Step-by-step guide to answering this type of IELTS Writing Task 1 question. Covers structure, key language, and band-scoring criteria.
Originally published May 2017. Last reviewed 3 July 2026.
This post will help you to write a successful process essay, there is a model answer for you to compare your work to at the end of the post.
Remember that your essay should have a minimum of 150 words and ideally should be completed in 20 minutes.
Process Essay Structure
The writing task 1 essay should be as follows:
Sample Question: Process
Read the question below carefully, what can you see in the information given?
The image below shows the different stages involved in making olive oil. Write a 150-word report explaining the information given below.
STEP 1 – WRITE THE INTRODUCTION
Write your own introduction of one or two sentences, paraphrasing the question, using synonyms where you can.
STEP 2 – WRITE AN OVERVIEW
Write the overview – start this paragraph with the word ‘Overall...’ and write one or two sentences which describe the stages of the process. You can say how many stages are included in the process, how it begins and how it ends.
STEP 3 – WRITE THE MAIN BODY PARAGRAPHS
Write two main body paragraphs, going into detail and giving specific information about the process. Remember to use time connectors (after, next, following this, subsequently, finally, etc) to lead the examiner through each stage of the process.
STEP 4 – CHECK YOUR WORK
When you have completed the essay, check it for any errors, spelling or grammar. Then check to see if you have included linking words that connect the information together, making it easy to read. For example, using the word ‘Overall..’ at the beginning of the overview paragraph. You can also use words like – on the one hand, on the other hand, furthermore, however, in addition, finally etc.
MODEL ANSWER for Process
To view more model answer for a similar question please click the link below:
The diagram presents how olive is produced with the use of different equipment.
Overall, olive oil production involves four main stages and needs different equipment to achieve its desired appearance and flavour. The process starts with the breakdown of the olives after collection in a mill and culminates with storing the product in bottles until it is ready for consumption.
The process of making olive oil starts when olives are ground in a mill to create a paste. After the paste has been spread onto mats, this is transferred into a press where water is added. Following this procedure, the mashed olive paste is placed into a separation container where the oil goes through a natural separation process from vegetable waters.
After separation, the mixture goes into the olive oil return, where more water is added and wastewater is subsequently drained. Once this process has ended, the olive oil is ready to be bottled, where it is stored for a period of time known as the clarification stage. Finally, once this time has passed the oil is ready to be used.
Step-by-step guide to answering this type of IELTS Writing Task 1 question. Covers structure, key language, and band-scoring criteria.
Originally published May 2017. Last reviewed 3 July 2026.
This lesson will help you to write a successful multiple charts essay, there is a model answer for you to compare your work to at the end of the post.
Remember that your essay should have a minimum of 150 words and ideally should be completed in 20 minutes.
Multiple charts essay structure
The writing task 1 essay should be as follows:
Multiple charts essay Question
Read the question below carefully, what can you see in the information given in the chart?
Step 1 – Write the introduction
Write your own introduction of one or two sentences, paraphrasing the question, using synonyms where you can.
STEP 2 – WRITE AN OVERVIEW
Write the overview – start this paragraph with the word ‘Overall...’ and write one or two sentences which describe the main features of the information presented in the charts.
Step 2 – Write an overview
Write two main body paragraphs, going into detail and giving specific information about the charts. Remember to include data to support your findings. For example, look for the highs and lows and any major increases or decreases over time. Can you make any comparisons?
STEP 4 – CHECK YOUR WORK
When you have completed the essay, check it for any errors, spelling or grammar. Then check to see if you have included linking words that connect the information together, making it easy to read. For example, using the word ‘Overall..’ at the beginning of the overview paragraph. You can also use words like – on the one hand, on the other hand, furthermore, however, in addition, finally etc.
MODEL ANSWER
The charts both show relevant data about the interests, of people living in the UK in 2016. Moreover, the two charts represent males and females of all ages and their interests by gender, while the bar chart displays the exact level of interests according to the current age range from 16 to 75+ years. Overall, there is a common pattern in regards to the percentage of activities between both genders and it is evidenced that there are both women and men who enjoy studying and gardening. The bar chart shows that there are high numbers of young people aged 24-50 who are interested in travelling. On the one hand, there is a massive difference between the population who are 50-75 years old and the 75+ years regarding their interest in gardening (72%). However, the age groups with the most desire to travel in 2016 are those aged between 24-35 (76%). Furthermore, there are similar numbers of people who are interested in travelling between the age ranges of 16-24 to 35-50 (71%), which is currently expressed in the proportional bar chart. On the other hand, there is evidence of a smaller percentage of women (29%) who want to travel compared to men (32%). People of both genders who enjoy gardening, with a contrast of 38% for women and 35% for men. Finally, both males and females are equal in their passion for studying. (33%).
Step-by-step guide to answering this type of IELTS Writing Task 1 question. Covers structure, key language, and band-scoring criteria.
Originally published May 2017. Last reviewed 3 July 2026.
