IELTS Academic Writing Task 1: Samples, Examples, and Types

IELTS is essential for those who want to study in English-speaking nations or work there. Academic Writing Task 1 is one of the most critical components of the IELTS test. The task (IELTS Academic Writing Task 1: Samples, Examples, and Types) requires test takers to describe visual information such as charts, graphs, tables, and diagrams. This comprehensive guide will help you excel in this exam section by exploring different types of tasks and providing examples. IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 asks candidates to summarize or explain visual data. It is important to note trends, comparisons and essential details. This task tests your ability to present and interpret data logically and concisely. This is a critical skill for academic and professional settings.

Introduction Of IELTS Writing Academic Task 1

In IELTS Academic Writing Task 1, you may encounter different types of visual information. Understanding the other visual information types will help you prepare for the test. Bar charts represent data using rectangular bars. The length of each bar corresponds with the value of the data it represents. Bar charts are used to compare categories and groups. Line graphs are a series of data points connected by straight lines. They are ideal for constantly changing data, as they can show trends over time. The pie charts show data slices as a circular pie. The size of each slice is proportional to the data that it represents. Pie charts can compare proportions and show parts of an entire. Tables allow for comparisons of variables by presenting data in columns and rows. These tables help display numerical and detailed data. Diagrams include maps, flow charts and process diagrams. These visuals depict processes, stages or spatial relationships. Candidates are required to describe how something works or explain spatial arrangements.

A bar graph might show the sales figures for different products over a certain period. Imagine a bar graph showing sales figures for smartphones, laptops, and tablets between 2010 and 2020. It is important to note that the bar graph illustrating sales figures for smartphones, laptops, and tablets between 2010 and 2020 does not include the device’s price.

IELTS Academic Task 1: Examples, Types and Samples

IELTS is an important step for those who want to study or work in English-speaking nations. Academic Writing Task 1 is one of the most important components of the IELTS test. The task requires test takers to describe visual information such as charts, graphs, tables, and diagrams. This comprehensive guide will help you excel in this exam section by exploring different types of tasks and providing examples.

Understanding IELTS Academic Writing Task 1

IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 asks candidates to explain, summarize, or describe visual information. It is important to note trends, compare data, and highlight significant details. This task will assess your ability to present and interpret data, concisely, and logically, an important skill for academic and professional settings.

Visual Information Types

In IELTS Academic Writing Task 1, you may encounter several types of visual information. Understanding these types of visual information will help you prepare for the test.

Bar Charts: Bar charts represent data using rectangular bars. The length of each bar corresponds to its data value. Bar charts are often used to compare categories or groups.

Line graphs: These line graphs show data as a series connected by straight lines. They are ideal for presenting constantly changing data.

Pie Chart: Pie charts are circular slices of pie. The size of each slice is proportional to the data it represents. Pie charts can compare proportions and show parts of an entire.

Tables: They present data in columns and rows, making it easy to compare different variables. They help display numerical and detailed data.

Diagrams: Diagrams include maps, flow charts and process diagrams. These visuals depict processes, stages or spatial relationships. Candidates are required to describe how something works or explain spatial arrangements.

Sample Task 1: Bar Chart

A bar graph might show the sales figures of different products for a certain period. Imagine a bar graph showing sales figures for smartphones, laptops and tablets between 2010 and 2020. The bar chart that shows the sales of smartphones, tablets, and laptops from 2010 to 2020 demonstrates the significant growth in smartphone sales, which began at 50,000 units and reached 200,000 units by the end of 2020. On the other hand, laptop sales increased moderately, going from 70,000 to 120,000 over the same period. Tablet sales were relatively stable, with only minor fluctuations. They maintained an average of 90.000 units over the past decade. This example shows how the candidate describes trends and compares data. The use of precise figures and comparison language helps convey information effectively.

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S.No.	Example
1	The chart below shows the changes in sales of four different types of books from 2002 to 2012.
2	The table below shows the figures for imprisonment in five countries between 1930 and 1980.
3	The bar chart gives information about life expectancy in Japan, Korea, the United States, and Indonesia, and the table shows the change in life expectancy between 1953 and 2008.
4	The Graph Above Shows Information About Employment Rates Across 6 Countries in 1995 and 2005.
5	The bar chart gives information about the life expectancy in Japan, Korea, the United States, and Indonesia, and the table shows the change in life expectancy between 1953 and 2008.

6	The graph shows the estimated oil production capacity for several Gulf countries between 1990 and 2010.
7	The chart below shows information about Heart Attacks by Age and Gender in the USA.
8	The diagram below shows the average hours of unpaid work per week done by people in different categories.
9	The graph below shows the average class size in six countries and compares it with the world’s average class size in 2006.
10	The figure shows the results of a survey of 1000 adolescents in five different countries. The participants were asked at what age they believed certain rights and responsibilities should be granted to young people.
11	The graph shows Internet Usage in Taiwan by Age Group, 1998-2000. Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.
12	The chart below shows the amount of money per week spent on fast food in Britain. The graph shows the trends in the consumption of fast food.
13	The chart below shows the average daily minimum and maximum levels of two air pollutants in four big cities in 2000.
14	The graph shows the percentage of male and female academic staff members across the faculties of a major university in 2016.
15	The graph compares the percentage of international and the percentage of UK students gaining second class degrees or better at a major UK University in 2009.

