send some kind regards.

For one thing, sometimes you need to give much more weight to one part of the question, which could require using two paragraphs for that and one for the other parts. An example would be:

Paragraph #1Say why you are writing
Paragraph #2Explain the issue
Paragraph #3Continue explaining the issue
Paragraph #4Say what you want the other person to do

How to Adapt an IELTS General Writing Task 1 Format Structure

The people who score band 8 or 9 in IELTS writing are not the ones who memorize structures and vocabulary, or who attempt to predict the questions they will encounter. Instead, these are people who can learn from others but create their own essays and letters by adapting good ideas to the present situation.

Let’s look at an example question from IELTS GT writing task 1.

A large company in your area has decided to spend a certain amount of money, either to sponsor a local children’s sports team for two years, or to pay for two open-air concerts. It has asked for feedback from the general public. Write a letter to the company. In your letter, – describe the benefit of sponsoring the sports ream – summarise the benefits of paying for the concerts – say how you think the company should spend the money

How can we structure a reply to this task?

I am going to use the IELTS general writing task 1 format structure that I suggested above, with two paragraphs of explanation in the middle because there are two sides to the issue. My structure would look like this:

Paragraph #1Say why I am writing
Paragraph #2Explain the benefits of sponsoring a sports team
Paragraph #3Explain the benefits of paying for a concert
Paragraph #4Give my opinion – the sports team is a better option

ielts general writing task 1 format structure

Here is my sample answer to the above question:

Dear Sir or Madam, I am writing in response to your request for input on the decision about either spending money on a sports team or for two open-air concerts. Firstly, if you were to sponsor the children’s sports team, it would obviously be a great investment in the community. Nothing is more important to us than our children’s health and happiness. If you decided to sponsor the football team, this would mean a tremendous amount to many families. The concerts would also be beneficial in bringing the community together in a big event. This would foster some positive experiences and allow people to have fun together doing something they don’t normally do. It might also be good for local businesses. It is my opinion that you invest the money in the sports team as I think this would have the greatest benefit. For two whole years, parents would be able to watch their children play sports, and that is much better than going along to two concerts. Sincerely, David Wills

More Resources

This is a massive topic to cover and so I suggest that you continue reading once you are finished with this article. I have countless lessons on this website about IELTS writing task 1 (both academic and general) that you can read. I also have an IELTS writing task 1 template PDF file here .

More articles about structure:

  • How to Describe a Bar Chart
  • 7 Steps to Structuring an IELTS Essay
  • How to Describe a Process Diagram

About The Author

David S. Wills

David S. Wills

David S. Wills is the author of Scientologist! William S. Burroughs and the 'Weird Cult' and the founder/editor of Beatdom literary journal. He lives and works in rural Cambodia and loves to travel. He has worked as an IELTS tutor since 2010, has completed both TEFL and CELTA courses, and has a certificate from Cambridge for Teaching Writing. David has worked in many different countries, and for several years designed a writing course for the University of Worcester. In 2018, he wrote the popular IELTS handbook, Grammar for IELTS Writing and he has since written two other books about IELTS. His other IELTS website is called IELTS Teaching.

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IELTS Writing Task 1 – Sample Questions and Practice Resources

Student writing in notebook representing an IELTS Writing Task 1 Examples PDF - image by Magoosh

On the IELTS Academic exam, Writing Task 1 requires you to look at an informational graphic and describe the contents of the graphic in writing. In this post, we’ll look at different IELTS Writing Task 1 samples to prepare you for test day. In addition to advice and practice, you’ll also get our IELTS Writing Task 1 Examples PDF with Answers for portable prompts and model answers.

IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 Samples With Answers PDF

If you want a print-friendly version of the IELTS Writing Task 1 samples in this post, click below to access the IELTS Writing Task 1 examples PDF!

Magoosh IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 Samples with Answers PDF - Get the PDF

Note that all the IELTS Writing Task 1 samples are model essays for a band 9 IELTS score. The line graph sample prompt includes a detailed scoring explanation. You can learn more about scores for IELTS Writing Task 1 by consulting the official IELTS rubric .

  • Take a good look at our guide to IELTS Writing Task 1 paragraph structure . The guide tells you everything you need to know about how Writing Task 1 essays and paragraphs should be structured, with an example question and model essay.

IELTS Writing Task 1 Samples: The Major Question Types

Below are questions for each common infographic in IELTS Writing Task 1: bar charts, pie charts, line graphs, process diagrams, and maps.

IELTS Academic Writing Task 1: Line Graph with Model Answer and Scoring Explanation

IELTS Line Graph - image by Magoosh

[/threecol_one_last]

IELTS Academic Writing Task 1: Bar Chart With Model Answer

IELTS Bar Chart - image by Magoosh

Pie Chart with Model Answer

IELTS Pie Chart - image by Magoosh

Process Diagram with Model Answer

IELTS Process Diagram - image by Magoosh

IELTS Academic Writing Task 1: Map with Model Answer

IELTS Map - image by Magoosh

IELTS Academic Writing Task 1: Two Different Types of Graphics

IELTS Graph - image by Magoosh

TOWN AVERAGE ANNUAL RAINFALL (1971-2000)
Kainaliu 138.38
Opihihale 97.53
Holualoa 110.48

[/threecol_two][threecol_one_last]

Additional Resources for Writing Task 1

Now that you’ve seen some models for how this task is done, you should be ready for some real practice! Here are some resources from Magoosh that should help.

  • Practicing using these common IELTS Writing Task 1 and Task 2 linking words .
  • Familiarize yourself with the test with IELTS Academic Writing Task 1: Ultimate Guide video , and use a Writing diagnostic quiz to assess your current strengths and weaknesses.  

  • Use study schedules to help you find time to study and stay motivated. To help you organize your time, use this IELTS study schedule if you only have a week to go before you will take the IELTS. If you have a month, this one month IELTS study schedule offers more extended practice.  
  • Find high-quality study materials. We offer a huge collection of study reources for the whole IELTS Writing seciton ! Don’t forget about Magoosh IELTS Prep which includes lessons on IELTS Writing Task 1 (and all other sections of the exam!) to help you prep smarter. In addition to many video lessons and practice essays, the 6-month plan allows students to get feedback and scoring on four practice IELTS Writing essays; the 1-month plan includes feedback on one essay. You can also browse more recommended books and resources !

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Writing IELTS Task 1 – Grammar for Academic Task 1 Essays –

For Writing IELTS Task 1 essays, you are required to describe the detail in a chart, graph, table, map or diagram, most especially, to record changes in data.  

This will involve:

  • Describing trends
  • Describing increases and decreases
  • Making comparisons

To do this, you will need to use particular sentence structures and these are one of the things we’ll be learning about in this lesson.

We’ll also be looking at common Task 1 verb tenses and other elements of grammar that frequently cause problems for students.

Here's an overview of the lesson:

1) Verb tenses

2) Key sentence structures

3) 2 Common grammatical errors

1) Verb Tenses

The choice of which tense to use will be determined by whether or not the graphic contains dates and, if it does, whether the dates are in the past or the future.

Follow these guidelines:

  • No date  – use the  present tense
  • Dates in the past  – use the  past tense
  • Dates in the future  – use the  future tense

The tenses you are most likely to need are:

   – Present tense  – present simple, present perfect or present perfect continuous

   –  Past tense  – past simple

   –  Future tense  – future simple or the future perfect

The table below gives explanations of these verb tenses and examples from Task 1 essays.

Common Writing IELTS Task 1 Verbs

types of essay ielts task 1

Most graphics will require you to compare data from two or more time periods, for example, past and present or present and future predictions, so you will need to use a range of different tenses in your essay, as appropriate.

The key word in the sentence above is ‘appropriate’. Whilst you will gain marks for using a good range of tenses in your Writing IELTS Task 1 essay, you should never do so just to show that you know many different tenses. Only use the tense that is 100% correct for expressing a specific piece of information. It is accuracy that the examiner is looking for.

2) Key Sentence Structures

The first two steps of writing a great Academic Task 1 essay are to:

  • Analyse the question
  • Identify the main features

I cover these tasks in detail in the lesson on How To Understand & Analyse Task 1 Questions .

Once you’ve done this, you'll understand what you’re required write about. It will be one or more of these things:

  • Describe trends
  • Describe increases and decreases
  • Make comparisons

There are specific sentence structures that you can use for each and these are what we’re going to look at next.

How to Describe Trends

The two most useful grammatical structures for describing trends are:

1) Noun phrase + verb + adverb

    For example,

The number of unemployed women fell significantly.

2) There + be + adjective + in + noun phrase

    For example:

There was a dramatic improvement in the percentage of people in employment.

How to Describe Increases and Decreases

The two most useful grammatical structures for describing increases and decreases are:

For example,

The popularity of social media climbed steadily.

2) There + be + noun + in + noun phrase

There was a fluctuation in university applications.

There is now a swimming pool in the location of the old factory.

How to Make Comparisons

Useful vocabulary for making comparisons includes:

high (er) (est)

large (er) (est)

few (er) (est)

low (er) (est)

small (er) (est)

These words can be used to form many different sentence structures useful for making comparisons, such as.

1) More/fewer/less + noun + than

More teenagers  play computer games  than  a sport.

2) Most/least + adjective

The  most common  childhood illness in 1979 was chickenpox.

3) More/less + adjective + than

Cruises were  more popular than  beach holidays in 2012.

4) High/low/few -er + than

A  lower  number of teenagers play a sport  than  play computer games.

5) High/low/large/small -est

  The  largest  proportion of immigrants came from Mexico.

These sentence structures are valuable tools for getting high marks for your Writing IELTS Task 1 essay, so practice using them.

3) 2 Common Grammatical Errors

For many students, two aspects of grammar that are a particular problem are:

Prepositions

There are two specific prepositions that you will probably use numerous times in your Task 1 essay when reporting change – ‘in’ and ‘of’. They are easy to get wrong.

Follow this general rule:

  • When stating the specific value of the change (number, amount, percentage etc.) – use ‘of’ .
  • When stating what has changed – use ‘in’ .

For example:

  • An increase  of  20%.
  • An increase  in  the number of over 60’s taking exercise classes.
  • A drop  of  almost a half.
  • A drop  in  house prices.
  • An improvement  of  45 units per week.
  • An improvement  in  retail sales from April to June.

‘Of’ is also used  after  a value. You will probably want to use proportional values in your Task 1 essay so here are some examples.

  • a small percentage of
  • just under a quarter of
  • exactly a half of
  • roughly three quarters of
  • a significant majority of
  • a high number of

You'll find lots more vocabulary for expressing proportional values in Writing IELTS Task 1 essays on this page:  Vocabulary for Task 1 Academic Essays

Another preposition to learn is ‘between’ which you will need to make comparisons. For example,

The price of houses went into sharp decline  between  1980 and 1985 but increased significantly from 1986 to 1990.

Many languages do not have articles, and native speakers of those languages can find it a huge challenge to remember to use them.

In English, there are three articles – the , a , and an . Each is used in specific instances.

1)  With singular and plural nouns:

  • Use  the  before singular and plural nouns when the noun is a specific thing. For example,

The  bar graph illustrates how many male and female students were studying full-time and part-time in Britain during the years 1970/1971, 1980/1 and 1990/1.

  • Use  a  or  an  before a singular noun or noun phrase when the noun is non-specific and could be any one of a group or type.
  • Use  a  before a noun or noun phrase beginning with a consonant. Use  an  before a noun or noun phrase beginning with a vowel.

Less than 30% of the population took  a  foreign holiday between 1975 and 1985.

There was an upward trend in families taking  an  annual holiday abroad after 1990.