This post will help you to write a successful maps essay, there is a model answer for you to compare your work to at the end of the post.
Remember that your essay should have a minimum of 150 words and ideally should be completed in 20 minutes.
THE WRITING TASK 1 ESSAY STRUCTURE SHOULD BE AS FOLLOWS:
Question
Read the question below carefully, what can you see in the information given?
STEP 1 – WRITE THE INTRODUCTION
Write your own introduction of one or two sentences, paraphrasing the question, using synonyms where you can.
STEP 2 – WRITE AN OVERVIEW
Write the overview – start this paragraph with the word ‘Overall...’ and write one or two sentences which describe the main features of the information presented in the map.
STEP 3 – WRITE THE MAIN BODY PARAGRAPHS
Write two main body paragraphs, going into detail and giving specific information about the map. Remember to describe locations and use north, south, east, west. Look for the benefits of each site location and the drawbacks.
STEP 4 – CHECK YOUR WORK
When you have completed the essay, check it for any errors, spelling or grammar. Then check to see if you have included linking words that connect the information together, making it easy to read. For example, using the word ‘Overall..’ at the beginning of the overview paragraph. You can also use words like – on the one hand, on the other hand, furthermore, however, in addition, finally etc.
MODEL ANSWER
To view the model answer for this question please click the button below >>
We hope you found this post useful in helping you to study for the IELTS Test. If you have any questions please let us know in the comments below or on the Facebook page.
The best way to keep up to date with posts like this is to like us on Facebook, then follow us on Instagram and Pinterest.
If you need help preparing for the IELTS Test, join the IELTS Achieve Academy and see how we can assist you to achieve your desired band score. We offer an essay correction service, mock exams and online courses.
How to Describe Maps in IELTS Writing Task 1
Map questions ask you to compare two or more maps showing changes to an area over time, or to describe a proposed development plan. These questions test your ability to identify and describe spatial changes clearly.
Key Language for Maps
Change Type
Useful Vocabulary
New construction
was built, was constructed, was developed, was established
Demolition
was demolished, was knocked down, was replaced by, was removed
Expansion
was extended, was expanded, grew in size, was widened
Location
to the north of, adjacent to, in the south-west corner, opposite
General change
was converted into, was transformed from, underwent significant development
Structure for Map Essays
Introduction: Paraphrase the question — state what the maps show and the time period.
Overview: Summarise the most significant changes (e.g., “Overall, the area underwent considerable development, with residential housing replacing farmland”).
Body Paragraph 1: Describe one map or one area of change in detail.
Body Paragraph 2: Describe the second map or remaining changes, making comparisons.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Using compass directions inconsistently — choose one system and stick to it
Listing every single change without grouping related ones
Forgetting to use the passive voice for describing changes
Omitting an overview paragraph
Originally published on IELTS Achieve. Last reviewed 3 July 2026.
Step-by-step guide to answering this type of IELTS Writing Task 1 question. Covers structure, key language, and band-scoring criteria.
Originally published May 2017. Last reviewed 3 July 2026.
This post will help you to write a successful bar chart essay, there is a model answer for you to compare your work to at the end of the post.
Remember that your essay should have a minimum of 150 words and ideally should be completed in 20 minutes.
THE WRITING TASK 1 ESSAY STRUCTURE:
Writing task 1 Question
Read the question below carefully, what can you see in the information given?
STEP 1 – WRITE THE INTRODUCTION
Write your own introduction of one or two sentences, paraphrasing the question, using synonyms where you can.
STEP 2 – WRITE AN OVERVIEW
Write the overview – start this paragraph with the word ‘Overall...’ and write one or two sentences that describe the main features of the information presented in the bar chart.
STEP 3 – WRITE THE MAIN BODY PARAGRAPHS
Write two main body paragraphs, going into detail and giving specific information about the chart. Remember to include data to support your findings. For example, look for the highs and lows and any major increases or decreases over time.
STEP 4 – CHECK YOUR WORK
When you have completed the essay, check it for any errors, spelling or grammar. Then check to see if you have included linking words that connect the information together, making it easy to read. For example, using the word ‘Overall..’ at the beginning of the overview paragraph. You can also use words like – on the one hand, on the other hand, furthermore, however, in addition, finally etc.
MODEL ANSWER
To view the model answer for this question please click the button below >>
We hope you found this post useful in helping you to study for the IELTS Test. If you have any questions please let us know in the comments below or on the Facebook page.
The best way to keep up to date with posts like this is to like us on Facebook, then follow us on Instagram and Pinterest.
If you need help preparing for the IELTS Test, join the IELTS Achieve Academy and see how we can assist you to achieve your desired band score. We offer an essay correction service, mock exams and online courses.
How to Describe Process Diagrams
Process diagrams show the stages involved in making something, or how a natural or mechanical process works. Unlike other Task 1 questions, process diagrams require you to describe a sequence rather than compare data.
