If you’re preparing for the IELTS exam, mastering Writing Task 1 is essential. It tests your ability to describe, summarize, and compare visual data clearly and accurately. Whether it’s Academic or General Training, using sample answers helps you understand examiner expectations and improve your writing style.
What Is IELTS Writing Task 1?
In IELTS Writing Task 1, you’ll be given visual information (for Academic) or a letter (for General Training). You must write at least 150 words in 20 minutes.
| IELTS Type | Task Type | Example |
| Academic | Describe data, charts, tables, maps, or processes | “The chart shows the percentage of renewable energy use in Europe.” |
| General Training | Write a letter (formal, semi-formal, or informal) | “Write to your landlord explaining a problem with your apartment.” |
IELTS Writing Task 1 Academic Samples
Here are some Band 9 model answers with explanations:
Bar Chart Sample
Question:
The bar chart shows the number of international students in five countries in 2020 and 2025.
Sample Answer:
The bar chart compares the number of international students studying in five different countries between 2020 and 2025. Overall, the number of overseas students increased significantly, particularly in Australia and the UK.
Band 9 Tip:
Use comparative language (e.g., “higher than,” “in contrast”) and overview sentences describing trends.
Line Graph Sample
Question:
The graph illustrates car production in Japan, the UK, and Germany from 2000 to 2020.
Sample Answer:
Overall, car production in all three countries showed fluctuations, but Japan consistently produced the highest number of vehicles throughout the period.
Band 9 Tip:
Use time-related vocabulary: gradually increased, sharply declined, remained stable.
Map Sample
Question:
The maps show changes in a coastal town between 1990 and 2020.
Sample Answer:
The maps illustrate how a small coastal town developed into a modern tourist destination. The most notable changes include the construction of hotels and the expansion of the road network.
Band 9 Tip:
Focus on major changes rather than every detail. Use direction words (north, south, near, beside).
Process Diagram Sample
Question:
The diagram shows the process of producing bottled water.
Sample Answer:
The process consists of five main stages, starting with collecting raw water and ending with distribution to supermarkets. Each stage involves filtration, treatment, and packaging.
Band 9 Tip:
Use passive voice (e.g., “Water is filtered,” “Labels are printed”) to sound formal.
IELTS Writing Task 1 General Samples
Formal Letter
Question:
Write to a company to complain about a damaged product.
Sample Answer:
Dear Sir or Madam,
I am writing to express my dissatisfaction with a mobile phone I purchased from your store last week. Unfortunately, the screen was cracked upon delivery. I request an immediate replacement or refund.
Yours faithfully,
[Your Name]
Informal Letter
Question:
Write a letter to a friend inviting them to stay at your home.
Sample Answer:
Hi Sarah,
I hope you’re doing great! I’d love for you to visit me this summer. There’s a lovely beach nearby, and we can enjoy local food together. Let me know your travel dates soon!
Best,
[Your Name]
Expert Tips for IELTS Writing Task 1
Write at least 150 words
Always include an overview
Avoid using informal language in Academic tasks
Use data comparisons (e.g., doubled, tripled, slightly decreased)
Practice time management (20 minutes per task)
Common Vocabulary for IELTS Writing Task 1
Increase: rise, grow, surge, climb, escalate
Decrease: fall, drop, decline, plummet, reduce
Stable: remain steady, stay constant
Fluctuate: vary, oscillate, change irregularly
FAQs
Q1. How many types of IELTS Writing Task 1 are there?
Two Academic (graphs, charts, maps) and General Training (letters).
Q2. What is the word limit for IELTS Writing Task 1?
You must write at least 150 words.
Q3. How much time should I spend on Writing Task 1?
Spend 20 minutes to leave enough time for Task 2.
Q4. How is Task 1 scored?
It’s marked based on Task Achievement, Coherence, Vocabulary, and Grammar.
Q5. What’s a good score in Writing Task 1?
A Band 7 or higher is considered excellent for study or immigration purposes.
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At Banglay IELTS, we provide:
- Real exam-style writing tasks
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- Vocabulary-building lessons
- Mock writing tests with scoring guidance
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