sample essay task 1 line graph

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IELTS Writing Task 1 – Line Graph

Updated On Jan 25, 2024

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IELTS Writing Prediction Questions for 2024

IELTS line graphs

In IELTS Writing task 1 of the academic section, there will be a visual representation or a diagram on which you have to write a paragraph. One of these visual representations may be pie charts.

Sometimes, in the IELTS examination , you are asked to explain a Line graph. The IELTS line graph shows how data changes over time. These line graphs will have 2 axes, one is X-axis and another is Y-axis. 

The X-axis shows the time period and the Y-axis shows what is being measured. The line graph highlights the trends when the data goes up and down. You should take only 20 minutes to complete this task and it should be a 150-word essay.

Line graph – An example:

Types of Line Graphs:

There are three types of line graphs. They are:

• Simple line graph
• Multiline graph (or) Polyline graph
• Compound line graph

Simple Line Graph:

Definition: These types of graphs have just a single line plotted on them.

Sample Answer

The given image depicts a line graph representing the trend in the occurrence of X disease in Someland from 1960 to 1995.

The line graph represents the presence of X disease in Someland in varying numbers at different time intervals until it is wiped out entirely from the place.

It is clear from the line graph that the number of people affected by X disease did not cross 100 between 1960 -1965. The number of affected individuals began rising after the year 1965 and reached 200 in 1970 and 500 in 1975 respectively. The occurrence of X disease remained stagnant between 1975-1980 at 500 affected individuals. After the year 1980, the number of cases took a downward trend, falling down to almost 350 in 1985 before being completely eradicated by the year 1990. The number of people affected by X disease in Someland has been zero from 1990 till 1995.

Multiline graph (or) Polyline graph Task 1:

Definition: They are commonly used for comparison. These types of graphs have more than one line. ( on the same axis)

The graph portrays the consumption of three kinds of spread, namely, Margarine, Lowfat and reduced spreads and butter, over 26 years, from 1981 to 2007.

It is evident that butter and margarine were the primary spreads used until the introduction of low-fat and reduced spreads.

The staple spread from the early 1980s till the early 1990s was butter. The consumption of margarine followed a fluctuating trend over the years, from 1981 to 1986. The consumption decreased but then rose till 1991 and remained stagnant till 1996 after which it started declining. The use of low-fat and reduced spread began from 1996 and rose sharply from the first year till 2001 after which its preference decreased.

With regards to quantity, butter peaked at about 160 grams after which it followed a downward trend. The quantity of Margarine was within 80-100 grams for 20 years till 2001 after which it fell to 40 grams in 2007. The number of low-fat spreads crossed 80 grams in 2001 after which its consumption quantity fell.

Compound line graph:

Definition: It is an advanced version of the multi-line graph. The area between two lines is shaded indicating the size of that part.

The given graph shows the frequency of three different kinds of vehicles, which are, vans, trucks and tricycles on a road at different times of the day.

It is clear from the graph that at any point in time, the number of vans on the road are the highest among the three vehicles, followed by trucks and then tricycles. The peak hour of vans and trucks falls between 2-3 pm.

The number of vans on the road increases from 1-2 pm till 2-3 pm and then gradually decreases. The number of trucks on the road remains the same till 2-3 pm after which their number also starts declining. The number of tricycles is highest at 1-2 pm and then it follows a downward trend all throughout the day.

The road in question is dominated by vans for most of the day and trucks are also quite frequent during the afternoon. The number of tricycles are less as compared to the other two types of vehicles.

Tips for IELTS Writing Task 1 Line Graph 2022

• In the introduction part, you can paraphrase the question asked or the topic of the essay.
• When you explain the overall trend, identify the main feature and explain it.
• Ensure that each paragraph has examples that are percentages or numbers to support the sentence written as an explanation. 
• You can look into the various lessons available on the line graph in order to answer the complex questions.
• The last tip is to practice as much as possible so that you get a good hold on what to write in the examination when questions become complex.
• You also need to use suitable verbs, nouns, adverbs, adjectives, prepositions related to time.

Writing the exam without practicing is a waste because you will not be able to understand anything in the exam. It may become complex and test-takers may skip the question which in turn will reduce your IELTS band score .

Here are the 10 examples for the IELTS Writing Line Graph Task 1 2022:

Also check :

IELTS Writing recent actual test

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a line graph?

Is there a dedicated vocabulary for line graph?

What is trend in a graph?

What is the structure used to describe a line graph?

Is conclusion required for writing task 1 – Line graph?

Practice IELTS Writing Task 1 based on report types

Effective IELTS Essay Connectors for Writing Task 2 & Task 1

Janet had been an IELTS Trainer before she dived into the field of Content Writing. During her days of being a Trainer, Janet had written essays and sample answers which got her students an 8+ band in the IELTS Test. Her contributions to our articles have been engaging and simple to help the students understand and grasp the information with ease. Janet, born and brought up in California, had no idea about the IELTS until she moved to study in Canada. Her peers leaned to her for help as her first language was English.

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How To Write an IELTS Line Graph Essay

Here is the 5 steps process I recommend for planning and writing   IELTS line graph essays:

1)  Analyse the question

2)  Identify the main features

3)  Write an introduction

4)  Write an overview

5)  Write the details paragraphs

I’m going to take you through the whole process step-by-step as we work on a practice question.

Many students are reluctant to spend time on steps 1 and 2 as they want to spend as much of the 20 minutes allowed for the essay as possible actually writing it. However, it is essential that you do them as they are the key to writing a high-scoring IELTS line graph essay.

Before we begin, here’s a model essay structure that you can use as a guideline for all IELTS Academic Task 1 questions.

Ideally, your essay should have 4 paragraphs:

Paragraph 1  – Introduction

Paragraph 2  – Overview

Paragraph 3  – 1 st  main feature

Paragraph 4  – 2 nd  main feature

Now that we have all these tools we need, we’re ready to begin planning and writing our IELTS line graph essay.

Here’s our practice question:

The graph below shows radio and television audiences throughout the day in 1992.

Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

Write at least 150 words.

Source: Official IELTS website

Step 1 –  Analyse the question

The format of every Academic Task 1 question is the same. Here is our practice question again with the words that will be included in all questions highlighted .

The  graph below shows radio and television audiences throughout the day in 1992.

Every question consists of:

• Sentence 1 – A brief description of the graphic
• Sentence 2 – The instructions
• The graphic – chart, graph, table, etc.

Sentence 2 tells you what you have to do.

You must do 3 things:

1.     Select the main features.

2.     Write about the main features.

3.     Compare the main features.

All three tasks refer to the ‘ main features ’ of the graphic. You  do not  have to write about everything. Just pick out 2 or 3 key features and you’ll have plenty to write about.

Step 2 – Identify the Main Features

The graphic in IELTS line graph questions should not be difficult to interpret. Each question has been created to  test your language skills, not your mathematics ability.

All you are looking for are the main features. These will usually be the easiest things to spot. There will be lots of information in the graphic to help you identify them.

Here are some useful questions to ask?

• What information do the 2 axes give?
• What are the units of measurements?
• What are the time periods?
• What can you learn from the title and any labels?
• What is the most obvious trend?
• Are there any notable similarities?

(I give more detail on how to use these questions, plus downloadable checklists for identifying the main features of all 7 different types of IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 questions, in the lesson on  How To Understand & Analyse Task 1 Questions .)

So, what main features stand out in our practice graphic?

Here's our IELTS line graph again.

The timeline will give you the biggest clues as to the most significant trends. Look for general trends.

There are 2 main features/trends in this line graph:

Main feature 1:  The peak time for TV audiences is in the evening (8 pm).

Main feature 2:  The peak time for radio audiences is in the morning (8 am).

The general trends you select will be the starting point for your essay. You will then go on to add more detail. However, with just 20 minutes allowed for Task 1, and a requirement of only 150 words, you won't be able to include many details.

We’re now ready to begin writing our essay. Here’s a reminder of the 4 part structure we’re going to use.

Step 3 – Write an Introduction 

In the introduction, you should simply paraphrase the question, that is, say the same thing in a different way. You can do this by using synonyms and changing the sentence structure. For example:

Introduction (Paragraph 1): 

The line graph illustrates the proportion of people in the UK who watched TV and listened to the radio over 24 hours from October to December 1992.

This is all you need to do for the introduction.

Step 4 – Write an Overview (Paragraph 2)

In the second paragraph, you should report the main features you can see in the graph, giving only general information. The detail comes later in the essay. You should also make any clear comparisons you spot.

This is where we write about the general trends. Here are the ones we picked out above.

Now form these ideas into two or three sentences with a total of around 40 words. State the information simply using synonyms where possible. No elaborate vocabulary or grammar structures are required, just the appropriate words and correct verb tenses.

For example:

Overview  (Paragraph 2): 

Overall, a significantly greater percentage of the TV audience watched in the evening while radio had the most listeners in the morning. Over the course of each day and night, more people watched TV than listened to the radio.

Step 5  – Write the 1st Detail Paragraph

Paragraphs 3 and 4 of your IELTS line graph essay are where you include more detailed information about the data in the graphic. In paragraph 3, you should give evidence to support your first key feature. Don’t forget to make comparisons when relevant.

Here is our first main feature again:

And this is an example of what you could write:

Paragraph 3 :

Less than 10% of people watched TV between 1 am and 12 noon but at 4 pm this figure increased rapidly, reaching a peak of almost half the population at 8 pm. After this, the graph records a sharp decline in viewers, reaching a low of only a tiny percentage by 3 am.

Step 6  – Write the 2nd Detail Paragraph

For the fourth and final paragraph, you do the same thing for your second key feature. 