Essential Process Vocabulary
Stage
Language
Beginning
The process begins with…, The first stage involves…, Initially…
Sequence
Following this…, Subsequently…, After that…, The next step is…
Simultaneous
At the same time…, Meanwhile…, Concurrently…
Result
This results in…, This produces…, As a result…
Final stage
Finally…, In the last stage…, The process concludes when…
Structure Guide
Introduction: Paraphrase what the diagram shows (e.g., “The diagram illustrates the process by which cement is manufactured”).
Overview: State how many stages there are and whether the process is linear or cyclical.
Body paragraphs: Describe the stages in order, grouping related steps logically.
Tips for Band 7+
Use the passive voice throughout (e.g., “the materials are heated” not “someone heats the materials”)
Include sequencing connectors to show the order clearly
Count the stages and mention the total in your overview
Do not speculate about reasons — only describe what the diagram shows
Originally published on IELTS Achieve. Last reviewed 3 July 2026.
Step-by-step guide to answering this type of IELTS Writing Task 1 question. Covers structure, key language, and band-scoring criteria.
Originally published May 2017. Last reviewed 3 July 2026.
This post will help you to write a successful line graph essay, there is a model answer for you to compare your work to at the end of the post.
Remember that your essay should have a minimum of 150 words and ideally should be completed in 20 minutes.
Line Graph Essay Structure
The writing task 1 essay should be as follows:
Sample Question: Line Graph
Read the question below carefully, what can you see in the information given?
The line graph shows burglaries per thousand in four countries between 2000 and 2009. Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features and make comparisons where relevant.
STEP 1 – WRITE THE INTRODUCTION
Write your own introduction of one or two sentences, paraphrasing the question, using synonyms where you can.
STEP 2 – WRITE AN OVERVIEW
Write the overview – start this paragraph with the word ‘Overall...’ and write one or two sentences which describe the main features of the information presented in the line graph.
STEP 3 – WRITE THE MAIN BODY PARAGRAPHS
Write two main body paragraphs, going into detail and giving specific information about the graph. Remember to include data to support your findings. For example, look for the highs and lows and any major increases or decreases over time.
STEP 4 – CHECK YOUR WORK
When you have completed the essay, check it for any errors, spelling or grammar. Then check to see if you have included linking words that connect the information together, making it easy to read. For example, using the word ‘Overall..’ at the beginning of the overview paragraph. You can also use words like – on the one hand, on the other hand, furthermore, however, in addition, finally etc.
Model Answer for Line graph essay
To view more model answer for similar question please click the link below:
The graph illustrates comparative statistics on the number of burglaries in four countries (Great Britain, Greece, Spain and Norway) over a 10-year period (2000-2009). The units of thefts were measured in thousands.
Overall, the highest recurrence of burglary was in Great Britain, which was fairly high from 2000-2009 in comparison to the other countries, while the lowest incidence when the study began in 2000 was in Spain. It can be seen that in 2009 Spain reported slightly lower figures than the other four countries.
The graph shows that Great Britain’s burglaries were consistently high, never below the 20,000 mark, though the trend fluctuates over the 10-year period. According to the data, the country experienced the highest number of thefts during 2002 (20,000) and 2006 (20,000). However, it experienced its lowest amount stolen in 2009 at approximately 15,000.
Similarly, Spain experienced fluctuating trends, but on the opposite side of the spectrum as it reported the least amount of burglaries in 2000 (6,000) with frequency varying over the years and finally reporting a decline in 2009 (4,000). However, other notable statistics are Greece’s upward trend in the number of burglaries, which started in 2000 (8,000) and finally peaked at 14,000 during 2009. Norway is also noteworthy for having considerably low thefts over the course of 10 years compared to the other countries, dropping sharply in 2003, but increasing slightly from there, finally peaking at 6,000 slightly higher than Spain.
Step-by-step guide to answering this type of IELTS Writing Task 1 question. Covers structure, key language, and band-scoring criteria.
Originally published May 2017. Last reviewed 3 July 2026.
This post will help you to write a successful pie charts essay, there is a model answer for you to compare your work to at the end of the post.
Remember that your essay should have a minimum of 150 words and ideally should be completed in 20 minutes.
The writing task 1 essay structure should be as follows >>
Question
Read the question below carefully, what can you see in the information given?
Step 1 – Write the introduction
Write your own introduction of one or two sentences, paraphrasing the question, using synonyms where you can.
Step 2 – Write an overview
Write the overview – start this paragraph with the word ‘Overall...’ and write one or two sentences which describe the main features of the information presented in the charts.
Step 3 – Write the main body paragraphs
Write two main body paragraphs, going into detail and giving specific information about the charts. Remember to include data to support your findings. For example, look for the highs and lows and any major increases or decreases over time.
Step 4 – Check your work
When you have completed the essay, check it for any errors, spelling or grammar. Then check to see if you have included linking words that connect the information together, making it easy to read. For example, using the word ‘Overall..’ at the beginning of the overview paragraph. You can also use words like – on the one hand, on the other hand, furthermore, however, in addition, finally etc.
