Tips for IELTS Task 1

Exam summary

● The academic writing module takes approxiamtely 60 minutes.

● There are two tasks.

Task 1

This takes about 20 minutes. You write a report about a graph, table, bar chart or diagram, using a

minimum of 150 words.

You are marked on task completion and use of a range of vocabulary and grammar, organization and

development.

GOLDEN RULES

● In the IELTS test, do Task 1 first. There is a reason why it is Task 1! From the psychological point of

view, it gives you a sense of accomplishment when you have finished it.

● A common feature of the writing process is the concept of getting oneself going. With the shorter task

you can get yourself into your stride in writing. By the time you start Task 2, you will then be much more

alert and perform Task 2 much more efficiently.

● Spend 20 minutes on this task. A common mistake which candidates make is to spend longer on Task 2

and leave themselves 15 minutes or less to complete Task 1.

● Take Task 1 seriously, even though Task 2 carries double the marks.

● Skim the instructions and study the diagram. Use the general statement about the data to help you

interpret the graph.

● Spend the recommended 20 minutes as follows:

+ 2 - 3 minutes analysing and planning

+ 14 - 15 minutes writing

+ 2 - 3 minutes checking

● Check the values and numbers on the vertical and horizontal axes.

●Work out how many lines 150 words are in your handwriting, ex: if you write about 10 words per line,

then you will need to produce at least 15 lines. Aim to write no more than 170/ 180 words.

● Check that you have written at least 150 words. If you write less, it will affect your score.

● Compare general trends, differences etc. and support this with information from the diagram. Avoid

focusing too closely on the details.

● If you have more than one graph or chart or mixture, link the information.

● Make sure you write in paragraphs: an introduction, one or two paragraphs for the body of the text. Then

write a brief conclusion.

Graphs

How to write the introduction

● One sentence is enough for the introduction

● Replace words in the general statement with synonyms or paraphrases when you can.

● If you cannot quickly write your introduction in your own words, do not waste time. Write out the words

in the rubric, but remember to change them later.

● Do not write the word below from the rubric in your introduction.

● Use one of the following four prompts to help you write an introduction:

- The graph shows/ illustrates the trends in.... between... and...

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