Here’s an example of what you could write:

Paragraph 4 :

Radio, on the other hand, shows a very different trend. The most popular time for listeners to be tuned in was just after 8 am when around 27% of the population was listening. After a brief peak, the numbers dropped steadily to barely 2%, apart from fluctuations at around 4 pm and 10.30 pm. The percentage of listeners remained low overnight before beginning a rapid ascent from 6 am to the 8 am high.

Here are the four paragraphs brought together to create our finished essay.

Finished IELTS Line Graph Essay

This sample IELTS line graph essay is well over the minimum word limit so you can see that you don’t have space to include very much detail at all. That’s why it is essential to select just a couple of main features to write about.

Now use what you’ve learnt in this lesson to practice answering other IELTS line graph questions. Start slowly at first and keep practicing until you can plan and write a complete essay in around 20 minutes.

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Ielts academic writing task 1 – all lessons.

IELTS Academic Writing  –  A summary of the test including important facts, test format & assessment.

Academic Writing Task 1  – The format, the 7 question types & sample questions, assessment & marking criteria.  All the key information you need to know.

Understanding Task 1 Questions  – How to quickly and easily analyse and understand IELTS Writing Task 2 questions.

How To Plan a Task 1 Essay  –  Discover  3 reasons why you must plan, the 4 simple steps of essay planning and learn a simple 4 part essay structure.

Vocabulary for Task 1 Essays  –  Learn key vocabulary for a high-scoring essay. Word lists & a downloadable PDF.

Grammar for Task 1 Essays   – Essential grammar for Task 1 Academic essays including, verb tenses, key sentence structures, articles & prepositions.

The 7 Question Types:

Click the links below for a step-by-step lesson on each type of Task 1 question.

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• Process Diagram
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IELTS Academic Writing Task 1: Line Graph with Model Answer (Band 9)

On IELTS test day, you may encounter line graphs in the Academic Writing Task 1 section. To help you understand what components make up a good response to a line graph question, let’s take a look at a model band 9 essay .

To see why this essay is band 9, see our scorer commentary after the model essay below, and check out the official IELTS rubric for Task 1 (PDF) .

This particular prompt is a line graph. Your approach to this graph should be the same as your approach to any other Task 1 infographic Take a look at the information and think carefully. What is the best way to summarize the way the information is structured and the main points? From there, how can you best compare the most relevant pieces of information? Finally, how should you structure that summary and comparison? For more advice on how to approach this, see our article on IELTS Academic Task 1 paragraph structure , as well as our main page for IELTS sample questions and practice resources .

Try to do this prompt yourself. Then check out our band 9 model essay below the prompt and compare it to your own work to see how you did.

Model IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 Prompt: Line Graph

The chart below gives information about population growth in three major Australian cities from 1992 to 2016.

Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features and make comparisons where relevant.

Model Essay

This line graph shows the change in population for the cities of Melbourne, Sydney, and Brisbane from 1992 to 2017.

While all cities saw a net increase in annual population growth by 2011, the most dramatic increases happened between 2007 and 2010. In spite of this overall trend, there were a number of rises and falls in growth, with all cities showing a decrease in growth in 2011.

Although it started out with the least annual growth, Melbourne’s growth accelerated the most overall, starting with only a roughly 23k increase in people in 1992, but gaining around 110,000 people in 2017. Brisbane started out with nearly as little growth as Melbourne, but had a lower net gain, rising from slightly over 23k growth in 1992 to a gain of merely 50,000 by 2017. Sydney started out with the highest growth rate at 30,000 in a year, but ended with 105,000 annual growth by the end of the period, just behind Melbourne.

Why does this essay have a band 9 score?

All of Magoosh’s model IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 essays are meant to be band 9. But this model essay is special. Here, we’re going to give you a detailed explanation as to why this is a band 9 essay! Our scoring rationale is based on the band 9 category descriptors in the official rubric for Writing Task 1 .

Task achievement

Per the instructions, this essay summarizes the information by identifying the main features in paragraph one, reporting the general content of the main features in paragraph two, and making relevant comparisons between the cities in the graph in paragraph three. This matches the band 9 descriptor “fully satisfies all the requirements of the task.

The essay organizes its paragraphs clearly, identifying the characteristics of the graph in the first paragraph, reporting the main features in the second, and making comparisons in the third. Each paragraph’s ideas are connected with appropriate linking words, such as “while,” “in spite of,” “although,” and so on. This matches with “clearly presents a fully developed response” in the band 9 task achievement section.

Coherence and cohesion

Coherence and cohesion are tied closely to the points I mentioned above in task achievement. This essay organizes similar ideas closely together in paragraphs without any distracting less relevant details and uses natural-sounding transitions. In doing this, the essay “uses cohesion in such a way that it attracts no attention” and “skillfully manages paragraphing.”

Lexical resource

While this essay does repeat sum specialized terms related to the graph, such as “annual,” it uses a variety of language to describe the same thing when possible. As one example, when describing the beginning point on the graph for each of the three cities in the final paragraph, the essay uses the terms “started out,” “began,” and “initially had.” The means that the essay “uses a wide range of vocabulary,” per level 9 of the rubric.

Not only are the words varied, but they are also very suited to the context and meaning. For instance, sophisticated phrasing such as “net increase” and “the most dramatic increases” appear in paragraph 1. Overly wordy terms such as “the total increase for each year combined” are avoided for the most part. So are slightly awkward-sounding phrases like “the very shocking increases.”

Moreover, the mistakes in word use that do appear in the essay are minor. “Amounts of people” in the first paragraph is overly simple and slightly awkward, but the essay uses the much better term “population” after that initial slip. Similarly, the use of the term “trending” when “trends” would be a more commonly used word with more accurate meaning, is a very minor word form error.

Ultimately, this links to the rubric’s description of “very natural and sophisticated control of lexical features,” where “rare minor errors occur only as “slips.”

Grammatical range and accuracy

This essay shows a level of grammar variety that’s comparable to its variety of vocabulary. The first paragraph consists of a sentence with a relatively simple structure, but with a sophisticated prepositional phrase modifying the noun “change.” The paragraphs that follow have compound sentences (the first sentence of paragraph 2), and the use of a variety of modifying phrases (ex: “with all cities…”, “rising from slightly…”).

There is a minor error in parallel structure in the first sentence of the second paragraph, with a shift from present participle “starting” to past tense “gained.” Together, these aspects of grammar in the essay satisfy the level 9 rubric descriptor “uses a wide range of structures with full flexibility and accuracy; rare minor errors occur only as ‘slips’.”

More Practice IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 Sample Questions and Model Essays

• IELTS Academic Writing Task 1: Process Diagram with Model Answer
• IELTS Academic Writing Task 1: Bar Chart With Model Answer
• IELTS Academic Writing Task 1: Map With Model Answer
• IELTS Academic Writing Task 1: Pie Chart with Model Answer
• IELTS Academic Writing Task 1: Comparing two Graphics with Model Answer

David is a Test Prep Expert for Magoosh TOEFL and IELTS. Additionally, he’s helped students with TOEIC, PET, FCE, BULATS, Eiken, SAT, ACT, GRE, and GMAT. David has a BS from the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire and an MA from the University of Wisconsin-River Falls. His work at Magoosh has been cited in many scholarly articles , his Master’s Thesis is featured on the Reading with Pictures website, and he’s presented at the WITESOL (link to PDF) and NAFSA conferences. David has taught K-12 ESL in South Korea as well as undergraduate English and MBA-level business English at American universities. He has also trained English teachers in America, Italy, and Peru. Come join David and the Magoosh team on Youtube , Facebook , and Instagram , or connect with him via LinkedIn !

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6 responses to “IELTS Academic Writing Task 1: Line Graph with Model Answer (Band 9)”

the numbers you wrote in the essay do not tally with the diagram

Thanks for writing! The essay uses the year 2017 because the graph seems to go beyond 2016. It also uses estimation, which will be necessary in some cases, like this, where the graph does not provide exact numbers and must be interpreted/estimated.

Hope this helps! 😀

“”While all cities saw a net increase in annual population growth by 2011, and the most dramatic increases happened between 2007 and 2010. “”

Wonderful train wreck of a sentence there to start your 2nd paragraph. Don’t you guys proofread your posts?

The key features highlighted in the overview are not even mentioned in the BPs.

We get starting and ending points in the BPs with no description of the middle. This is called “mechanical” reporting and closer to a 5 than a 9.

Thanks for pointing out the typo “and” to us–we really appreciate it! I’ll get that fixed up right away!

Note that we go through the scoring towards the end of this article, and we still stand by that.

Thank you! 😀

How this is a band 9 report if there is no Overview paragraph ?

The first paragraph in this essay is “This line graph shows the change in population for the cities of Melbourne, Sydney, and Brisbane from 1992 to 2017.” While this is only one sentence, it does clearly and accurately summarize the information by identifying the main features, which is what the Task asks students to do.

Happy studying! 🙂

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How to write a line graph for IELTS writing task 1

Learn how to describe a line graph for IELTS writing task 1. IELTS Line graphs are common in writing task 1 along with bar charts, tables, maps, diagrams and pie charts. This lesson was last up-dated in 2018.

The guidelines below will help you structure your line graph answer and focus on the right aspects for a high score.

Steps: How to write IELTS Line Graphs

• try to include all information from the two axis and the names of categories.
• do not divide your key points into different paragraphs. Make sure you include the main increases and decreases shown.
• Use different verbs and nouns
• Use a range of adjectives and adverbs
• Vary your time phrases
• Click here to get a word list: LINE GRAPH VOCABULARY
• Don’t always give from … to … for the amounts, sometimes you can give the difference “it increased by double..”.
• Put numbers or percentages to support your sentences in the body paragraph. Failure to do that will result in a low score.
• Leave an empty line between paragraphs to make them easier to see. This is not a rule, it is a strong recommendation.
• If the line graph contains many lines and a lot of movement, be selective. You are being marked on your ability to select key features.
• Don’t spend more than 20 mins on task 1. You will need a full 40 mins for task 2.
• Write 150 words or more. Aim for about 160-190 words. Don’t write under the word count.
• Click here: IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answers

Line Graph Sample

It is not common to be given only one line in IELTS writing task 1. However, this answer will provide you will an example of vocabulary, layout and general content.