2)  Noun combinations:

Also, use  a/an  before adjective singular noun combinations such as these from our preposition list:

  • an insignificant minority of

The key to improving your grammar is to know your weaknesses and focus on these as you practice and when you check your work in the exam.

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Writing ielts task 1 (academic)  – all lessons.

IELTS Academic Writing  –  A summary of the test including important facts, test format & assessment.

Academic Writing Task 1  – The format, the 7 question types & sample questions, assessment & marking criteria.  All the key information you need to know.

Understanding Task 1 Questions  – How to quickly and easily analyse and understand IELTS Writing Task 2 questions.

How To Plan a Task 1 Essay  –  Discover  3 reasons why you must plan, the 4 simple steps of essay planning and learn a simple 4 part essay structure.

Vocabulary for Task 1 Essays  –  Learn key vocabulary for a high-scoring essay. Word lists & a downloadable PDF.

Grammar for Task 1 Essays   – Essential grammar for Task 1 Academic essays including, verb tenses, key sentence structures, articles & prepositions.

The 7 Question Types:

Click the links below for a step-by-step lesson on each type of Task 1 question.

  • Table Chart
  • Process Diagram
  • Multiple Graphs
  • IELTS Writing
  • Grammar For Task 1
  • Back To Top

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Preparation for the IELTS Exam

IELTS Writing Task 1

IELTSwritingtask1

The IELTS academic exam writing task 1 consists of 6 types of charts such as process diagrams, maps , bar charts , pie charts , tables, or line graphs . You will need to write a report about one of these, but remember it is very different to writing task 2, it is not an ‘essay’ it is a factual report.

In academic task 1, there must be an overview and a factual description of the main parts of the task, no opinion is given, and do not write a conclusion for this type of task. This part of the test is worth one-third of your marks for the writing section, writing task 2 is worth much more in marks.

You only have about 20 minutes to complete writing task 1. For tips and advice on word count in task 1 writing click this link here to find out more.

IELTS general writing task 1 lessons.

Guide to IELTS academic and general writing task 1

How to write an informal letter in IELTS General

How to write a formal letter in IELTS General

Model answer for a formal letter: Job application

Model answer for an informal letter: Selling a Laptop

Model answer for an informal letter: Letter to a friend about a problem at work

Model answer for an informal letter: Letter to a friend about doing exercise

Model answer for a formal letter: Asking your boss for time off

IELTS academic writing task 1 lessons.

Grammar and vocabulary:.

Academic writing task 1 vocabulary: ‘number, amount, figure, total, accounted for’

Using vocabulary accurately to report on figures in writing task 1.

Vocabulary and grammar for describing trends.

Paraphrasing statistics.

How to use prepositions accurately.

Model Answer: Present-future maps IELTS 17, Norbiton town

Model answer: Floor plan lesson with grammar and analysis.

Model answer: 2 Maps with key grammar and vocabulary .

Model answer: 3 Diagrams/maps with model and analysis.

Model answer: 2 maps of a park layout with model answer and tips.

Process Diagrams:

Model answer: IELTS 19 book, how ethanol is produced.

Model answer: How instant noodles are manufactured.

Model answer: How geothermal energy produces electricity

Model answer and grammar: The process of making dairy products.

Model answer and analysis: Recycling process of aluminium drinks cans.

Model answer: Natural process diagram on the lifecycle of a honey bee.

Bar charts:

Model answer and analysis: IELTS 18 bar graph on household income in the USA.

Model answer: Coffee and tea drinking habits in Australia (making comparisons)

Model answer and analysis: Fast food restaurants in the USA bar graph.

Model answer: Bar graph about passengers using public transport.

Model answer and analysis: UK telephone calls bar chart .

Line graphs:

Model answer:  IELTS 17 book, shop openings and closures.

Model answer and analysis: CO2 emissions in four different countries.

How to write about line graphs with a future trend.

Line graph with a future trend: US energy consumption by fuel source (model answer).

Pie Charts:

Two model answers: 3 pie charts making comparisons about 4 types of nutrients.

Model answer: Pie chart and table about postgraduate students.

Model answer: Visitors to a museum, 2 pie charts with a table and exercise.

Model answer: Fuel sources in France, two pie charts.

Model answer and analysis: Underground railways in 6 cities.

Model answer and analysis: Consumer spending in 5 different countries.

Model answer: Factory workers table with dynamic data.

1. Line Graph

types of essay ielts task 1

2. Pie Charts

ielts writing task 1 pie charts

3. Process Diagram

types of essay ielts task 1

5. Bar Chart

IELTS Table

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IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 Samples

Prepare for the IELTS Academic Test by using this collection of IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 practice samples. This collection is a great way to gain insight and practice for the exam.

The diagram below shows the manufacturing process for making sugar from sugar cane. Summerise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

types of essay ielts task 1

The diagram below shows the process for recycling plastic bottles. Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

types of essay ielts task 1

The graph below shows US consumers' average annual expenditures on cell phone and residential phone services between 2001 and 2010. Write a report for a university, lecturer describing the information shown below. Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features and make comparisons where relevant.

types of essay ielts task 1

The pie chart below show the most common advantages and disadvantages of Bowen Island , according to a survey of Visitors . Summaries the information by selecting and re reporting the main features , and make comparisons where relevant .

The pie chart below show the most common advantages and disadvantages of Bowen Island , according to a survey of Visitors . Summaries the information by selecting and re reporting the main features , and make comparisons where relevant .

The graph below shows the number of overseas visitors who came to the uk for different purposes between 1989 and 2009. Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features and make comparisons where relevant.

The graph below shows the number of overseas visitors who came to the uk for different purposes between 1989 and 2009. Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features and make comparisons where relevant.

The graphs below the transport modes in European city between 1960 and 2000. Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

The graphs below the transport modes in European city between 1960 and 2000. Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

The graph below gives information about the percentage of the population in four Asian countries living in cities from 1970 to 2020, with predictions for 2030 and 2040. Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

types of essay ielts task 1

The bar chart gives data about people within 15 minute drive service in an unspecific area in UK and comparing between two areas in urban and rural.

The bar chart gives data about people within 15 minute drive service in an unspecific area in UK and comparing between two areas in urban and rural.

The chart shows the information relating to people within 15 minute drive service in a particular region in the UK. It also compares the people living in urban areas and people living in rural areas. write a report for a university lecturer describing the information given below.

The chart shows the information relating to people within 15 minute drive service in a particular region in the UK. It also compares the people living in urban areas and people living in rural areas. write a report for a university lecturer describing the information given below.

The chart below gives information on agricultural exports from the United States in 2019 and 2020. Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features and make comparisons where relevant.

types of essay ielts task 1

The chart shows the infromation relating to people within 15 minute drive service in a particular region in UK. It also compares the people living in urban areas and people living in rural areas. write a report for a university lecturer describing the information given below

The chart shows the infromation relating to people within 15 minute drive service in a particular region in UK. It also compares the people living in urban areas and people living in rural areas. write a report for a university lecturer describing the information given below

The given table provides vital data about the amount of fast food consumed in Melbourne from 2005 to the present time and predictions for the near future.

The given table provides vital data about the amount of fast food consumed in Melbourne from 2005 to the present time and predictions for the near future.

The maps below show the changes that occurred to a town named Willington in 1780, 1860, and 2000. Summarize the information by selecting and reporting the main features and make comparisons where relevant.

The maps below show the changes that occurred to a town named Willington in 1780, 1860, and 2000. Summarize the information by selecting and reporting the main features and make comparisons where relevant.

The graph below gives information about the percentage of the population in four Asian countries living in cities from 1970 to 2020, with prediction for 2030 and 2040. Summarize the information bt selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparison where relevant.

types of essay ielts task 1

The charts below show the average percentages in typical meals of three types of nutrients, all of which may be unhealthy if eaten too much. Summarize the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant. Write at least 150 words.

types of essay ielts task 1

The diagram shows a process of making a storage area from a material called concrete canvas (rewrite)

The diagram shows a process of making a storage area from a material called concrete canvas (rewrite)

the table below shows data on the number of travellers using three major British airports between 1998 and 2003. summerise the information by selecting and reporting the main features,and make comparisons where relevant.

types of essay ielts task 1

The chart below shows the value of one’s country in various categories durin 2015 and 2016. The table shows the percentage change in each category of exports in 2016 compared with 2015. Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

types of essay ielts task 1

The chart below shows the value of one country’s exports in various categories during 2015 and 2016. The table show the percentage change in each category of exports in 2016 compared with 2015.

The chart below shows the value of one country’s exports in various categories during 2015 and 2016. The table show the percentage change in each category of exports in 2016 compared with 2015.

The charts below show the percentages of men and women aged 60-64 in employment in four countries in 1970 and 2000 Summaries the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparison where relevant. You should write at least 150 words.

types of essay ielts task 1

The diagram shows a process of making a storage area from a material called concrete canvas

The diagram shows a process of making a storage area from a material called concrete canvas

The diagram below shows how rainwater is collected and converted to drinking water in an Australian town. Write a report for a university lecturer describing the picture below. Write at least 150 words.

types of essay ielts task 1

The graph below shows the production levels of the main kinds of fuel in the UK between 1981 and 2000. Summarize the formation by selecting and reporting the main features and make comparisons where relevant.

types of essay ielts task 1

The maps below show the centre of a small town called Islip as it is now, and plans for its development Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant

types of essay ielts task 1

The chart below shows the average hours spent per day in leisure and sports activities by youngest and oldest populations in the US in 2015.

The chart below shows the average hours spent per day in leisure and sports activities by youngest and  oldest populations in the US in 2015.

The graph below shows the average monthly change in the prices of three metals during 2014.

The graph below shows the average monthly change in the prices of three metals during 2014.

The chart and table below give information about tourists at a particular holiday resort in australia. Sumerise the information by selecting and reporting the main features and make comparations where relevant

The chart and table below give information about tourists at a particular holiday resort in australia. Sumerise the information by selecting and reporting the main features and make comparations where relevant

The charts below show the results of a survey about what people of different age groups say makes them most happy. Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

types of essay ielts task 1

The diagram shows the life cycle of honey bee.

The diagram shows the life cycle of honey bee.

The graph below gives information on the numbers of participants for different activities at one social centre in Melbourne, Australia for the period 2000 to 2020.

The graph below gives information on the numbers of participants for different activities at one social centre in Melbourne, Australia for the period 2000 to 2020.

The line graph shows visits to and from the UK from 1979 to 1999, and the bar graph shows the most popular countries visited by UK residents in 1999. ▪️Summarize the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

types of essay ielts task 1

➢ You should spend about 20 minutes on this task. The graph gives information about the age of the population of Iceland between 1990 and 2020. Summarize the information by selecting and reporting the main features and make comparisons where relevant. You should write at least 150 words.

types of essay ielts task 1

The chart below shows the main methods of transportation for people traveling to one university for work and study in 2004 and 2009

The chart below shows the main methods of transportation for people traveling to one university for work and study in 2004 and 2009

Below is a map of the city of Brandfield. City planners have decided to build a new shopping mall for the area, and two sites, S1 and S2 have been proposed. Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features and make comparisons where relevant.

types of essay ielts task 1

The maps below show an industrial area in the town of Norbition, and planned furure development of the site. Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

types of essay ielts task 1

The chart below shows the expenditure of two countries on consumer goods in 2010.

The chart below shows the expenditure of two countries on consumer goods in 2010.

The chart below give the number of people employed in five types of work in a certain region in Australia in 2001 and 2008.

The chart below give the number of people employed in five types of work in a certain region in Australia in 2001 and 2008.