Sample Task 2: Line Graph

A line graph could show a city’s average temperature for a given year. A line graph might show the monthly changes in temperature in New York City. The line graph showing the average monthly temperatures in New York City shows a clear seasonal pattern. The temperatures rise steadily in January, reaching a maximum of 85degF (or 32degC) in July. They then gradually drop to 35degC by December. The highest average temperatures are recorded from June to August, whereas the lowest is in January and February. This trend highlights the typical seasonal climate changes in the city. The candidate successfully highlights the key data points and highlights the trend. Mentioning months and temperature values will add clarity and detail.

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S.No.	Example
1	The Figure Shows Demographic Trends in Scotland. Summarise the Information by Selecting and Reporting the Main Feature.
2	The Graph Below Shows Waste Recycling Rates in The U.S. from 1960 to 2011.
3	The line graph shows the cost of watching films. The pie charts show the change in the percentage of market share represented by the three forms.
4	The graph below shows fish consumption and different kinds of meat in a European country between 1979 and 2004.
5	The graph gives information about the percentage of the population of four different Asian countries living in cities between 1970 and 2020, with additional predictions for 2030 and 2040.

6	The line graph shows the past and projected finances for a local authority in New Zealand.
7	The line graph below shows the number of annual visits to Australia by overseas residents. The table below gives information on the country of origin where the visitors came from
8	The graph below gives information about changes in the birth and death rates in New Zealand between 1901 and 2101.
9	The chart below shows the changes that took place in three different areas of crime in Panama City from 2010 to 2019.
10	The graph below shows how elderly people in the United States spent their free time between 1980 and 2010.
11	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.
12	The chart below shows the price in euros of 800 grams of four types of bread in one European country from 2001 to 2006.
13	The chart below gives information about “Istanbul Promo Plus” sales in 2007. Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant
14	The line graph shows Paris Metro station passengers. Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.
15	The chart below shows the unemployment rate and the number of people leaving Ireland from 1988 to 2008.

Sample Task 3: Pie Chart

A pie chart could show the market share for different car manufacturers during a particular year. A pie chart might show the market shares of Toyota, Ford, Honda and BMW in 2020. In 2020, the pie chart showing the market share for car manufacturers shows that Toyota had the largest share with 35%. Ford was next at 25%, Honda came in at 20% and BMW was 20%. This distribution highlights Toyota’s dominance in the market. It has a significant lead over its rivals. Honda and BMW have equal shares, which suggests a balance in the competition between these two brands. The pie chart summarizes the key points and proportions well. The market distribution can be better understood by using percentages and comparative terminology.

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S.NO	Example
1	The Charts Below Give Information About World Spending and Population.
2	The Charts Below Show Degrees Granted in Different Fields at The National University in The Years 1990, 2000, and 2010.
3	The pie charts illustrate the average time youngsters spend on different social media platforms (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Snapchat) in India from 2016 to 2020.
4	The pie chart illustrates how much money was spent in the budget on different sectors by the UAE government in 2010
5	The pie charts show the percentage of pollutants entering a specific part of the ocean in 1997 and 2007.

6	The table and pie chart illustrate populations in Australia according to different nationalities and areas.
7	The pie chart shows the amount of money that a children’s charity located in the USA spent and received in one year, 2016.
8	The pie charts below show the online sales for retail sectors in Australia in 2003 and 2013
9	The charts below show changes in the proportion of energy produced from different resources in a country in 1985 and 2003.
10	The pie charts below give data on the spending and consumption of resources by countries of the world and how the population is distributed.
11	The chart below shows how much money was spent in the budget on different sectors by the UAE government in 2000.
12	The pie chart shows the amount of money that a children’s charity located in the USA spent and received in one year, 2016.
13	The graph below shows information about cases regarding COVID-19. Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.
14	The pie charts compare the expenditure of a school in the UK in three different years over a 20- year period.
15	The Graph shows the information on smoking frequently seen among athletes of Parkview secondary school. Summarize the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

Sample Task 4: Table

A table could show the growth in the population of different cities over a decade. A table might show the population growth of London, New York and Sydney between 2010 and 2020. Tables showing the growth in population of London, New York City, Tokyo and Sydney between 2010 and 2020 show significant increases for all cities. London’s population grew the most, from 8 to 9.5 million. New York increased its population from 8,2 million to 8,7 million. Tokyo’s population increased from 13 to 13.5 million, while Sydney’s increased from 4.5 to 5 million. The data shows the trend of urbanization around the world. In this example, the candidate gives a concise and clear summary of data that highlights key trends and points. The use of specific numbers adds precision to a description.

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S.NO	Example
1	The Table Below Gives Information About the Underground Railway Systems in Six Cities.
2	The Chart Shows the Average Life Expectancy for Males and Females in 1990, 1950 and 1990
3	The Table Below Shows the Results of Surveys in 2000, 2005, and 2010 About One University
4	The table below shows sales made by a coffee shop in an office building on a typical weekday.
5	The table chart illustrates the milk production in a year in four countries (Armenia, Norway, Italy, and Germany) in 1980, 2000, and 2020.