• Source: IELTS Liz

Line Graph Model Answer

The graph illustrates how many people from the age of 65 and above were reported to have contracted influenza in a particular village in the UK from 1985 to 1995.

Overall, the number of cases of elderly people with influenza increased over the period given. The highest number of people with the illness can be seen in 1991.

In 1985, the number of cases of influenza stood at 40 and then rose steadily over the next three years to reach 55 in 1987. In the following year, 1988, the figure dipped slightly to below 50 after which it rose significantly to reach a high of 75 in 1991.

From 1991, there was a decrease to about 60 in 1993 of the number of reported cases of influenza. From this point, except for a slight increase of about 5 cases, the number remained at about 60 at the end of the period.

Focus Points:

Take time to read through the model and pay attention to:

• the content of each paragraph
• the use of verbs, nouns, adverbs and adjectives
• the logical order of information in the body paragraphs

Please note: this is a practice exercise lesson. It is rare for IELTS to give a one-line graph. So, use this to practice language and technique.

Recommended

• IELTS Writing Task 1: Tips & Model Answers

All the best

The line graph illustrates how many number of cases of elderly people over than 65 years, who infected by influenza in some UK village between 1985 to 1995.

Overall, the number of reported people with influenza had been increased over given time. The highest reaching point the influenza cases had been reported was in 1991 for about 75 cases.

is it okay to use [the number of ] more than 4 times

There is no rule that states how many times a certain word can be used. The marking system doesn’t work this way. For example, the word “people” is likely to be repeated a number of times in some IELTS writing task 2 essays and that is fine, even for a high score essay. As long as there is a range of language in your task 1 report and you have demonstrated the skill of paraphrasing, such as “the figure” or “how many”, you can repeat words within reason. IELTS Writing Task 1 is short, roughly between 7 and 9 sentences on average for a high band score report, and within those few sentences you need to show range of vocabulary. So, while there is no rule, I’m sure when you proof read your writing, you can see whether or not you have too much repetition.

Thanks a billion dear Liz.

You’re welcome 🙂

You are doing a wonderful job, Liz. May God always keep you healthy, happy, and prosperous. I have been teaching for the past 27 years and I still see that there are only a handful who are committed to teaching. You really are one of those. Kudos, Liz.

Thanks. That’s a really kind comment.

Thanks a million.💝💝💝

Hi, Liz. Please evaluate.

The graph illustrates the number of people aged 65 years and above with influenza in a particular village in UK between year 1985 to 1995.

Overview, the number of infected aged people with influenza increased over the years. In the year 1991,the highest number of people with the case were reported, whereas the lowest case was reported in 1985.

In 1985, the number of cases of influenza stood at 40 and then rose steadily to 55 in 1987. There was a slight fall in the number to 50 in the subsequent year afyer which it leveled off to hit a high of 75 in 1991.

Between 1991 to 1993, there was a drop from 75 to 60 in the number of people reported to be infected with influenza. The number remained constant at 60 from 1993 to the final year except for a slight increase of 5 cases reported in 1994.

Please Evaluate. The graph illustrates the number of people above the age of 65, who got infected by influenza flu in a particular village in the UK from 1985 to 1999. Overall, the number of cases of influenza increased over the time span, the least number of cases was 40 in the starting year while the maximum number was 75 in the year 1991. At the beginning of the period, the number of people infected with flu was 40, which increased to 55 in 1987 before dipping down to just below 50 in 1988. Afterwards the figure got a increment till it reached a high of 75 in the year 1991. After the year 1991, the cases of influenza saw a drop till they reached 60 in 1993 . From this point a slight increment (about 5 cases)was seen in the number in the year 1994 but in the last year figure dropped to 60.

Hi Liz thanks a bunch for your beneficial tips and answers. Honestly I’ve got a problem!! Is the “overview” of writing task 1 necessary? I mean we don’t have to use any numbers in it??? Cause i’m really confused. I live in Iran and I’ve taught to prepare my writing in just 3parts including: Introduction 2 or 3 body paragraph and Conclusion! Without overview. WHAT SHOULD I DO??

The overview is the most important paragraph for academic writing task 1. It contains a summary of the key features. This means you collect and describe all key features in that paragraph. The numbers and detail, you present in the body paragraphs. See my model answers and tips about the conclusion: https://ieltsliz.com/ielts-writing-task-1-lessons-and-tips/

Thank you Liz. It’s really effective.

Hello Liz, Thank you very much for the content that you produce. I’m using it as a main source for my IELTS preparation. I’m struggling a lot with identifying key features of a graph. Not sure why, but I usually end up writing too much information in an overview. Do you have any suggestions or tips on how to properly identify the key features for the overview? Thank you in advance.

Give a bird’s eye view – what goes up or down over the period. Then mention which might be higher or lower. Those are two key features that are in most line graphs. Another option is to add an unusual key feature – ie when lines show opposite trends (but this isn’t common). So, the two common key features I mentioned will be two sentences – one each. Your task is to simplify what you see – not complicate it.

thank you liz.Your lessons are too helpful.

Hi , Can you please let me know that is it ok to use brackets in your writing tasks ?

See my model answers for writing task 1 on this page to learn your answer: https://ieltsliz.com/ielts-writing-task-1-lessons-and-tips/

Hi liz, Somebody told me that, for graphs ‘Overall Statement’ should put at last, rather than within introduction or second paragraph. To what extent it is right??

There are no rules about this. The examiner will mark you based on logical organisation. Your overview statement can come before or after the smaller detail. This means it comes before or after the body paragraphs.

Mam, as you said before, I would prefer “overall” just after the Introduction paragraph. thank you so much for your worthful lessons! All of the classes are excellent and it means a lot…

Hello liz I couldnot find your answers for all the writing task 1 ,i had found it once,but now i could’nt find it again rather those in the home page..please help me this..that is really usefull for me.

Go to the red bar at the top of each page and click on the words: Writing Task 1. All main pages are accessed through the red bar.

Thank you so much for your valuable guidance. I request you to provide one more example on line graphs which has 3-5 lines so that it would be better to learn and write in the exam. I also want to inform you that I am planning to appear for my IELTS in the month of October and your website is the only source for me to study. So I request you to help me in this and i hope that it would be better for others also. Looking forward to get positive response from your side. Thanks again in the advance.

IT’s certainly something I will put on my list of things to do, but I’ll actually be taking a break in September and possibly October too. Only a few reading or listening lessons will be posted during that time as well as updated topics.

and plateau word good for line graph

If you don’t know it, don’t use it.

Hello Liz mam, I’ve a question. Can we use both verb+adverb and adjective+noun in a line graph or we have to choose only one pair for whole graph. Thanks in advance.. Abdul….

You should alternate so that you demonstrate your language skills.

Dear Liz, It is possible in Writing task 1 just have 1 body paragraph ?

If you want a good band score, then you need to demonstrate the skill of organising paragraphs. See the band score requirements.

Excuse me, Why ‘the origin number’? I think that should be ‘the original number’

Thanks for spotting it. It’s a typo. Liz

Dear madam,can we mention dates in overview paragraph.what I mean is that mentioning time phrases ” at the beginning of the period,during mid years,at the end of the period” while describing key changes would’nt be better instead of writing specific dates such as,1999,2000 or it does’nt affect much.

https://ieltsliz.com/ielts-liz-news/

hey Liz thnas for everthing

Hi Liz, Question about the intro, how come it is “over 10 years” when it is from 1983-1992? Thanks, Joharra

The word “over” does not mean “more than” in this context. It refers to over the period. There are 10 years given. Liz

Hi Liz, Just a follow up question. So the counting of years should start at the first given year, which is 1983? However, 1983 + 10 = 1993. In the line graph it is 1992. There was another essay says 26 years (1981-2007) which is correct when being added (1981 + 26 = 2007). Just really curious. Do you have any explanations about this? And one last question, should the overview be in a separate paragraph or part of the intro? Thanks a lot! Joharra

You can count it on the graph, not by doing calculations. Just look at the graph and count. Liz

Thanks! that makes everything clear 🙂

Hi Liz, thank you so much for you free lessons, thank you for teaching me that overview contains the key features or the highest or the lowest point ..but i am still struggling to understand the real content of overview, I would like to ask about your overview above, you wrote” Overall, the number of cases of disease X remained below 200 over the period given except for a considerable surge between 1989 and 1991 when the figures doubled.” -In 1991, the number of cases is actually 350 which is not double of 200, so, is it still fine or accurate to say that” the figure doubled”? or should we say ”…the figure almost doubled?because it is doubled in 1989 (400 cases) but not in 1991 (350 cases). or does the accuracy of information we give in overview is not 100% required?

My last question is about Grammar, would you please explain a bit more when we put ”s” in ”figures”? One student wrote ”’The figures rose steadily in the next four years, to reach its first peak in 1987” and you asked to take off ”s” in figure. when we should not put ”s” like”figure”?thank you.

The overview contains a description, so if we write “it doubled” as a description it is fine. But you can certainly make it clearer by writing “it more or less doubled”. As long as you don’t write “it doubled exactly”. But you need to understand that we are not referring to details. In the first years the numbers were 200 and under, then they reached 400. The description is “doubled”. If you get lost in details, then it isn’t an overview.

