How to write an IELTS Task 1 | LearnUp

How to write an IELTS Task 1

Introduction:

• Begin by paraphrasing the information given in the question. Restate the main points or trends you see in the visual data.

Example:

"The chart/graph/table/diagram/map illustrates/depicts/shows/presents/provides information about [describe the subject or topic]. It is evident that [mention any noticeable patterns or trends]."

Overview:

• In this paragraph, provide an overview of the key information from the visual data without going into specific details. Mention the most significant trends, differences, or similarities.

Example:

 "Overall, it is clear that [mention the most prominent trend or key information], while [mention any other notable observations]."

Body Paragraphs:

• Divide the body of your essay into 2 or 3 paragraphs, depending on the complexity of the visual data. In each paragraph, focus on a single key point or trend and provide specific details or data from the chart or graph. Use appropriate language for comparisons and contrasts.

Example: 

"The first noticeable trend is [describe the first significant point], which [support this with data from the chart/graph/table]. In contrast, [describe any contrasting point], which [provide supporting data]."

Continue this pattern for the subsequent paragraphs.

Conclusion:

• In the conclusion, restate the main trends or findings and offer some general observations or predictions, if applicable.

Example: "In conclusion, the data suggests that [summarize the key findings from the visual data]. It will be interesting to see how these trends evolve in the future."

Word Count and Grammar:

• Aim for a word count of around 150-180 words for Task 1.

• Use a mix of complex and simple sentences.

• Pay attention to grammar, punctuation, and coherence.

1. Line Graph:

• Visual Data: A line graph showing the population growth in a city over a 10-year period.

Example Body Paragraph: "One of the most striking features in the graph is the steady increase in population from 2010 to 2018. In 2010, the city's population stood at approximately 300,000, and it saw a gradual rise to reach around 450,000 by 2018. This indicates a consistent upward trend in population. However, in 2019, there was a slight dip in population, dropping to just over 440,000. The subsequent years saw a gradual recovery but did not quite reach the peak observed in 2018. This fluctuation suggests that there might be factors influencing the population dynamics that need further examination."

2. Bar Chart:

• Visual Data: A bar chart displaying the sales of different smartphone brands in a particular market in 2020.

Example Body Paragraph: "The bar chart provides a clear view of the sales performance of various smartphone brands in the local market during 2020. Apple stands out as the leading brand, with sales exceeding 30% of the total market share. Samsung follows closely, capturing around 25% of the market. In contrast, Huawei and Xiaomi accounted for approximately 15% each, making them the third and fourth most popular brands.

Other brands collectively constituted the remaining 15% of the market share. The chart reveals a clear preference for Apple and Samsung smartphones in this market, with Huawei and Xiaomi also having a significant presence. It is noteworthy that 'Other' brands hold a smaller but not negligible portion of the market, indicating the existence of a diverse range of smartphone options for consumers."

3. Pie Chart:

• Visual Data: A pie chart representing the distribution of household expenditures in a sample group.

Example Body Paragraph: "The pie chart illustrates the allocation of household expenditures in the sample group. It is evident that housing expenses consume the largest share, accounting for 35% of the total. This is followed by transportation, which represents 20% of the expenditure. Food expenses constitute 15%, while leisure and entertainment expenses make up 10% of the total. Health, education, and miscellaneous expenses collectively form the remaining 20%. The chart provides a clear picture of where households allocate their financial resources, with housing and transportation expenses taking up a substantial portion. It is worth noting that leisure and entertainment, despite being a smaller share, are still significant, suggesting that people prioritize their quality of life and well-being."

These examples should give you a better idea of how to structure and present information in your body paragraphs for different types of visual data. Always focus on the key points, trends, and significant details present in the chart or graph you are provided with.

Task: Describe a Line Graph

Visual Data Description: You are given a line graph depicting the changes in the average temperature in a city over a 12-month period.

Sample Response:

The provided line graph illustrates the fluctuations in the average monthly temperature in City X over the course of a year. Several key features and patterns emerge from this graph.

In January, the temperature starts at around 10°C, then undergoes a gradual increase, reaching its peak in July at nearly 30°C. This upward trend is consistent with the onset of summer. Subsequently, the temperature begins to decline from July to August, with a significant drop. By September, it drops below 20°C, signifying the transition to autumn.

October marks the beginning of a more substantial temperature decline, which continues through November and December. December sees the lowest average temperature at approximately 5°C. It is evident that the temperature change in City X follows a clear seasonal pattern, with the warmest months occurring in the middle of the year and the coldest in the latter part.

In terms of temperature variations, the graph also shows monthly fluctuations. The largest monthly variation is observed between July and August, with a sharp decline of nearly 8°C. On the other hand, the smallest variation occurs between November and December, with only a 3°C difference. This demonstrates that temperature changes are more significant during the transition between summer and autumn.

The description is clear and coherent, providing a detailed analysis of the visual data.

Here are the key elements that contribute to this response's Band 7 score:

1. Accuracy: The response accurately describes the key trends and details present in the line graph, including the highest and lowest temperatures, monthly variations, and seasonal patterns.

2. Coherence and Cohesion: The response is well-organized, with clear transitions between different parts of the data. There is a logical flow in the description.

3. Range of Vocabulary: The response uses a good range of vocabulary, including precise terms for temperature changes ("fluctuations," "variations") and seasonal transitions ("onset of summer," "transition to autumn").

4. Grammar and Sentence Structure: The sentences are well-structured, with a mix of simple and complex sentences. There are no significant grammatical errors that hinder understanding.

5. Word Count and Timing: The response falls within the recommended word count range (around 160 words), which is appropriate for Task 1. Timing is important, as writing too much or too little can affect your score.