Ielts Writing Task 1

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You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

The pie chart shows the amount of money that a children's charity located
in the USA spent and received in one year, 2016.
Summarize the information by selecting and reporting the main features
and make comparisons where relevant.
Write at least 150 words.
Revenue Sources and Expenditures of a USA Charity in one year,

2016.
Task 1 Sample - Revenue sources and expenditure of a charity
Model Answer
The pie charts show the amount of revenue and expenditures in 2016 for a children’s
charity in the USA. Overall, it can be seen that donated food accounted for the majority
of the income, while program services accounted for the most expenditure. Total
revenue sources just exceeded outgoings.
In detail, donated food provided most of the revenue for the charity, at 86%. Similarly,
with regard to expenditures, one category, program services, accounted for nearly all of
the outgoings, at 95.8%.
The other categories were much smaller. Community contributions, which were the
second largest revenue source, brought in 10.4% of overall income, and this was
followed by program revenue, at 2.2%. Investment income, government grants, and
other income were very small sources of revenue, accounting for only 0.8% combined.
There were only two other expenditure items, fundraising and management and general,
accounting for 2.6% and 1.6% respectively. The total amount of income was
$53,561,580, which was just enough to cover the expenditures of $53,224,896.
Comments
The response achieves the task because the data from the pie chart is selected and
summarised appropriately.
Also, it can be seen that comparisons are made, which you are told to do in the
rubric. The comparisons are clear from language such as 'similarly', 'much smaller', and
'largest revenue source'. Those are all language of comparison and contrast.
The summary is also well-organised. The writer decides first to compare the two
largest items in each pie chart in the first paragraph, then go on to summarise the
smaller items of expenditure, each in a separate paragraph.
It is therefore easy to follow the description.
There is not one right way to organise the pie chart. You could for example discuss each
chart in turn as they are about different categories.
However, you should compare across categories if each pie chart is about the same
thing. There is a lesson about that here: IELTS Pie Chart.
1
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The table shows the Proportions of Pupils Attending Four Secondary School
Types Between Between 2000 and 2009.
Secondary School Attendance

2000 2005 2009
Specialist Schools 12% 11% 10%
Grammar Schools 24% 19% 12%
Voluntary-
controlled 52% 38% 20%
Schools
Community
12% 32% 58%
Schools
Model Answer
The table illustrates the percentage of school children attending four different types of
secondary school from 2000 to 2009. It is evident that whereas the community schools
experienced a marked increase in the proportion of those attending their
institutions over the period, the others saw a corresponding decline.
To begin, the percentage of pupils in voluntary-controlled schools fell from just over half
to only 20% or one fifth from 2000 to 2009. Similarly, the relative number of children
in grammar schools - just under one quarter - dropped by half in the same period. As for
the specialist schools, the relatively small percentage of pupils attending this type of
school (12%) also fell, although not significantly.
However, while the other three types of school declined in importance, the opposite was
true in the case of community schools. In fact, whereas only a small minority of 12%
were educated in these schools in 2000, this figure increased to well over half of all
pupils during the following nine years.
170 Words
Comments
This task 1 table answer would get a good score for several reasons.
Firstly, there is a clear overview which points out the main trends:
It is evident that whereas the community schools experienced a marked increase in the
proportion of those attending their institutions over the period, the others saw a
corresponding decline.
It also meets the requirements of the task, as data is selected appropriately to describe
some of the trends. Also, there are plenty of comparisons made between the data.
The data is organised clearly and coherently, in this case by firstly describing the schools
that had a drop in attendance and then describing the one that saw on increase.
There is evidence of the ability to use some complex sentences and structures. For
instance:
 whereas the community schools...
 the relatively small percentage of pupils attending this type of school (12%) also fell...
 while the other three types of school...
Also the writer in this task 1 table can write flexibly about numbers and change, for
example:
 just over half to only 20% or one fifth from
 this figure increased to well over half of all pupils
We also have a lesson on writing about tables and a lesson on writing about changes
over time.
2
Below is a map of 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.

Map of Brandfield with two proposed sites for a shopping mall
Model Answer
The map illustrates plans for two possible sites for a shopping mall in the city of
Brandfield. It can be seen that the two sites under consideration are in the north and the
south east of the town.
The first possible site for the shopping mall, S1, is just north of the city centre, above the
railway line, which runs from the south east of the city to the north west. If it is built
here, it will be next to a large housing estate, thus providing easy access for those living
on the estate and in the city centre. It will also be next to the river that runs through the
town.
The site in the south east, S2, is again just by the railway line and fairly close to the city
centre, but it is near to an industrial estate rather than housing.
There is a main road that runs through the city and is close to both sites, thus providing
good road access to either location. A large golf course and park in the west of the town
prevents this area from being available as a site.
(190 words)
Comments
Remember that when you have a map or process, you still need an overview. This
IELTS map has one included:
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It can be seen that the two sites under consideration are in the north and the south east
of the town.
Missing an overview can limit you on Task Achievement to a band 5 so it's important to
have one.
The map is well-organised as it first discusses the north of the city centre and then
goes on to discuss the other site. Some further relevant information regarding location is
then provided. It's always important to have a clearly organised Task 1.
With an IELTS map you need to have a good knowledge of the language of location, and
there are several examples of this:
 just north of the city centre, above the railway line

 runs from the south east of the city to the north west
 next to
 site in the south east
 close to both sites
 in the west of the town
You need to also make sure you have a good mix of some complex sentences to get a
band 6 or over for grammar, and there are several examples of words that create these:
 It can be seen that
 which runs from
 If it is built here
 that runs through the town
4