Model Answer
To view the model answer for this question please click the button below >>
We hope you found this post useful in helping you to study for the IELTS Test. If you have any questions please let us know in the comments below or on the Facebook page.
The best way to keep up to date with posts like this is to like us on Facebook, then follow us on Instagram and Pinterest.
If you need help preparing for the IELTS Test, join the IELTS Achieve Academy and see how we can assist you to achieve your desired band score. We offer an essay correction service, mock exams and online courses.
How to Describe Tables in IELTS Writing Task 1
Table questions present numerical data organised in rows and columns. Your task is to identify, compare, and summarise the key features without describing every single number.
Strategy for Table Questions
Scan for patterns: Look for the highest and lowest values, trends over time, and significant differences between categories.
Select key data: You cannot mention every number. Choose the most significant figures that illustrate trends or comparisons.
Group information: Organise your body paragraphs by theme (e.g., countries that increased vs. decreased) rather than going row by row.
Include specific figures: Support your observations with actual numbers from the table.
Useful Language for Tables
Function
Phrases
Highest value
The highest figure was recorded for…, X had the largest proportion at…
Lowest value
The lowest rate was seen in…, X accounted for the smallest share…
Comparison
X was significantly higher than Y…, Compared with X, Y was…
Approximate data
roughly, approximately, just over, just under, around
Common Mistakes
Describing every number in the table instead of selecting key data
Failing to make comparisons between categories
Writing without an overview paragraph
Using imprecise language when exact figures are available
Originally published on IELTS Achieve. Last reviewed 3 July 2026.
Step-by-step guide to answering this type of IELTS Writing Task 1 question. Covers structure, key language, and band-scoring criteria.
Originally published May 2017. Last reviewed 3 July 2026.
When you are writing an essay for any task 1 academic question, you need to be aware of the grammar and vocabulary you are using. If you have many errors in your work, you will definitely lose marks. In the marking criteria, 25% of your marks are based on grammar, the examiner will check the accuracy of your grammar and the range of sentence structures in the essay. The more mistakes that appear in the writing, the lower the score will be.
For example, here are the criteria for grammatical range and accuracy from band 5 to 9 >>
Band Score 5 – Uses only a limited range of structures. Attempts complex sentences but these tend to be less accurate than simple sentences. May make frequent grammatical errors and punctuation may be faulty; errors can cause some difficulty for the reader.
Band Score 6 – Uses a mix of simple and complex sentence forms. makes some errors in grammar and punctuation but they rarely reduce communication.
Band Score 7 – Uses a variety of complex structures. Produces frequent error-free sentences. Has good control of grammar and punctuation but may make a few errors.
Band Score 8 – Uses a wide range of structures. The majority of sentences are error-free. makes only very occasional errors or inappropriacies.
Band Score 9 – Uses a wide range of structures with full flexibility and accuracy; rare minor errors occur only as ‘slips’.
There are a number of common errors that students make in their essays which include the following >>
Articles
Articles are words that define a noun as specific or unspecific. For example;
After the dramatic increase in sales, the pre-loved clothes were very popular.
This example shows that it is a specific increase in sales of the pre-loved clothes.
After a steady increase, a portion of the pre-loved clothes was sold.
By using the article a, we’ve created a general statement, implying that some of the pre-loved clothes sold.
English has two types of articles: definite and indefinite.
Many of my students get confused by the word the, either putting in too many or too few. Learning how to use this word will be very beneficial for your writing.
Plurals
Most singular nouns are made a plural by simply putting an -s at the end. There are many different rules regarding pluralization depending on what letter a noun ends in. You use plurals to show when there is more than one of something, so for example, if you are talking about more than one city, you would say ‘cities’.
Uncountable Nouns
Countable nouns are referring to items that can be counted, whereas uncountable nouns refer to amounts that cannot be counted.
Punctuation
One of the most common errors I see in my student’s essays is the misuse of the comma and the full stop (also known as a period). While a full stop ends a sentence, a comma indicates a smaller break. Some writers think of a comma as a small pause—a marker that separates words, clauses, or ideas within a sentence. There are many examples and rules to follow, take a look and study the rules for comma usage.
Prepositions
Prepositions of place give a sense of direction or location. This is important, particularly when writing a maps question, to show that you can accurately describe where things are. The following examples show different prepositions of place;
Verb Tense
Verbs come in three tenses: past, present, and future. The past is used to describe things that have already happened (e.g., earlier in the year, yesterday, last month, five years ago). The present tense is used to describe things that are happening right now or things that are continuous. The future tense describes things that have yet to happen (e.g., later, tomorrow, next week, next year, five years from now).
It is important for you to be able to write in the correct verb tense, when describing data, predicting future trends or changes to a map.
When writing about changes you can see on a chart or graph you should be aware of using the correct tense when writing about the information, for example;
If you are writing about data that is in the past, for example, June 2005, then you should use the past tense.
If it has predictions for the future, for example, 2022, you use future tenses.
It there is no time, you use present simple.
