Writing task one in the IELTS test is different based on whether you are taking the academic or the general training test. Here, we are discussing all the tips and tricks to the academic writing task one in the IELTS test. 

First of all, you are asked to write a report describing a diagram within 150 words. However, we recommend you write at least 170 words and a maximum of 200 words. There are seven different diagram types: line graphs, bar charts, pie charts, tables, multiple charts, maps, and processes, the last two types rarely come in the test nowadays, though. But, you have to play it safe and study them anyway.

You need to write 4 paragraphs: an introduction paragraph, an overall, and two body paragraphs. 

• The Introduction Paragraph

The introduction paragraph is just a paraphrase from the prompt. (Some teachers recommend you combine the first (introduction paragraph) and the second (the overall paragraph) paragraph together. However, I don’t see the value of such a technique.

• The Overall Paragraph

The overall is a brief on the main trends of the diagram(s) and the most obvious correlations without digging deep into numbers.

• Body Paragraphs One and Two

To write the other two body paragraphs, you need to find a way to divide the diagram itself into two and write each body paragraph to illustrate each part.

You should never assume or conclude any information other than what exists in the diagram. You are asked to just report the facts and interpret the data from the diagram without any assumptions, suggestions, or opinions. Always remember to follow the right tense based on the time of the chart if given.

You should decide on the tenses to use based on the timeframe provided in the task. If there is no timeframe, you could just use present simple. 

Just like task two, four band descriptors are used to assess your writing: task achievement, coherence and cohesion, lexical resource, and grammatical range and accuracy.

Let us take a look at band 7’s band descriptors.

Task Achievement:

• The response covers the requirements of the task.
• The content is relevant and accurate – there may be a few omissions or lapses.
• The format is appropriate.
• Key features which are selected are covered and clearly highlighted but could be more fully or more appropriately illustrated or extended.
• It presents a clear overview, the data are appropriately categorized, and the main trends or differences are identified.

Coherence and Cohesion:

• Information and ideas are logically organized and there is a clear progression throughout the response. A few lapses may occur.
• A range of cohesive devices including reference and substitution is used flexibly but with some inaccuracies or some over/underuse.

Lexical Resource

• The resource is sufficient to allow some flexibility and precision.
• There is some ability to use less common and/or idiomatic items.
• An awareness of style and collocation is evident, though inappropriacies occur.
• There are only a few errors in spelling and/or word formation, and they do not detract from overall clarity.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy:

• A variety of complex structures is used with some flexibility and accuracy.
• Grammar and punctuation are generally well-controlled, and error-free sentences are frequent.
• A few errors in grammar may persist, but these do not impede communication.

For more on the writing task one, check the links below.

• Vocabulary for Academic Task One
• Line Graphs
• Bar Charts
• Tables
• Pie Charts
• Multiple Charts
• Maps
• Processes