The diagram illustrates the process that is used to manufacture
bricks for the building industry.
Summarize the information by selecting and reporting the main
features and make comparisons where relevant.
The Brick Manufacturing Process
IELTS Process Model Answer

The diagram explains the way in which bricks are made for the building industry.
Overall, there are seven stages in the process, beginning with the digging up of clay and
culminating in delivery.
To begin, the clay used to make the bricks is dug up from the ground by a large digger.
This clay is then placed onto a metal grid, which is used to break up the clay into smaller
pieces. A roller assists in this process.
Following this, sand and water are added to the clay, and this mixture is turned into
bricks by either placing it into a mould or using a wire cutter. Next, these bricks are
placed in an oven to dry for 24 – 48 hours.
In the subsequent stage, the bricks go through a heating and cooling process. They are
heated in a kiln at a moderate and then a high temperature (ranging from 200c to
1300c), followed by a cooling process in a chamber for 2 – 3 days. Finally, the bricks are
packed and delivered to their destinations.
Words 173
5
Comments
This is a good answer as it covers the requirements of the task.
The topic of the IELTS process diagram is first introduced and then an overview is
given. You should give an overview for all academic task 1 responses, not just graphs.
In this case, here is the overview:
Overall, there are seven stages in the process, beginning with the digging up of clay
and culminating in delivery.
The answer is well-structured, covering each stage of the process in turn.
It uses the passive voice which is needed when you describe a process diagram in IELTS
but you are not referring to who is doing the action. Here are some examples of the
passive used:
 clay is then placed

 which is used to
 sand and water are added
 bricks are placed
 They are heated
6

The chart shows components of GDP in the UK from 1992 to 2000.
IELTS Bar Chart - Components of GDP in the UK from 1992 to 2000
Model Answer
The bar chart illustrates the gross domestic product generated from the IT and Service
Industry in the UK from 1992 to 2000. It is measured in percentages. Overall, it can be
seen that both increased as a percentage of GDP, but IT remained at a higher rate
throughout this time.
At the beginning of the period, in 1992, the Service Industry accounted for 4 per cent of
GDP, whereas IT exceeded this, at just over 6 per cent. Over the next four years, the
levels became more similar, with both components standing between 6 and just over 8
per cent. IT was still higher overall, though it dropped slightly from 1994 to 1996.
However, over the following four years, the patterns of the two components were
noticeably different. The percentage of GDP from IT increased quite sharply to 12 in
1998 and then nearly 15 in 2000, while the Service Industry stayed nearly the same,
increasing to only 8 per cent.
At the end of the period, the percentage of GDP from IT was almost twice that of the
Service Industry.
Words 182
Comments
This answer meets the requirements of the task.
The introduction explains what the graph is about, and gives an overview of the main
points.
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The body paragraphs are ordered logically and clearly. The first body paragraph
discusses the first three years, where the patterns are fairly similar. This is contrasted
in the second body paragraph, where the GDP of each country diverges noticably.
There are a wide variety of sentence structures and the language of change is correctly
used. The correct tense - the past - is used.

The bar chart shows the scores of teams A, B and C over four
different seasons.
IELTS Bar Graph - Model Answer

The bar chart shows the scores of three teams, A, B and C, in four consecutive seasons. It
is evident from the chart that team B scored far higher than the other two teams over the
seasons, though their score decreased as a whole over the period.
In 2002, the score of team B far exceeded that of the other two teams, standing at 82
points compared to only 10 for team C and a very low 5 for team A. Over the next two
years, the points for team B decreased quite considerably, dropping by around half to 43
by 2004, but they still remained above the points for the other teams.
However, though team A and C's points were lower, they were rising. Team A’s points
had increased by 600% from 2002 to reach 35 points by 2004, nearly equal to team B.
Team C, meanwhile, had managed only a small increase over this time.
In the final year, team B remained ahead of the others as their points increased again to
55, while team A and C saw their point scores reverse and drop to 8 and 5 respectively.
(Words 164)
Comments
The largest or biggest data is not always the most important but in this case you should
see that what stands out above everything else is the size of Team B. It's much higher
than the others throughout the period.
So in this case this is likely to be a good piece of information to select for
the overview (the main trend of the IELTS bar graph):
It is evident from the chart that team B scored far higher than the other two teams
over the seasons, though their score decreased as a whole over the period.
It is then important in your description to pick out the main features and make
comparisons as you are told to do in the prompt.
8
What you should not miss as they are likely to be seen to be key features by the examiner
are:
 The relative size of B over the other teams

 It's steep drop over the first three years
 The sudden rise in Team A in 2004 and its steep drop again
The importance of Team B in this IELTS bar graph is highlighted in the first body
paragraph, with detail on how it remained high and above the other two teams.
It is then pointed out how Team A and C's points increased, especially A, then fell again,
while Team B rose again at the end after falling.
So the IELTS bar graph picks out the key features of the graph and
makes comparisons, which are important for a good score.
Learn more about how to respond to a graph over time.
As with all graphs and charts, you will also need to make sure you are comparing and
contrasting the data.
9
The pie charts show the electricity generated in Germany and France from
all sources and renewables in the year 2009.

