1

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

2

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

3

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

4

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

5

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

6

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

7

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

8

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

9

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

10

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

11

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

12

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

13

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

14

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

15

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

16

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

17

Academic Training Writing

About the Writing Test
The IELTS Academic Training Writing Test takes 60 minutes. You have
to complete two
writing tasks.
Task 1
• You have about 20 minutes
• You must write a report of at least 150 words
• You are given a visual presentation which can be in form of a graph,
diagram, bar chart, table, map or a process.
You must write a report explaining the main features of the figure and
make comparisons where relevant. You must not include any personal
opinion while you are explaining the figure. You just need to describe and
report what you are given.
How to use your 20 minutes
You have 20 minutes for task 1, so try spending 5 minutes on each
paragraph.
This might help you to organize your time better.
✓ First 5 minutes: Read the question, make sure you understand the
chart, write your introduction by paraphrasing the question.
✓ Second 5 minutes: Look at the chart and try to find 2 general points.
Don't look at specific details; look for "the big picture". Write 2
sentences summarizing the information.
✓ Final 10 minutes: Describe specific details. Try to break this part
into 2 paragraphs because it looks better. You could spend 5 minutes
on each paragraph.

Points to Apply in Task 1, Report Writing

The IELTS writing Task 1 academic is an information transfer task
which requires you to write a fairly precise account of some information
presented in graphic form such as a graph, table or some form of pictorial
representation of data.

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

18

In order to complete the task successfully, follow these

suggestions.
Introduction should describe the purpose of the report and say what
the overall trends are. For example, if the graph is climbing up or
dropping down, you should mention the change or the changes
accurately and meaningfully. You need to remember that you are
describing a graph to someone who does not see it, so your words
must draw the picture. Write what the graph is about, its dates and
location as well as the right kind of measurements used. You must
write in complete sentences. Notes are not acceptable.
Do not copy whole sentences or long phrases from the question. The
examiner will recognize them, and they will not count towards the
minimum number of words you must write.
The overall trend or the general over view should sum up the global
or the general trends shown in the figure and compare them if
possible. Your personal opinion should not appear anywhere in the
report. You should not include other information that does not
appear in the figure or the chart since this kind of writing can and
will probably be penalized.
The body paragraphs should describe the most important features
and trends, while all the information is summarized to avoid
unnecessary details. When you are given too much information, you
need to group them and select the most noticeable ones. For
example, if there is a graph that has 2 peaks, you should mention
them and tell when those peaks appeared and what the peak values
are; however, if there are 5 similar trends, you need to group the
information in order to avoid over length writing, which can lead to a
waste of time. Notice how many distinctive features the diagram or
the graph has and divide them into paragraphs, one paragraph one
set of features that is a group of similar trends. You should also link
the paragraphs by sentences that logically connect them to one
another.
You need to write about all the periods of time and all the subjects
of the graph or the figure. If it shows several years for example
1992, 1993, 1994 and 1995, write about all of them. If it is about
men and women, write about both genders. Remember that

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

19

summarizing does not mean throwing away information. The key here
is to select what is important, organize it and make comparisons,
which is describing both the similarities and the differences where
relevant.
You may write your plans on the question sheet if, for example, you
want to underline key words or to write notes and make comparisons.
The examiner who marks your writing will not see the question sheet.

What does a good report look like?

When your Task 1 academic writing is graded by IELTS examiners,
they look for this structure:
❖ Introduction (including 1 or 2 sentences)
❖ Overall view (including at least two important general points in 2 or 3
sentences)
❖ Body paragraphs (including the details and the factual information
presented in the figure as well as relevant comparisons in 6 or 7
sentences)
Using the right tense is important
The figures you need to write a report about always have a time
stamp on them. The time stamp tells you whether the graph or the figure
describes something that happened in the past or happens in the present
or will happen in the future.
Examples:
1. The rate of unemployment increased significantly between 2010 and
2012. (It happened in the past)
2. The figures for the electricity consumption show a rapid growth
during the day time. (It happens in the present, generally)
3. It is predicted that the amount of air pollution will decrease by 5%
within the next two years. (It will happen in the future)
Note: When there is no time stamp that is a date or a time period as
in some graphs or in processes, the present tense must be used.

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

20

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

21

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

22

WRITING TASK 1
LINE GRAPHS

One must study so much that there should be no room for

regret despite the result of the IELTS test.
Xurshid Dusanov

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

23

Line Graphs

In this type of task, you will be given one or more-line graphs. Each line
graph will have 1-8 lines showing how values change over time. The time period
could be the past, the present or the future, or a combination of all three.
Your task is to write a summary, covering the most important points and
supporting your description by including data.
Sample Line Graph Question:
The chart illustrates consumption of three kinds of fast food by
teenagers in Mauritius from 1985 to 2015.
Summaries the information by selecting and reporting the main features,
and make comparisons where relevant.

- Write at least 150 words.

- You should spend around 20 minutes on this task.

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

24

The steps involved in describing the line graph essay are as

follows
Step 1: Analyze the question
Step 2: Discover the main features
Step 3: Introduction writing
Step 4: Writing an overview
Step 5: Writing the paragraphs in detail
Practice Question:
Household recycling rates in three different countries between
2005 and 2015.
Summarize the information by selecting and reporting the main
features and make comparisons where relevant.
Write at least 150 words.

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

25

Step 1: Analyze the question

For each question, you can split it into three parts as follows for easy
understanding.
• Sentence 1 - Describe the graphic representation briefly
• Sentence 2 - Give instructions
• The Graphic - Graph, Table, Chart, etc.

For the 2nd sentence, you must select the main features, write about it
and compare between them.
Step 2: Discover the Main Features
In the next step, you need to identify the main features of the question.
To do it correctly, you can ask the following questions to yourself:
• What information does the line chart have?
• What are the units of measurements?
• What are the time periods?
• What can you observe from the title and any labels?
• What is the notable trend?
• Compare and find out similarities (if any)?

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

Main feature 1: France declined from 50% to 40% over a decade in
terms of household recycling rates.
Main feature 2: Germany increased nearly four times from 20% to 57%
over a decade in terms of household recycling rates.

The trends you highlighted will be useful to start your essay in

IELTS writing task 1. Then you can add some more details. Since the entire
Task 1 is 20 minutes, and you are required to write 150 words, you cannot add
more details.
Step 3: Introduction Writing
Unlike other essay types, in line graph essay, you need to just paraphrase
the question in a different way. You can use new vocabulary and sentence
structure to do it. For example:
Question:
Household recycling rates in three different countries between 2005 and
2015.