The bar chart below shows the top ten countries for the production and consumption of electricity in 2014. Summarize the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

types of essay ielts task 1

The graph below gives information about how much people in the United States and the United Kingdom spend on petrol. Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

The graph below gives information about how much people in the United States and the United Kingdom spend on petrol. Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

The charts show the average velocity of traffic over a fifty-year period with a forecast for the future and the amount of urban areas by country.

The charts show the average velocity of traffic over a fifty-year period with a forecast for the future and the amount of urban areas by country.

The graph beow shows the number of tourists visiting a particular Caribbean island between 2010 and 2017. Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

types of essay ielts task 1

The pie charts show the revenue sources and expenditure of a children’s charity in the USA in one year.

The pie charts show the revenue sources and expenditure of a children’s charity in the USA in one year.

The map below shows the development of the town of Stromer between 1995 and now. Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparison where relevant.

types of essay ielts task 1

The chart below shows what Anthropology graduates from one university did after finishing their undergraduate degree course. The table shows the salaries of the anthropologists in work after five years. Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons hwre relavant.

types of essay ielts task 1

The graph below gives information from 2008 report about consumption of energy in the USA since 1980 with projection until 2030. The graph below gives information from 2008 report about consumption of energy in the USA since 1980 with projection until 2030.

types of essay ielts task 1

The graph below shows our methods of dealing with waste in four countries. Summary the information by selecting and reporting the main features and make comparisons where relevant.

The graph below shows our methods of dealing with waste in four countries. Summary the information by selecting and reporting the main features and make comparisons where relevant.

The bar chart below shows the top ten countries for the production and consumption of electricity in 2014. Summerize the information by selecting and reporting the main features and make comparisons where relevant. Write at least 150 words.

types of essay ielts task 1

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task The table below shows expenditures of four car companies on advertising in the UK in 2002. Write at least 150 words.

types of essay ielts task 1

The two pie charts show how different industries used electricity in 1995 and 2005. Summarize the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant

The two pie charts show how different industries used electricity in 1995 and 2005. Summarize the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant

The charts below give information on average life expectancy in four countries, from 1993 to 2008. Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

types of essay ielts task 1

The map below shows the plan of a proposed new town. Summarize the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

The map below shows the plan of a proposed new town. Summarize the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

The maps below show the changes that took place at a science and technology museum between 1996 and 2016. Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

types of essay ielts task 1

The line chart displays the cities population proportion in Philippines, Malaysia, Thailand, and Indonesia between 1970 and 2020, along with the projections for 2030 and 2040.

The line chart displays the cities population proportion in Philippines, Malaysia, Thailand, and Indonesia between 1970 and 2020, along with the projections for 2030 and 2040.

The charts below show the number of Japanese tourists travelling abroad between 1985 and 1995 and Australia's share of the Japanese tourist market. Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

types of essay ielts task 1

The table and charts below give information on the police budget for 2017 and 2018 in one area of Britain. The table shows where the money came from and the charts show how it was distributed.

The table and charts below give information on the police budget for 2017 and 2018 in one area of Britain. The table shows where the money came from and the charts show how it was distributed.

The chart below gives information about how families in one country spend their weekly income in 1968 and in 2018.

The chart below gives information about how families in one country spend their weekly income in 1968 and in 2018.

The diagram illustrates the process that is used to manufacture bricks for the building industry.

The diagram illustrates the process that is used to manufacture bricks for the building industry.

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task. The graph below shows average carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions per person in the United Kingdom, Sweden, Italy, and Portugal between 1967 and 2007. Summarize the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

types of essay ielts task 1

The bar chart compares the total number of vehicles per one thousand people in China who owns a car in the years 1987 to 1999.

The bar chart compares the total number of vehicles per one thousand people in China who owns a car in the years 1987 to 1999.

The chart below give the number of people employed in five types of work in a certain region in Australia in 2001 and 2008. Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

types of essay ielts task 1

The table below shows how the UK unemployed spent their time last year. Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

types of essay ielts task 1

The diagrams below show the changes that have taken place at Queen Mary Hospital since its construction in 1960. Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

types of essay ielts task 1

The chart below gives information about how families in one country spend their weekly income in 1968 and in 2018. Summaries the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

types of essay ielts task 1

The graph below shows the number of shops that closed and the number of new shops that opened in one country between 2011 and 2018.

The graph below shows the number of shops that closed and the number of new shops that opened in one country between 2011 and 2018.

the graph below shows the averege no of movies seen in a theater per year by age group . summarize the inf by selecting and reporting the main features and make compaisons where relevant .

types of essay ielts task 1

The chart shows the number of international students studying at a UK university between 1995 and 2015. Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features and make comparisons where relevant.

types of essay ielts task 1

The bar chart below illustrates five different industries' percentage share of Country B's economy in 2005 and 2015 with a forecast for 2025. Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

types of essay ielts task 1

The pie charts give information about the world’s forest in five different regions. Summarize the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant

types of essay ielts task 1

The table shows the percentage of people with mobile phones who use various features on their phone between 2006 and 2010. Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

types of essay ielts task 1

The chart below gives information on the percentage of British people giving money to charity by age range for the years 1990 and 2010. Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

types of essay ielts task 1

the chart below shows the percentage of housholds in owned and rented accommodation in England and wales between 1918 and 2011.

the chart below shows the percentage of housholds in owned and rented accommodation in England and wales between 1918 and 2011.

The graph below provides information on the nuber of students from the US, UK and Australia who studied in other countries between 2002 and 2007.

The graph below provides information on the nuber of students from the US, UK and Australia who studied in other countries between 2002 and 2007.

The chart below give information on the percentage of British people giving money to charity by age range for the years 1990 and 2010. Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features and make comparisons where relevant

types of essay ielts task 1

The graph below shows the average trip length (in miles) among U.S. children aged 5 to 15 years old. Sunrise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons were relevant.

types of essay ielts task 1

The chart below contains information provided by Australia's tertiary insititutions about the percentage of male and female students who enrolled in different subjects in 1995.

The chart below contains information provided by Australia's tertiary insititutions about the percentage of male and female students who enrolled in different subjects in 1995.

The diagram below shows the floor plan of a public library 20 years ago and how it looks now. Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant. Vite at least 150 words.

types of essay ielts task 1

The pie charts below show the proportion of carbohydrates, protein and fat in three different diets. Summarize the main features and make comparisons where relevant.

The pie charts below show the proportion of carbohydrates, protein and fat in three different diets. Summarize the main features and make comparisons where relevant.

The charts below show the changes in ownership of electrical appliances and amount of time spent doing housework in households in one country between 1920 and 2019. Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and maire comparisons where refevant.

types of essay ielts task 1

The diagram below shows how oil is expected in use of production of perfume

The diagram below shows how oil is expected in use of production of perfume

The graph below shows the differences in wheat exports over three different areas. Write a areport for a university lecturer describing the information shown below.

The graph below shows the differences in wheat exports over three different areas. Write a areport for a university lecturer describing the information shown below.

The chart below shows the amount of leisure time enjoyed by men and women of different employment status. Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

The chart below shows the amount of leisure time enjoyed by men and women of different employment status. Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

The diagrams below show the development of the horse over a period of 40 million years. Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

The diagrams below show the development of the horse over a period of 40 million years. Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

The three pie charts below show the changes in annual spending by local authorities in Someland in 1980, 1990 and 2000.Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

The three pie charts below show the changes in annual spending by local authorities in Someland in 1980, 1990 and 2000.Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

The chart below gives information about Southland’s main exports in 2000, 2020, and future projections for 2025. Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

The chart below gives information about Southland’s main exports in 2000, 2020, and future projections for 2025. Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

The table shows the cost of water in 5 cities in Australia. Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features.

The table shows the cost of water in 5 cities in Australia. Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features.

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types of essay ielts task 1

Common IELTS writing task 1 types

On the IELTS test, there are various question types you could be asked on Task 1. Here's a list of the types of questions you could have on Task 1 and some strategies to deal with the different question types.

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On the IELTS test, there are various question types you could be asked on Task 1. However, there are only so many types of questions you can get and some are more common than others. Here's a list of the types of questions you could have on Task 1 and some strategies to deal with the different question types.

Line Graphs

Line graphs commonly occur in Task 1 on the IELTS exam. The topics vary and there may be one or multiple lines, representing various types of information, over different periods of time.

Population Growth of India and China - IELTS Writing Task 1

The graph below shows the population of India and China since the year 2000 and predicts population growth until 2050.

Summarize the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

Bar charts or bar graphs are another common Task 1 question type. Again, there could be one topic or multiple topics all on one chart. The chart could also be vertical or horizontal.

Weight Assessment of inhabitants of Charlestown 1955 compared to 2015 - IELTS writing task 1

The charts represent the weight measurements of people living in Charlestown in 1955 and 2015. Summarize the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

Pie charts don't happen as often as line graphs and bar charts, but are sometimes a question type in Task 1 on the IELTS exam.

The charts below show the reasons why people travel to work by bicycle or by car. Summarize the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

Tables are also a possible Task 1 question on the IELTS exam. Again, there can be various topics included in one table.

Languages with the most native speakers - IELTS Writing Task 1

The table below gives information about languages with the most native speakers. Summarize the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

Processes do not occur as often on the test, but they do appear as a Task 1 question. There can be a wide range of processes, such as how machines work or how food is processed.

Diagram of a structure used to turn wave power in to electricity - IELTS Writing Task 1

The diagrams show a structure that is used to generate electricity from wave power.

Just like the process diagrams, maps don’t occur very often as a Task 1, but they do appear from time to time. The maps are usually of cities and towns which have developed over a period of time.

Queen Mary Hospital changes since construction - IELTS Writing Task 1

The diagrams below show the changes that have taken place at Queen Mary Hospital since its construction in 1960.

Combinations

The combination of different task types such as a graph and a pie chart, or a table and a bar graph, happens quite often on the IELTS exam. Although they happen often, you should know how to write each task type individually, and then you'll be able to combine them more easily

Transport and car use in Edmonton - IELTS Writing task 1

People’s reasons for using the car in city

Commute to work

55%

Shopping

15%

Leisure activities

15%

Taking children to school

40%

Business

 45%

The diagrams below give information on transport and car use in Edmonton.

Development

The task of writing about a development only happens once in awhile but is still a possibility. This task can be similar to the process and map questions that can also occur on the IELTS exam.

Diagram on the evolution of the horse - IELTS Writing Task 1

The diagram below gives information on the evolution of the horse. Summarize the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

Now that you're more aware of the types of Task 1 questions you may encounter, here are some strategies for writing about any of these types of Task 1 questions on the IELTS exam.

Know specific vocabulary for the task

For task types such as line graphs, bar charts, and pie charts, try to use specific language such as adjective-noun and verb-adverb combinations. This vocabulary works for chronological graphs and charts. Comparatives and superlatives work well for graphs and charts that compare data. With tasks such as processes, maps, and developments, try to use specific language to the topic. This may be language you already know or the vocabulary that is used in the diagram. Using the proper language to describe how you think the process works is more important than knowing exactly how the process works.

Know tense and voice

Make sure to write in the correct tense. Look at the period of time indicated if there is one, and decide if it's in the past, present, future, or if there is no time period. If the latter example is the case, use the present tense. For future, or predicted information, there is also special language used.

When doing task types such as graphs, charts, and tables, use the active voice. When doing task types such as processes, maps, and developments, use the passive voice. Making this distinction can mean a higher overall band score.

Take time to analyze before writing

Make sure to look at the task type and think about what you are going to write before you put pencil to paper. Say it to yourself and decide if it makes sense. If it doesn't, don't write it down. Try to say it to yourself clearly before you write it down. If it's clear to you, it may be easier to understand from the examiner’s standpoint.