Sample Pie Chart - Model Answer
The four pie charts compare the electricity generated between Germany and France
during 2009, and it is measured in billions kWh. Overall, it can be seen that
conventional thermal was the main source of electricity in Germany, whereas nuclear
was the main source in France.
The bulk of electricity in Germany, whose total output was 560 billion kWh, came from
conventional thermal, at 59.6%. In France, the total output was lower, at 510 billion
kWh, and in contrast to Germany, conventional thermal accounted for just 10.3%, with
most electricity coming from nuclear power (76%). In Germany, the proportion of
nuclear power generated electricity was only one fifth of the total.
Moving on to renewables, this accounted for quite similar proportions for both
countries, ranging from around 14% to 17% of the total electricity generated. In detail, in
Germany, most of the renewables consisted of wind and biomass, totaling around 75%,
which was far higher than for hydroelectric (17.7%) and solar (6.1%). The situation was
very different in France, where hydroelectric made up 80.5% of renewable electricity,
with biomass, wind and solar making up the remaining 20%. Neither country used
geothermal energy.
191 Words
Comments
In order to make the answer clear, the writer has organised the chart by categories and
types of energy.
So the first body paragraph compares 'All Types' for both countries, and examines each
energy in turn, before moving on to 'Renewables' and doing the same thing.
This makes it easy to read and follow, meaning that it will get a good score for it's
cohesion and coherence, but also for Task Response as this method means there is
plenty of comparison between the countries and energy types.
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Still unsure about this type of chart? There is a great lesson here on how to write IELTS
Pie Charts.

The chart shows British Emigration to selected destinations
between 2004 and 2007.
IELTS Bar Chart Model Answer

The bar chart shows the number of British people who emigrated to five destinations
over the period 2004 to 2007. It is evident from the chart that throughout the period,
the most popular place to move to was Australia.
Emigration to Australia stood at just over 40,000 people in 2004, which was
approximately 6,000 higher than for Spain, and twice as high as the other three
countries. Apart from a jump to around 52,000 in 2006, it remained around this level
throughout the period.
The next most popular country for Britons to move to was Spain, though its popularity
declined over the time frame to finish at below 30,000 in 2007. Despite this, the figure
was still higher than for the remaining three countries. Approximately 20,000 people
emigrated to New Zealand each year, while the USA fluctuated between 20-25,000
people over the period.
Although the number of visitors to France spiked to nearly 35,000 in 2005, it was the
country that was the least popular to emigrate to at the end of the period, at just under
20,000 people.
(Words 179)
Comments
The bar graph starts by introducing what it shows. Importantly, it paraphrases the
prompt rather than copying it.
There is then a good overview which selects the main trend in the graph.
It is clearly organised, describing the most interesting data first, which is the high
emigration levels to Australia. The second body paragraph then focuses on three other
countries, which were lower than Australia but did not fluctuate much over the years.
Lastly France is described, with the fact that it spiked in one year highlighted.
11
The content is good as key trends are identified and highlighted, comparisons are

made, and data is selected to support the description when needed.
There is also a good mix and range of vocabulary and grammatical structures.
The bar graph also meets the requirements of being at least 150 words.
The line graph shows visits to and from the UK from 1979 to 1999, and the
bar graph shows the most popular countries visited by UK residents in
1999.

Line and Bar Chart Model Answer

The line graph illustrates the number of visitors in millions from the UK who went
abroad and those that came to the UK between 1979 and 1999, while the bar chart shows
which countries were the most popular for UK residents to visit in 1999. Overall, it can
be seen that visits to and from the UK increased, and that France was the most popular
country to go to.
To begin, the number of visits abroad by UK residents was higher than for those that
came to the UK, and this remained so throughout the period. The figures started at a
similar amount, around 10 million, but visits abroad increased significantly to over 50
million, whereas the number of overseas residents rose steadily to reach just under 30
million.
By far the most popular countries to visit in 1999 were France at approximately 11
million visitors, followed by Spain at 9 million. The USA, Greece, and Turkey were far
less popular at around 4, 3 and 2 million visitors respectively.
(Words 171)
Comments
This line and bar chart would get a good score as it meets the requirements of the task.
Note that the introduction mentions both the line and bar chart:
The line graph illustrates the number of visitors in millions from the UK who went
abroad and those that came to the UK between 1979 and 1999, while the bar chart
shows which countries were the most popular for UK residents to visit in 1999.
12
The overview also mentions both:”Overall, it can be seen that visits to and from the UK
increased, and that France was the most popular country to go to’’.
The first body paragraph then goes on to explain the data from the line graph, and the
second body paragraph presents the data from the bar chart.
View this lesson for further tips and advice on how to describe two graphs together,
using the example from this page.

The line graph shows thefts per thousand vehicles in four countries
between 1990 and 1999.
The line graph compares the number of cars stolen for every 1000 vehicles in four
countries from 1990 to 1999. Overall, it can be seen that car thefts were far higher in
Great Britain than in the other three counties throughout the whole time frame.
To begin, car thefts in Sweden, France and Canada followed a fairly similar pattern over
the first five years, all remaining at between 5 and 10 per thousand. The general trend
though for France and Canada was a decline in the number of vehicles stolen over the
period, with both at around 6 in 1999. In contrast, Sweden experienced an upward
trend, starting the period at approximately 8, and finishing at just under 15.
Interestingly, car thefts in Great Britain started at 18 per thousand, which far exceeded
that of the other countries. It then fluctuated over the next nine years, reaching a peak of
20 thefts per 1000 in 1996, and ending the period slightly lower than where it began, at
approximately 17 per thousand.
(Words 174)
Comments
This graph would score highly in the IELTS test.
The graph starts with an overview that highlights the key information presented in the
graph.
It has also been organised very clearly around the main trends.
13
The first body paragraph describes Sweden, France and Canada together as they follow a
very similar pattern, whereas Great Britain is discussed separately in the second body
paragraph as this follows a very different pattern.
This makes the description easy to follow and read and shows the writer has been
able to make comparisons of the data.
There is also a good range of vocabulary and accurate grammar.