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

26

Introduction (Paragraph 1):

The line graph compares the UK, France and Germany in terms of
household recycling rates between a decade of 2005 to 2015.
Step 4: Write an Overview
Here, you must write the main features you have identified and give
some general information. In the subsequent paragraphs, you will write the
details of it. In case of comparison, mention them in crisp and clear language.
To give the best overview, stick to the 40 - 50-word limit. Do not use
complicated words or language. Just write the appropriate vocabulary and
verb tenses that ensures a clear understanding. For example:
Overview (Paragraph 2):
When compared to Germany and the UK, France holds the third
position. The population in France has declined from 50% to 40% between
2005 and 2015 pertaining to household recycling rates.
Step 5: Write the Paragraphs in Detail
In paragraphs 3 and 4, you need to write your essay in detail with
more information about the data in the graphic. If there’s a possibility for
comparison, then do it. In paragraph 3 and 4, give supporting evidence for
main features 1 and 2 respectively. For example:
Detailed Explanation (Paragraphs 3 and 4):
In 2005, France was at the top with 50% in household recycling
rates. Later it declined gradually in 2007 and reached a very low level of 30%
in 2013. After this major dip in percentage, the graph record shows a sudden
rise of 40% in 2015.
When compared to France, Germany and the UK have a similar trend
in household recycling rates. They maintained around a 10% difference
throughout the time period. In 2005, the UK was in 2nd position with 35%
and Germany in 3rd position with 20%. After 2009, they both reached a
steady growth, and their difference got narrowed to 3%. Thus, they reached
an all-time high. This information will impact household expenditure and how
to use the recycled products in both urban and rural areas.
Please note that the fourth paragraph is final. You should not add
one more sentence or paragraph after that.

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

27

Writing task 1, Sample essays given with mistakes.

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

The graphs below show the enrolments of overseas students and

local students in Australian universities over a ten-year period.

Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main

features, and make comparisons where relevant.

You should write at least 150 words.

Overall: 4.5

The graphs below show the number of local students enrolled in Australian
universities and foreign students over ten years.

The number of local students in total growth from 2001 about four
thousand students until reaching the highest number in 2007 and this number
stayed until 2010.

but the enrollment from outside the country is not much.

the number of foreign students is less than six thousand until 2006. last
three years more students have been enrolled.

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

28

There is static in the number of the commenting students in both local and
foreign students I think the rules of enrollment at Australian universities or
they don't accept a big number of students.

overall, the numbers of accepted students at Australian universities, in

general, are less than students at UK or USA universities

Overall: 7.5

The graph illustrates the enrolment in Australian unversities by

international students versus domestic students in a ten year duration.

Overall, the rate of enrolment by foreign students, both commencing

and overall, saw an increase during the ten year period, similar to the graph
of all local students. However, the graph of commencing local students seem
to fluctuate over the ten year period.

In 2001, the total number of international students were

approximately 20000, almost double the number of international students
who were just starting. Throughout the ten year period, the total number of
foreign students rose constrantly and were around 40000 in 2004, then later
on were nearly 60000 in 2007, and ending the period with a little above
80000 in 2010. Even though the rate of commencing overseas students did
not climb sharply, the gradual increase resulted in 20000 students in 2006.
Later on, in just two years, it rose steeply and reached around 40000
students in 2008, then the digits slowly climb to hit a little above 40000 in
2010.

The total number of local students began very high in 2001, with
roughly 4000000 students, while commencing local students half were its
digits, with a little below 200000 students. During 2001 to 2007, the total
number of domestic students increased sharply, hitting around 500000 in
2003 and a little above 600000 in 2007. After its steep climb, the graph
remained rather constant, thus ending 2010 with almost the same total
number of students in 2007. Meanwhile, the number of commencing local
students peaked at around 220000 students in 2002, then the rate declined
for another four years, resulting in the number being a little below 200000
students in 2006. After its decrease, the number of commencing students
once again increase for another two years, reaching around 210000 in 2008,
and later on continued to decline to a little above 200000 in 2010.

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

29

Overall: 5.5

The line graph illustrate the volume of internaltion and native

students joining Australian universities from 2001 to 2010.

Overall, Total number of Local students was respectively higher then

the international student over ther years. Whereas, immigrant beginners in
these universities were increased in later in years compared to the national
students.

To commence with the international students, The number of

newcomers was below 20,000 in the starting of the year then afterwards it
increased to more than double in following years.

While, the total number of overseas students in year 2001 was

20,000 rose significantly over the years and hit the highest of more that
80,000 students.

Meanwhile, the number of native students were also below 20,000

and it rose to 23,000 in year 2002. Then it showed some fluctuation during
the time period and fall down to 20,000 students in year 2010.

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

30

Practice : IELTS Essay Task 1: Age Groups and Cinema Attendance

The line chart shows average attendance at the
cinema among various age groups in the US from 2000 to
2011.

TA CC LR GRA

Under length No. of words Penalty

Off-topic Memorised Illegible

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

31

IELTS Task 1: Australian Exports: The line chart

shows exports in billions of dollars.

TA CC LR GRA

Under length No. of words Penalty

Off-topic Memorised Illegible

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

32

TA CC LR GRA

Under length No. of words Penalty

Off-topic Memorised Illegible

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

33

IELTS Essay Task 1: Urban and Rural Population Trends

The bar chart illustrates population trends globally by percentage
from 1950 to 2040.
Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main
features, and make comparisons where relevant.

TA CC LR GRA

Under length No. of words Penalty

Off-topic Memorised Illegible

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

34

IELTS Task 1 Essay: Line Graph (Steel)

The line charts give information about the demand for steel and
number of workers employed in a country from January to December.

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

35

TA CC LR GRA

Under length No. of words Penalty

Off-topic Memorised Illegible

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

36

Pie
Charts

In order to write well, one should love writing.

Xurshid Dusanov

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

37

Pie Charts
In this type of task, you will be given one, two. or three pie charts. The pie charts
may show percentages of a total figure. If you have one pie chart, it will represent one
point in time (static data). If you have two or more pie charts, they may represent how the
percentages change over time or compare different countries or groups.
Your task is to write a summary, covering the most important points and supporting
your description by including data.
Sample Pie Chart Question
The pie chart below shows the native languages spoken by students at
Bakersfield Senior College over two separate years.
Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and
make comparisons where relevant.
- Write at least 150 words.
- You should spend around 20 minutes on this task.