Usually, we write about “the figure” rather than using the plural. All the best Liz

Many thanks, God bless you!

I am from Mongolia. I am doing independent study on the preparation of IELTS examination. Thank you for helping the students like me around the world. I would like to kindly ask you to check my writing below in order to let me know my writing skill in task 1.

The line graph illustrates the amount of goods transported in four different ways (road, water, rail and pipeline) in Uk between 1974 and 2002. The units are measured in million tonnes.

Overall, over the period, the highest amount of goods was transported by road while the least amount of goods was transported by pipeline. Interestingly, all the amounts of goods were increased over the 28 years except the amount of rail transportation which almost reached back to it’s original number.

In terms of the road, the amount of goods was transported, it began about 70 million tonnes which rose steadily over the following 18 years to reach over 80 million tonnes in 1992. In the following 4 years, there was a gradual decline after which it grew up to nearly 100 million tones. Likewise, about 39 million tonnes of goods was transported through water in the first year and then the figure fluctuated slightly and rose to about 65 million tones. Similarly, in 1974, the figure of the pipeline transportation stood at about 5 million tonnes and there was a steep fluctuation until it leveled out from 1995 to 2002.

On the other hand, the amount of goods was transported by train was 40 million tonnes in 1974 which was followed by slight changes and reached at just above it’s beginning figure of 40 million tonnes.

Please read my notice: https://ieltsliz.com/posting-writing/ Thanks Liz

how to write bar graph

There is a free video and other lessons for bar charts on this page: https://ieltsliz.com/ielts-writing-task-1-lessons-and-tips/ Liz

Hello How can apply this sentence structure. Subject+ verb + proposition + indirect object + direct object. In graph and essay

You will find sentence structure lessons for line graphs on this page: https://ieltsliz.com/ielts-writing-task-1-lessons-and-tips/ Thanks Liz

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IELTS Writing Task 1 Line Graph: Types, Techniques and Sample Answers

IELTS writing task 1 line graphs are added in the test of IELTS writing task 1 academic to evaluate the understanding skills of a candidate. In this type of question, a graph is given by covering data with X axis and Y axis. You have to describe the information given in the line graph in 150 words minimum. You have to solve such task in 20 minutes.

Line graph types, procedure to write in line graph, strategies and skills required for line graph question type, sample answers, sample questions and tips are given below to make you familiar about IELTS academic writing task 1 line graph.

Line graph and its types

Line graph is also called a line chart in which you have to face a graph covering the data given in the graph represented by lines. There are two axis- X – axis and Y – axis. X – axis (horizontal) shows the time period while Y – axis (vertical) represents measurements. Line graphs represent the trends when data goes downward and upward.

There are three types of line graphs:

• Simple line graph: 

This type of graph has one line plotted.

• Multiline graph or polyline graph

In these types of graphs, more than one lines are plotted. These graphs are mostly used for comparison between data.

• Compound line graph

It is different type of graph, the area between two lines is shaded, representing the filled area.

Different types of visual aids are there in IELTS writing task 1 academic. IELTS line graph is also one of the question types in IELTS writing task 1 academic. In line graph of IELTS writing task 1, you have to face a line graph containing information changing from one aspect to other. You have to solve this question type of IELTS writing to describe the data given in the test.

There are three different types of line graph – Simple line graph, multiline graph or compound graph, you can face in the test to solve. IELTS writing assessment criteria is important to learn for understanding marking criteria of writing test. A procedure to answer in IELTS line graph is broadly described in the article. Skills are necessary to solve this type of task. There is dedicated vocabulary for line graph of IELTS writing. Cohesive devices help to make your answer effective.  Sample answers of IELTS writing task 1 familiarize you, how to answer in IELTS line graph questions. Question samples help you to practice in a better way.

Common errors regarding line graphs and tips for IELTS writing task 1-line graphs are essential to help you in line graph as well as for IELTS writing.

Procedure to write a line graph essay

A procedure to write an answer in line graph essay, first of all, you need to understand the graph and its trends. Note all key features and ups and downs very well. Write main trends in overview. The structure for IELTS writing task 1 line graph is simple as the introduction, overview, body paragraph 1 and body paragraph 2. In the body paragraphs, you have to add main features of the line graph.

There are five steps to answer in IELTS line graph:

• First of all, understand the line graph.
• Find out all main features and comparisons if valid.
• Introduce the task in which you have to paraphrase the question normally.
• Write overview in which you have to write the trends of the line graph.
• Writing the paragraphs in detail means to write all main features, key information and facts and figures discussed in these two body paragraphs.

Skills required for IELTS line graph

Multiple types of skills are evaluated by this type of task. The examiner evaluates you how you capture the graph and its main features, trends, comparable strategies and your writing style. Polish your writing skills to get high bands.

IELTS line graph vocabulary

It is also essential to learn vocabulary for IELTS line graph. IELTS line graph vocabulary is one of the important factors, very useful and helpful while writing the answer of IELTS line graph writing task 1. Some of the main words are given below to practice and write your answer in an effective manner.

Upward trend

Downward trend

Useful linking words in line graph answer

The usage of linking words is important to get good bands in coherence and cohesion and these linking words organize the structure of your answer well. The useful linking words are given below to adapt.

• To begin with, …
• To start with, …
• In case of, …
• And then, …
• At this point, …
• Subsequently, …
• To sum up all, …
• After this, …
• After towards, …
• In turning to, …
• In a nutshell, …

IELTS line graph sample answers

Sample answer:

The line graph shows three types of spreads (Margarine, low fat and reduced spreads and butter) which were consumed during 26 years from 1981 to 2007. The measurement quantity unit gram is used in the line graph.

Overall, the consumption of low fat and reduced fat increased during the period while butter and margarine spreads decreased in 26 years. In the starting of the time, butter was very famous but with the passage of time, it dropped. While in case of margarine, it was the second most popular and stable during the time period, but in final years it decreased from both margarine and low fat and reduced spreads. Low fat and reduced spreads rose from both of them in final years.

Turning to the quantity of spreads, butter began from 140 grams from initial years and peaked to 160 grams in 1986. After it, decreased and got the position at 50 grams in final years. 90 grams margarine was eaten, rose slight in the mid and decreased in final years nearly to 40 grams.

While the trend of low fat and reduced spreads started in mid of the years mean in 1996 and got highest position at 80 grams from both butter and margarine within the time duration of 5 years. It decreased slight and reached 70 grams in final years.

Words count: 222

The line graph depicts varying city population percentages in four Asian countries from the period of 1970 to 2020, with predictions for 2030 and 2040.

Overall, there is increase in the percentage of the population living in the cities of four Asian countries. This augmentation is predictable to be same or increase more in future. According to the line chart, Malaysia is one of the highest in the rate of population increasing countries in which people turn to live in city.

30 percent of the population lived in the cities, if we talk about Philippines and Malaysia. There is expected for Malaysia that city population will increase 80%. While Philippines is expected from 45 percent to 55 percent.

In order to talk about Thailand, there was 20 percent population in cities in 1970 and there is a guess to increase 30 percent in future. In case of Indonesia, city population was 15 percent and rose 50 percent in 2020, while expected to 60 percent in 2040.

Furthermore, predictions describe that there will be more growth in city population in coming years. In 2040, it is expected that Malaysia will be at top in city population nearly to 85 percent, Indonesia will be second near to 65 percent. While the figures for Philippines and Thailand will be near to each other predicated to 55 percent and 50 percent approximately.

Words count: 231

The line graph depicts the average cost that American customers spent on mobile and landline phone services during the period of 10 years.

Overall, the landline phone services were declined every year while in the case of mobile services, it grew every year. Both of the services reached at same point in 2006.

In 2001, spending on mobile phone services began near to 200 US dollars, while the amount for landlines phone annual expenditures was 700 US dollars. Within the duration of 5 years, expenditures for landlines services dropped and expenditures on mobile phone services rose to 500 US dollars.

In turning to the year 2006, both services mobile phone and landline services met at the same point expenditures that was about 550 US dollars. Later on, mobile phone services continued to rise and its expenditures reached at 750 US dollars in 2010. While in the case of landline phone services, the expenditures decreased regularly and in 2010, the expenditures were 450 US dollars.

Words count: 161   

This line graph illustrates information about number of passengers using underground station in London around the clock of a day. According to the line graph, the busiest time at the ground station would be 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

A large number of passengers who traveled using the underground station were at morning, 8:00 am. This amount increased during first two hours from 6:00 am to 8:00 am, when around 400 number of people traveled by underground station. The number of people dropped to half, at 10:00 am. After it, passengers again rose between the duration of 11:00am to 3:00 pm where near to 300 people travelled using the underground station.

While in afternoon, trend went to downward where just 100 people used underground station to travel. In the evening, at 6 pm, a number of people increased near to 380. After 7:00 pm, the number of people dropped and varied for the last two hours from 8:00 pm to 10:00 pm.

Overall, the number of people increased in morning and early evening to use underground station for traveling.

Words count: 188

The line graph depicts the percentages of citizens who aged 65 or above in three various nations from 1940 to 2040.

Overall, the proportion of the people of aged 60 or above for America and Sweden increased with a slight difference whereas the proportion for Japan decreased first and started to increase in 1990 by slow speed. But in 2020, it increased by high level from both of the countries United States of America and Sweden.

Initially, the percentage of aged people in America was higher with the percentage of 9. The aged people of 65 or over of Sweden were highest in the percentage after America, 7 percent respectively. Japan was the country where the proportion for aged people was least from both of the countries America and Sweden. Just 5 percent of the aged people are there in the Japan. The increasing rate of aged people in America started after 1960 with just 1 percent increment before. The expected increasing proportion of aged people will be 23 percent in 2040 for America. While in the case of Sweden, the population of older people increased and there is expected to reach this percentage to 25 percent while in initial it was 7 percent.