The pie chart shows the percentage of persons arrested in the five years
ending 1994 and the bar chart shows the most recent reasons for arrest.
IELTS Pie and Bar Chart - Model Answer

The pie chart illustrates the percentage of males and females who were arrested from
1989 to 1994, while the bar chart compares the main reasons that the different genders
were arrested most recently. It is evident from the charts that males were arrested more
than females and that public drinking was the most common reason for arrest for both.
To begin, the proportion of males arrested was much greater than for females. 32%
were arrested compared to only 9% for women. Turning to the reasons for the most
recent arrests, there were some clear differences between men and women. Men were
twice as likely to be arrested for drink driving than women, at 26% and 14% respectively.
Breach of order, theft, and other reasons were also slightly higher for men, with all these
14
offences standing in the range of 12-18% for both sexes. Interestingly though, women
experienced a higher percentage of arrest rates for assault and public drinking. The
figures for assault were fairly similar at approximately 18%, whereas public drinking
represented the main reason for arrest, with women at a massive 38%, compared to 31%
for men. In a small percentage of cases, no answer was given.
(198 Words)
Comments
One of the big problems IELTS candidates can have is knowing how to write about two
charts, such as a pie and bar chart, together.
The best thing though is to simply describe one and then the other rather than trying to
link them together.
This response is easy to follow as it firstly describes what is happening in the pie chart
and then goes on to discuss the bar chart.
In the overview you should mention both the pie and bar chart.
15
The following bar chart shows the different modes of transport used to
travel to and from work in one European city in 1960, 1980 and 2000.

ELTS Bar Chart - Model Answer

The bar chart shows the changing patterns of transport use in a European city during
the period from 1960 to 2000. In brief, the chart shows that the use of the car as a
means of transport dramatically increased over the period shown, while the others fell.
In detail, in 1960 the motor car was used least as a method of transport with only about
7% of the population using this method but car use grew steadily and strongly to finally
reach about 37% of the population by 2000. This was a massive 5-fold increase in use.
Over this same period, however, the popularity of walking, which had been the most
popular means of transport with 35% of the population in 1960 having it as their
preferred way of getting around, fell to 10%. Bicycle use also fell from a high of about
27% in 1960 to just 7% in 2000.
On the other hand, bus use was more erratic being popular with almost 20% of the
population in 1960 and rising to a peak of about 27% in 1980 before falling back to
about 18% in 2000.
Comments
This IELTS bar chart would get a good score as it meets the requirements of the task.
You have to think carefully how you will organise your it as there are usually a few
options.
16
For example, in this case organising by years or by modes of transport are two

possible options. In the IELTS bar chart response, it has been organised by mode of
transport, with each discussed in turn.
Good organisation is essential for a high score as without it the examiner may get
confused as they read it, thus affecting your score for coherence and cohesion.
You must also make sure you refer to the data now and again to support your analysis,
and make sure you vary the language used.
There are several examples in the IELTS bar chart of the language of change used
well:
 car as a means of transport dramatically increased over the period shown, while
the others fell.
 motor car was used least
 car use grew steadily and strongly
 massive 5-fold increase in use.
 popularity of walking fell to 10%
 bus use was more erratic
 rising to a peak of about 27%
You must also make sure you have complex sentences and structures in your
description.
Learn more about using the language of change and the language of comparison and
contrast.
17

The table illustrates the proportion of monthly household income
five European countries spend on food and drink, housing,
clothing and entertainme
Proportion of household income five European countries

spend on food and drink, housing, clothing and
entertainment
Food and Housing Clothing Entertainment

drink
France 25% 31% 7% 13%
Germany 22% 33% 15% 19%
UK 27% 37% 11% 11%
Turkey 36% 20% 12% 10%
Spain 31% 18% 8% 15%

ELTS Tables - Model Answer
The table shows the amount of household income that five countries in Europe spend
per month on four items. Overall, it is evident that all five countries spend the majority
of their income on food and drink and housing, but much less on clothing and
entertainment.
Housing is the largest expenditure item for France, Germany and the UK, with all of
them spending around one third of their income on this, at 30%, 33% and 37%,
respectively. In contrast, they spend around a quarter on food and drink. However, this
pattern is reversed for Turkey and Spain, who spend around a fifth of their income on
housing, but approximately one third on food and drink.
All five countries spend much less on the remaining two items. For clothing, France and
Spain spend the least, at less than 10%, while the other three countries spend around the
same amount, ranging between 11% and 15%. At 19%, Germany spends the most on
entertainment, whereas UK and Turkey spend approximately half this amount, with
France and Spain's spending between those other three nations.
(180 Words)
Comments
With IELTS tables, as with any academic task 1, you need to make sure you
select and present the information in a clear, coherent, and logical way.
There is usually more than one choice of ways to do this so not every answer
will be the same, but in this case it can be seen that more is spent on the first
two items in the IELTS table.
18
So one coherent way to organise the data is to have one body paragraph about
the first two columns and a second about the third and fourth column.
This is what has been done in this IELTS table, and it is therefore easy for the
examiner to follow.
It shows that the candidate knows how to draw out the key trends from the
data and make comparisons in order to present it in a logical way.