Sample Essay

The pie chart depicts the proportion of attorneys using four kinds of smartphone
operating systems, Iphone, Android, Blackberry and Windows, in the US in a given year.
Overall, a clear majority of attorneys prefer using the Iphone operating system on
their smart phones, though other systems are also regularly used.
Iphone usage accounts for almost two thirds of total smartphones with 62% of all
attorneys using the system. This is in stark contrast to the other three operating platforms,
namely Android, BlackBerry, and Windows, which together only comprise 28% of all US
attorneys total smartphone use.
After the Iphone platform, Android is the second most widely-used system at 20%
while Blackberry and Windows struggle to make up the remainder at 5% and 3%
respectively, proving that very few if any attorneys use those platforms. Particularly of
note are the 10% of US attorneys who use no smartphone in their day-to-day business or
chose not to declare in this survey.
STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1
38

Make it easy to read

When you write a task 1, you should always group information in a logical
way to make it easy to follow and read.
With an IELTS pie chart, the most logical thing to do is usually to compare
categories together across the charts, focusing on similarities and differences, rather than
writing about each chart separately.
If you write about each one separately, the person reading it will have to keep
looking between the paragraphs in order to see how each category differs.
Vary your language
As with any task 1, this is important. You should not keep repeating the same
structures.
The key language when you write about pie charts is proportions and percentages.
Common phrases to see are "the proportion of…" or "the percentage of…"
However, you can also use other words and fractions. These are some examples
from the model answer:
A large number of people
over a quarter of people
a small minority
A significant number of people
less than a fifth
This table presents some examples of how you can change percentages to
fractions or ratios:
Percentage Fraction
80% four-fifths
75% three-quarters
70% seven in ten
65% two-thirds
60% three-fifths
55% more than half
50% half
45% more than two fifths
40% two-fifths
35% more than a third
30% less than a third
25% a quarter
20% a fifth
15% less than a fifth
10% one in ten
5% one in twenty
STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1
39

If the percentages are not exact as above, then you can use qualifiers to make
sure your description remains accurate. Here are some examples:
Percentage Qualifier
77% just over three quarters
approximately three
77%
quarters
49% just under a half
49% nearly a half
32% almost a third

This table presents some examples of how you can change percentages to other
phrases:
proportion / number /
Percentage amount / majority /
minority
75% - 85% a very large majority
65% - 75% a significant proportion
10% - 15% a minority
5% a very small number

The words above are interchangeable, though number is for countable

nouns and amount is for uncountable nouns.

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

40

Sample essay given with mistakes

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.
The pie charts below show how dangerous waste products are dealt with in
three countries.
Write a report for a university, lecturer describing the information shown
below.
summarize the information by selecting and reporting the main features and
make comparisons where relevant.
You should write at least 150 words.

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

41

Overall: 6.5
The pie graph shows how dangerous waste products are treated in three different
countries.
First of all, the most striking information is that the vast majority of the products in
the United Kingdom are burned, which is clearly not the case in Republic of Korea as well
as in Sweden, who tend to use more ecological processes.
To begin, the United Kingdom use incineration for their waste products in 82% of the
cases. It's quite the contrary in the other countries, because Sweden uses this technique
only for a fifth of their products. It's even less the case in the Republic of Korea, which is
slightly under 10%.
Secondly, recycling is a big part of how products are processed in Korea as it
represents almost two third of the techniques that they use. In Sweden a quarter of the
waste products are recycled, which represents only 2% in the UK.
Finally, the UK gets rid of 16% of their products by dumping them at sea or by
chemical treatment which are techniques that do not exist in the other countries. In fact, in
Korea, roughly a fifth of the products are buried undergound, while more than the half are
treated as the same way in Sweden.
To conclude, the UK do not use recycling and burying techniques as treatment for
waste products. They would rather burn them or dumping at sea as well as using chemical
treatment. In Sweden and Korea, the treatments are more oriented towards recycling and
burrying.

Overall: 7.5
Three different pie charts illustrate the way dangerous waste products are dealt with
in Republic of Korea, Sweden, and United Kingdom. Each pie chart shows the percentages
of five activities to deal with those products, which are: recycling, burying underground,
incineration, chemical treatment, and dumping at sea. These pie charts are explained
below.
Overall, we can see that the main activity for dealing with waste products changes
depending on the continent. While in Republic of Korea (Asia) the principal way is
recycling, in Sweden and the United Kingdom (Europe) we can see that burying
underground occupies the first place. We can also see that dumping dangerous waste into
the sea is not a popular way of dealing with these products, as it is only practiced in the
United Kingdom with a really small percentage.
Looking at the details, we can see that in the Republic of Korea, recycling is by far
the most used method with a 69 percent of use, while in Sweden it corresponds just to a 25
percent. Nevertheless, in the United Kingdom there is no use of this method at all.
Bury them underground, on the other hand, is the principal way dangerous waste products
are managed in the United Kingdom, with a high 82 percent, meanwhile chemical
treatment and dumping at sea have 8 percent each, and incineration has just 2 percent in
this country. In Sweden and Republic of Korea, destroying the waste by fire reaches 20
percent and 9 percent correspondingly, while underground reaches 55 percent in Sweden
and 22 percent in Republic of Korea.

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

42

Overall: 5.5
As the pie charts illustrate, the three given countries approach differently the disposal
of dangerous waste products. Out of the five procedures that are possible to use for
eliminating waste, the underground method seems to be used more frequently by the
United Kigdom and Sweden.
Sweden uses the underground to dispose 55% of its total amount of toxic waste, as a
way of dealing with this type of products. The other half of the waste is managed through
two, relatively equal divided categories: recycling and incineration.
The United Kingdom preferes, just as Sweden, disposing these products underground,
this type of approach reaching a level of 82%. The other techniques, such as recycling,
chemical treatment or sea dumping, are used on a significantly smaller scale.
The Republic of Korea adopts the recycling method the most, only 31% of the waste
being dealt with through the incineration or underground methods, as recycling goes up to
69%.

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

43

Practice
You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.
The pie charts below show the average household expenditures in a country
in 1950 and 2010.
Write a report for a university lecturer describing the information below.
You should write at least 150 words.

TA CC LR GRA

Under length No. of words Penalty

Off-topic Memorised Illegible

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

44

QUESTION:
The pie chart below shows the percentage of ad spending by different kinds of
media in India from 2012 to 2017.
Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and
make comparisons where relevant.
Write at least 150 words.

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

45

TA CC LR GRA

Under length No. of words Penalty

Off-topic Memorised Illegible

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

46

QUESTION:
The pie chart below shows the native languages spoken by students at
Bakersfield Senior College in two separate years.
Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and
make comparisons where relevant.
Write at least 150 words.

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

47

TA CC LR GRA

Under length No. of words Penalty

Off-topic Memorised Illegible

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

48

QUESTION:
The pie charts below show the proportion of freshwater withdrawals made by
various economy sectors in three countries in a given year.
Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make
comparisons where relevant.
Write at least 150 words.

TA CC LR GRA

Under length No. of words Penalty

Off-topic Memorised Illegible

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

49

TA CC LR GRA

Under length No. of words Penalty

Off-topic Memorised Illegible

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

50

The charts below show the proportions of British students at one university in
England who were able to speak other languages

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

51

TA CC LR GRA

Under length No. of words Penalty

Off-topic Memorised Illegible

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

52

WRITING TASK 1
BAR CHARTS

“It is hard to become the best, but harder to prove that one is the best”

Dusanov Xurshid

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

53

Bar Charts
In this type of task, you will be given one or more bar charts. The bar charts may
show how values change over time (dynamic data), the differences between values at
one point in time (static data), or the results of a survey or questionnaire. The
information could be about the situation in the past, the present, or the future, or a
combination of all three.
Your task is to write a summary, covering the most important points and
supporting your description by including data.
Sample Bar Chart Question
The chart below gives some of the most reported issues among people living in UK
cities in 2008 (%).
Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make
comparisons where relevant.
- Write at least 150 words.
- You should spend around 20 minutes on this task.