Exercise
Here is an exercise for you to complete, read through each sentence and see where the grammar mistakes are…..
There was a significant increase in spending for housing in 2015.
The line graph shows the typical temperatures at three main cities.
The growth of interest in gardening rose at 50% to 71% in two years.
Spending on luxury item grew during the year 2015-2016.
The highest amount spent in both year was on smaller car.
Answers –
There was a significant increase in spending on housing in 2015.
The line graph shows the typical temperatures in three main cities.
The growth of interest in gardening rose from 50% to 71% in two years.
Spending on luxury items grew during the years 2015-2016.
The highest amount spent in both years was on smaller cars.
We hope you found this post useful in helping you to study for the IELTS Test. If you have any questions please let us know in the comments below or on the Facebook page.We hope you found this post useful in helping you to study for the IELTS Test. If you have any questions please let us know in the comments below or on the Facebook page.
The best way to keep up to date with posts like this is to like us on Facebook, then follow us on Instagram and Pinterest.
If you need help preparing for the IELTS Test, join the IELTS Achieve Academy and see how we can assist you to achieve your desired band score. We offer an essay correction service, mock exams and online courses.
Step-by-step guide to answering this type of IELTS Writing Task 1 question. Covers structure, key language, and band-scoring criteria.
Originally published May 2017. Last reviewed 3 July 2026.
Here are a number of writing task 1 sample essays for you to look at. Take a look through the questions and sample answers and compare them to your own work. Are they similar? Do you find them easy to understand? Do they answer the question? Can you see how the information has been structured?
It is important for you to look at sample essays when you are studying to see if your work is on the way to becoming a band score 7 or higher.
Read through the essay feedback and see why the essays have achieved a band score 9. The band 9 criteria are also at the end of this post.
Sample Essay 1 – Pie Charts
The pie charts show the ratio of goods shipped from Great Britain from 2010 to 2015. The products are measured by percentage.
Overall, over the five-year period, the most exported goods were machinery and vehicles. These two types of goods were predominantly wanted out of all of the categories. The least amounts of goods exported were plastics and organic chemicals. Minimal changes occurred over the selected time period.
On the one hand, machinery exports have a small increase as the amounts moved are 29% and 30% respectively. The percentage of vehicles shipped only rose slightly by 1% from 2010 (28%) to 2015 (29%). The machinery and vehicles export pattern remained steady throughout the five years.
On the other hand, the diagrams illustrate an increasing rise in the production of plastics at over 4% since 2010. Furthermore, the most relevant feature is the increase in the export of organic chemicals from 2010 (7%) to 2015 (10%). There is a huge difference in the production of pharmaceuticals, due to the fact that it experienced a decrease from 2010 (27%) to 2015 (18%).
(Word Count = 180 / Band Score 9)
Task Achievement – The answer provides a paraphrased question, to begin with, followed by an overview that gives the reader key information. The information selected is relevant.
Coherence and Cohesion – The answer has been divided into clear logical paragraphs.
Lexical Resource – There is evidence of paraphrasing, synonyms and some less common words.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy – The answer has no grammatical errors. The sentences are mainly made up of multiple clauses and have a variety of structures.
TIP >> Remember to identify two or three main features and write about those. You don’t need to write about everything you see in order to gain a high band score.
Sample Essay 2 – Line Graph Showing Future Trends
The line graph presented depicts the loan status of the Royal Bank of Scotland between the years 2012 to 2022. It is measured in millions of pounds sterling.
Overall, it can be seen that while student loans and mortgages are predicted to increase simultaneously over the period, auto loans and personal loans have highs and lows, therefore remaining much lower in comparison.
Firstly, it is clear that student loans and mortgages are following a very similar pattern over the years. Student loans stood at just under 1.500 million in 2012, noticeably, being the highest of the four groups. Though they remained constant up to 2013, they are expected to climb steadily to approximately 2.5 billion in 2022. Like the student loans, mortgages are predicted to follow a similar pattern and increase.
Secondly, auto loans are expected to show abnormalities of both highs and lows during the years. Although having initially grown, they will drop to 700 million in 2016, before reaching the peak of about 1500 million in 2020. Auto loans will end close to the amount where they began.
Finally, personal loans were staged at the lowest level of the four groups, at under 500 million in 2012. Despite climbing up and overtaking auto loans briefly in 2016 to about 800 million, this level will continue decreasing until 2022 to 400 million.
(Word Count = 223 / Band Score 9)
Task Achievement – The answer provides a paraphrased question, to begin with, followed by an overview that gives the reader key information. The final sentence has a future prediction.
Coherence and Cohesion – The answer has been divided into clear logical paragraphs. The overview explains the trends generally then the specific information is written about in the main body paragraphs.
Lexical Resource – There is evidence of paraphrasing, synonyms and some less common words. Specific vocabulary used to describe change over time has been used.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy – The answer has no grammatical errors. The sentences have a variety of structures.
TIP >> Remember to end the essay with a prediction for the future, after looking at the present.