The illustrations show how chocolate is produced.
IELTS Task 1 Process - Model Answer
The diagram explains the process for the making of chocolate. There are a total of ten
stages in the process, beginning with the growing of the pods on the cacao trees and
culminating in the production of the chocolate.
To begin, the cocoa comes from the cacao tree, which is grown in the South American
and African continents and the country of Indonesia. Once the pods are ripe and red,
they are harvested and the white cocoa beans are removed. Following a period of
fermentation, they are then laid out on a large tray so they can dry under the sun.
Next, they are placed into large sacks and delivered to the factory. They are then roasted
at a temperature of 350 degrees, after which the beans are crushed and separated from
their outer shell. In the final stage, this inner part that is left is pressed and the
chocolate is produced.
(152 Words)
Comments
The process starts with a good introduction that introduces the diagram and then gives
an overview.
The task 1 process is clearly organised as it goes through each stage in turn.
It uses the passive voice as well, which you should use for a process diagram, as you are
not saying who is doing the action.
Here is a lesson on decribing a process if you need more help.
19

The bar chart shows the monthly spending in dollars of a family in the USA
on three items in 2010.
Model Answer
The bar chart depicts the monthly expenditure on food, gas and clothing of a family
living in the USA in 2010. Overall, it can be seen that levels of expenditure fluctuated
over the period.
To begin, in January the most money was spent on food, at approximately $500 per
month. Although expenditure on food increased slightly the following month, it then
fell to account for the lowest expenditure of all the items at the end of the period at just
over $300.
Gas appeared to follow the opposite pattern to food spending. It started lower at about
$350 per month, falling in the following month, and then increasing significantly to
finish at just under $600 in April.
Clothing, which at just over $200 accounted for the lowest expenditure at the beginning
of the period, fluctuated dramatically over the time frame. After reaching around the
same levels as food in February (nearly $600), it dropped markedly in March, then
jumped to just under $700 in the final month.
With the exception of an increase in March, average spending decreased slightly over
the four months.
(183 words)
Comments
This example of a bar chart satisfies the requirements of the task.
The first paragraph introduces the graph (without copying from the rubric) and then
identifies the main trends.
It is clearly organized, with each item clearly explained in each paragraph.
Importantly however, even though each item is described in turn, the description
does not just describe each item in isolation. You will notice that comparisons are
made between the items throughout the description.
For example:
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...it then fell to account for the lowest expenditure of all the items at the end of the
period...
Gas appeared to follow the opposite pattern to food spending.
Clothing, which at just over $200 accounted for the lowest expenditure at the
beginning of the period,...
There is also evidence that the candidate knows how to write complex sentences:
Although expenditure on food increased...
Clothing, which at just over...
After reaching...
There is also a good mix of comparison / compare sentence structures and language of
change. The correct tense is used (past simple) as the graph is referring to completed
actions in the past.
The diagram shows how tea leaves are processed into five tea types.

IELTS process writing sample answer
The diagram presents the manufacture of five different types of tea. It is immediately
apparent that although all the teas are produced from the same leaf, the differences in
the manufacturing process result in five different types of tea.
The first three stages of manufacture are the same for all of the five teas. The leaves are
grown, they are then plucked, and following this withering of the leaves occures. The
final stage is also the same, which sees all the leaves dried in an oven. However, in the
stages in between this, differing methods of production are employed.
To begin, white tea is unique as it involves no other processing. In contrast, green,

oolong and large leaf black tea are all rolled as part of the process. However, while green
tea is steamed before being rolled but is not fermented, the other two teas are first rolled
and then both fermented (oolong only slightly but large leaf black completely). Finally,
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small leaf black tea is neither steamed nor rolled, but is crushed before being fully
fermented.
Comments
This IELTS process writing sample is a well-organized response that covers all the
important features of the diagram.
It is easy to follow as it discusses each tea in turn, but not only this, it also groups similar
processes together and identifies the differences.
For example:
Similarities:
The first three stages of manufacture are the same for all of the five teas.
…green, oolong and large leaf black tea are all rolled as part of the process.
Differences:
…white tea is unique as it involves no other processing.
However, while green tea is steamed before being rolled but is not fermented, the
other two teas are first rolled and then both fermented.
The candidate decides to mention the first three stages and the last one together in one
paragraph as they are exactly the same for every tea, and the differing stages in the
middle following this.
This may seem odd to mention the stages in this order, and it is likely that when you
describe a process you will discuss each stage in turn, but for this particular process it
works well as the candidate can then focus on the differences.
The appropriate voice is also used in the description, which is the passive.
When we write about a process, we are interested in the actions, NOT who is doing
them. In this case we use the passive voice. Here are some examples of the passive voice
from this IELTS writing sample process:
...the teas are produced from the same leaf

The leaves are grown, they are then plucked
...differing methods of production are employed
It may not always be possible, but if you can you should also try to use synonyms for
some of the words from the diagram rather than copying them all.
For example, ‘completely’ fermented is used instead of ‘fully’.
22
IELTS Pie and Bar Chart

The pie chart shows the percentage of women in poverty and the bar chart
shows poverty rates by sex and age. They are from the United States in
2008.
Model Answer
The pie chart ilustrates the proportion of women in poverty by household composition
in the United States in 2008 and the bar graph indicates the differences in rates of
poverty by sex and age. At first glance it can be seen that single women with no
dependent children made up the largest group in poverty and that poverty was highest
for women and children.
The pie chart shows that single women suffered from poverty the most. Single women
without children represented 54% of the total in poverty, and poverty for those with
23
dependent children stood at just over a quarter. Married women with and without
children accounted for the remaining fifth, or 20%.
Turning to the bar chart, poverty rates were highest amongst children, and the rates
were roughly equal for males and females, at around 21% for under 5s and 15% for 5-17
year olds. However, from ages 18-24, the gap between men and women widened
significantly, with approximately 14% of men in poverty compared to over 20% for
women. Poverty declined throughout the adult years for both sexes, but a gap remained
and this gap almost doubled in old age.
192 Words
IELTS Line Graph and Pie Chart Question