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

54

Sample Essay
The chart illustrates several important living issues faced by inhabitants of seven
major UK cities (Newcastle, Belfast, Birmingham, Cardiff, Manchester, Glasgow, and
London) in 2008. Units are given in percentages.
Overall, health services proved to be the most important living issue in most cities,
with education and training a close second. Least worrisome of all to UK residents was
air pollution that year which on average seems around 5 times less important to city
populations there.
In five of the seven cities, health and safety was the biggest concern with over 50% of
city residents stating it as their number one living issue. This was especially true in
Belfast and Cardiff where almost 60% of residents were worried. Education and training
fell a close second in those same cities with a less than 10% difference between the two
results, with the exception of Glasgow (53%) and London (52%) where it had become
the biggest problem.
Regarding air pollution, only Manchester (16%), London (14%) and Cardiff (12%)
had more than ten percent of their inhabitants concerned. Least of all worried about air
pollution were those in Newcastle of whom only 5% of people stated this as an issue.
You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.
The chart below shows global sales of the top five mobile phone brands between
2009 and 2013.
Write a report for a university, lecturer describing the information shown below.
Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features and
make comparisons where relevant.
You should write at least 150 words.

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

55

Overall: 5,5
The graph under demonstrates the difference in worldwide sales of the
trending five phone companies between the 3 years from 2009 to 2013.
It is clear from the chart that Nokia scored the highest number of sales in
general (total of around 1100) compared to the other companies.
According to what is shown, earnings for Samsung is noticed to be trending
up over the years, with around 235 in 2009 and increased up to 450 over only
four years interval in 2013.

Both Apple and LG groups had low sales over the years. However, Apple was
able to enhance its products profits with time while LG was not.

To sum up, we could say that ZTE had the lowest sales in the 3 years (2009,
2011, and 2013) compared to higher sellings for Nokia and Samsung,
Overall: 6
The chart gives information about the global mobile phone sales of
Samsung, Apple, Nokia, LG and ZTE from 2009 to 2013.
Overall, Samsung, Apple and ZTE experienced an upward trend throughout
the period whereas Nokia and LG a downward trend.
At the beginning of the period Samsung's mobile phone sales was
accounted for about 230 million, reaching about 330 million in 2011 before
hitting the highest number in 2013 at 450 million with almost a twofold increase
from the beginning. In 2009 Apple's sales was the lowest among the selected
brands. However, starting from about 25 million in 2009, it had soon
experienced a threefold increase reaching about 90 million in 2011 and ending
up with 150 million at the end of the period. ZTE's mobile sales experienced a
steady slight increase from about 50 million in 2009, 60 million in 2011 and
about 65 million in 2013.
In 2009 Nokia's had the highest number of mobile sales among the selected
brands with about 450 million of mobile sold. It had experienced in 2011 a slight
decrease, before dropping dramatically in 2013 to about 250 million. Finally, LG
brand decreased steadily from 125 million of mobile phone sold in 2009 to 75
million at the end of the period.

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

56

Overall: 6

During the period from 2009 to 2013, There has been big change in global
mobile phone market especiallly top players in the market.
In 2009, Nokia was the biggest brand and their sales was almost reaching
450. While Nokia was satisfied with their sales figure and stayed relaxed and
slow in their technological development, Samsung and Apple as second and
third player in the market invested their asset in their technology and
innovation.

In 2011, Samsung and Apple have took substantial market share with their
creative products and created new ecosystem in mobile world. LG and ZTE took
strategy to being a follower of Samsung and Apple rather than being a pioneer.
As follower, LG and ZTE's market share and sales haven't show any big change
from 2009 to 2013.

In 2013, Nokia sales was dramatically decreased into almost half of their
previous sales of 2009. As technology development at Samung and Apple
accerates, it was impossible for Nokia to take back their market leader position.
Overall: 6.5
The chart depicts the top five cell phone brands and their global sales in the
years 2009, 2011, and 2013. The five brands surveyed include Samsung, Apple,
Nokia, LG, and ZTE.

The two companies with the most overall sales are Nokia and Samsung.
Nokia was most popular overall in 2009 and 2011 while Samsung sold the most
mobile phones globally in 2013. Apple had the least sales of all the companies
in 2009 while ZTE had the least in 2011 and 2013.
Apple, LG, and ZTE were less popular across the time period studied, with
Apple and ZTE demonstrating an increase in sales and LG depicting a steady
decline. ZTE sales increased very slightly, while Apple shows strong growth
from about 25 to 150 over the time period. While Nokia was very popular among
cell phone sales, it did lose over half of its global sales in 2013 as compared to
2009. Samsung showed the opposite trend, with numbers doubling from 2009
to 2013.

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

57

Practice
The chart below shows the proportion of male and female students studying six art-
related subjects at a UK university in 2011.
Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make
comparisons where relevant.
Write at least 150 words.

TA CC LR GRA

Under length No. of words Penalty

Off-topic Memorised Illegible

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

58

QUESTION:
The chart illustrates the percentage of male and female executives in six different
types of profession across the UK in 2007.
Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make
comparisons where necessary.
Write at least 150 words.

TA CC LR GRA

Under length No. of words Penalty

Off-topic Memorised Illegible

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

59

Question
The chart below gives some of the most reported issues among people living in UK
cities in 2008 (%).
Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make
comparisons where relevant.
Write at least 150 words.

TA CC LR GRA

Under length No. of words Penalty

Off-topic Memorised Illegible

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

60

QUESTION:
The chart below gives the distribution of worldwide car sharing schemes (%) in 2008
and 2016.
Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make
comparisons where necessary.
Write at least 150 words

TA CC LR GRA

Under length No. of words Penalty

Off-topic Memorised Illegible

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

61

QUESTION:
The graphs below give information concerning smartphone ownership as a
percentage of population in a country from 2000 to 2010, and by level of education for
the years 2000 and 2010.
Summarise the data by selecting and reporting the main features and make
comparisons where relevant.
Write at least 150 words.

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

62

TA CC LR GRA

Under length No. of words Penalty

Off-topic Memorised Illegible

The bar chart provides information about how often people in

the USA spent ate fast food from 2003 to 2013.

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

63

TA CC LR GRA

Under length No. of words Penalty

Off-topic Memorised Illegible

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

64

TA CC LR GRA

Under length No. of words Penalty

Off-topic Memorised Illegible

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

65

The bar graph below shows the top ten countries for the production and
consumption of electricity in 2014.
Summarise the information by describing the main features of the chart
and making comparisons where appropriate.
Write at least 150 words. You should spend about 20 minutes on this
task.