6	The table and pie chart illustrate populations in Australia according to different nationalities and areas.
7	The Table shows how many international students study in Canada and the United States by country of origin.
8	The table below shows the top 10 internet users by country in 2019. Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant
9	The table below shows the results of surveys in 2000, 2005 and 2010 about one university.
10	The table below shows the top ten countries with the largest population in 2019, and how it is projected to change by 2100.
11	The table below shows the amount of waste production (in millions of tonnes) in six different countries over twenty years.
12	The table beneath shows the level of people specialists in various kinds of enterprises in 1990, 2000, and 2010.
13	The table below illustrates weekly consumption by age group of dairy products in a European country.
14	The table shows the amount of electricity used according to the number of occupants. Summarize the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.
15	The table below shows the changes in exports in HK billions between 2009 and 2010.

Sample Task 5: Diagram

A diagram could be used to illustrate the recycling of plastic bottles. A flow chart could show the various stages of recycling plastic bottles. The diagram showing the plastic bottle recycling process outlines several essential stages. The first step is to collect and transport the used bottles to a recycling centre. The bottles are then sorted by colour and type. Next, the bottles are shredded into small plastic flakes. These are then cleaned of any impurities. These flakes are then melted down and moulded to create new products such as containers or clothing fibres. Lastly, the products are sold to retailers. This process highlights a systematic approach to recycling plastic bottles. The candidate explains the process step-by-step, clearly describing each stage. Using sequential language is an excellent way to communicate the flow of a process.

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S.NO	Example
1	The Two Maps Below Show an Island, Before and After the Construction of Some Tourist Facilities.
2	The  Diagram Details the Process of Making  Wool. Summarise the Information by Selecting and Reporting the Main Features and Making Comparisons Where Relevant.
3	The diagram details the process of producing olive oil. Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features and make comparisons where relevant.
4	The map depicts the present condition and an improvised plan of a specific area.
5	The two maps below show an island before and after the construction of some tourist facilities.

6	The diagrams below show the changes that have taken place at West Park Secondary School since its construction in 1950.
7	We were given a plan for a new town and asked to describe it. The plan was similar to the one below
8	The diagram details the process of making leather products. Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.
9	The diagram below shows the life cycle of a salmon, from egg to adult fish.
10	The diagram below shows the process by which bricks are manufactured for the building industry.
11	The diagram below shows how salt is removed from seawater to make it drinkable.
12	The diagrams below show the changes that have taken place at West Park Secondary School since its construction in 1950.
13	The Map of a City in 1950 and now. Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.
14	The diagrams below show the stages and equipment used in the cement-making process and how cement is used to produce concrete for building purposes
15	The map below is of the town of Garlsdon. A new supermarket (S) is planned for the town. The map shows two possible sites for the supermarket.

Tips for Describing Visual Information

Before you begin writing, it is essential to understand the data fully. Analyze the visual information to identify trends, comparisons and important details. Avoid using overly complicated language and precise language to convey the information accurately. Your response should be logically structured, starting with a general overview of the visuals and moving on to specific points. Separate different parts of the description with paragraphs. Add details and accuracy to descriptions by including critical data, such as percentages, exact figures and comparative terminology. You will become more accurate and concise when you practice regularly with various visuals. You can improve your skills by using past exam questions and sample tasks.

Avoid these Common Mistakes In IELTS Writing Task 1 Academic 

Avoid overgeneralizing when tackling IELTS Academic Writing Task 1. Avoid making broad statements that lack specific data. Detail-oriented information and attention to detail are essential. Another common mistake is to ignore trends. Attention to patterns and trends in data is necessary for a thorough description. Your response should be well-structured with clear paragraphs. A logical structure will make your description more straightforward to understand. Double-check your data, and remember to include percentages and figures. Avoid repetition. Each paragraph should enhance your description.

Sample Tasks for Practice

It is important to practice regularly with IELTS Academic Writing Task 1: Samples, Examples, and Types

Here are some sample tasks to help you practice:

Sample Task 1: Bar Chart—The bar charts below provide information about percentages of students who are proficient in a foreign language in different countries. Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

Sample Task 2: Line Graph –The line graph shows the number of first-time visitors and returning visitors who visited Caryl Island from 2000 to 2008.

Sample Task 3: Pie chart—The pie charts below give data on the spending and consumption of resources by countries of the world and how the population is distributed. Summarize the information by selecting and reporting the main features and making relevant comparisons.

Sample Task 4: Table – The Table Below shows the proportion of income spent on 4 common items in the UK in 1998.

Sample Task 5: Diagram The flowchart below shows the process involved in completing the work experience requirement for university students. Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

Conclusion: IELTS Academic Writing Task 1

IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 assesses your ability to describe, interpret, and analyze visual information. Understanding the different types, practising with sample questions, and using effective strategies will help you improve your performance. Focus on accuracy, clarity, and organization when writing your answers. With regular practice and an understanding of the requirements, you can achieve your target score in IELTS Academic Writing Task 1.