The line graph shows 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.
Model Answer
The line graph depicts the number of books that were loaned out from four libraries over
a four month period and the pie chart illustrates the proportions of books borrowed in
24
terms of genre. It is immediately apparent that the borrowing patterns for each library
were quite varied, and that fiction was by far the most popular type of book.
The borrowing of books at Sutton Wood and Ryeslip began fairly high, at 250 and 300
per month in June respectively. However, while book borrowing at Ryeslip fell steadily
to around 175 at the end of the period, borrowing at Sutton Wood followed a much more
erratic pattern. It plummeted to 100 in August, before then rising steeply to finish at
300, which represented the highest level of borrowing of the four.
Borrowing at West Eaton and Church Mount, meanwhile, followed very similar
patterns, with both starting quite low at 50 per month, but then gradually increasing to
finish at 150.
Moving on to the types of books borrowed, fiction was in demand the most, at 43%. The
next most popular books were biographies, accounting for around a fifth of the total.
The borrowing of science and history were identical, at 14% each, leaving self-help as the
least popular at 10%.
(211 Words)
Comments
Task Achievement
The graph covers all the requirements of the task, which are to describe both of the
diagrams, highlight the main features and make comparisons.
There is not any irrelevant information and the data is referred to in order to support
the description.
Coherence and Cohesion
The ideas are arranged in a logical way so the graph description is easy to read and
follow. Paragraphing is used well as there is an introduction and then separate
pargraphs with the various patterns.
Lexical Resource
There is a sufficient range of vocabulary used with precision and flexiblity.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy
There are wide range of sentence structures used, demonstrating that the writer can use
a mix of simple and complex sentence forms.
25
IELTS Sample Line Graph

The graph below shows four countries of residence of overseas students in
Australia.
Summarize the information by selecting and reporting the main features,
IELTS Sample Line Graph Model Answer

The line graph illustrates the changing trends in the numbers of students, in 1000s, who
visited Australia for education from four different countries between 1982 and 2000.
Overall it is evident that visitor numbers from all four countries increased over the time
period.
At the start of the period, while Malaysia had around 5,000 students per year visiting
Australia, the other countries had none. However, though remaining at the highest
number up until 1990 and increasing after this, visitors number from Malaysia finished
at the lowest levels of all the countries, at around 18,000.
The lack of student visitors continued for Hong Kong and Singapore up until 1987. At
that point arrivals from Singapore gradually increased over the years, culminating in
nearly 20,000 visitors per year in 2000, while arrivals from Hong Kong showed a more
erratic pattern, fluctuating after 1996 and finishing at 19,000 per year.
However, the biggest change was seen in numbers coming from Indonesia. Though this
started low, arrivals kept increasing over the years. Numbers peaked in 1998 at
approximately 28,000, before dropping to final arrival numbers of 23,000, which
exceeded all the other countries.
(189 Words)
Comments
This IELTS sample line graph is a good and well-organised answer.
26
The writer has first identified the similarities and differences at the beginning, noting
how one country began with more student visitors than the other three, all of which
were the same (no visitors).
This is good because you must compare and contrast the differing trends.
To keep it easy to read, it firstly just focuses on Malaysia, before moving on in the next
paragraph to discuss Singapore and Hong Kong.
They are grouped together in one paragraph discussion as they follow the same pattern
at the beginning, though they later diverge, which is noted.
Indonesia is then discussed on it's own, as this started so low but overtook all the
others.
Important:
There is not one way to discuss a graph. This IELTS sample line graph answer is just
one way you could approach it but there are a variety of other ways you could have done
it.
What is very important though is that you do it in a logical way, drawing out the key
trends and changes, and ensuring it is easy to read and follow.
27
IELTS Task 1 Map

The map below shows the development of the village of Ryemouth between
1995 and present.
Sample Answer
The map shows how a village called Ryemouth has developed over the last twenty-five
years. There have been several changes, the most noticeable being the increases in
accommodation, the elimination of the fishing industry, and the introduction of sports
facilities.
In 1995, to the south of the village where the sea is there was previously a fishing
industry, with a fishing port and quite a large fish market as well. Next to this was a
small cafe. On the other side of the road running by the sea stood a line of five shops and
a hotel, while situated in the north east part of the village was farmland and a park with
trees. The main housing of the village was located in the north west around a main road
that runs from the coastal road, with twelve houses, four of them encircled by a smaller
side-street.
Turning to the present day map, it can be seen that the fishing facilities have all gone,
being replaced by four apartments, and the shops have become restaurants. The cafe
remains, as does the hotel, albeit with parking facilities which it did not have before.
Having been converted into a golf course, the farmland has now gone, while the forest
28
park has been removed to make way for tennis courts. Although the old houses remain,
new ones have been built, along with a new road with two new houses beside it.
Comments
This IELTS task 1 map would receive a high score.
The map has a clear overall progression and organisation as it is introduced, the
main features are identified, then it clearly compares the first map with the second.
There is a mix of vocabulary, with the right language of location used to say where
things were positioned and the language of comparison and contrast used to good
effect to show how things differed or remained the same.
There is a good range of accurate complex sentences and structures to ensure a
higher score for grammatical range and accuracy.
Some examples of these are:
 ...the village where the sea is
 On the other side of the road running by the sea stood a...
 ...hotel, while situated in
 ...it can be seen that
 ...gone, being replaced by
 ...albeit with parking facilities which it did not have before
 Having been converted
 Although the old houses
29
Writing Task 1 Pie Chart

The chart below shows the proportion of staff employed by age in the public
sector in the UK in 2015 and 2020.
Writing Task 1 Pie Chart - Model Answer