TA CC LR GRA

Under length No. of words Penalty

Off-topic Memorised Illegible

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

66

WRITING TASK 1
TABLES

There are no secrets to success. It is the result of

preparation, hard work, and learning from failure.
Colin Powell

Tables

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

67

In this type of task, you are given a table containing data. can show dynamic figures
which change over time or static data for one point in time.
Often there is too much information, so you won't be able to include every detail.
Your task is to write a summary, covering the most important points and supporting
your description by including data.
Sample Table Question
The table below shows a survey of the percentage of adults in California by age
group who enjoyed different types of leisure activities in 2011.
Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make
comparisons where relevant.
- Write at least 150 words.
- You should spend around 20 minutes on this task.

Sample Essay
The table displays the percentage of different types of leisure activities
enjoyed by four different age groups in California in 2011.
Overall, social pursuits like watching TV and spending time with family
and friends were the most enjoyed leisure activities by all age groups,
though there were clear differences between ages for some. The least
popular activities in general were individual-based such as gardening and
playing video games for all survey respondents.
Regarding social activities, watching TV was a popular activity for the
entire adult population increasing from 76% of 18-30 year olds to 89% for
the over 60s. On the contrary, spending time with family or friends rapidly
declined with age from 58% of those under30 to under a third of those over
60 as people spend more time alone.

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

68

Of the other activities, whereas reading declined from 22% for the
youngest age group to 16% for the eldest, the amount of time spent
gardening increased greatly over the four age groups from 7% to 26%.
Playing video games and listening to music showed the greatest decline with
age, with over 40% of young people 18-30 engaged in these activities, yet
only 2% of those over 60 doing the same.

This version of Task 1 tests your ability to look at and identify the most important
information in a table, and then report the information in your own words.
On the question paper, you see a table with a title. The instructions for writing your
response appear in a box above the table. There is also a brief description of the
information in the table in the box. Your job is to look at the table and select, summarize
and describe the most important information.
The columns and rows in the table may represent different time periods, different
types of people, different countries and so on. Each box in the table contains numbers.
There may be certain trends (a general direction in which something is developing or
changing). sharp increases or decreases, or exceptions. Your task is to identify the most
important and interesting points, and write a well-organized overview, comparing and
contrasting where appropriate.
Here are the basic rules for writing about a table:
• Look at the table carefully and decide what the most important information and
striking features are.
• Write a well-organized overview.
• Include data to support the key points.
• Use an academic register or style.
• Write at least 150 words.
• Complete the task in about 20 minutes.
• Include only the key points. Minor details or irrelevant data can be left out.
• Don`t do any calculations or give your opinion about the information.
Tips and tactics
❖ The first step is to look carefully at the information in the table. Don`t rush through
this step. Make sure you understand the table before you start to write.
❖ Underline important words in the question and circle important information in the
table.
❖ Identify what key information is being presented in the table and which important
figures or striking features you'll need to write about.
❖ Plan your writing. You can usually divide it into three paragraphs: introduction,
first main paragraph and second main paragraph.
❖ Look carefully at the tin1eframe that the table covers and work out what tenses
you need to use (past, present, present perfect or future).
❖ Begin with a n introductory sentence that describes the table in general terms, but
don't repeat the exact wording of the question.
STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1
69

❖ Then describe one or two general trends or features shown in the table. Don't go
into detail; just report the most important features you see when you look at the
table.
❖ In the main paragraph, select and write about the features that are most important
and interesting, and include relevant data to support the points you make.
❖ When selecting key information, look for the highest and the lowest figures i n
each set of figures, and the range between them.
❖ Look for similarities and differences in the information i n the table and try to
divide the information in the table into groups. Write about each main point.
❖ Don`t try to write about all the data in the table and don`t include details that are
irrelevant to the main trends.
❖ Remember, don't try to analyze or explain the information i n the table, or do any
calculations; just describe and report it.
❖ Keep track of the time. Don't spend more than 20 minutes on Task 1.
❖ Make sure your handwriting is clear and legible.
❖ Keep in mind the criteria that the examiners use to mark your response.

QUESTION:
The table below shows a survey of the proportion of adults in California by age group who
enjoyed different types of leisure activities in 2011.
Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make
comparisons where relevant.
Write at least 150 words.
Leisure Activities by Age Group (%) in 2011, California

Leisure Activity 18-30 31-45 46-60 Over 60s

Watching TV 76% 85% 86% 89%

Spending time with Family/friends 58% 56% 43% 33%

Reading 22% 20% 16% 16%

Gardening 7% 16% 26% 26%

Listening to music 27% 15% 4% 2%

Playing Computer Games 15% 5% 2% 0%

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

70

TA CC LR GRA

Under length No. of words Penalty

Off-topic Memorised Illegible

QUESTION:
The table shows existing and projected changes in the proportion of people over 65 in the
populations of three countries from 2015 to 2030.
Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make
comparisons where relevant.
Write at least 150 words.
Projected Changes in the Population over-65 in three countries to 2030

Country 2015 2020 2025 2030

United Kingdom 18.1% 19.0% 20.5% 21.6%

Canada 16.0% 18.0% 20.4% 22.7%

Hungary 17.6% 19.4% 20.4% 21.3%

TA CC LR GRA

Under length No. of words Penalty

Off-topic Memorised Illegible

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

71

The table below shows the worldwide market share of the notebook
computer market for manufacturers in the years 2006, 2007 and 2014.
Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main
features and make comparisons where relevant.

TA CC LR GRA

Under length No. of words Penalty

Off-topic Memorised Illegible

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

72

QUESTION:
The table demonstrates the change in six types of transportation
used by commuters in three cities between 2000 and 2010.
Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main
features, and make comparisons where relevant.
Write at least 150 words.
Changes in Market Share for six different types of transportation
between 2000 and 2010

City Personal Vehicles Mass Transit Bicycle Walk Work at Home Other

Melbourne -2.9 15.7 17.2 -4.4 -3.9 10.8

Sydney -2.9 10.6 31 -3.5 0.6 11.2

Perth -3.3 21 11.3 4 -3.9 30.2

TA CC LR GRA

Under length No. of words Penalty

Off-topic Memorised Illegible

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

73

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

The table below shows the sales at a small restaurant in a
downtown business district.
Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main
features, and make comparisons where relevant.
You should write at least 150 words.

TA CC LR GRA

Under length No. of words Penalty

Off-topic Memorised Illegible

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

74

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

The two tables below show the number of international students

from different resource countries in Canada and the USA in two school
years.
Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main
features, and make comparisons where relevant.

You should write at least 150 words.

TA CC LR GRA

Under length No. of words Penalty

Off-topic Memorised Illegible

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

75

IELTS map
essay

The pessimist sees difficulty in every opportunity.

