Understanding Task 1
IELTS Writing Task 1 requires you to summarize visual information in at least 150 words. You’ll encounter:
✔ Graphs (line, bar, pie charts)
✔ Tables (data comparisons)
✔ Maps (changes over time)
✔ Processes (how something is made or works)
6-Step Strategy for Success
1. Analyze the Marking Criteria
Examiners evaluate:
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Task Achievement (Did you cover key features?)
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Coherence & Cohesion (Is it well-organized?)
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Lexical Resource (Vocabulary range)
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Grammatical Accuracy (Error-free sentences)
2. Paraphrase the Question
Rewrite the prompt using synonyms:
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Original: “The chart shows energy usage…”
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Paraphrased: “The diagram illustrates energy consumption…”
3. Write a Clear Overview
Identify 2-4 main trends:
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Highest/lowest values
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Most significant changes
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General patterns (no specific numbers here)
4. Describe Key Features
Support your overview with:
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Specific data points
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Comparisons between categories
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Notable exceptions or anomalies
5. Organize Logically
Use paragraphs:
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Introduction (paraphrased question)
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Overview (main trends)
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Details (first key feature)
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Details (second key feature)
6. Review Carefully
Check for:
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Accurate data representation
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Grammar and spelling errors
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Word count (150+ words)
Essential Skills to Master
Vocabulary for Trends
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Upward: increase, rise, climb, surge
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Downward: decrease, fall, decline, drop
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Stable: remain steady, stabilize, plateau
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Fluctuating: fluctuate, vary, oscillate
Grammar Focus
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Comparatives: “higher than”, “more significant than”
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Superlatives: “the highest”, “the most dramatic”
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Passive voice: “is produced”, “are manufactured” (for processes)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Including opinions or predictions
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Missing the overview paragraph
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Copying the question word-for-word
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Providing too much detail
Time Management Tips
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2 minutes: Analyze the visual
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3 minutes: Plan your response
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12 minutes: Write
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3 minutes: Check and edit
Practice Recommendations
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Study high-scoring sample responses
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Practice with past paper questions
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Get feedback from teachers or tutors
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Track your progress over time
Final Advice
Remember that Task 1 is about reporting facts, not giving opinions. Focus on clear, accurate descriptions of the visual information. With regular practice and attention to the marking criteria, you can significantly improve your score.
