Academic IELTS Task 1: Six Tips for Success

In IELTS Writing Task 1, you need to write 150 words within 20 minutes based on a visual representation of data- usually a graph, diagram, map or process. 

The task requires you to select and analyse important facts, data, and features, by comparing data and trends or describing a particular process. In this way task 1 not only measures English language ability, but it also tests your skills of analysis.

While there are many task types in IELTS Writing Part 1, these simple steps can help you succeed no matter what kind of visual you are faced with on exam day.

Step 1: Analyse the visual information carefully

Make sure that you have taken the time to look at the visual information- whether it’s a chart, diagram, table or map. Identify the key features: What does it show? How is the data measured? What are the main patterns or trends? 

Step 2: Make a clear plan

Decide on the key points you want to include in your response, and the data you will use to support them. Think about the most logical order to present your points in. Planning takes time, but it will help you to write clearly, and ensure a well-structured essay.

Step 3: Write a clear, focussed introduction.

Your introduction should paraphrase (but not copy) the question. Remember to describe what the visual is (e.g. a chart, map or diagram), the data source and when the data was collected.

Step 4: Present an overview of the key trends

Summarise the main points of the data, without going into excessive detail. Present an overview of the key trends or patterns observed in the visual information. Ask yourself: What does the data display show? Are there any patterns in the data? This paragraph is a guide for your response, giving the reader a clear understanding of the main information you will discuss. It may be done in one or two sentences. 

Step 5: Provide in-depth analysis

In this section, you will provide more detail about the key trends or patterns that you introduced in the overview. Give specific examples from the visual display to support your points, such as percentages and numerical data. This will give your analysis validity and depth. 

Depending on the type of data you are describing, you can use one or two paragraphs in this section. Ensure that the sentences are grouped logically, using linking words or phrases to ensure cohesion and coherence. 

Step 6: Check and Revise

After you have written your response, take some time to check that it is free of spelling and grammatical errors or punctuation mistakes. Check that each point of your analysis is supported by an example or relevant point from the data. Ensure that your sentences link together logically, using appropriate linking words and phrases. There is no need to write a conclusion for Task 1.

In Summary:

1. Write a clear introduction that describes the data display- but don’t copy the question. 

2. Give an overview of the main features or trends- but don’t give details.

3. Give details of the key trends and patterns, making sure you give examples from the data to support each point.

And remember, IELTS Academic Task 1 does not need a conclusion.