The optimist sees opportunity in every difficulty.
Winston Churchill

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

76

This version of Task 1 tests your ability to look at visual information presented
in maps and plans, and describe the information in your own words.
On the question paper, you see one or two maps or plans with a title. You may
see maps of a city or town, a university, a park, or an island. You may also see plans for
a shopping center, an office building or a factory floor.
The instructions for writing your response appear in a box above the maps. There is
also a brief description of the map in the box. There is usually a key (legend) that
explains what certain features and symbols on the maps mean.
The maps may also include the scale (distance marker) of the map (e.g. in
kilometers). and a compass arrow to show direction (North/South/East/West).
Typically, there are two maps or plans showing the same site at two different points
in time. The maps and plans indicate the time periods that they represent with labels.
Your job is to describe the changes that took place at that location during that time
period. There are a number of changes from the earlier map to the later one. For
example, on a map these might involve the building of new roads, the replacement of
one building with another, or the movement of one feature to another part of the map.
Here are the basic rules for writing about maps and plans:
✓ Look at the maps or plans carefully and note the most important features
and changes.
✓ Select the most important differences in the two maps to write about
first.
✓ Write a well-organized overview.
✓ Include information from keys, the scale (distance marker) or compass
arrows.
✓ Use an academic register or style.
✓ Write at least 150 words.
✓ Complete the task in about 20 minutes.
✓ Don`t give your opinion about the maps or any changes to the maps.

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

77

Tips and tactics

1. The first step is to look carefully at the maps/plans. Don't rush through this step. Make sure, you understand the
maps/plans before you start to write.
2. Underline important words in the question and look for differences between the first map/plan and the second and
mark these differences on the map/plan. Look a t the key and the scale, if there is one. Decide which changes are the
most important.
3. Plan your writing. You can usually divide it into three paragraphs: introduction, first main paragraph and second main
paragraph.
4. Look carefully at the time period for each map/plan and work out what tenses you need to use (past, present, present
perfect or future).
5. Begin with an introductory sentence that describes the maps/plans in general terms, but don't repeat the exact
wording of the question.
6. Then describe one or two of the main changes. Don`t go into detail; just report the most important changes you see
when you look at the chart, e.g. In 2010, the town of Southport was considerably larger and more urbanized than it was
in 1980.
7. In the first main paragraph, write about the most important changes first. Choose the most significant changes in the
second map and compare it with the first map.
8. In the second main paragraph, describe the remaining changes and again compare the first map with what you see in
the second.
9. You should generally use the passive form to describe changes that occur to rooms. buildings, roads, parts of a town.
etc.
10. Use information from the key in your response and use the scale, if there is one, to estimate distances. e.g. The new
library is located about a kilometer north of the old one.
11. Remember, don't try to explain the changes, or give your opinion; just describe and report them.
12. Keep track of the time. Don't spend more than 20 minutes on Task 1.
13. Make sure your handwriting is clear and legible.
14. Keep in mind the criteria that the examiners use to mark your response.

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

78

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

79

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

80

TA CC LR GRA

Under length No. of words Penalty

Off-topic Memorised Illegible

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

81

The maps illustrate an industrial area in Norbiton in the present day

compared with plans for future development of the site.

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

82

TA CC LR GRA

Under length No. of words Penalty

Off-topic Memorised Illegible

The maps below show the town of Lynnfield in 1936 and then
later in 2007.
Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main
features, and make comparisons where relevant.

TA CC LR GRA

Under length No. of words Penalty

Off-topic Memorised Illegible

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

83

The maps below show a science park in 2008 and the same park
today.
Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main
features, and make comparisons where relevant.

TA CC LR GRA

Under length No. of words Penalty

Off-topic Memorised Illegible

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

84

The plans below show a student accommodation building 2010 and now.

Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features,

and make comparisons where relevant

You should write at least 150 words.

BAND: 7
The plans show changes made to a student accomodation building from 2010 to now
with the intent to make it more functional.
On the north side of the building, a portion of the garden has been incorporated to make
an additional student-bedroom and the living room has also been converted into a student-
bedroom, as a result of which we now have three student-bedrooms on the north side instead
of one.
The rest of the rooms have been retained as before with a few changes such as the
addition of an en-suite room by utilising a portion of the hallway which has therby become
shorter. The en-suite room opens into one of the student -bedrooms. The original kitchen
now functions as a combined kitchen and social area.
The garden area on the south side of the building has been replaced as a car parking area
right next to the main entrance. The changes have made the accomodation space larger
although a portion of the garden area had to be sacrificed for the purpose.

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

85

BAND: 6
These maps illustrate the comparison of student accommodation building plan between
2010 and now. It can be seen some rooms are established and combined drastically.
Initially, there was only a hallway in front of the main entrance in 2010, while an en-suite
is planned to be built next to the student bedroom on east side. The en-suite room and
student bedroom are connected to the door. In addition, in the kitchen room, a social area is
added as a new facility in one room now.
Another notable feature is that another student bedroom is newly construsted on the
northwest side and the garden space is smaller than in 2010. Furthermore, the living room no
longer exists and the student bedroom is replaced alternatively. In addition, the student
bedroom is connected to another student next to the right side. Interestingly, car parking
space is facilitated on the south side. It is out of the accommodation.

BAND: 8.5
The two plans below compare a student accommodation building, prior to and following
the construction of some fundamental facilities from 2010 to now.

Overall, what stands out from the plans is that the student accommodation buildings has
undergone a significant improvement to become a more functional area with many new
developments.

If we look at the developments north of the buildings, it can be seen that the garden in the
north-west was cut down to make way for a new student-bedroom, and the livingroom just
next to this area was replaced by another new student-bedroom. Further north, the garden
nearby the student-bedrooms was expanded in the direction from the west to the east.

As for the south, a new car parking was constructed, which has replaced the garden in
2010. Across the car parking, an en-suite room was built, which is to the west of the south-
east studen-bedroom. Finally, the kitchen, opposite the central bathroom, was improved with
another function of a social area.

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

86

Process Diagram Essay

My best friend is a person who will give me a book I have not read.

Abraham Lincoln

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

87

How to Write an IELTS Process Diagram Essay?

An IELTS process diagram question can contain a wide variety of
different types of graphics. It could be a natural process such as the water
cycle, a manufacturing process or a diagram of a system.
Using these 5 steps will help you to write a high-scoring process diagram
essay:
1) Analyze the question
2) Identify the main features
3) Write an introduction
4) Write an overview
5) Write the details paragraphs
In this lesson, we’re going to work through the 5 stages step-by-step as
we answer a practice question.
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 – 1st main feature
Paragraph 4 – 2nd main feature
We now have everything we need to begin planning and writing our IELTS
process diagram essay.
Step 2 – Identify the Main Features
1) Is it a linear or a cyclical process?
2) Where does the process start and end?
3) How many steps are there to the process?
4) Can the process be easily broken down into stages?
5) What are the raw materials? What is produced at the end of the
process?
6) What is the end result of the process?