Sample Essay 3 – Process
The illustration shows the whole process of how a hydroelectric dam manufactures electricity from water.
Overall the main element of the procedure is the flow of water, making a reservoir of water, this is the first step until the last step where the power is produced and distributed. There are 5 main steps in this process.
To begin, a body of water is stored in a large water reservoir holding the water until it goes into the intake. The dam will then control the flow of water to the intake. After that, water will flow to a cylindrical passage called a penstock, making it flow with a strong pressure until it reaches the turbine. Next, the current of the flowing water from the river passing through the penstock will maintain the turbine’s rotation.
Subsequently, the rotation of the turbine would produce energy that will pass through a generator until electricity is produced. The generator is inside of the powerhouse, where long distance power lines are connected. Finally, from the generator, electricity is then transmitted to long distance power lines.
(Word Count = 178 / Band Score 9)
Task Achievement – The answer provides relevant information, describing the process through every stage. The overview gives clear information, leading into the main body paragraphs.
Coherence and Cohesion – The answer has been divided into clear logical paragraphs, with clear cohesion between them with the addition of time connectors (after that, next, subsequently, finally).
Lexical Resource – There is evidence of paraphrasing, synonyms and some less common words.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy – The answer has no grammatical errors. The sentences are mainly made up of multiple clauses and have a variety of structures. There are no spelling mistakes and punctuation is correct.
TIP >> Write a good overview, with how many stages the process has, starting with….. and ending with……then go into the main detail of describing the process into the main body paragraphs.
TIP >> Describe the process and lead the reader through it by using time connectors.
Sample Essay 4 – Line Graph
The line graph illustrates the climate conditions in Athens, Barcelona, and Sydney over the period of one year.
Overall, it can be seen that generally, the cities of Athens and Barcelona have a similar temperature movement in comparison with Sydney. Both Athens and Barcelona’s temperatures peak during the summer months of June, July and August, while Sydney has lower temperatures during those three months. In contrast, Sydney’s highest temperatures are when Athens and Barcelona have their lowest.
To begin with, Athens has approximately 8 degrees of temperature in January with a gradual increase to 25 degrees in June. However, this trend slowly declined each month reaching close to 8 degrees by December. Similarly, Barcelona had a similar trend but started with just a little below 7 degrees in January. Nonetheless, after the succeeding months, there had been a steep incline to the temperature that peaked at around 28 degrees in August. But, a sudden drop to nearly 5 degrees per month was experienced for the remaining months until December with exact 6 degrees.
In contrast to Athens and Barcelona, Sydney’s temperature was just a little over 27 degrees in January but slowly decreased in the following months, reaching the lowest point at 14 degrees in July. Finally, this average monthly temperature incrementally increased each month, ending with the same temperature of 25 degrees in December.
(Word Count = 225 / Band Score 9)
Task Achievement – The answer provides a paraphrased question, to begin with, followed by an overview that gives the reader key information.
Coherence and Cohesion – The answer has been divided into clear logical paragraphs. The overview explains the trends generally, then the specific information is written about in the main body paragraphs.
Lexical Resource – There is evidence of paraphrasing, synonyms and some less common words.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy – The answer has no grammatical errors. The sentences are mainly made up of multiple clauses and have a variety of structures.
TIP >> Remember to compare and contrast information, using cohesive devices, such as overall, to begin with, similarly and finally.
Sample Essay 5 – Table
The table illustrates the percentage of people who decided to shop in a humane way from 2012 to 2014.
Overall, it is evident that the free range/organic and fairtrade experienced declines in numbers of shoppers, whereas the pre-loved clothes became the most wanted items during the same period.
To begin, the proportion of people buying ethical clothing fell from just over half to only 20% or one fifth from 2012 to 2014. Similarly, the relative number of people buying Fairtrade items — just under one quarter — dropped by half in the same period. As for the free range and organic products, the relatively small percentage of people buying this type of product in 2012 (12%) also fell, although not significantly.
However, while the other three types of ethical shopping declined in importance, the opposite was true in the case of pre-loved clothes. In fact, while only a small minority of 12% were interested in purchasing these in 2012, this figure increased to well over half of all shoppers during the following two years reaching 58% in 2014.
(Word Count = 178 / Band Score 9)
Task Achievement – The answer provides a paraphrased question, to begin with, followed by an overview that gives the reader key information that is supported by data from the table.
Coherence and Cohesion – The answer has been divided into clear logical paragraphs. The overview explains the trends generally, then the specific information is written about in the main body paragraphs.
Lexical Resource – There is evidence of paraphrasing, synonyms and some less common words.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy – The answer has no grammatical errors. The sentences are mainly made up of multiple clauses and have a variety of structures.
TIP >> Remember to highlight any trends that stand out, for example in this table, the number of people buying pre-loved clothes in 2014.
Writing Task 1 Band Score 9 Criteria >>
We hope you found this post useful in helping you to study for the IELTS Test. If you have any questions please let us know in the comments below or on the Facebook page.