Turing to Japan, the proportion of old people was 5 percent and it decreased with the passage of time while in 2030, the percentage for aged people would increase and it is estimated that it will reach at 27 percent. So, the highest percentage of aged people will lie in Japan.

Words count: 258

The line graph illustrates the changes in temperature of three cities (Paris, Dubai and Sidney) in different months of the year. Temperature is measured in temperature unit degree Celsius .

Overall, Paris is the coldest city instead of Dubai and Sydney, while Dubai is the hottest city. In case of Sydney, the temperature is opposite of Dubai and Sydney.

Turning to line graph, the temperature never goes above 20 degrees Celsius. While the temperature of Dubai never drops below 18 degrees Celsius. There are similarities between Dubai and Sydney, the temperature in March and December remains same between 23 and 24 degrees Celsius.

In the months of May and September, the temperature of Paris and Sydney remains similar near to 15 degrees Celsius. If we talk about the highest temperatures in Paris and Sydney, the highest temperature is 20 and 24 degrees Celsius respectively. In case of Dubai, the highest temperature lies at 36 degrees Celsius. The lowest temperature is in Paris instead of Dubai and Sydney.

Words count: 170

IELTS line graph sample questions to practice

IELTS writing task 1 line graph sample questions are there to practice and perform well in exams. These sample questions for IELTS writing task 1 are given below to solve. If you face any difficulties during practice, you can contact us by comment section or other social media sites that are provided in the end. I will try my best to solve your problems regarding IELTS writing task 1 line graph questions and overall IELTS.

Employment rates of men and women in three countries in Europe in 1991

Common errors in describing line graph

There are two common problems found in IELTS writing academic task 1. Therefore, practice best and avoid to do such types of mistakes:

• Most of the aspirants try to solve the line graph but they do not provide the required details of the graph.
• Aspirants do not focus on figure and they direct start to describe.

Tips for IELTS writing task 1 line graph

IELTS writing task 1 line graph tips are very helpful in your IELTS exams. These tips for IELTS writing line graph are mentioned below:

• Be focused on title of the line graph, because you have to write it in your overview.
• In the introduction, you can paraphrase the question of line graph asked in the test of IELTS writing task 1 as a question statement.
• You have to explain all features in your body paragraph 1 and 2.
• You are required to write sum up discussion in overview.
• Follow X-axis and Y-axis in the same way to describe the information given in the line graph.
• You have to practice different types of line graphs to get good bands.
• Build strong vocabulary for writing test, because you are not allowed to repeat same wording in your writing. Write wide range of words in your answer.
• Cohesive devices make your writing effective, so do not forget to use them.

In a nutshell

In IELTS writing task 1 line graph, you face a line graph in which specific type of data is provided. In line graph, the data or information vary from one aspect to other. In this type of task, you have to explain the information given in the line graph. The answer for IELTS line graph essay must contain all main features of the data given in IELTS writing task 1.

IELTS writing task 1 line graph sample answers are very helpful in the question types of IELTS writing task 1 line graph. Advance vocabulary, sample questions, common mistakes, skills, procedure to answer in line graph and tips to solve IELTS writing task 1 line graph are essential to perform excellent in IELTS writing.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about line graph

These are the graphs in which different types of changing information or data can be found. They have an x – axis and y – axis in the graph having information.

There are 6 types of charts/graphs in IELTS writing task 1 which are mentioned below:

• Process diagram

There are four components of an answer essay of line graph:

• Introduction
• Body paragraph 1
• Body paragraph 2

There are three different types of line graphs:

• Simple line graph : There is just one line plotted on graph.
• Multi-line graph : There are two or more lines in this type of graph.
• Compound line graph : In this type of graph there are multiple lines and having the area of shadow or shaded area.

You are not allowed to write conclusion in the line graph essay, you can write an overview.

Exactly, dedicated and advance vocabulary makes your writing effective.

You have to explain all features and main information included in the line graph. First, write an introduction to paraphrase the question, then write overview in which you have to paraphrase the title of the line graph and explain other details in body paragraph 1 for one aspect and body paragraph 2 for another aspect.

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IELTS Writing Task 1: Line Graph

Updated on Mar 08, 2024, 11:00

Line graphs or line charts are part of the IELTS Writing Task 1 questions. Though these graphs may seem slightly more complex, they’re pretty simple to understand when you learn how to! 

Chart, diagram and map questions just need a few techniques to crack. That’s what we’re here to help you with.  

On this page, we’ll equip you with the best strategies to solve IELTS Line Graph Task 1 essays! Let’s get started. 

On This Page

1. IELTS Writing Line Graph Task 1: How to Answer

Line graphs or Line charts are periodical graphs and show values of constants over a time.

2. IELTS Writing Line Graph Task 1: Sample Answer

Use these samples to hone your writing task 1 skills! Let’s begin.

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IELTS Writing Line Graph Task 1: How to Answer

Line graphs or Line charts are periodical graphs. Which means they show values of two constants over a period of time. These graphs usually indicate the pattern of growth of the given subjects.   

Line graphs can be increasing, decreasing or stable. As a part of your task, you must analyse the given line chart and deduce your observations, highlights and comparisons. This task mainly focuses on comprehending how well you can analyse and process information.   

You have 20 minutes to solve these questions, and you must do it in a minimum of 150 words.

Here are some strategies to answer Line graph task 1 essays.

Analyse the Line Graph

Examine the task at hand. Take a few seconds to thoroughly go through and prepare for what is asked in the question. A question may look like this: 

• The graph below shows average carbon dioxide (Co2) emissions per person in the United Kingdom, Sweden, Italy and Portugal between 1967 to 2007 .
• Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

Pay attention to what is being asked of you. For instance, in this question, you are asked to summarise the information, highlight the main features, and make comparisons. It’s good to sketch out a structure before you start writing mentally.   

Here’s how you can analyse the Line graph:   

• Read and understand the labels on both sides of the axis. Understand the context. What does the graph represent? 
• Look for any trends or patterns. Is the graph declining? Is it flat? Is it inclining? These observations are important as these elements will be your main features. 
• Also, pay attention to sudden peaks, valleys (drops), or fluctuations. This will also be your main feature. 
• You must look for the lows and highs in the trend, as these are good data points. 
• When you analyse the trends, especially if you’re drawing comparisons, you must consider how they affect each other and if they are in a relationship. For example, does line A also drop when line B drops? Or is it vice versa?

Structuring Your Summary

Writing a summary for a line chart is very similar to that of a table, bar, and pie chart. Follow the same rule: Write an introduction, write the highlights, and conclude your essay.   

• Introduction: Begin by rephrasing the question and providing context for the line graph. Mention the titles, the data source (if provided), and the time frame covered by the graph.
• Overview: Briefly highlight the main trends or patterns visible in the line graph. Identify any significant peaks, valleys, or fluctuations in the data. Keep this section concise and avoid unnecessary elaboration.
• Detailed Analysis:  Break down the data presented in the line graph by examining each trend or pattern in detail. Describe the direction and magnitude of each trend over time. Use specific data points or values from the graph to support your analysis. Compare and contrast the trends between different variables or categories if applicable.
• Conclusion: Summarise the main features, patterns, or trends observed in the line graph. Reflect on the significance of these findings and consider their implications. Review the summary for accuracy, grammar, punctuation, and spelling.

IELTS Writing Line Graph Task 1: Sample Answer

Practice makes perfect, they say. And we agree entirely. Use these samples to hone your writing task 1 skills! Let’s begin.

• This graph shows the proportion of four materials recycled from 1982 to 2010 in a particular country.
• Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features making comparisons where relevant.

Sample Essay:  

The graph illustrates the percentage of recycled plastics, aluminium cans, glass containers, paper and cardboard from 1982 to 2010. It shows the highest and lowest dips of all the four categories.  

According to the graph, In 1982,65% of paper and cardboard was recycled, which increased in 1994 to 80% and later declined to 70%. In 1982,50% of glass containers were recycled, which fell to 40%  in 1990; however, the glass containers recycling was inclined to 60% by 2010.  

Plastic recycling was introduced in 1990 at only 2%, and the graph shows that the growth was prolonged, from 2% to 9% over time.  Aluminium cans were first recycled in 1986 at about only 5% but grew to 45% in 2010.  

Overall, paper and cardboard saw the highest leap among all the other recycling materials. But this category saw a decline in 1990, and an upward trend was evident in the graph. 

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Related Articles

Q. How do you explain a line graph in IELTS?

A.  To explain a line graph, you must first analyse it thoroughly. Here are a few techniques you can use to analyse the line graph: 

• Go through the labels on both axes. 
• Compare and contrast if you have more than one line in the graph.
• Look for patterns in the trend
• Notice how the graph declines, inclines and falls flat 

Once you have analysed the graph, you can describe it in your essay. 

Q. How do you summarise a line graph?

A.  To summarise the line graph, start with a clear introduction. Your introduction must be a paraphrase of the question given to you. You can then highlight the most important elements in the graphs. Write about the sudden peaks in the line graph and the downfalls. Support it with some context. You can say: Why did it happen? Provide comparisons if required, and conclude your essay. 

Q. What are the features of a line graph?

A.  Line graphs commonly contain two axes, one horizontal and one vertical. Each axes will contain data points that are joined together by a line. Usually these graphs depict the variation of a certain information over a period of time.

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Academic Writing Task 1 Sample Essays and Answers

Home  »  IELTS academic task 1  »  Academic Writing Task 1 Sample Essays and Answers

This is your very best resource for writing task 1 IELTS academic sample answers.