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

88

This version of Task 1 tests your ability to look at and identify the most
important information in a diagram, and then report the information in your
own words.
On the question paper, you see a series of pictures that are connected by
arrows. There are often labels that explain the pictures. There is a title
and instructions for writing your response. There is also a brief description
of the information in the diagram. The pictures and text illustrate some
kind of process. It might be an industrial process (e.g. how plastic is made),
a biological process (e.g. the lifecycle of a snail), a physical process (e.g. the
water cycle or the rock cycle) or an intellectual process (e.g. how decisions
are made at one company). Your job is to write a well-organized overview of
the process from the pictures and text provided.
There are several types of diagram. You may see a diagram with a clear
beginning and a clear end, a diagram
involving alternative stages. a diagram which shows two processes (one that
follows another) or a cyclical diagram.
Here are the basic rules for writing about a diagram:
I. Look at the diagram carefully and decide what the most
important steps are.
II. Write a well-organised overview.
III. Mention all the steps in the process in your response, although
you can omit minor details.
IV. Use an academic register or style.
V. Write at least 1 50 words.
VI. Complete the task in about 20 minutes.

Tips and tactics

✓ The first step is to look carefully at the diagram. Look at
each picture or stage. Don't rush through this step.
Make sure you understand the diagram before you start
to write.
✓ Underline important words in the question and identify
what process is being presented in the diagram.
✓ Plan your writing. You can usually divide it into three
paragraphs: introduction, first main paragraph and
second main paragraph.
✓ Begin with an introductory sentence that describes the
diagram or process in general, but don't repeat the
exact wording of the question.

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

89

✓ Then write a sentence about the entire process, for

example, write about the number of steps and the
beginning and ending of the process. Don't go into detail;
just write about the whole process. For example: The
diagram shows the seven major stages involved in . . .
✓ Next, divide the steps shown in the diagram into two
paragraphs. If the diagram shows a single process,
choose a logical point - one of the major stages in the
process – and divide your answer into two parts there.
✓ You should try to mention all the steps in a process, but
you can omit minor details.
✓ Follow the order of the steps in the process. Usually, it's
clear where a process begins.
✓ In the case of cyclical processes, choose the most logical
starting point in the process.
✓ Use sequencing words and phrases to separate the steps
of the process, e.g. First of all, . . .; Next, . . .; Finally, . .
.. etc.
✓ You should generally use present passive verbs (is/are
done) or passive modal verbs (should be done, can be
done) to describe the steps in the process.
✓ For important steps, you may want to provide examples
or offer more explanation. (Next, . . . should be done. In
other words, . . .)
✓ You can reuse technical terms from the labels on the
diagram but write them in your own sentences.
✓ No concluding paragraph is necessary for this type of
response.
✓ Remember, don't try to explain why t h e information in t
h e diagram appears the way it does or give your opinion
about the process.
✓ Keep track of the time. Don't spend more than 20
minutes on Task 1.
✓ Make sure your handwriting is clear and legible.
✓ Keep in mind t h e criteria that the examiners use to
mark your response.

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

90

Look at the diagram which shows the steps involved in producing

coffee. Then complete the sentences describing the process. Use the
correct verb forms.
1 The first step . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
...............................................................
. . . . ..
2 Then, the seedlings ............. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .... . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . ...... . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ... .
3 Next. what are called the cherries . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
4 The following step . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . .
....................... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
5 Once the green coffee . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .............. . . . . . . . ....... . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . in bags, it can . . . . . . . . . . .
....... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
................. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . in container ships.
6 Green coffee is next ..... . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
.................... . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
7 After the coffee beans . . . . . . . . . . . . . ................................ . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .............. ,
8 Coffee must . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ................. . . . .
. .. . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . by professional tasters.
9 After that, the ground coffee . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . .
. . . . . ...... . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . in cans or bags
and then it ..... . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
..................... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . in stores.
10 The final steps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . and to enjoy it.

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

91

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

92

The diagrams below show the life cycle of a species of large

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

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

93

Overall Band Score: 7.0

The diagrams below illustrate some information about the different 4
stages of the salmon life cycle.
Overall, salmon have an average lifespan of approx. 9 years and consist of
four main stages: egg, fry, molt and adult salmon.
To be more specific, the first stage of the salmon life cycle begins when
mother salmon hatch the eggs and baby salmon comes out from the eggs.
Baby salmons live on the lower side of the river because of the fast-
flowing water flow. They lived here for approx. 5 years and became smolts
which is 12-15cm in length. In the 2nd step, smolt salmons change places
to the open sea in search of food and stay there for 5 years and then they
become adult salmon. In the last, stage they prefer to live in the upper
river and go there to stay there for the next 5 to 6 months. When they
lie eggs the cycle again begins.

Overall Band Score: 6.0

The given illustration provides information about the life circuit of a big
fish known as salmon. Overall, this process consists of three stages,
beginning with the eggs of salmon under reeds and ending up with swimming in
the ocean.
First of all, full-grown fishes lay their eggs under the plant called reeds
covered with stones to protect eggs from predators in the river. After that,
the eggs turned into fries’ size 3-8 centimeters. Next, they move into the
lower river where have a fast-flowing adopting themselves harsh environment
of the open seas for approximately 4 years. In this second stage, the length
of salmon reaches between 12 to 15 centimeters.
Following this, they continue their lives in the giant sea since they become
strong enough to survive and spend nearly 5 years in the depths of the open
seas. Their growth keeps going and they evolve into 70-76 cm great fishes.
Finally, they return to the upper river to reproduce. A couple of them lay
eggs under the plant and make sure the new life circle of salmons.

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

94

TA CC LR GRA

Under length No. of words Penalty

Off-topic Memorised Illegible

TA CC LR GRA

Under length No. of words Penalty

Off-topic Memorised Illegible

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

95

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

96

TA CC LR GRA

Under length No. of words Penalty

Off-topic Memorised Illegible

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

97

The diagram below shows the production of

olive oil

TA CC LR GRA

Under length No. of words Penalty

Off-topic Memorised Illegible

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

98

Writing task 1
mixed charts

THERE IS ONLY ONE FINAL DAY, YOUR IELTS TEST DAY, WHEN
YOU CAN NOT CHANGE YOUR RESULT. THERE ARE MANY DAYS
WHEN YOU ARE ABLE TO MAKE IT 7+.

XURSHID DUSANOV

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

99

At first glance, Mixed Charts seem to trigger difficulties due to its

complexity. In fact, this chart type comprises frequently-used charts in
IELTS Writing Task 1 such as line graph, bar chart, pie chart, table, etc. As
a result, you just need to analyze data and figures in the same way as you do
with a separate graph. The most crucial point while doing an IELTS Mixed
Chart report is to compare and draw conclusions about the correlation
between the two graphs.

You should first start your IELTS Writing Task 1 Mixed Charts with one
to two sentences paraphrasing the question in your own language. These key
features are indispensable:

Types of charts (bar chart and pie chart)

Time period (no time period)

Main topic of each chart (bar chart: the reasons why adults decide to
study; pie chart: how people think the costs of adult education should be
shared)

e.g. The given bar chart illustrates an opinion survey about the
factors as to why people choose to go to school while the pie graph portrays
how adults consider the costs of academic should be funded.