The best way to keep up to date with posts like this is to like us on Facebook, then follow us on Instagram and Pinterest.
If you need help preparing for the IELTS Test, join the IELTS Achieve Academy and see how we can assist you to achieve your desired band score. We offer an essay correction service, mock exams and online courses.
Step-by-step guide to answering this type of IELTS Writing Task 1 question. Covers structure, key language, and band-scoring criteria.
Originally published May 2017. Last reviewed 3 July 2026.
A question on the IELTS academic writing test that is becoming more common, asks the candidate to write about and describe a process.
You may have a natural or a man made process question. In this post we will look at how to write this type of essay, with structure help, vocabulary and sample answers.
Writing Task 1 – Process Essay Structure >>
Paragraph 1 – Paraphrase the question
When writing your own introduction of one or two sentences paraphrase the question and add detail.
Paragraph 2 – Overview of the main features
You need to be able to give a broad summary of the information. This is best started with – Overall.…… then giving details of the main features you can see. You can write this in one or two sentences, which describe the main features of the information that is presented in the process. Think about the number of stages that are in time order, what is happening at the beginning? What is happening at the end? How many stages are there?
Paragraph 3 – Specific details
Write about the process from the beginning, explaining what is happening throughout each stage.
Paragraph 4 – Specific details
Write about the process through to the end, including time connectors that lead the reader through each step of the process clearly.
TIP >> When describing a process you should write using the passive voice, focussing on the activities not the person who is doing them.
Time Connectors >>
The words below can help you to connect the stages of the process you are writing about.
Writing Task 1 Process Sample Essays >>
Here are two sample essay questions and answers for you to look at. Review the language used, the essay structure, the stages and how it has been written.
Sample Process Essay 1
The diagram presents how olive is produced with the use of different equipment.
Overall, olive oil production involves four main stages and needs different equipment to achieve its desired appearance and flavour. The process starts with the breakdown of the olives after collection in a mill and culminates with storing the product in bottles until it is ready for consumption.
The process of making olive oil starts when olives are ground in a mill to create a paste. After the paste has been spread onto mats, this is transferred into a press where water is added. Following this procedure, the mashed olive paste is placed into a separation container where the oil goes through a natural separation process from vegetable waters.
After separation, the mixture goes into the olive oil return, where more water is added and wastewater is subsequently drained. Once this process has ended, the olive oil is ready to be bottled, where it is stored for a period of time known as the clarification stage. Finally, once this time has passed the oil is ready to be used.
(Word Count = 181 / Band Score 9)
Task Achievement – The answer provides relevant information, describing the process of how olive oil is made. The overview gives clear information, leading into the main body paragraphs.
Coherence and Cohesion – The answer has been divided into clear logical paragraphs, with clear cohesion between them with the addition of time connectors (after, following this, finally).
Lexical Resource – There is evidence of paraphrasing, synonyms and some less common words.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy – The answer has no grammatical errors. The sentences are mainly made up of multiple clauses and have a variety of structures. There are no spelling mistakes and punctuation is correct.
TIP >> Write a good overview, with how many stages the process has, starting with and ending with.
TIP >> Describe the process and lead the reader through it by using time connectors.
Sample Process Essay 2
The picture illustrates the process of making paper from the trees that have been collected.
Overall, it can be observed that there are eight stages in this process, beginning with the collection of trees from the forest and ending with the paper being made in the paper making machine.
To begin with, timber is collected from the forest and taken to be debarked. After the wood has been stripped bare, it enters the chipping machine, where it is chopped up into tiny pieces. From the chipping machine, the wood enters into three separate stages. First, the wood chips are put through the mechanical pulping process, where they are ground and smashed into pulp. Then they have a chemical pulping, going next into the hydra-pulper.
In the subsequent stage, the mixture goes through to be screened and cleaned, to filter any lumps or waste from the pulp. Lastly, the pulp is entered into the paper making machine, where it is pressed to make sheets of paper. The paper is then stored and stacked, ready for shipping and to be used.
(Word Count = 179 / Band Score 9)
Task Achievement – The answer provides relevant information, describing the process of how paper is made. The overview gives clear information, leading into the main body paragraphs.
Coherence and Cohesion – The answer has been divided into clear logical paragraphs, with clear cohesion between them with the addition of time connectors (first, then, subsequently).
Lexical Resource – There is evidence of paraphrasing, synonyms and some less common words.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy – The answer has no grammatical errors. The sentences are mainly made up of multiple clauses and have a variety of structures. There are no spelling mistakes and punctuation is correct.
TIP >> Write a good overview, with how many stages the process has, starting with and ending with.
TIP >> Describe the process and lead the reader through it by using time connectors.
Writing Task 1 Band Score 9 Criteria >>
We hope you found this post helpful in helping you to study for the IELTS Test. Let us know in the comments or on the Facebook page if you have any questions. The best way to keep up to date with posts like this is to like us on Facebook, and then follow us onInstagramand Pinterest. We offer essay correction services, mock exams, and online courses. If you need help preparing for the IELTS Test, join the IELTS Achieve Academy and see how we can help you achieve your desired band score faster.