The resources are organised into different task types so you can look at several IELTS writing task 1 samples for three common diagrams. Read IELTS Writing Task 1 sample answers and questions to learn how you can describe pie charts, bar charts & line graphs.

There may be a lot of IELTS writing task 1 samples (academic) with hints and tips online, but how can you know you are looking at the very best resources? Some of the ‘perfect’ essays online have been written by non-experts, and while they may be useful to you, they should not be taken as a definitive guide to this section of the test.

Improve your IELTS writing and achieve a great band score on the academic paper with these useful links and model answers.

Each sample answer demonstrates the type of writing skills you will need to successfully complete the IELTS writing module for IELTS writing task 1 and IELTS writing task 2.

Take a look at some  IELTS academic writing task 1  sample questions with IELTS sample charts to help you prepare for your  IELTS exam .

Each bar chart,  pie chart  and line graph question comes with a sample answer to show you how to describe and compare factual information. This may involve describing differences between monthly spending in two countries over a given period or the number of pupils attending different schools.

You will give an overall perspective and may need to describe an upward trend or a slight difference. There are strategies to help you with each particular graph.

Bar charts – IELTS academic writing task 1 samples with extra hints and tips

Bar chart of international student enrolment in British universities 2009-2014

Bar chart of average monthly revenue from retail telecommunication subscribers

Bar chart of increase in total consumption

Bar chart of life expectancy (2006)

Bar chart of percentage of eligible voters registered for each race by state and year

Bar chart of average weekly attacks

Bar chart of pet Owners

Bar chart showing foreign direct investment in Australia over 3 years

Bar chart describing expected city visits by country of origin for 2018 (thousands/year)

Bar chart IELTS academic task 1 sample essay 15: Average life expectancy per country

Bar chart describing calorie sources for UK males at different life periods. Percentage of total intake.

IELTS academic task 1 sample essay 29: Water service reading

IELTS academic task 1 sample essay 28: Waste hauling truck trips

Bar chart IELTS academic task 1 sample essay 4: Book sales by genre across time

IELTS academic task 1 sample essay 27: Unemployment rate in Asia

Bar chart IELTS academic task 1 sample essay 24: Power consumption (per location) for July 2015

Bar chart IELTS academic task 1 sample essay 23: Passenger served per airport terminal

Bar chart IELTS academic task 1 sample essay 21: Hazardous waste inventory 2014

Bar chart and line graph IELTS academic task 1 sample essay 20: Genset diesel monitoring

Bar chart IELTS academic task 1 sample essay 17: Coastline coverage by country

Bar chart IELTS academic task 1 sample essay 12: 5-year carbon dioxide emission in Japan

Bar chart IELTS academic task 1 sample essay 13: Active military manpower per country

Bar chart IELTS academic task 1 sample essay 9: Toyota car sales – Quarterly monitoring

Writing task 1 pie chart sample answers

Pie chart IELTS academic task 1 sample essay 2: 2014 world food consumption

Pie charts of council expenditure by three regions in the UK, 2014

Pie chart IELTS academic task 1 sample essay 11: 2014 deaths due to neurological condition

Pie chart IELTS academic task 1 sample essay 16: Billing distribution for the month of August 2015

Pie chart IELTS academic task 1 sample essay 18: Daily activity distribution per day

Pie chart IELTS academic task 1 sample essay 3: 2014 age distribution in Asia

Line graphs sample answers for task 1

Take a look at our IELTS writing task 1 line graph examples to help you get a  better score  for the academic writing task on your IELTS test. IELTS writing task 1 can be challenging but with practice you will get better and better. The resources below include an IELTS writing task 1 sample answer pdf.

Line graph IELTS academic task 1 sample essay 26: Thermal conductivity of material at 25C

Line graph IELTS academic task 1 sample essay 7: January 2015 temperature variation in the Philippines

Line and bar chart IELTS academic task 1 sample essay 5: Common budget items chart

Jump to a band 7 or it’s FREE

Line graph IELTS academic task 1 sample essay 1: Stock market quarterly watch 2014

Line graph IELTS academic task 1 sample essay 25: Production output for 3rd quarter of 2015

Line graph IELTS academic task 1 sample essay 14: Approval ratings of US President Churchill (10-year term)

Line graph IELTS academic task 1 sample essay 8: Temperature calibration data

PDF 30 academic task 1 essays

Line graph IELTS academic task 1 sample essay 22: Income tax comparison per civil status

As well as using the task 1 sample answers above, take a look at our IELTS writing  academic task 1 tutorials  to help you better prepare for your  IELTS exam and achieve a good IELTS writing band score for IELTS writing task 1. There are plans and tips for using tenses and paraphrasing in this writing section and lots of other resources.

Improve your task achievement, use high-level lexis and avoid common grammar mistakes. We’ll help you write the perfect IELTS writing task 1 overview paragraph, make sure you are able to describe the main features of your chart or diagram and give you the lexical resources you need to be successful. It’s important that you look at all the data but select the most important features in IELTS writing task 1.

Why not choose a writing task 1 sample question and try to do it by yourself? Then you can check the model answer for feedback. You probably won’t have time to attempt to write essays for every task 1 sample answer but you will be able to read all the IELTS task 1 writing samples by clicking on the links.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How to write ielts writing task 1.

• If you are unsure, re-read some IELTS task 1 sample answers to be clear about the layout you need to use.
• Take 3 -4 minutes to plan what you’re going to write
• Take a step back and see the big picture. Understand what you need to do with that graph, chart, map or diagram in task 1.
• Decide the main points to include.
• Check for any possible comparisons
• Choose your language i.e. words and sentence structures

Read  this article  for more tips.

Which tense to use in IELTS writing task 1?

This depends on the data in the graph, chart, map or diagram. First, look at the title given and the x and y axes to see if there are any dates used.  The writing task 1 academic samples can give you lots of different examples.

• if the year is before the present year (i.e. 1999), use the past tense
• if the year is after the present year (i.e 2020), use the future tense
• if there is no year, use the present simple tense

Read  this article  for more details and extra writing task 1 samples.

Tutorials for Academic Task 1

• How to get band 9 in task 1
• 5-step plan for task 1
• How to paraphrase in task 1
• Academic task 1 marking criteria
• Five essential writing skills for task 1
• What tense to use in task 1
• How to describe percentages
• Vocabulary to describe a map

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Writing Task 1 Line Graph Sample Answer (US Consumption of Energy)

Below is a sample Task 1 question on line graphs. It uses the following structure.

Paragraph 1

Paraphrase question

Paragraph 2

Overview  of 2 main features. You will notice that I have included no numbers and used very general language.

Paragraph 3

Details of the first main feature. Here I have gone into more detail about the first general point I mentioned in the previous paragraph.

Paragraph 4

Details of the second main feature.

You will notice that I have written a lot more about the first feature. I did this because I think the most used fuels and more significant. You will also notice that I shortened ‘Quadrillion units’ to ‘q’. This is acceptable if you tell the examiner this by putting it in brackets, as I have done.

Don’t look at the answer yet try to do the question without any help and then compare it with my answer.

The graph below gives information from a 2008 report about energy consumption in the USA since 1980, with projections until 2030.

Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features and making comparisons where relevant.

Source: Cambridge English IELTS Past Papers.

The line graph shows energy consumption by fuel type in the United States from 1980-2008, with projected use until 2030.

Overall, fossil fuels have been the dominant type and will continue this trend into the future. Nuclear and renewable energy sources have represented a small but significant proportion of total energy use, and despite small projected gains, they are projected to continue doing so.

Petrol and Oil command the biggest share with 35 quadrillion units (35q) in 1980, rising to approximately 40q in 2008, and this trend is set to continue with a projected value of nearly 50q in 2030. In 1980 natural gas and coal came in second and third, with around 16q and 20q, respectively. However, coal overtook natural gas in 1990 and, despite some fluctuation, is set to be the second most used fuel in 2030 with just over 30q. It is predicted that natural gas will level off and remain relatively constant at about 25q.

Nuclear and renewable energies all represented around 4q in 1980 and fluctuated up until 2008.  It is speculated that nuclear energy will reach 10q by 2030 and solar/wind around 5q, with hydropower dropping and then remaining constant at approximately 2q.

I hope you have found this useful and if there are other questions you would like me to answer, just let me know in the comments section below.

For a more detailed post, visit how to answer IELTS task 1 chart questions .

You may also find my grammar guide for IELTS task 1 useful. It has lots of phrases to help you describe data.

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I started IELTS Advantage as a simple blog to help 16 students in my class. Several years later, I am very humbled that my VIP Course has been able to help thousands of people around the world to score a Band 7+ in their IELTS tests.

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How to write ielts task 1 academic ‘dynamic graphs’.

There are 3 main types of diagrams in Writing Task 1 Academic: a.) Dynamic graphs <–  we’re talking about this one b.) Static graphs c.) Diagrams   ( Maps , Processes ) 

In this post I will show you how to write about  dynamic graphs.

If you want to practise the grammar and vocabulary of Dynamic Graphs, my 19-page workbook can help you make fewer mistakes and write longer, high-band sentences , click here to learn more

Want expert feedback on your own IELTS Task 1 Dynamic Essays? 

The essay structure for every type of Task 1 is basically the same. 

Structure: Task 1 – Academic 4 paragraphs 1.) Summary / Introduction 2.) Overview 3.) Body 1 4.) Body 2

What are dynamic graphs? 

Dynamic graphs are graphs, charts or tables that contain data in 2 or more time periods. 

For example:

The data is measured in 5 time periods – every 10 years from 1967 to 2007.

In this graph the data is measured in 3 time periods – every 5 years from 2005 to 2015. 

In this graph, the data is measured in 2 time periods. In 2005 and in 2015.