You should use “while” or “and” to combine the two sentences.

Overview

You can simply write this part in two to three sentences with
outstanding features in each graph. To be specific, the first sentence will be
the main features from the first graph, the second sentence will be the
main features from the second graph. Also, any comparisons can be
optionally mentioned in sentence 3.

For key features, you can base on these suggestions to sort out:

✓ The general trend overtimes

✓ The highest/lowest figures
✓ The gaps among figures

e.g. Overall, it is apparent in the bar chart that there are

seven reasons as to why adults decide to study, and the subject of interest
is the most significant one. On the other hand, it can be observed from the

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

100

pie chart that individual funding for education has had a far higher
percentage compared to the other two.

Body

The body will be ideally divided into two different paragraphs. It is

advisable to separate the Body part in this following way:

Paragraph 1: Details of the two main features from graph 1

Paragraph 2: Details of the two main features from graph 2 + details of any
special features or comparisons (if any)

Steps to write an effective IELTS Writing Task 1 Mixed Charts

report:

Step 1: Analyze the question: Underline or highlight these features

as you read the question:

An overview of the chart

(e.g. The charts below show the result of a survey of adult

education. The first chart shows the reason why adults decide to study.
The pie chart shows how people think the costs of adult education should
be shared.)

Chart types: bar chart, line chart, table, pie chart, etc.
Requirements: summarize the information by selecting and
reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.
Don’t pick out all features and figures in both charts since time and the
number of words are limited (more than 150 words in around 20 minutes), so
try to report key features only and make comparisons.

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

101

Charts:

Step 2: Identify main features of both graphs

Depending on which types of graph you are dealing with, you need to
figure out these features in each:

What information does each graph give?

What is the period of time (if any)?

What are the most outstanding features in each graph?

Are there any similarities among categories in each graph?

What is the relation between two graphs?

Once you surely get these details from each graph, you are ready
for writing an IELTS Writing Task 1 Mixed Charts essay.

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

102

Step 3: Write the essay

It’s now time to start writing your IELTS Mixed Charts report, but
make sure you follow the proper structure:

Paragraph 1: Introduction

Paragraph 2: Overview

Paragraph 3: Detailed features of Graph 1

Paragraph 4: Detailed features of Graph 2

Step 4: Re-check your essay

Tips for IELTS Writing Task 1 Mixed Charts

Don’t write too much since your available time for you is just
about 20 minutes. Just select outstanding features to report
(two features from each graph)
Don’t group data from different graphs into one paragraph but
follow the structure mentioned above (body paragraph 1:
graph 1; body paragraph 2: graph 2)
Make sure that there will be at least a comparison between
two graphs
Do not give personal points of view or you will lower your
scores
Utilize as many linking words as possible among sentences and
paragraphs to highlight the coherence
Use proper vocabulary and grammar structures for each
graph. You can refer to specific types of graphs in our blogs
on IELTS TEST PRO website.

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

103

IELTS Writing Task 1 Mixed Charts may appear as a complex question

type at first because there is much data listed in two charts. However, the
approach and solution for each graph is quite similar to the way to handle
the one-chart question types. With all the information, structure, steps and
tips mentioned above, you can get a high score in writing an IELTS Writing
Task 1 Mixed Charts report.

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

The bar chart below shows the numbers of men and women attending
various evening courses at an adult education centre in the year 2009. The
pie chart gives information about the ages of these course participants.
Write a report for a university, lecturer describing the information
shown below.
Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features
and make comparisons where relevant.
You should write at least 150 words.

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

104

BAND: 6
The given graphs illustrate the gender (bar chart) and age (pie chart)
distributions of adult people that attended different evening courses at an
education centre in 2009.
Overall, we can see that, generally, there were more women than men in each
class (excepted in sculpture) and the majority of partcipants were 50 years old
or over.
Language course was the most popular one, with 60 people (40 females and
half males), while sculpture had the lowest number of participants (10 men and
almost 5 women). Painting and drama lessons were the second and the third
most popular classes, respectively. In particular, 30 females and nearly 25
males chose painting, while 20 women and 10 men prefered drama class.
Furthermore, looking at the pie chart it is clear that only a small number of
young people attended these courses (16% of under 29). On the contrary, the
42% of people was 50 or over and the 26% was between 40 and 49 years old.
The last 16% was represented by people from 30 to 39 years old.

BAND: 7.5
The bar chart depicts the figure for men and women who joined four
different evening classes at an adult education center in 2009 while the pie
chart illustrates the proportion of participants’ age, divided into five groups.

Overall, it can be seen that women participated more than men in every
course, except sculpture. Additionally, the majority of the classes was elders
who were 50 years old or over.
Looking at the detail, painting and language were the most popular subject
among men and women respectively. Moreover, females joined drama and
painting more than males by 10 people. For language course, 20 men attended
the class while the number of women were two times higher than that of men,
accounting for 40 people. On the other hand, sculpture was the least popular
among women and the figure for women participating in this class was lower
than the number of men by 10 people.

Regarding ages, 68% of the participants were people over 40 years old, 26%
for the 40-49 age group and 42% for the over-50 age group. The remaining 32%
was people under 39 years old, including 5% of children who were under 20
years old which was the minority group.

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

105

The graphs below show the unemployment rate of citizens in the US with
a further classification displaying average salary per week in 2005.
Summarise the data by selecting and reporting the main features and
make comparisons where relevant.
Write at least 150 words.
Average Weekly Earnings in
Professional degree
2005 ($)
Doctoral degree 1740
Professional degree 1800
Master's degree 1560
Bachelor's degree 1246
Some college, no degree 840
High school diploma 701
Less than a high school diploma 538

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

106

TA CC LR GRA

Under length No. of words Penalty

Off-topic Memorised Illegible

The pie chart below represents the main reasons why agricultural land
becomes less productive. The bar chart shows how these causes affected
three regions of the world in the 1990s.
Summarise the data by selecting and reporting the main features and
make comparisons where relevant.
Write at least 150 words.

TA CC LR GRA

Under length No. of words Penalty

Off-topic Memorised Illegible

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

107

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

108

The pie chart below shows the frequency of U.S. Adults’ online
purchasing habits in 2015, while the bar chart shows a further classification
denoting online purchasing preferences.
Summarise the data by selecting and reporting the main features
and make comparisons where relevant.
Write at least 150 words.

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

109

TA CC LR GRA

Under length No. of words Penalty

Off-topic Memorised Illegible

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

110

Practice time

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

111

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

112

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

113

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

114

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

115

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

116

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

117

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

118

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

119

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

120

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

121

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

122

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

123

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

124

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

125

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

126

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

127

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

128

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1

129

STEP UP ACADEMY WRITING TASK 1