Mastering
Visual Data
Visual Communication
Graphs and charts present large amounts
of information in a clear, visual way. At
C1 level, a key task is identifying trends
and drawing concise conclusions from
data.
Common Data Types
Trends Proportions Raw Data
Line Graphs: Perfect for showing how Pie Charts: Ideal for illustrating parts Tables: Used for presenting precise
values change over continuous time of a whole and percentage figures across multiple specific
periods. distributions. categories.
How to prepare for
writing the text
Success starts before the first word is written.
Planning: Steps 1-3
1. Analyse 2. Identify 3. Group
Check the basics: chart type, topic, Focus on main features: overall trends, Organise logically: group by trend
categories, time period, and units of highs/lows, and sharp rises or falls. direction or time periods to ensure
measurement. flow.
Planning: Steps 4-5
4. Plan Structure 5. Select Data
Follow a 4-part framework: Introduction, Overview, and two Pick only relevant figures. One or two numbers per paragraph
Detail paragraphs for logical cohesion. are enough to illustrate patterns.
Structure Guidelines
Section Purpose Key Elements
Introduction States what the visual represents Topic, categories, and time period
Overview Highlights significant patterns Main trends (no specific data points)
Details 1 First group of information Similar trends or major changes
Details 2 Remaining data/contrasts Supporting figures and comparisons
Case Study: UK Commuters
Increases vs Decreases
Upward Trends Downward Trends
Verbs: Rise, Increase, Grow, Climb, Overtake. Verbs: Fall, Decline, Drop, Decrease, Dip.
Adverbs: Sharply, Steadily, Significantly, Rapidly. Adverbs: Slightly, Gradually, Considerably, Slowly.
Comparisons & Proportions
Stability Precision Approximations
Use phrases like "Remain stable", "Stay "Significantly higher than", "Marginally "Just under", "Nearly",
the same", or "Level off". lower than", "Substantially more". "Approximately", "Around".
Questions?
Good luck with your data descriptions!
Image Sources
[Link]
Source: [Link]