In contrast, this is a Static graph because there is only data in one time period . In fact, there is no time period mentioned. In this case, you should approach the graph as a static graph.

Looking for more graph examples? My IELTS Writing Task 1 Workbook for Dynamic Graphs features 16 custom-made graphs and tables to help you practise the specific language and grammar for this type of task. 

1.) Dynamic Summary / Introduction

The introduction paragraph in Task 1 only needs to be 1 or 2 sentences. In your introduction, you should present the main purpose of the graph to the reader in your own words . This means paraphrasing the official IELTS diagram description if you can. 

Here is a sentence-making structure that presents the purpose of a dynamic graph.

Dynamic Tasks show data in 2 or more time periods and in English grammar time should come at the start or at the end of a sentence . 

Here are some examples that use the table above: 

The chart below shows the number of international students at a British University over a period of time.

• The line graph illustrates the amount of international students + from different continents + at a UK university + across a 30-year time period . 
• The line graph explains the number of students from overseas + at a university in the UK + over a 30-year time span .  
• The line graph shows how many students + from Asia, Africa, Europe and North American attended + a British university + from 1995 to 2015 .

Here are some more examples with dynamic graph example: 

The table shows the obesity rate in one country over a period of time.

• The line graph illustrates the rate of obesity + among 4 age groups + over 34 years . 
• The line graph shows obesity rates + between 18 to 74 year olds + over a 34-year time span . 
• The line graph outlines the percentage of obese people + in 4 different age groups + between 1971 and 2005.

You try! – Write an introduction sentence for this dynamic task. Use the table above to help you. 

The table shows average calorie intake in the United States over a period of time. 

Click here to see my examples (47 More Words)

• The table reveals the average amount of calories consumed + by Americans + between 1970 and 2010.  
• The table shows the median calorie intake + in the United States + over a 40-year time span . 
• The table illustrates how many calories Americans consume on average + over 4 decades .

2.) Dynamic Graph Overview

The purpose of the overview paragraph is to give a short summary of the main features. Since dynamic graphs feature data over many years , the main overall features are usually changes . These changes include the most notable increases or decreases over a time period. 

Importantly, you should describe these changes in words – do not use any numbers or data points from the graph. 

So don’t say: “There was a [50%] increase”    Say : “The numbers rose [by half] .”

Or, don’t say: “The numbers rose from [1,000 to 2,000].     Say: “The number [doubled]. ” 

Or you can simply say [how much] the number increased or decreased by:

• “The number increased [a little / slightly]  
• “The number increased [a lot / significantly / notably]   

Let’s see some examples using the same Task 1 graphs from earlier: 

Main features : 

• Increases : Asia, North America
• Decreases : none
• Contrasts / Other features : Europe, Africa

– Overall, we can see that enrollments by students from Asian countries doubled throughout the time period, while North American students also grew . However, student numbers from Europe and Africa remained relatively consistent over the 2 decades. 

– Overall, we can see that the number of Asian students at the university enjoyed steady, significant growth over the 20 years , with North American attendance also increasing in the last 5 years of the graph . Meanwhile, both European and African student numbers remained steady throughout the time period .

Here’s another example:

Take a look at the graphic and complete the task. The table shows the obesity rate in one country over a period of time.

Main features:  

• Increases : every group – 30-44 and 45-64 grew the most continuously  
• Contrasts / Other features : 18-29 and 65-74 didn’t change after 1999

– Overall, we can see that every single age group saw an increase in obesity to some extent, with 30-44 year-olds and 45-64 years-olds both increasing continuously and reaching more than double by the end of the time period. Meanwhile, those within the 18-29 and 65-74 age groups also experienced significant rises, though at least their rates seemed to level off from 1999 onwards .   

– Overall, we can see that there was a notable increase in obesity among all age groups in the graph. In particular, 18-29 year-olds saw a three-fold rise over the time period , though at least the trend somewhat stabilised after 1999 . Meanwhile, those aged 30-44 and 45-64 experience a more than two-fold increase throughout the time period . Lastly, the eldest age range, the 65-74 year-olds, jumped by a similar amount , but they too levelled off from 1999 onwards .

You try! – Write an overview paragraph for this dynamic task. Use the table above to help you. The main features have been highlighted for you. 

• Increases : total , grains , added fat the most || added sugar , fruit , meat, eggs and nuts slightly 
• Decreases : dairy , vegetable decreased minimally
• Contrasts / Other features : none
• Overall, we can see that the majority of the food groups contributed towards a higher total calorie intake over the whole time period. The foods to see the biggest rise include grains and added fat, both rising by around a third. Added sugar, fruit, meat, eggs and nuts also added to the average intake. Only two categories accounted for fewer calories by the end of the time period, which were the dairy and vegetable food groups.
• Overall, we can see that the total calorie intake rose, with almost all food groups accounting for a higher calorie total by the end of the 40-year period. The most significant increases were by grains and added fat, while added sugar, fruit, meats, nuts and eggs also contributed, although to a lesser extent. The two exceptions were the dairy and vegetable food groups, whose contributions had dropped by 2010.

3.) Body Paragraphs

Next are the Body paragraphs of your Task 1 report. You can write 2 or 3 Body paragraphs. 

Body paragraphs describe the main features in detail, including specific numbers from the graph. The data and features in the body paragraph should be similar in some way. 

For example, you should describe the increasing categories together in 1 body paragraph.  Then write about the decreasing / contrasting categories in a new body paragraph. 

I usually use my overview paragraph to guide the structure of my body paragraphs. 

Here is the complete example of Task 1 dynamic graphs from before:

Introduction: The line graph illustrates the amount of international students   from different continents at a UK university across a 30-year time period . 

Overview: Overall, we can see that enrollments by students from Asian countries doubled throughout the time period, while North American students also grew . However, student numbers from Europe and Africa remained relatively consistent over the 2 decades. 

Body 1: (increases together)  

In regards to the rising number of enrollments, the number of Asian students at the university is the most striking. In 1995, their numbers were 60, before growing consistently to around 90 in 2005 and eventually reaching 120 by 2015. Meanwhile, though the first half of the time period didn’t show an increase among North American students, in 2010 there was a notable jump in their numbers, rising from 40 to around 70 by 2015. 

Body 2: (Other / Contrasts together)

Concerning the other two continents however, there were few changes. The amount of African students remained unchanged apart from a slight surge in 2010, rising to around 30, before returning to 20 as it had been in all other years. Likewise, European students fluctuated steadily between approximately 50 and 55 across the entire 20-year time span.

Introduction: The line graph outlines the percentage of obese people in 4 different age groups between 1971 and 2005.

Overview: Overall, we can see that there was a notable increase in obesity among all age groups in the graph. In particular, 18-29 year-olds saw a three-fold rise over the time period , though at least the trend somewhat stabilised after 1999 . Meanwhile, those aged 30-44 and 45-64 experience a more than two-fold increase throughout the time period . Lastly, the eldest age range, the 65-74 year-olds, jumped by a similar amount , but they too levelled off from 1999 onwards .  

Body 1: (biggest increase)  

Starting with 18-29 year olds, their overall increase in obesity was the most dramatic, despite still being the lowest among all age groups. In 1971, their obesity rate was only around 7 or 8%, but from 1976 there was a sharp increase, rising from 8% to almost 25% by 2001. After this, the rate remained at around 25% from the remainder of the graph. 

Body 2: (more increases, but new paragraph because Body 1 is already quite long) 

In contrast, not only did 30-44 year-olds and 45-64 years-olds see a huge rise in obesity rates, their numbers continued to climb even after 2001. In the case of the 30-44 age group, their rates doubled from 15 to 30 by 2001, but then climbed once again to 35% by 2005. Likewise, 45-64 year-olds leapt from around 17% to 35% in 2003, before the rate rose even higher to 40% by the end of the graph. 

Body 3: (least eventful category – new paragraph because Body 2 is already long)  

Finally, the oldest group in the graph, 65-74 year-olds, also saw a steep rise in obesity, but followed a similar pattern to the 18-29 years old in the latter part of the time period. They began at around 17%, and rose to just over 35% by 1999. However, similarly to the youngest group, their rates stabilised at that number and did not increase or decrease in the remaining 6 years. 

You try! – Write the body paragraphs for this dynamic task. Use the examples above to help you.

Introduction : The table reveals the average amount of calories consumed + by Americans + between 1970 and 2010.  

Overview : Overall, we can see that the total calorie intake rose, with almost all food groups accounting for a higher calorie total by the end of the 40-year period. The most significant increases were by grains and added fat , while added sugar, fruit, meats, nuts and eggs also contributed, although to a lesser extent. The two exceptions were the dairy and vegetable food groups, whose contributions had dropped by 2010.  

Body 1: (Biggest increases)  

Beginning with the biggest calorie contributors, grains supplied only 430 calories of an American diet in 1970, which had risen to 575 by 1990 and then to 625 by 2010. Similarly, added fat added the most calories of any other food group with 230 more calories, rising from 410 in 1970 to 640 in 2010. 

Body 2: (Slight increases)  

Meanwhile, several other food groups made contributions, although smaller. Added sugar constituted 400 calories per person in 1970, compared with 460 in 2010. In the same time period, fruit rose slightly from 70 to 85 calories on average. Lastly, meat, eggs and nuts saw a mere 15 calorie increase from 1970 to 2010. 

Body 3: (Decreases)  

However, two groups made up slightly less of an average American’s calorie intake than in 1970. Dairy fell from 265 calories in 1970, to 260 in 1990 and then to 255 in 2010. Likewise, the vegetable food group accounts for 5 calories less than in 1970, dropping from 125 to 120 by 2010.  

There you go! A high-band approach, several examples and a reliable framework for you to use in your own IELTS Writing test. 

