A table chart IELTS question appears in IELTS Writing Task 1 (Academic) and tests your ability to summarize numerical data clearly and accurately. Many candidates lose marks because they describe every figure instead of presenting key trends and comparisons.
This guide explains how to understand a table chart, structure your response, use appropriate vocabulary, and meet band score criteria confidently.
What Is a Table Chart in IELTS Writing Task 1?
A table chart presents data in rows and columns. It may show:
- Numbers
- Percentages
- Comparisons over time
- Differences between categories
Your task is to summarize the main features, not to explain reasons or give opinions.
IELTS Table Chart Task Requirements
- Word limit: At least 150 words
- Time recommended: 20 minutes
- Tone: Formal and academic
- No opinions or conclusions
How to Structure a Table Chart IELTS Answer
1. Introduction (1 Sentence)
Paraphrase the question by mentioning:
- What the table shows
- Time period (if any)
- Units of measurement
Example:
The table illustrates the percentage of students enrolled in different courses across three universities in 2020.
2. Overview (2–3 Sentences)
This is the most important part for a high band score.
Include:
- Highest and lowest values
- Major patterns or comparisons
- Overall trends
Do NOT include numbers here.
3. Body Paragraph 1
- Describe key data from the first half of the table
- Compare major figures
- Use accurate data
4. Body Paragraph 2
- Describe the remaining data
- Highlight contrasts or similarities
- Avoid repetition
Useful Vocabulary for Table Chart IELTS
Comparison
- higher than / lower than
- similar to
- in contrast
- whereas
Data Description
- accounted for
- recorded
- stood at
- represented
Change (if applicable)
- increased
- decreased
- remained stable
Sample Table Chart IELTS Answer (Short Example)
The table compares the percentages of male and female students studying five subjects at a university in 2019.
Overall, female students dominated arts-related subjects, while males were more represented in science-based fields.
In detail, women accounted for the highest proportion in arts and humanities, at over 60%. By contrast, men formed the majority in engineering, with approximately 70% participation. The remaining subjects showed relatively balanced enrollment between genders.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Writing less than 150 words
- Listing every number without comparison
- Missing the overview paragraph
- Using informal language
- Giving opinions or explanations
Band Score Tips for Table Chart IELTS
Band 7+
- Clear overview
- Logical paragraphing
- Accurate comparisons
- Variety of sentence structures
Band 8+
- Precise vocabulary
- Smooth cohesion
- No irrelevant details
- Error-free grammar
Practice Strategy for Table Chart IELTS
- Practice paraphrasing table questions
- Write overviews without numbers
- Compare data instead of describing it individually
- Time yourself strictly
- Review model answers
Why Choose Banglay IELTS
Mastering table chart IELTS questions requires a clear structure and exam-focused strategies. Banglay IELTS helps learners understand Task 1 requirements, improve academic vocabulary, and practice real IELTS-style table charts with expert guidance.
With structured feedback and targeted practice, Banglay IELTS supports candidates in achieving higher Writing Task 1 band scores.
FAQs About Table Chart IELTS
Is the table chart common in IELTS Writing Task 1?
Yes, it appears regularly in Academic IELTS exams.
Do I need to describe all numbers?
No, focus on key trends and comparisons only.
Can I use bullet points?
No, always write in full paragraphs.
Is an overview mandatory?
Yes, missing the overview reduces your band score significantly.
Can a table chart include time comparison?
Yes, some tables show data across different years
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