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IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 in 5 Easy Steps

types of essay ielts task 1

Writing Task 1

IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 requires you to write 150 words about data (in the form of a bar chart, line graph, pie chart or table), a process or map . This is a skill many students have not practiced before and don’t do so well as a result. The key to doing well in Writing Task 1  is knowing how your essay is marked and then using this information to give the examiner exactly what they want.

I advise my students to use a 5 step approach:

  • Understand the marking criteria
  • Paraphrase the question
  • Write an overview
  • Support overview with detail
  • Check your work

By breaking the task down into smaller parts the task becomes much easier. Below I will look at each of the 5 steps in more detail and then give you some sample answers so you can see what it looks like in practice.

Note : Please note that I will be giving you the opportunity to correct my work at the end so if you see some mistakes don’t go crazy in the comments section. Mistakes are intentional to demonstrate the value of checking your work and allowing people to really think about the answer.

We will be using the question below to help us:

types of essay ielts task 1

1. Marking Criteria

There are four marking criteria for Task 1:

Task Achievement

Coherence and cohesion, lexical resource, grammatical range and accuracy.

Each of these is worth 25% of your total mark.

Don’t worry if you don’t understand what these phrases mean, I will go through each of them in more detail below and explain what they mean in simpler language. You can access the official marking criteria .

Task Achievement  refers to your ability to answer the question properly. In order to do this you have to do all the things the question asks you to do and write a clear, well developed answer.

You will get a higher score if you:

  • Select the main/key features of the graph, chart, map or process.
  • Write a clear overview that includes the main/key features (main trends, differences, stages etc.) of the graph, chart, map or process.
  • Support them with accurate detail.
  • Write at least 150 words.

Coherence refers to your ability to connect your main ideas together so that they make sense and are easy to understand. This is mostly done at paragraph level. Are your paragraphs in a logical order? Is there one clear main idea in every paragraph? Is it easy to understand the main idea of each paragraph?

You will get a higher score for coherence if you:

  • Introduce your essay by paraphrasing the question in the first paragraph.
  • Separate your ideas into paragraphs.
  • Making it clear which paragraph is your overview.
  • Having very clear ideas in your overview.
  • Supporting the main points in your overview in separate paragraphs.
  • Making it clear what each paragraph is about.

Cohesion refers to the connection of ideas at sentence and paragraph level. Are your sentences and ideas linked together?

You will get a higher score for cohesion if you:

  • Use a range of linking words when appropriate.
  • Use linking words accurately.
  • Do not over-use linking words.

Lexical resource refers to your ability to use vocabulary both accurately and appropriately.

You will get a higher score for vocabulary if you:

  • Paraphrase the question correctly.
  • Vary your vocabulary using synonyms.
  • Avoid vocabulary mistakes.
  • Spell words correctly.
  • Use appropriate vocabulary to describe trends, comparisons, stages, changes etc.

This refers to your ability to write sentences with no mistakes and also use a range of grammatical structures.

  • Do not make errors .
  • Use a range of appropriate tenses.
  • Use a range of appropriate structures.
  • Use both simple and complex sentences .
  • Use correct punctuation.

2. Paraphrase Question

Now that we know how the exam is marked we can give the examiners exactly what they want and prevent common mistakes that stop people getting a high score.

Our very first sentence in Task 1 should always be a paraphrase of the question. Paraphrasing is when we rewrite phrase or sentence so that it has different words but keeps the same meaning. We can do this in a number of different ways, but the simplest way is to use synonyms.

For example:

Question : ‘The chart below shows the changes in three different areas of crime in Manchester city centre from 2003-2012.’

Paraphrased : ‘The line graph displays alterations for burglary, car theft and robbery in the centre of Manchester between 2003 and 2012.’

The synonyms we used:

chartline graph
showsdisplays
changesalterations
different areas of crimeburglary, car theft and robbery
Manchester city centrethe centre of Manchester
frombetween

So with a few simple synonyms we have paraphrased the sentence and shown the examiner that we can use this skill effectively and that we have a wide ranging vocabulary, thus two big ticks towards a high score.

This should be your very first paragraph and we should then skip a line to show the examiner that we are starting a new paragraph- the overview .

3. Overview

The overview is the most important paragraph in the whole essay and it is impossible to get a high score if you don’t write a good one.

The question for Academic Task 1 is always the same. It states:

Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features , and make comparisons where relevant.

We therefore need to provide a short summary of the main features. You do this in the overview paragraph by picking out 3-4 of the most significant things you can see and writing them in general terms. By general, I mean you do not support anything you see with data from the graph or chart, just write about what you can see at first glance.

A problem students often have is limiting themselves to just three or four things. There is so much information and it can all seem relevant.

When things are complicated in the IELTS exam, think of a way to simplify them. To make this task easier, think about this way: if someone asked you to tell them three things and three things only about the graph what would they be? Thinking this way stops you looking at all the data and focuses your mind on picking out the most important points.

With line graphs we should look out for what happens generally between the start date and the end date.

Let’s look at our example again and pick out the ‘ main features .’

types of essay ielts task 1

If I had to say just three general things about the graph above, they would be:

  • Burglary decreases dramatically.
  • Car theft increases steadily.
  • Robbery remains steady throughout the period.

That’s it. You don’t need to over-complicate it. Just find the three or four most obvious things and pick them out.

We are now ready to take our three main features and add them to our overview paragraph. An overview paragraph should normally be 2 sentences and state the main features in general terms. Never support the main features with data in the overview. Dates are fine, but don’t use any other numbers.

Our overview paragraph will look like this:

The most noticeable trend is that burglary fell dramatically over the period. Car theft fluctuated until 2008, upon which it rose steadily; whereas the number of robberies remained relatively stable between 2003 and 2012.

Again, this paragraph is very simple, clear and easy to read. Please see our Task 1 grammar guide for more ways to describe general trends.

Now that we have finished our overview it is time to support it with more detail in the next two paragraphs.

4. Support Overview with Detail

We reported three main features in the overview and now we must take each of those features and describe them in more detail.

  • If we take robbery first we notice that it goes up a little first, then there is a big drop until 2008 when it goes up slightly and then remains steady.
  • Car theft goes up and down slightly (fluctuates) until 2008, when it rises steadily.
  • Robbery also fluctuates throughout the period but not by much. It rises slightly and drops, then remains steady  for a number of years, before rising and falling slightly again.

Now that we have looked at these in more detail we need to put them into sentences.

Burglaries started at just below three and a half thousand in 2003 and apart from a small rise of around five hundred offences in 2004, fell drastically to just over one thousand incidents in 2008. 2009 saw a slight rise to just below fifteen hundred and it remained in and around this figure until the end of the time period.  From 2003 to 2008 the number of car thefts shifted between just below two thousand five hundred and just over two thousand, before rising steadily to nearly three thousand in 2013. Over the entire period robbery never rose above one thousand and did not go under five hundred.  

5. Check Your Work

The first draft of our essay looks like this:

The line graph displays alterations for burglary, car theft and robbery in the centre of Manchester between 2003 and 2012. The most noticeable trend is that burglary fell dramatically over the period. Car theft fluctuated until 2008, upon which it rose steadily; whereas the number of car thefts remained relatively stable between 2003 and 2012. Burglary started at just below three and a half thousand in 2003 and apart from a small rise of around five hundred offences in 2004, fell drastically to just over one thousand incidents in 2008. 2009 saw a slight rise to just below fifteen hundred in 2009 and it remained in and around this figure until the end of the time period.  From 2003 to 2008 the number of car thefts shifted between just below two thousand five hundred and just over two thousand, before rising steadily to nearly three thousand in 2013. Over the entire period robbery never rose above one thousand and did not go under five hundred.

We now should have a few minutes to check our work for mistakes and see if there are any improvements we could make. This is a crucial stage and you should aim to have at least 3-4 minutes at the end to check and improve everything.

When we check our work we should:

  • Check spelling and punctuation
  • Check verb tenses. Are they the correct tense?
  • Check accuracy of the data used.
  • Check vocabulary. Is there any repetition we could remove with synonyms?
  • Check paragraphing.
  • Check word limit. Over 150?

You should write your answer in pencil so you can make quick alterations.

Check the draft essay above. What changes would you make?

Sample Essay

Here is another question and an example of a good answer so you can see the 5 step system in action.

types of essay ielts task 1

The chart gives information on average monthly temperatures in Paris, Boston and Melbourne.  Paris and Boston have similar climates; both having lower temperatures between November and March and higher temperatures for the rest of the year, peaking in July and August. Melbourne has the opposite cycle with cooler temperatures between May and August, with the hotter months being from September to April.  Boston’s coldest month is January with an average temperature of just under 5 Celsius and the weather gets increasingly hotter until it reaches a peak of over 30 degrees. It then continues to decline by approximately 5 degrees per month until December. Similarly January is also Paris’s coldest, but with a milder temperature of just below 10 C and it steadily rises until it reaches a peak of just under 25 C in July and August, before becoming consistently cooler until the end of the year.  In contrast, January and December are Melbourne’s hottest months when temperatures average just over 25 degrees Celsius. They then steadily fall each month until they get to a low of around 15 degrees, before getting warmer each month until December. 

types of essay ielts task 1

About Christopher Pell

My name is Christopher Pell and I'm the Managing Director of IELTS Advantage.

I started IELTS Advantage as a simple blog to help 16 students in my class. Several years later, I am very humbled that my VIP Course has been able to help thousands of people around the world to score a Band 7+ in their IELTS tests.

If you need my help with your IELTS preparation, you can send me an email using the contact us page.

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Structure & Paragraphs for IELTS Writing Task 1

Learn how many paragraphs for your IELTS Writing Task 1 with tips about where to put your overview statement. In writing task 1, the examiner will mark you on your structure as part of the marking criterion of Coherence & Cohesion, which is 25% of your marks. Below you learn about how to structure your writing, how to organise information into the right paragraphs and which paragraph is the most important.

IELTS Writing Task 1 Structure

In writing task 1, you will be asked to write a report for a bar chart, line graph, table, pie charts, maps or diagram. All IELTS Writing Task 1 have the same structure, regardless of which task you are given. There are four main paragraphs that you need to use for task one. Only occasionally will there be five.

Introduction Paragraph

Overview paragraph.

  • Body Paragraph 1
  • Body Paragraph 2
  • Body Paragraph 3 (not usual, but occasionally possible)

Remember, IELTS writing task 1 is a report, not an essay. This means the structure will be different and the examiner is looking for an overview, not a conclusion. 

IELTS Writing Task 1 Paragraphs

Below read about the individual paragraphs you need in your writing task 1 report.

The first paragraph will be your introduction and that contains a description of the graph – what it shows. IELTS will always give you a  description and you can use that information for your introduction but don’t copy it. You need to  paraphrase it. So write it again using your own English.

This is your chance to introduction information such as categories, titles, headings, names, dates etc. Make sure your introduction is complete. It is usually one sentence but sometimes it can also contain a second sentence about the measurement of units. 

This paragraph is the most important paragraph in your IELTS writing task 1 report. This is where you collect all the key features shown in the task  and present them together. This paragraph has a direct impact on your band score for Task Achievement, which is 25% of your score. You can read more about the band scores here: IELTS WRITING TASK 1 BAND SCORES 5-8 TIPS. But to give you an idea:

  • Band Score 5 = no clear overview
  • Band Score 6 = a relevant overview is attempted (it is tried but not well done)
  • Band Score 7 = presents a clear overview
  • Band Score 8 = key features are skilfully selected (referring to the overview)

The clearer and more complete your overview paragraph is, the higher your score for Task Achievement. The biggest challenges with the overview are: 

  • not spotting all key features
  • spreading key features into various paragraphs instead of into one overview paragraph
  • presenting only one key feature

You can see examples of key features in all my model answers for writing task 1: ALL MODEL ANSWERS . 