The pie charts illustrate the ages of people employed in the UK public sector during two
years, 2015 and 2020. Overall, while the percentage of those employed in their 20s and
40s increased, employment for other ages groups, particularly the over 50s, fell.
30
Turning first to the younger age groups, although the employment of workers under 21
actually fell from 14% in 2015 to 12% in 2020, the overall percentage of workers under
30 actually rose because of the surge in employment of 21-30 year olds, which
increased significantly from 23% to 33%. Similarly, the proportion of employees over
the age of 40 climbed from 19% in 2015 to 28% by 2020.
However, other groups saw quite significant falls in employment. For 31-40 year olds,
the employment figure plummeted from 21% in 2015 to just 11% by 2020, which
represented a substantial drop of more than 50% in relative terms. Likewise,
the employment of over 50s declined, though not by quite so much, standing at 23% in
2015 and 16% in 2020.
172 Words
Comments
The description fulfils the task as it summarises the information from the graph, selects
the key information, and makes comparisons of the data.
Rather than just listing each point it shows how each has changed over the two years,
highlighting particular differences.
There is also a clear overview presenting the main trends over the years:
Overall, while the percentage of those employed in their 20s and 40s increased,
employment for other ages groups, particularly the over 50s, fell.
The writing task 1 pie chart is well organised into clear paragraphs, with the first body
paragraph discussing the general categories that have risen, and the second showing
which have fallen.
There is a good mix of vocabulary, such as using 'rose', 'increased' and 'climbed' or 'fell',
'plummet' and 'drop' rather than just repeating one particular word. There is also a good
mix of compare and comparison language more generally.
There is also a good mix of sentence types, with several examples of complex sentences,
such as:
 ...while the percentage of those employed in their 20s and 40s increased
 ...although the employment of workers under 21 actually fell
 ...which represented a substantial fall of more than 50% in relative terms
31
Writing Task 1 Table Sample

The Table below shows the results of a survey that asked 6800 Scottish
adults (aged 16 years and over) whether they had taken part in different
cultural activities in the past 12 months.
Model Answer
The table illustrates the results of research undertaken in Scotland with adults aged
from 16-74 to assess their involvement in a variety of cultural activities over a 12-month
period. Overall, it is evident that participation in any performance and crafts were the
most popular for all age groups.
The highest participation in any activities was seen in the 16-24 age group, with 35% and
30% respectively doing performance and visual arts. In contrast, other activities were
much lower, particularly those computer-based, at only 10%.
Turning to the older age groups, like the under 25s, the highest participation rate seen
for 25-44 years olds was in performance, though this was much lower, at only 22%. A
similar rate of 22% was evident for the most popular activity for the 45-74 age group,
which was crafts. Again, the popularity of computers was very low for all those who were
25 plus, as was interest in writing.
Taking all age groups together, it can be seen that performance and crafts were the most
popular, at over 19%, whereas cultural purchases and visual arts were slightly less
popular at 16% and 15% respectively. Finally, little interest was shown in writing and
computing.
(196 Words)
32
Comments
The writing task 1 table sample has all the elements to get a high score for IELTS.
There is a clear introduction to the graph (paraphrasing, not copying, the rubric) and
then an overview that selects key changes / trends in the table.
It is well-organised and thus clear to follow and read, with the paragraphs arranged
around age groups (There is usually various ways to organise your answer but you
must make sure when you make your choice it is logical and will not leave the
examiner getting lost or confused as they attempt to read it).
At various points in the IELTS table, comparisons are made between the various age
groups, something which you are specifically asked to do in the rubric.
The description refers to data / figures from the graph to highlight the key trends,
something else you must also do.
There is also a good mix of vocabulary and a range of sentences types and

structures in the writing task 1 table sample used in order to show flexibility and skill
with lexis and grammar.
33
IELTS Map Writing

The two maps below show an island, before and after the construction of
some tourist facilities.

Model IELTS Map Writing Answer

The maps illustrate the changes that have occurred on an island due to the building of
facilities for tourists.
The island originally consisted of just palm trees and the beach, yet now, although the
palm trees remain, it hosts a wealth of attractions for holiday makers, from restaurants
and swimming to accommodation.
The island is approximately 200 metres long, with a small beach on the western tip. It
was deserted before, with only a scattering of palm trees. Now though, there is an
34
abundance of places to stay in the form of fifteen beach huts situated in circular patterns
in the centre of the island and to the west.
Between these two sets of accommodation there is also a new large restaurant and a
reception building, both served by new vehicle tracks. Situated in the south is a t-shaped
pier for ships to dock, and sailing boats are now evident in this area of the sea.
Footpaths have also been constructed, which traverse the island, leading to the new
buildings and also the beach, where tourists can now swim.
(177 Words)
Comments
This IELTS map writing answer would score highly in IELTS.
It meets the requirements of the task as both maps are explained and all the features
and changes are highlighted.
The introduction clearly sets out what the map is about (paraphrasing and not copying
from the prompt) and then there is an overview of some of the key changes.
It is well-organised into clear paragraphs, with the first detail paragraph setting out how
the island used to look, and how it now has a lot of accommodation. The final paragraph
then describes all the rest of the changes.
There is a good mix of vocabulary with some good language use and collocations, for
example:
 originally consisted of
 hosts a wealth of attractions
 the western tip
 abundance of
 circular patterns
 served by
 traverse the island
There is also good evidence of complex structures, seen for example in complex
sentences ('although', 'though', 'which', and 'where'), passive voice (Footpaths have also
been constructed) and nominalisation (Situated in the south is a...).
35
Writing Task 1 Bar Chart Sample

