In IELTS Writing Task 1, you are asked to describe visual information.
There are different types of
tasks, and each type requires a specific approach. Below is a breakdown of the common types and
the structures you can use.
Types of IELTS Writing Task 1
1. Line Graph
2. Bar Chart
3. Pie Chart
4. Table
5. Multiple Graphs or Charts (e.g., a bar chart with a line graph)
6. Process Diagram (e.g., manufacturing process, natural cycles)
7. Maps (e.g., changes in an area over time)
General Structure for Task 1
Use 4 paragraphs for most tasks.
1. Introduction
Paraphrase the question statement.
Mention what the chart, graph, or diagram shows.
Example:
The line graph illustrates the number of tourists visiting three different countries between 2010 and
2020.
2. Overview (Key Trends / Summary)
Identify general trends or key features.
Mention any significant changes, patterns, or stability.
Avoid using specific data here.
Example:
Overall, the number of tourists increased in all countries, with Country A showing the most significant
growth.
3. Body Paragraph 1 (Details)
Focus on important trends or categories.
Use comparative language to highlight differences.
Group data logically (e.g., increasing vs. decreasing trends).
Example:
Tourism in Country A started at 1 million in 2010 and doubled by 2020, while Country B experienced a
slower rise.
4. Body Paragraph 2 (More Details / Comparisons)
Provide additional details or cover the remaining trends.
Make comparisons if needed.
Use time-based phrases (e.g., by 2015, after 2018).
Example:
In contrast, Country C had the lowest number of visitors, but it saw a steady rise throughout the
decade.
Structures for Specific Task 1 Types
1. Line Graph
Structure:
Introduction: Paraphrase question
Overview: Mention main trends (increase/decrease/stability)
Body 1: Describe early period trends
Body 2: Describe later period trends with comparisons
2. Bar Chart / Table
Structure:
Introduction: Paraphrase question
Overview: Highlight key differences or trends
Body 1: Focus on one group/category
Body 2: Compare with other group/category
3. Pie Chart
Structure:
Introduction: Paraphrase question
Overview: Mention the largest and smallest segments
Body 1: Describe major segments
Body 2: Describe remaining segments and comparisons
4. Process Diagram
Structure:
Introduction: Explain the process being shown
Overview: Mention the number of stages and general flow (e.g., starting with raw materials,
ending with the final product)
Body 1: Describe the first half of the process
Body 2: Describe the second half of the process
5. Maps
Structure:
Introduction: Describe what the maps show (e.g., changes in a city between two years)
Overview: Mention key changes (e.g., new buildings, roads, removal of forests)
Body 1: Describe the first map (past layout)
Body 2: Describe the changes seen in the second map (current or future layout)
Tips for All Types
Use comparative language (e.g., higher than, lower than).
Avoid giving opinions or explanations.
Use a variety of linking words and vocabulary to describe trends (e.g., slightly increased,
dramatically fell).
Stay within 150-170 words for clarity and conciseness.