All writing task 2 reports have an overview no matter which task you get. An overview is not the same as a conclusion. Writing task 2 has a conclusion, writing task 1 has an overview. This is clearly stated in the IELTS Band Score Descriptors. An overview has a different function to a conclusion. See the video below:

An oldie, but a goodie. My older videos are still packed with useful tips. All still relevant today.

Overview or Conclusion Video

Body Paragraphs

These paragraphs (usually two) contain the details. If your task contains numbers, such as a chart, you will need to support your sentences with data. Failing to do that will lower your score for Task Achievement. 

You should organise the details of the task into logical body paragraphs based on the key features. You should also take into consideration what type of task you have. For example, a bar chart shows comparisons between two things, such as men and women, for different categories so your aim is to compare men and women within each category. You would then see which categories are most  popular and which are least and then organise categories into body paragraphs. Of course, it might not be about popularity, it might be about which categories have the biggest differences or the least differences. Which ever way you organise the information, it must be logical.

WRITING TASK 1 STRUCTURE & PARAGRAPHING – A SUMMARY

To sum up, it can feel complicated and overwhelming when you first start preparing for your writing task 1. So, I made this video years ago to sum up how to organise your task 1 report. It’s an old video, but of course still relevant today. The test hasn’t changed.

How to Organise Your Writing Task 1 Video

Another oldie which is still great today and reviews the paragraphing for writing task 1.

I hope you enjoyed this page and found it useful. I wanted to give you as much as I could because it’s so important to your scores. All the best, Liz

Now it’s time to review model answer for writing task 1 and see what the paragraph looks like. See links below:

RECOMMENDED FOR YOU

  • Bar Chart: Model Band Score 9
  • Pie Chart Paragraphs in Easy Steps
  • ALL MODEL ANSWERS AND TIPS FOR WRITING TASK 1
FREE SUBSCRIBE Subscribe to get new lessons & tips by email. Email Address Subscribe

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Thank you for all the help you provide! I was wondering if you have a similar video or page for structure and linking tips for the general training writing task 1? I’ve seen the general tips page, but no one for structure specifically. Thanks again! 🙂

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Did you check the model letters? Use them to learn from. The structure is very simple. An opening line which will be different depending on each type of letter, the aims and the person you are writing to. Then each bullet point will be addressed in separate body paragraphs. Then a final comment before signing off. Go to the main writing task 1 page and see my model letters at the bottom of the page.

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The map on top reveals the Pacific Railway station in 1998, while the map on bottom illustrates the current Pacific Railway station. In 1998 the Pacific Railway station had just one shop, a café, toilet facilities and small ticket office. Overall, we can see that Pacific Railway station has significantly changed since 1998 with increasing numbers in platforms and facilities available for customers. The station has developed and expanded. For instance, in 1998 there was only one shop located next to café and ticket office just half of the size of current and they didn’t have supermarket nor restaurant in 1998. They have added restaurant in between a new and old platform with removal of separate toilet facilities. In addition, they have increased the numbers of shops and moved them over to middle of station. Moreover, a supermarket has been built to the bottom left corner in front of recently built platforms. In conclusion it’s clearly seen that station has improved over twenty-four years.

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Hello Liz. I took the computer based academic test yesterday. I forgot to keep a line empty to indicate paragraphs in both task 1 and task 2, do you think is it likely to reduce my score ? I wrote 5 paragraphs (if the examiner can see them) for task 1 (I paraphrased diagram in the first paragraph, gave overall information in the second, two body paragraphs with the structure ‘firstly, secondly’ and a conclusion paragraph in the end; for the task 2, I wrote four paragraphs (introduction, on the one hand, on the other hand, to conclude.)

There is no rule about leaving one line empty between paragraphs – it is a recommendation. If your paragraphs are easy to see, for example by indenting the first word, then it is fine. If the examiner cannot see your paragraphing, it could reduce your score for Coherence and Cohesion. There is no fixed rules about how it is reduced and your final score for the marking criterion will depend on other factors as well as the paragraphing.

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Dear Liz, I have concerns regarding the flexibility in paragraphing the writing, particularly for the introduction and overview.

I have consulted so many books for IELTS preparations, but none discusses the exact number of paragraphs to be developed. Some of them show model answers by examiners, and they mostly (if not all, as much as I remember) join the introductory statement and general overview as one opening paragraph.

Do IELTS examiners conform to just one format of writing or do they allow these variations as long as the points are organized well enough to warrant a band score of 9? (CC criterion)

There is no set format. Your organisation of paragraphs must always be logical and divide information into logical groups. I usually put the overview with the introduction when I write a report for a diagram because their introductions are often extremely short. Otherwise, I like to keep it separate because it is such a vital part of your marks. the examiner must easily find your overview. It must not be something that is difficult to find. And it must not be something that is divided into different paragraphs – all key information must be in the overview. Sure, you can put it in the same paragraph as the introduction, but make sure it is a separate statement or statements. The overview is your most important part of task 1.

For the body paragraphs, use logical organisation based on the information you have to report. Divide the information into two or three body paragraphs. Two is the most usual. You cannot have only one body paragraph.

I hope this helps.

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The Public Band Descriptor for writing Task 1 only mentions paragraphing for Bands 8 and 9 regarding Coherence and Cohesion. Does it imply that if the applicant writes a single paragraph for T1 the CC score can be 7 (given the other criteria are met)? Thank you in advance.

Those are the public descriptors, not the examiner’s descriptors. The examiner has a few extra points to consider. You won’t get over band 5 in CC if you write it all without paragraphs. This means if you write it in a block without dividing it into paragraphs, you will get band 5 in CC.

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Hello Mrs. Liz

Mrs. in task1, specifically pie charts. Is it Ok to just analyze each diagram in one paragraph or I need to combine both and structure them into two body paragraphs? And If I described each chart in one paragraph will I be able to get a 6.5/7

Note: I will make comparisons in the overview and the concluding sentence

There is no rule or advice for all pie charts. It depends what the pie charts show. It depends if the pie charts are comparable or if they each show specific changes over time. The approach will be different depending on the information given.

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Thank you for your fantastic explanation and advice. I would like to ask you one crucial question. What is the difference between Body Paragraph A and Body Paragraph B?

I am looking forward to your answer!

Best wishes, Liz

I don’t fully understand your question. You have two body paragraphs because you are dividing the information given into two groups based on similarities or key features. The body of the report must always be divided – two is the usual, three is not so common.

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I purchased all your video lessons for task 2. Do you also have paid videos for task one? I find it very difficult because the tasks/charts/graphs are greatly varied. Some charts have a lot of important information/points. If i put them all in the report, I will be left with few minutes in writing task 2. Are ielts examiners really strict about the IMPORTANT information from the charts? For instance, in some tasks, there are a lot of IMPORTANT pieces of information and it’s difficult to select only few. But if i write them all, i’d lose time for writing task 2. If the examiners see nine/9 IMPORTANT pieces of information from the chart/graph etc., but I only put 6 because of the time limit, will my band score be affected? I am aiming for a band score of 7. I find task 1 really depressing. Thank you Liz.

Part of the marking criterion of Task Achievement is your ability to select information. You should have about two or three key features for the overview. You should have about two body paragraphs. Given that you will not write more than 200 words – I’m sure you can calculate how much information you can put in your body paragraphs. Look at ALL my model answers for task 1, count the sentences and this will help guide you as to how much information you can put in it.

Thank you liz for your advice!

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Hi Liz, Can we put both of the introduction and the overview in the same paragraph? Usually, the introduction is only two sentences and so is the overview. It seems a bit odd to me to put them into seperate paragraphs. I would really appreciate your insight on this.

It is possible to do that. Just make sure that the introduction and overview are separate statements clearly visible in the same paragraph.

Thank you Liz. You are the best 🙂

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Hello Liz, is it possible to send you my work so you Mark for me? I don’t mind paying any required fee. Regards.

Sorry, I don’t offer that service.

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Hi mam, My English will never be enough to thank you for you,r effort in you,r website . i,m going to have the test when i,m sure that all the types of the questions are familier to me but till now i want to thank you again for the help you give for free especially for citizens of devoloping countries like mine and and i want to do it in a practical way .So whenever you decide to visit Egypt you can ask me to be you,r free tour guide and that will be a very little thing to do for you .

It’s always best to take IELTS when you feel completely ready and you are sure of what you are doing. I wish you lots of luck! Thank you for your offer – Egypt is a fascinating country 🙂

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Tnx liz for teaching us am really proud on u may god bless u😇☺🤗

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Hello Liz, i’m a member of EssayForum and the primary contributor uses the term “summary overview” and that includes the introduction and 1-2 trend statements similar to an overview all in 1 paragraph. Is it advised to do this? She seems a bit strict about this but it’s different from what i was taught.

It is possible to put your introduction and overview in one paragraph. But there must be a distinction between which sentence is your introduction and which one is your overview. The first sentence should be an introduction. The second sentence should start with “Overall” and be your overview. Otherwise, put your overview either after your introduction in a separate paragraph or at the end of your task 1.

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Mam Is it okay to write 3-4 bodyparagraphs in task 1,excluding introduction and overview?

The most is two or three body paragraphs excluding the intro and overview.

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hi Liz! i just watched the video regarding the four paragraphs for writing task 1. I wasn’t able to catch up the specific details to put in the last two paragraphs. Thanks a lot!

All tips and model answers are on this page: https://ieltsliz.com/ielts-writing-task-1-lessons-and-tips/

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This implies that there is no place for conclusion in task 1

This is a report, not an essay. It is short, it contains an overview rather than a conclusion. A conclusion is a paragraph that repeats (re-states) the main points – there is no need to repeat information in a short report.

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Hi, Liz! Thanks for your lessons! I’d like to clearify smth: is overview supposed to stay seperately? I think overview must stay within the introduction. Also, is it necessary to have at least 3 paragraphs?

The overview can be put with the introduction in the same paragraph. But the statements must be separate, even though they are in the same paragraph.

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I am appearing for General Training on 07-03-2018, the video task 1 has confused me about the overview, Do we need to write an overview for General Training Task 1 ?

GT writing task 1 is a letter, not a report. See this page: https://ieltsliz.com/ielts-letter-writing-essential-tips/

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Do I have to use listing such as, firstly, secondly at the start of my body paragraphs when writing the task 1 (report) in academic writing? Like how we do in task 2? or can I just start with the factual information?

Appreciate your response as my exam is on 23rd March in the morning. 🙂 Thank you very much for your lessons Liz. Truly grateful.

– Madhu

See this page for writing task 1 tips and model answers: https://ieltsliz.com/ielts-writing-task-1-lessons-and-tips/

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Hello Liz Ma’am, I am trying to subscribe you, but I don’t get any confirmation emails. What do I do?

Subscribe on this page: https://ieltsliz.com/subscribe-ielts-lessons/ . Try a different email address if it doesn’t work. I’m on holiday at the moment so I’m not posting any new lessons.

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Hi Liz, I had my IELTS exam past weekend. Thank You for the guidance and bits of advice you’ve given throughout the time.

Writing task 1 was describing a map. Writing task 2 was about online shopping and its impacts on environment and job opportunities.

Speaking test, cue card was about an incident which you were pleased to have the mobile phone with you. and the rest was about mobile phones.