The chart below shows changes in average house prices in five different
cities between 1990 and 2002 compared with the average house prices in
1989.
Model Answer:
The bar chart compares the average prices of houses in five cities in 1990-1995 and
1996- 2002 with average prices in 1989. Overall it can be seen that while the first period
saw quite a significant drop in average prices compared to 1989 in several cities, the
following time frame tended to experience a reversal of this trend in most of the
locations.
From 1990-1995, three of the cities, namely New York, Tokyo, and London, saw average
prices that were around 5% to 7.5% lower than in 1989. On the contrary, the cost of
houses in the cities of Madrid and Frankfurt were slightly higher, by approximately 2%
and 2.5% respectively.
Turning to 1996-2002, prices looked very different. Madrid and Frankfurt continued to
see higher prices comparative to 1989, but while in Madrid they were now 4% higher, in
Frankfurt they were only 2% above 1989 levels. In Tokyo, the only city to remain in
negative territory, prices were still below 1989 levels, standing at -5%.
36
The most noticeable changes, however, were evident in both New York and London,
with the former seeing average prices at 5% above those of 1989, the exact opposite of
the previous period. London, though, had had a significant turnaround, with prices now
12% higher.
210 words
Comments
This writing task 1 bar chart sample answer would score highly because it is organised
well, correctly reports the data and changes, and highlights some of the main changes.
It also uses a good mix of vocabulary and range of grammatical structures.
The graph below shows average carbon dioxide (Co2) emissions per person
in the United Kingdom, Sweden, Italy, and Portugal between 1967 and 2007.
Summarize the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make
comparisons where relevant.
IELTS Line Graph Sample Answer

The chart presents the average CO2 emissions per person in four European nations from
1967 to 2007.
Overall, average CO2 emissions of individuals in the UK and Sweden generally dropped,
whereas emissions per person in Italy and Portugal rose significantly. Despite the steady
reduction, average emissions in the UK were the highest in the given period.
Among the selected countries, the CO2 emissions per person in the UK were the highest
throughout the four decades, yet said emissions were on the decline. In 1967, the
average emissions per person were nearly 11 metric tonnes. But by 2007, that had fallen
to roughly 9 metric tonnes. Somewhat similarly, the average CO2 emissions in Sweden
were almost 9 metric tonnes per person in 1967. The emissions spiked, however, to
nearly 11 metric tonnes in 1977 though from there, emissions continuously fell, dropping
to just 5.5 metric tonnes in 2007.
Conversely, both Italy’s and Portugal’s carbon dioxide emissions per person increased
between 1967 and 2007. Italy’s CO2 emissions nearly doubled, starting at just above 4
metric tonnes in 1967 and ending at almost 8 metric tonnes four decades later.
Portugal’s CO2 emissions, however, nearly quadrupled. The per capita average in 1967
was just 1.5 metric tonnes. But in 2007, the emissions had reached 5.5 metric tonnes,
matching Sweden's average.
(218 Words)
37
Comments
This IELTS line graph sample answer is good and well-organised.
You hopefully noticed that while emissions from two countries went up during the
period, they went down for the other two. So the writer has used this as the basis for the
graph's organisation.
This shows the examiner you are able to pick out trends and make clear and logical
comparisons.
The writer has also picked out the important things to discuss and there is good use of
vocabulary and grammar.
IELTS Bar Chart Example

The bar chart shows the participation of children
is selected leisure activities in Australia.
Model Answer
The graph indicates the level of participation in various leisure activities between
Australian boys and girls aged 5 to 14 years old. It shows what percentage of each group
have enjoyed these activities, and shows which activities are more popular by gender.
In general, the boys in this age group engage in a higher number of included leisure
activities than the girls, with higher participation levels in all activities except art and
craft.
As we can see, watching TV and videos is the most popular activity for children in this
age group with 100% of the boys and girls surveyed having been involved. The least
popular activity overall is skateboarding/roller-blading, as it saw the lowest overall
participation rate amongst the boys and girls, at around 38% and 28% respectively.
The boys show a preference for electronic games, which were enjoyed by 80% of them,
and outdoor activities, such as bike riding, which 70% of all boys surveyed had
participated in. They were less interested in arts and crafts. The girls on the other hand
took part in bike riding, electronic games, and art and craft at similar rates, with all at
around 60% participation.
(196 words)
38
Comments
This IELTS bar chart example would score high for IELTS as it cover all the
requirements of the task.
The graph is introduced and there is an overview selecting some of the important
trends.
39

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You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

Revenue Sources and Expenditures of a USA Charity in one year,

Task 1 Sample - Revenue sources and expenditure of a charity

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

Secondary School Attendance

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

Summarize the information by selecting and reporting the main features

Write at least 150 words.

Map of Brandfield with two proposed sites for a shopping mall

 just north of the city centre, above the railway line

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

The Brick Manufacturing Process

IELTS Process Model Answer

In this case, here is the overview:

The answer is well-structured, covering each stage of the process in turn.

 clay is then placed

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

IELTS Bar Chart - Components of GDP in the UK from 1992 to 2000

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

IELTS Bar Graph - Model Answer

 The relative size of B over the other teams

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

Summarize the information by selecting and reporting the main features

Write at least 150 words.

Sample Pie Chart - Model Answer

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

IELTS Bar Chart Model Answer

There is then a good overview which selects the main trend in the graph.

The content is good as key trends are identified and highlighted, comparisons are

There is also a good mix and range of vocabulary and grammatical structures.

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

Summarize the information by selecting and reporting the main features

Write at least 150 words.

Line and Bar Chart Model Answer

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

IELTS Pie and Bar Chart - Model Answer

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

Summarize the information by selecting and reporting the main features

Write at least 150 words.

ELTS Bar Chart - Model Answer

For example, in this case organising by years or by modes of transport are two

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

Proportion of household income five European countries

Food and Housing Clothing Entertainment

Germany 22% 33% 15% 19%

UK 27% 37% 11% 11%

Turkey 36% 20% 12% 10%

Spain 31% 18% 8% 15%

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

IELTS Task 1 Process - Model Answer

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

Summarize the information by selecting and reporting the main features

Write at least 150 words.

IELTS process writing sample answer

To begin, white tea is unique as it involves no other processing. In contrast, green,

The appropriate voice is also used in the description, which is the passive.