Again, if you want to practise more dynamic graph vocabulary and grammar, there are 19 pages of custom-made graphs, exercises and examples to help you improve your writing skills. Click here to learn more !

Show m e what you’ve learnt – send me your IELTS essays! 

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IELTS Writing Task 1 – Line Graph Essay Example 2

In this post, we will look at a  Writing Task 1 Academic line graph essay  example from the IELTS writing task 1 Academic Test. Students often ask if the questions are repeated year after year and the answer is no, but the type of chart or graph can be.

There are so many questions written each year, you may find you practice answering various questions on different topics. It is best practice to learn how to answer each one of the various types of writing task 1 questions , from bar charts, line graphs, maps, process etc.

If you would like to learn how to structure a charts and graphs essay  please click the button below >

Take a look at the IELTS Writing Task 1 Academic essay example  below >>

*This line graph question and answer were provided by a student. IELTS Achieve did not design this question*

The graph gives information about the number of spreads (Margarine, low fat & reduced spread and butter) consumed from the year 1981 up to 2007. The units were measured in grams.

Overall, the highest consumed spread was butter which started as the most used among the three, whereas low fat and reduced spread were only introduced in 1996, however, all three spreads fluctuated within the end of the given time frame.

On the one hand, butter started strong with 140 grams consumed in the year 1981 but gradually decreased as the years progressed until it plummeted to nearly 50 grams used by 2007. Similarly, this can be seen in margarine with almost 90 grams used in 1981 then it slowly decreased in 1986. It reached a plateau in 1991 up to 1996 and gradually decreased reaching 40 grams used in 2007.

On the other hand, low fat & reduced spread was introduced in 1996. It gently rose from almost 10 grams used when it started then progressively increased reaching its highest peak in 2001 (80 grams) however like the two other spreads it slowly decreased up until 2007 were it garnered almost 60 grams.

Word count – 194 / Band score – 8

• Task Achievement  – The answer provides a paraphrased question, to begin with, followed by an overview that gives the reader key information.    
• Coherence and Cohesion  – The answer has been divided into clear logical paragraphs.      
• Lexical Resource  – There is evidence of paraphrasing, synonyms and some less common words. 
• Grammatical Range and Accuracy  – The answer has no grammatical errors. The sentences are mainly made up of multiple clauses and have a variety of structures. 

We hope you found this post useful in helping you to study for the IELTS Test . If you have any questions please let us know in the comments below or on the Facebook page.

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IELTS Writing Task 1 Samples

Here you will find IELTS Writing Task 1 Samples for a variety of common tasks that appear in the writing exam.

The model answers all have tips and strategies for how you may approach the question and comments on the sample answer.

It's a great way to help you to prepare for the test. 

The amount of money that a children's charity located in the USA spent and received in one year, 2016.

Model Answer >>>

The Proportions of Pupils Attending Four Secondary School Types Between Between 2000 and 2009.

The city of Brandfield. City planners have decided to build a new shopping mall for the area, and two sites, S1 and S2 have been proposed.

Process Diagram

The process that is used to manufacture bricks for the building industry.

The components of GDP in the UK from 1992 to 2000.

The scores of teams A, B and C over four different seasons.

The electricity generated in Germany and France from all sources and renewables in the year 2009.

British Emigration to selected destinations between 2004 and 2007.

Line and Bar Chart

Visits to and from the UK from 1979 to 1999, and the most popular countries visited by UK residents in 1999.

Thefts per thousand vehicles in four countries between 1990 and 1999.

Pie and Bar Chart

The percentage of persons arrested in the five years ending 1994 and the most recent reasons for arrest.

The different modes of transport used to travel to and from work in one European city in 1960, 1980 and 2000.

The proportion of monthly household income five European countries spend on food and drink, housing, clothing and entertainment.

How chocolate is produced.

The monthly spending in dollars of a family in the USA on three items in 2010.

How tea leaves are processed into five tea types.

Pie and  Bar Chart

The percentage of women in poverty and the poverty rates by sex and age in the United States in 2008.

Line and Pie Chart

The number of books that were borrowed in four different months in 2014 from four village libraries, and the pie chart shows the percentage of books, by type, that were borrowed over this time.

Four countries of residence of overseas students in Australia

Development of the village of Ryemouth between 1995 and present.

Public Sector Employment in 2015 and 2020.

Cultural Activities of Differing Age Groups

Construction of Tourist Facilities on an island.

Average House Price Comparison.

Average carbon dioxide (Co2) emissions per person

Leisure Activities amongst Australian children.

Structure used to generate electricity from wave power.

Bar & Pie Chart

Men and women attending various evening courses

Changes to Grange Park.

Populations in Yemen and Italy.

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आईईएलटीएस लेखन कार्य 1 लाइन ग्राफ उदाहरण: यहां आईईएलटीएस निबंधों में महारत हासिल करने के लिए एक गाइड है

One of the most popular essay topics in the IELTS writing task 1 is explaining the line graph. This is a type of essay where you will have to explain the data given in the form of line graphs. This task is particular to the academic writing and the general candidates need not worry about this.

As you must know that the IELTS writing task 1 line graph is the shorter of the two tasks and needs to be written in 150 words at least. It is also necessary that you finish this task in no more than 20 minutes, as the second task is lengthier and as such, requires more time. Let us get into the details of line graph essays.

Skills Tested in IELTS Task 1

In IELTS writing task 1, you will be asked to describe facts or figures presented in one or more graphs, charts or tables on a related topic; or they may be given a diagram of a machine, a device or a process and asked to explain how it works.

Important Points

You must write in an academic or semi-formal/ neutral style and include the most important and the most relevant points in the diagram.

This task assesses your ability to identify the most important and relevant information and trends in a graph, chart, table or diagram, and to give a well-organised overview of it using language accurately in an academic style.

You will also be judged on how appropriately, accurately and relevantly the response fulfils the requirements set out in the task, using the minimum of 150 words.

Further Assessment

• You will be assessed on how your response organises and links information, ideas and language with appropriate use of cohesive devices (for example, logical connectors, pronouns and conjunctions) to assist in making the conceptual and referential relationships between and within sentences clear.
• You will also be judged on your use of a range of vocabulary and grammatical devices and its accuracy in terms of the specific task.

How to Structure IELTS Writing Task 1 Line Graph Essays?

Structuring a line graph essay is not a big deal. All you need to remember is that you do not need a conclusion here. As this isn’t a discursive essay, so conclusions do not serve any purpose. Here is an IELTS sample essay to know how you can structure a line graph essay:

Paragraph 1 (Introduction)

• Sentence 1- Paraphrase Question

This paragraph should be one sentence long and demonstrates your ability to paraphrase. You should do this by using synonyms.

Paragraph 2 (Overview)

• Sentence 1- Overview of the first main feature
• Sentence 2- Overview of the second main feature
• Sentence 3- Make general comparison, if appropriate

An overview is a general statement, highlighting the most important information in the table. It should not include any numbers. This is just a summary of the main features. You can use numbers to support your answer in paragraphs 3 and 4.

The examiner is testing your ability to identify the most important information and then summarise it. Important information could include general trends, increase/ decreases, differences, comparisons etc.

Paragraph 3 (Details of significant feature 1)

• Sentence 1- Supporting details
• Sentence 2- Supporting details
• Sentence 3- Supporting details/ comparison details, if appropriate

In this paragraph, you take the first general statement from paragraph 2 and support it with details from the graph. The examiner is looking for your ability to choose the correct data and ability to describe data, trends, comparisons etc.

You then repeat this process for paragraph 4, only this time you describe the second sentence in paragraph 2.

Paragraph 4 (Details of significant feature 2)

There may also be three significant features, in which case you can adjust the structure slightly.

You must remember not to write a conclusion. Conclusions are for opinion or discursive essays and you are not expected to do this in task 1.

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IELTS Writing Task 1 Line Graph Example Essay Question

Source: Cambridge English IELTS Past Papers.

The IELTS writing task 1 line graph gives information from a 2008 report about the consumption of energy in the USA since 1980 with projections until 2030.

Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and making comparisons where relevant.

IELTS Sample Essays Answer

The line graph shows energy consumption by fuel type in the United States from 1980-2008, with projected use until 2030.

Overall, fossil fuels have been the dominant type and will continue this trend into the future. Nuclear and renewable energy sources have represented a small but significant proportion of total energy use and despite small projected gains; it is projected that they will continue doing so.

Main Information

Petrol and Oil commanded the biggest share with 35 quadrillion units (35q) in 1980, rising to approximately 40q in 2008 and this trend is set to continue with a projected value of nearly 50q in 2030. In 1980 natural gas and coal came in second and third, with around 16q and 20q respectively. However, coal overtook natural gas in 1990 and despite some fluctuation, is set to be the second most used fuel in 2030 with just over 30q. It is predicted that natural gas will level off and remain relatively constant at about 25q.

Nuclear and the renewable energies all represented around 4q in 1980 and fluctuated up until 2008.  It is speculated that nuclear energy will reach 10q by 2030 and solar/wind around 5q, with hydropower dropping and then remaining constant at approximately 2q.

Academic writing task 1 is a writing task which has a defined input and a largely predictable output. It is basically an information-transfer task that relates narrowly to the factual content of an input diagram and not to speculative explanations that lie outside the given data.

You can take help of any good IELTS online training programs for enhancing your skills in this topic. A proper IELTS online preparation will help you with the most important part and that is choosing the correct information. If you know what to put into the essay and have a concrete structure, you are absolutely good to go!

ये भी पढ़ें: डुओलिंगो टेस्ट स्कोर की व्याख्या: आईईएलटीएस और टीओईएफएल के साथ तुलना

I was looking for this article for the preparation of graphs and how to write essays, this was very useful, what are you looking for?

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