I’m glad to share my exam experience.

I wish all my friends the Best of Luck to achieve a high band score!

Thanks for sharing 🙂

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hello liz, i have a question: can i use this same structure when writing a line graph, table or other type of charts?? thank you

The structure of a report remains the same for all academic writing task 1.

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Hi Ms. Liz. Regarding the overview for task 1, is it necessary to write it as another paragraph? or we can just include the overview in the introduction? thank you

The overview can be put with the introduction but you must make sure that the overview statement is very clear. You don’t mix them. The introduction is one statement and the overview is another statement that starts with Overall – make the two distinct. However, in most cases, it is best to separate them.

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I am going to take IELTS general test in next month, Do you have a tutorial on General writing task 1 (paragraph and sentence structure)?

Waiting for your response..

See this page: https://ieltsliz.com/ielts-letter-writing-essential-tips/

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Hi LIZ I m still confused as what will come in GT tests? In writing no graphs etc are included , only letters are there . Is it right?

Can you send me all the links for GT reading,writing , listening and speaking. Thanks

See this page: https://ieltsliz.com/ielts-gt-academic-writing-differences/ and then review this page: https://ieltsliz.com/ielts-general-training-reading-information/ . As for speaking and listening, there is no special test for Gt students. ALL students take the same speaking and listening tests.

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Hello, Liz. In the process diagrams, do I need to write an overview?? Especially that it doesn’t have anything standing out in particular; it’s a normal process.

All writing task 1 for the academic test have an overview. You need to pick the key stages in the diagram for your overview. See this page: https://ieltsliz.com/ielts-writing-task-1-lessons-and-tips/ and then see this page about indenting: https://ieltsliz.com/ielts-writing-task-2/

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Hi Liz, please give more posts on Map, Describing process, and Multiple task for writing task 1. I really need it

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Hello Liz, Firstly I want to thank you from my bottom of my heart for all your IELTS tips and preparation .I have a question for you -I’m really confused whereas the overview in task 1 should be after the introduction or in the last paragraph of the essay,because I have seen many task1 essays with band 9 score that have their overview at the end .Also can we use for the overview phrases such as :to sum up,in summary,to summarise or not .Once more thank you so much!!!!!! I’m looking forward to your reply!

Please see this video: https://ieltsliz.com/ielts-tips-conclusion-or-overview-for-writing-task-1/ and then review all links and tips on this page: https://ieltsliz.com/ielts-writing-task-1-lessons-and-tips/

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Great job Your nice as well as simple elaboration on developing the task one is absolutely conducive for the enthusiastic language (English) learner’s. Great thanks to u

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very helpful and useful in every content. Thank you Liz

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Liz your website is not responsive and I am unable to watch it on my mobile properly, please do something this error could be resolved by a web designer so please do it as soon as possible. Its half content is cut from right side.

This website is responsive to mobile phones. Which pages are you specifically referring to?

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I’ve got the same problem. I have to turn the phone sideways in order to read the right side of the page

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The current page has this issue. I can read only in landscape mode. I am on Android.

My website layout has changed recently and I’m still working on fixing it.

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Is two body paragraphs required or they could’ve combined into one? If it is required, how should they be separated? By time, groups or it doesn’t matter? Thank you

You need to divide the body paragraphs into two – although occasionally three are possible.

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Hi, Liz! Is it important to compare all the categories compared on the bar charts? I am concern with the time, and I have seen some Task 1 writing samples that only compared the most remarkable features. Thanks for all your work.

It depends on the chart you get. Some charts contain little information and to write over 150 words, you will need to include everything. Other charts contain so much information that you must choose what to put in your task 1 report. You will be marked on being selective of information when you have a lot to choose from.

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Does overview mean the conclusion?

The overview is a statement which contains all key features. A conclusion is a statement which summarises and repeated the points given. Task 1 is a report and it should not contain repeated information – you have an overview, not a conclusion. See the main writing task 1 page: https://ieltsliz.com/ielts-writing-task-1-lessons-and-tips/

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I wanted to ask you mam that do we write numeric information in an overview or conclusion

It is common to put totals in, for example for a table. However, the detail and figures usually go in the body paragraph. There is no fixed rule, it is just a recommendation.

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I had my speaking test today. topic was: to discuss on a place that i recently visited. a: what sort of place was that. b: which type of people can go there.

It went good. hoping for a good score.

Thanks for sharing 🙂 Fingers crossed for a good score 🙂

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i have follow up your lessons , its so clear , i was keep watching you tube to get more knoweledge about ielts. always keep smiling face and very clear words ,very easy to catch the ielts exam for all students. many thanks

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You are the perfect teacher ,when I watch you lecturing it’s like watching the Mona Lisa, you are fascinating .THANK YOU.

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Mam, can we use furthermore in task 1???

Yes, if it is appropriate.

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With all due respect, I had earlier requested you to review an essay that I had written for writing part 1 but did not receive any reply for it. It would be rather encouraging if you could assist me in how I could improve on my writing band score for part 1. Please do reply at the earliest as my test is scheduled for next week.

Sorry but I don’t offer free essay correction or comment on writing.

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I;m writing for the first time so it is hihgly appreciated, how I can to develop my self in writing particula in reporting ( statment structure ) could you please increase my enthasisum

I don’t understand what you want. However, see the main writing task 2 page: https://ieltsliz.com/ielts-writing-task-2/ . Or get my advanced lessons: https://ieltsliz.com/ielts-writing-task-2/

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hi mom, i love all of your video…… your explanations is very clearly and very helpful for my IELTS preparation thanks a million

You’re welcome 🙂

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Writing task 1 (academic) we need to use past tense or present tense?

Look at the dates provided. If there are no dates, use present tense.

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Can I write overview at the last after introduction , B1 , B2 and then overview ???

The video above explains this.

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I’m attending GT in next week.In Writing Task-1 does it get only a letter or there is a chance of getting charts/Table?? Kindly reply me @ earlier

See this page: https://ieltsliz.com/ielts-gt-academic-writing-differences/

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is it possible that i share my own writing so that you point out me my deficiencies?

Sorry I don’t offer comments on writing.

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Hello Mam Are you available to give classes or tuition for ielts.i am from Luton.Thanks.Love to hear from you.

Hi, if you would like more lessons, please see my advanced writing task 2 lessons: http://subscriptions.viddler.com/IELTSLizStore

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hi liz….your lessons are very helpful…..can u please guide me where can i get my writing task s checked,,,,please if there is any online source,,,help me,,,,i need a band 7+,,,

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Hello mam, I’m from india,as i have an ielts exam after 1 month but i do not know from were to start and how to do the practise from home as i need a 7 band in academic so kindly help me out from this stuff as i’m quite scared,

https://ieltsliz.com/liz-notice-2015-2016/

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Hi liz Is it compulsory to write a conclusion in task 1. Also is it OK to write a conclusion for task 1 diagrem. Thanks.

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hello mam…..

mam i have one question. you said in your lecture that task 1 should be written in different paragraphs like introduction, overview……now we have to mention these subheadings before writing actual paragraphs or not???

See my model answers to see how they should be written. Liz

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one of our instructors advise is to 3 – 4 paragraphs is enough for task 1. he usually merge the introduction (paraphrasing) and overview and key points into one paragraph, and that is paragraph one.. is this okay? thanks..

You should always divide the detail into two body paragraphs. If you fail to do that you will get a lower score for coherence and cohesion. Liz

Yes Liz, I have no problem with regards to dividing the body paragraphs to two details.. My prob is do I still have to separate the introduction (paraphrasing) from the overview? Because our teachers here always tell that the introduction and overview are merge to paragraph one.. Thank you so much for your help Liz..

The overview is usually put separately as an individual paragraph. However, it is possible to put it with the introduction. The detail should always be divided into two (occasionally three) body paragraphs. https://ieltsliz.com/writing-task-1-report-structure/ Try to read all my lessons before asking questions – this has already been explained clearly. All the best Liz

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Hi liz . I am nina and i will take an IELTS exam on 29 October 2016 . I am taking general English, so do tou have any informations of an IELTS test 2016 . Can you give me? I would like to practice before i take an IELTS exam.Thanks.

Do you mean current exam questions? See this page: http://www.ieltsliz.com/recent-ielts-questions-and-topics

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Thanks! You explained it well. But im still confused because some of ielts teacher has an overview after their intro and has a conclusion at the bottom part. How’s that?

It’s a bad example. You are being marked on your ability to organise information into paragraphs. Firstly, you should not repeat information in a short report. Remember this is a report, not an essay. Secondly, you should not divide key features into two different places, you should collect it and present it as one overview. Thirdly, the examiner is look for an overview in task 1 and a conclusion in task 2. The main problem is that many IELTS teachers have not completed the IELTS examiner training which is why they are not clear about how to organise the report and what the examiner is looking for. All the best Liz

Okay I got it. I will just follow what you said. Thank you 🙂

Hi maam! I sent you the sample of ielts writing task1 where i get confused, i send it on your email. Many thanks! 🙂

Sorry, I don’t offer essay marking. All the best Liz

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Hi Ms. Liz. I just want to ask how will i know if my essay contains 150 or 250 words already. Thank you and God bless you.

See this video: https://ieltsliz.com/ielts-answer-sheet-writing/ Liz

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Liz, Can I use pencil for writing task 1 and 2???

See this page for info: https://ieltsliz.com/ielts-help-faq/ Liz

I can’t express how much grateful to you for your charity on teaching IELTS!!!!!!!! Really I’m what I can say…………………. Thanks a lot ………………….

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Dear Liz, I am so grateful to what you have done for IELTS candidates, including me , of course. I browse your website very often, especially, your youtube channel. I am reviewing for my next exam which may be in the end of this year. My target is 7.0 overall, but in my last trial, I got 6.5. Could you gimme some advice on how to improve from 6.5 to 7.0. Again, thank you so much for your useful lessons.

Please see the band score pages to see the difference between band scores. All tips given on this blog are for the higher scores – band 7, 8 and 9. Liz

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Hi! Thank you very much for the comprehensive IELTS lessons and video tutorials you are sharing which are indeed very helpful especially to us non-native English speakers. I have learned so much from you and I really appreciate the effort you put into it. God bless you, ma’am.

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Hi Mam, i should say your videos are really really helpful to someone like me who is preparing self for the ielts exam. i do have some doubts regarding the writing part of the general test because I’m misguided by many. Does the task 1 ask for letter writing or does it include graphs too? Looking forward for your guidance. Regards Aswathi

If you are taking the GT test, you will write a letter. If you do the academic test, you will get a graph, chart or something similar. Please see this page: https://ieltsliz.com/ielts-writing-task-1-faq/ . And see this page to practice writing task 1 and learn more: https://ieltsliz.com/ielts-writing-task-1-lessons-and-tips/ . You should read the information pages and band score pages. Liz

thank u soo much for the information ma’m.

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plz i want to prepare the ielts general training.

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Hi Liz, Actually I had given ielts exam twice but both of time I am scored 5.5 in writing.

The reason is due to your level of English. If you make many mistakes in English and have limited control of the language, it will be difficult to get over band 5. For example, in the sentence you wrote above, there are 4 mistakes. Frequent errors will reduce your score significantly. You will need to improve your level of English to be able to produce more accurate language in order to get a good score. All the best Liz

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Hi Madam, really you are excellent English language teacher. your tutorial on you tube helped me very well not only for IELTS but also for my academic writing. Really God bless you !

That’s really good to know. I’m glad my lessons are helpful 🙂 Liz

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Dear teacher, You explained that for writing task 1 it should have 4 paragraph, so is it important to have conclusion for writing task 1? Please could you explain about this? Thanks a million!

You will find all information about overviews and conclusions on this page: https://ieltsliz.com/ielts-writing-task-1-lessons-and-tips/ . Please see the tips and videos section. Liz

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5 Types of IELTS Essays with Questions and Samples

In IELTS Writing Task 2 (both General and Academic), there are 5 different types of essays:

  • Discussion essay (Discuss both views essay)
  • Agree/disagree essay (Opinion essay)
  • Advantage/disadvantage essay
  • Problem/solution essay
  • Two-part question essay (Direct question essay)

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Note that no matter what type of IELTS essay you have to write, you need to make sure that you always follow the instructions and write at least 250 words.

IELTS Discussion Essay Questions

IELTS discussion essay asks you to "Discuss both views/sides and give your opinion".

For example:

Some people think that wild animals should not be kept in zoos. Others believe that there are good reasons for having zoos.

Discuss both these views and give your opinion.

See also: Discussion Essay Sample

IELTS Agree/Disagree Essay Questions

IELTS agree/disagree essay, also known as an opinion essay, asks you "Do what extent do you agree?", "Do you agree or disagree?", "What is your opinion?".

Medical procedures for cosmetic purposes should not be allowed.

Do you agree or disagree?

See also: Agree/Disagree Essay Sample

IELTS Advantage/Disadvantage Essay Questions

IELTS advantage/disadvantage essay asks you "What are the advantages of this?", "Do the advantages outweigh the disadvantages?".

Today more and more tourists are visiting places where conditions are difficult, such as the Sahara desert or the Antarctic.

What are the benefits and disadvantages for tourists who visit such places?

See also: Advantage/Disadvantage Essay Sample

IELTS Problem/Solution Essay Questions

IELTS problem/solution essay asks you "What can be done about this problem?", "How could this situation be improved?".

Even though doctors all over the world agree that fast food is bad for people's health, more and more people are eating it.

Why are more people eating fast food?

What can be done about this problem?

See also: Problem/Solution Essay Sample

IELTS Two-part Question Essay Questions

IELTS two-part question essay, also known as direct question essay, asks you to write in response to two or more direct questions.

Millions of people every year move to English speaking countries such as Australia, Britain or America, in order to study at school, college or university.

Why do so many people want to study English?

Why is English such an important international language?

See also: Two-part Question Essay Sample

See more useful IELTS essay resources:

  • How to write an IELTS essay?
  • How to Improve IELTS Writing Task 2 Essay?
  • Essay vocabulary
  • Linking & cohesive words

We are here to help

Whether you have any questions, want to leave feedback or discuss cooperation possibilities, do not hesitate to contact us. We are here to help and will answer as soon as possible. In the meantime, discover our site and let it help you smooth your IELTS journey and make your studies more efficient.

You will find useful information on all the four IELTS test components:

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IELTS One Skill Retake is now accepted in all Australian states!

  • IELTS Academic

IELTS Academic assesses how well you can use English in an academic environment.

IELTS General training

Students applying to high schools or vocational training programs in English-speaking countries might need to take this test.

IELTS for UKVI

If you would like to study at undergraduate or postgraduate level in the UK, you can take IELTS for UKVI.

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types of essay ielts task 1

IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 question types: A comprehensive guide

This comprehensive guide breaks down the different question types in the Writing Task 1 section, including graphs, bar charts, pie charts, tables, and maps.

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In the IELTS Writing test, there are a variety of question types you can expect.  It's important to have a look at these so you don’t have any surprises when you sit your test. 

In Task 1 of the IELTS Writing Academic test, you have visual items, such as graphs and charts, and you are expected to provide a description of them, including data, comparison and contrasts and an overview. 

IELTS Writing Task 1 question types A comprehensive guide 1

It is common to see diagrams like this which indicate the number, percentage or rate of something over a period of time.  In this case, the time span is over 15 years and there are 3 separate lines (categories).  Line graph tasks can include 2,3, 4 or possibly up to 6 lines in the whole chart. 

IELTS Academic Writing Task 1: How to get a band 7

IELTS Writing Task 1 question types A comprehensive guide - 2

Similar to line graphs, bar charts can also display data in a linear way (e.g. from 1990 to 2000 in this case).  However, data can also be categorised in a non-linear way such as below: 

IELTS Writing Task 1 question types A comprehensive guide - 3

Pie charts normally have figures displayed in percentages and it is common to see tasks where there are 2 or more of them.  Similar to bar graphs, they can be categorised in linear or non-linear ways.  

The charts below show the percentage of second language classes taken by Australian secondary school students in two different cities in 2017.  

IELTS Writing Task 1 question types A comprehensive guide - 4

The charts below show the percentage of second language classes taken by Australian secondary school students in Adelaide.  

IELTS Writing Task 1 question types A comprehensive guide - 5

Sometimes data can be displayed in table form, where it can be categorised in both linear or non-linear ways, similar to bar graphs and pie charts.  The data can be displayed in numerical or percentage form.  

The table below shows the number of registered junior players in 4 different types of football in an Australian city in 2015 according to 3 different age groups.  

 

 

 

 

Australian Rules Football 

1,045 

3,645 

6,123 

Rugby 

212 

814 

994 

Rugby League 

106 

591 

1,004 

Soccer 

996 

5,557 

6,104 

Here you can see that the data can also be categorised by age group, which is another way to display data besides just according to place or time. 

Combination

Besides these individual forms of displaying data, you may find there could be a combination of graph types together, such as a line graph and a pie chart.  

The diagrams below show the average cost of 3 different types of media device over a period of 6 years, plus their payment method for these devices according to 4 age groups in 2020.   

IELTS Writing Task 1 question types A comprehensive guide - 6

As you can see in this particular question, the time reference can also include future projections (the line graph continues until 2026).

IELTS Academic Writing free practice questions

Sometimes you may be asked to describe a process.  These can be either of something that is man-made or something that occurs in nature.  Take note that a process task has a starting point and ending point (make sure you mention all steps in the process).  Process questions also need to include an overview.   

IELTS Writing Task 1 question types A comprehensive guide - 8

Common IELTS mistakes: Writing

In tasks that ask you to compare and contrast maps, they can either be of an indoor space (e.g. a floor plan) or an outdoor space (e.g. buildings, roads, nature, etc.).  It is normal to have a task that shows maps with two different dates: 

Two dates in the past (e.g.  1966 & 2016) 

A map in the past and a current map (e.g. 2016 and present) 

A map in the past or present compared to something that is projected or planned in the future (e.g., present and 2032)   

The diagrams below show the features of the town centre of Trentville in 1966 and compares them to the changes that could be seen in 2016.  

IELTS Writing Task 1 question types A comprehensive guide - 9

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IELTS Writing Task 1 Types

Task One of the IELTS writing exam includes different types of tasks. The most common ones are: tables, pie charts, bar charts, line graphs, process diagrams, flow charts, maps and floor plans, which should all be looked at to be well prepared. Then, task one of the IELTS writing exam can be separated into different time periods. Static tasks, which are tasks that have only one time period; and change over time tasks, which have two or more different time periods. Finally, with task one of the IELTS writing exam, different types of language is needed depending on whether the task consists of numbers, percentages, steps in a process, or describing a map. Therefore, there are three key dimensions of task one of the IELTS writing exam

ielts-task-1-task-type

Names of Tasks

Process diagram

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types of essay ielts task 1

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IELTS Writing Task 2: Do you agree or disagree?

By Fiona on August 6, 2024

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Nuclear Power Essay IELTS 2024: Writing Task 2 Latest Samples

  • Last Updated On July 29, 2024
  • Published In IELTS Preparation 💻

nuclear power essay ielts

The IELTS exam tests how well-versed you are in the English language. It consists of four papers: reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Essay writing can be daunting if you’re not conversant in its framework and concept. This blog will assist you in writing Nuclear Power Essay IELTS and guide you on how to crack IELTS writing task 2.

Table of Content

We’ll focus more on the nuclear power essay during this blog and walk you through the process. For guidance and reference on other topics and any other help regarding the IELTS exam, you can look through our website’s collection of blogs and obtain the assistance you need, including writing task 2 topics with answers .

Nuclear Power Essay IELTS 2024: Writing Task 2 Latest Samples

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nuclear power essay ielts

Nuclear Power Essay IELTS Sample Answer

Nuclear power is a very debated topic in every convention and has always been questioned for the bad it does rather than its good. In my opinion, nuclear power needs to be used, and the user should also be controlled and hedged with renewable energy sources as they are the only viable solution. Nuclear plants currently provide 11% of the world’s electricity. With an ever-increasing demand for electricity being seen everywhere and the fossil fuels reducing each day, it is now more important than ever that major decisions should be made. In the upcoming decades, energy consumption will only increase and meet the rising demand; nuclear power plants will be required as they are the best source of traditional energy-producing sources. Although nuclear power plants are required, it is also necessary to gradually push renewable energy sources and promote them to create a sustainable future for future generations. Nuclear power plants’ waste disposal and radioactivity are the concerning factors that have been the hot topic of most debates at conventions and meetings. In addition to that, a single misuse of this tremendous power can result in the disruption of life for all mankind. Striking a balance between the two will be crucial in the coming time as global warming and the energy crisis are on a constant rise. If nothing is done in the near time, countries could get submerged underwater within the coming decades, and the entire world will have to fight for survival.

Writing Task 2

The writing section of the IELTS exam consists of two sections. Writing task 2 is an essay writing task that requires deep thinking and coherence. This task will be our focus for this blog, as the rules and guidelines of the IELTS exam can be confusing for students appearing for the first time. Writing task 2 has the subsequent guidelines:

  • The essay should have a minimum of 250 words. An essay written in less than 250 words will be penalised and negatively marked. There is no penalty for writing a longer essay, but it will cause you to stray off-topic and waste time.
  • 40 minutes is a good enough time to complete this task and will leave you with time to recheck your answer.
  • The essay’s contents should be written with perfect grammar and solely focused on the topic.
  • You can be penalised if you stray off-topic while writing your essay. All the sentences must be related and formed to provide a clear view and information.
  • The content must be well structured to fetch the best results and have proper cohesion between the sentences.
  • The tone of your answer must be academic or semi-formal and should discuss the given topic at length and focus on proper and sophisticated language.
  • Using bullet points and notes is not allowed in the IELTS exam . The real answer must be written together and broken into paragraphs to better examine your writing style and structure.

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Structure of Essay in Writing Task 2

The structure of the essay in writing task 2 is the base of your essay, and a clear idea of the structure will make it much easier for you to finish the essay on time. The structure of the essay can be broken down in the following way:

  • First Paragraph
  • Second Paragraph
  • Third Paragraph
  • Fourth Paragraph

The first paragraph of your essay should provide a small introduction to the topic and provide an opinion of yours about what side you are on about the topic. The first paragraph should be minimal and to the point. A clear and concise introduction leaves a good impression on the examiner. The second paragraph should begin with your stance on the topic. The first sentence should provide clarity on your stance. The second sentence should build on that idea and delve deeper into the specifics. The next sentences are suitable for providing an example and developing it in detail. You can make up research studies and quote them in your essay to support your point. At the end of the paragraph, end with a statement that sums up the overall idea of the paragraph and supports the idea you started with. The third paragraph is very similar in structure to the second paragraph. The main objective of this paragraph is to provide either the opposite view of the topic or discuss new ideas that touch on a different perspective of the topic but ultimately support your opinion. The structuring is the same as in the second paragraph, with minute changes. The fourth paragraph is the conclusion of your essay and, just like the introduction, should be minimal. Summing up your essay with a statement supporting your opinion and overall idea is best advised.

Nuclear Power Essay IELTS

Score well on IELTS Nuclear Essay by understanding the Writing task 2 structure above. Add Brownie points for writing answers with facts, examples and evidence. For more related content, head on to LeapScholar blogs. Avail of one-on-one guidance from India’s top IELTS educators from the Leap Scholar Premium course.

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Frequently asked questions, 1. what are the pros and cons of nuclear power.

Ans: Nuclear energy is a widely used method of production of electricity. The benefits of nuclear technology and the main advantages of nuclear power are: a. No production of harmful gases that cause air pollution b. Clean source of energy c. Low cost of fuel d. Long-life once constructed e. A massive amount of energy produced f. Unlike most energy production methods, nuclear energy does not contribute to the increase in global warming

Disadvantages: a. Very high cost of construction of the facility. b. Waste produced is very toxic and requires proper and safe disposal, which is costly. c. If any accident happens, it can have a major impact on everyone and can be devastating. d. Mining of uranium 235, which is nuclear fuel, is very expensive.

2. Does Japan have a plan for dealing with its own nuclear waste problem?

Ans: As per the latest news and research, Japan does not have a proper nuclear waste dumping structure even after the Fukushima disaster in 2011. The Fukushima disaster was caused by the Tohoku earthquake and tsunami that hit Japan in 2011 and caused meltdowns and hydrogen explosions at the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Reactor. It was the worst recorded nuclear disaster since Chernobyl. Japan is said to have enough nuclear waste to create nuclear arsenals. In April 2021, Japan declared they would be dumping 1.2 million tonnes of nuclear waste into the sea. This is the same Japan that called the 1993 ocean dumping by Russia “extremely regrettable.” The discharges are bound to begin by 2023, and various legal proceedings and protests have been going on inside Japan against this inhuman decision that would destroy marine life.

3. How many countries have nuclear power plants?

Ans : Currently, 32 countries in the world possess nuclear power plants within their boundaries.

4. Why do people oppose nuclear power?

Ans: Opposition to nuclear power has been a long-standing issue. It is backed by a variety of reasons which are as follows:Nuclear waste is hard to dispose of, and improper disposal affects the radioactivity levels and can disrupt the normal life of people as well as animals. Nuclear technology is another concern of people as the usage of nuclear power plants leads to deeper research into the nuclear field. In today’s world, anything can be weaponised, and the threat of nuclear weapons is one of the drawbacks of nuclear power. This brings the threat of nuclear war and disruption of world peace. Any attack on nuclear power plants by terrorist organisations can result in a massive explosion that can disrupt and destroy human life and increase radioactivity to alarming levels around the site of the explosion.

5. What is the best way to dispose of nuclear waste?

Ans: Nuclear waste needs to be disposed of properly to prevent radioactive issues in the environment. The best methods to dispose of nuclear waste are as follows: a. Incineration : Radioactive waste can be incinerated in large scale incinerators with low production of waste. b. Deep burial: Nuclear waste can be buried deep into the ground as the radioactivity of nuclear waste wears off over time. This method is used for waste that is highly radioactive and will take a longer time to lose its radioactivity. c. Storage: Nuclear waste with low radioactivity is stored by some countries in storage. This is because their radioactive decay takes lesser time and can be disposed of safely once the radiation wears off.

6. Is it possible to produce electricity without using fossil fuels?

Ans: At the moment, 11% of the world’s electricity is produced by nuclear power plants alone. Replacing fossil fuel-based energy with renewable needs to be done gradually and properly. Renewable energy sources such as solar, hydro, and wind will have to be promoted and pushed to create a sustainable future. Renewable energy sources provide cheap energy, do not use up natural resources and fossil fuels and are much cheaper to construct than a nuclear power station.

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  1. IELTS Writing Task 1 question types: A comprehensive guide

    This comprehensive guide breaks down the different question types in the Writing Task 1 section, including graphs, bar charts, pie charts, tables, and maps. In the IELTS Writing test, there are a variety of question types you can receive. It is important to have a look at these so you don't have any surprises when you sit your test.

  2. IELTS Essays: Five Types of IELTS Essays

    1) IELTS Opinion Essay. This type of essay is where you are presented with someone else's opinion and you are asked if you agree or disagree with it. The opinion is often flawed or extreme in its views. Some teachers call this the Argumentative Essay. The instructions can be written in a number of ways. Below are a few examples:

  3. IELTS Writing Task 1 Tips, Model Answers & More

    Writing Task 1 is a report, not an essay. Writing Task 1 counts for about 33% of your writing marks. ... Types of IELTS Writing Task 1 (Academic) Below are the six types of tasks that can appear in IELTS Writing task 1. You can also get a combination of two tasks together. You will find MODEL ANSWERS and SAMPLE PRACTICE TASKS linked below for ...

  4. All IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 Types (+Tips & Examples)

    All IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 Types (+Tips & Examples) April 21, 2023 / IELTS Writing Task 1. IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 can be a challenging test for many students. One of the reasons for this is the variety of question types that may appear on the test, including bar charts, line graphs, pie charts, tables, maps, diagrams, and more.

  5. IELTS Writing Task 1

    Evaluation Criteria for IELTS Writing Task 1. The purpose of the IELTS Writing Task 1 question is to assess a candidate's writing abilities. Four criteria are used to assess a candidate's IELTS score: Task Achievement, Coherence & Cohesion in IELTS Writing, IELTS Lexical Resource and IELTS Grammatical Range & Accuracy.

  6. IELTS Academic Writing Task 1

    Key Information. 1) You are required to write 150 words or more. If you write less than 150 words, you are unlikely to get more than a Band 5 for 'task achievement' as you won't have fulfilled the marking criteria. 2) You have around 20 minutes to plan and write your essay. 3) You should use a formal style of writing.

  7. IELTS Writing Task 1 Samples

    Here you will find IELTS Writing Task 1 Samples for a variety of common tasks that appear in the writing exam. The model answers all have tips and strategies for how you may approach the question and comments on the sample answer. It's a great way to help you to prepare for the test.

  8. IELTS Writing Task 1: Everything You Need to Know

    People doing the Academic test will write a report on a data set, map, or process. People doing General Training will write a letter. You must write 150 words or more. You should spend around 20 minutes on this part of the test. Task 1 is worth 1/3 of your total mark on the Writing test.

  9. The Complete Guide to IELTS Writing Task 1

    1. The type of data - chart, table, map, process etc. 2. Other key information e.g. where, when, what You should read this sentence carefully as you will need to paraphrase this information when you write an introduction to your task 1 essay. The Data - 6 Task Types The data is the information you have to describe in your task 1 essay.

  10. IELTS Writing Task 1: The Essential Study Guide

    IELTS Writing General Training Task 1. In the General Training IELTS, you write a letter in response to a certain situation. For example, you might have to write: a request for information. a complaint. In Task 1 you must write at least 150 words. Ideally, try to write between 170 and 180 words. Read what happens if you go below the word count.

  11. Academic Writing Task 1 Sample Essays and Answers

    The resources below include an IELTS writing task 1 sample answer pdf. Line graph IELTS academic task 1 sample essay 26: Thermal conductivity of material at 25C. Line graph IELTS academic task 1 sample essay 7: January 2015 temperature variation in the Philippines. Line and bar chart IELTS academic task 1 sample essay 5: Common budget items chart.

  12. IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 Types

    Now, let's look at the different IELTS writing task 1 types. 1. Line Graphs. Probably the most common type of IELTS writing task 1 data is a line graph. As a result, many textbooks, teachers, courses, and classes focus on teaching this above all else, and so most IELTS candidates feel more confident when presented with a line graph than any ...

  13. How to Structure IELTS Writing Task 1 Essays

    Whether you are writing about a line graph or a table, you can pretty much use this IELTS writing task 1 template: Paragraph #1. Explain the basic facts of the image. Describe the general trend. Paragraph #2. Describe the first group of information. Paragraph #3. Describe the second group of information.

  14. IELTS Writing Task 1

    The guide tells you everything you need to know about how Writing Task 1 essays and paragraphs should be structured, with an example question and model essay. IELTS Writing Task 1 Samples: The Major Question Types. Below are questions for each common infographic in IELTS Writing Task 1: bar charts, pie charts, line graphs, process diagrams, and ...

  15. Writing IELTS Task 1

    Common Writing IELTS Task 1 Verbs. Most graphics will require you to compare data from two or more time periods, for example, past and present or present and future predictions, so you will need to use a range of different tenses in your essay, as appropriate. The key word in the sentence above is 'appropriate'.

  16. IELTS academic writing task 1 model answers and vocabulary.

    The IELTS academic exam writing task 1 consists of 6 types of charts such as process diagrams, maps, bar charts, pie charts, tables, or line graphs. You will need to write a report about one of these, but remember it is very different to writing task 2, it is not an 'essay' it is a factual report. In academic task 1, there must be an ...

  17. IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 Samples

    The graph illustrates the quantity and differences of minutes in three types of calls which are the local-fixed line, national and international-fixed line and mobiles in the UK starting from 1995 until 2002. ... Writing9 was developed to check essays from the IELTS Writing Task 2 and Letters/Charts from Task 1. The service helps students ...

  18. Common IELTS writing task 1 types

    Line graphs commonly occur in Task 1 on the IELTS exam. The topics vary and there may be one or multiple lines, representing various types of information, over different periods of time. Example: The graph below shows the population of India and China since the year 2000 and predicts population growth until 2050.

  19. IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 in 5 Easy Steps

    The key to doing well in Writing Task 1 is knowing how your essay is marked and then using this information to give the examiner exactly what they want. I advise my students to use a 5 step approach: Understand the marking criteria. Paraphrase the question. Write an overview. Support overview with detail.

  20. Structure & Paragraphs for IELTS Writing Task 1

    In writing task 1, you will be asked to write a report for a bar chart, line graph, table, pie charts, maps or diagram. All IELTS Writing Task 1 have the same structure, regardless of which task you are given. There are four main paragraphs that you need to use for task one. Only occasionally will there be five. Introduction Paragraph.

  21. 5 Types of IELTS Essays with Questions and Samples

    In IELTS Writing Task 2 (both General and Academic), there are 5 different types of essays: . Discussion essay (Discuss both views essay) Agree/disagree essay (Opinion essay) Advantage/disadvantage essay; Problem/solution essay; Two-part question essay (Direct question essay)

  22. IELTS Writing Task 1 question types: A comprehensive guide

    IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 question types: A comprehensive guide. This comprehensive guide breaks down the different question types in the Writing Task 1 section, including graphs, bar charts, pie charts, tables, and maps. In the IELTS Writing test, there are a variety of question types you can expect. It's important to have a look at these ...

  23. IELTS Writing Task 1 Types

    The most common ones are: tables, pie charts, bar charts, line graphs, process diagrams, flow charts, maps and floor plans, which should all be looked at to be well prepared. Then, task one of the IELTS writing exam can be separated into different time periods. Static tasks, which are tasks that have only one time period; and change over time ...

  24. IELTS Writing Task 2: Do you agree or disagree?

    Thank you for your interest in my IELTS lessons and tips. Come and join the Bronze Membership to access this fabulous lesson and lots more. Get access to all 175+ IELTS lessons for a month (cancel any time). Learn more Login

  25. Nuclear Power Essay IELTS 2024: IELTS Writing Task 2 Samples

    Writing Task 2. The writing section of the IELTS exam consists of two sections. Writing task 2 is an essay writing task that requires deep thinking and coherence. This task will be our focus for this blog, as the rules and guidelines of the IELTS exam can be confusing for students appearing for the first time.