Step-by-step guide to answering this type of IELTS Writing Task 1 question. Covers structure, key language, and band-scoring criteria.
Originally published May 2017. Last reviewed 3 July 2026.
A question on the IELTS academic writing test that is becoming more common, asks the candidate to write about more than one chart or diagram.
You may have a pie chart and a table, a bar chart and a line graph, or any combination of charts. In this post we will look at how to write this type of essay, with structure help, vocabulary and sample answers.
When writing your own introduction of one or two sentences paraphrase the question and add detail.
Paragraph 2 – Overview of the main features
You need to be able to give a broad summary of the information. This is best started with – Overall……. then giving details of the main features you can see. You can write this in one or two sentences, which describe the main features of the information that is presented in the charts. Think about the main features that you can see in chart number 1, and then write about the main features you can see in chart number 2. You should then make any comparisons if relevant.
Paragraph 3 – Specific details of the main features in chart number 1
Write about the specific details that you can see – looking closely at the main features of chart number 1 and include detail, then make any comparisons if relevant.
Paragraph 4 – Specific details of the main features in chart number 2
Write about the specific details that you can see – looking closely at the main features of chart number 2 and include detail, then make any comparisons if relevant.
Writing Task 1 Multiple Charts Sample Essays >>
Here are two sample essay questions and answers for you to look at. Review the language used, the essay structure, the information gathered and how it has been written.
Sample Multiple Chart Essay 1
The charts both show relevant data about the interests, of people living in the UK in 2016. Moreover, the two charts represent males and females of all ages and their interests by gender, while the bar chart displays the exact level of interests according to the current age range from 16 to 75+ years.
Overall, there is a common pattern in regards to the percentage of activities between both genders and it is evidenced that there are both women and men who enjoy studying and gardening. The bar chart shows that there are high numbers of young people aged 24-50 who are interested in travelling.
On the one hand, there is a massive difference between the population who are 50-75 years old and the 75+ years regarding their interest in gardening (72%). However, the age groups with the most desire to travel in 2016 are those aged between 24-35 (76%). Furthermore, there are similar numbers of people who are interested in travelling between the age ranges of 16-24 to 35-50 (71%), which is currently expressed in the proportional bar chart.
On the other hand, there is evidence of a smaller percentage of women (29%) who want to travel compared to men (32%). People of both genders who enjoy gardening, with a contrast of 38% for women and 35% for men. Finally, both males and females are equal in their passion for studying. (33%).
(Word Count = 233 / Band Score 9)
Task Achievement – The answer provides relevant information, summarising the interests by age range and then interests by gender. The main features are given and comparisons made, with the relevant information given.
Coherence and Cohesion – The answer has been divided into clear logical paragraphs, with clear cohesion between them with the addition of linking words (overall, on the one hand, on the other hand, finally, however, furthermore).
Lexical Resource – There is evidence of paraphrasing, synonyms and some less common words.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy – The answer has no grammatical errors. The sentences are mainly made up of multiple clauses and have a variety of structures. There are no spelling mistakes.
TIP >> Remember to compare the information given, but focus on one idea in each main body paragraph.
TIP >> Remember to include numbers / stats / data in the main body paragraphs. This may seem obvious but many students do not include this.
Sample Multiple Chart Essay 2
The line graph reflects the number of people who travelled to Disneyland and Sea World between 2001 and 2005, while the bar chart illustrates the most popular rides people visited at Disneyland. Units are measured in millions of people.
Overall, the line graph shows that there was an increase in the number of visits to Disneyland compared to Sea World in the period given. However, the bar chart shows that Splash Mountain was the most popular ride taken.
Initially, we can observe that in the year 2001 there are a small number of people who travelled to Sea World (9 million). This increased slowly during the following years to nearly 30 million people in 2005. The number of people who visited Disneyland was slightly higher (12 million). In 2003, around 20 million entered Disneyland, this progressed continuously, reaching to over 50 million people in 2005.
Furthermore, the second graph clearly shows that over 12 million people visited Splash Mountain. The second most popular ride visited was the Haunted Mansion (8.5 million). Big Thunder Mountain and Matterhorn Bobsleds had around 4 million and 3 million people visiting respectively. The least amount of travellers visited the Jungle Cruise (2 million).
(Word Count = 198 / Band Score 9)
Task Achievement – The answer provides relevant information, giving a clear overview and then describing the specific features in the main body paragraphs. The information is relevant to the question.
Coherence and Cohesion – The answer has been divided into clear logical paragraphs, with clear cohesion between them with the addition of linking words (overall, initially, furthermore).
Lexical Resource – There is evidence of paraphrasing, synonyms and some less common words.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy – The answer has no grammatical errors. The sentences are mainly made up of multiple clauses and have a variety of structures. There are no spelling mistakes and punctuation is correct.
TIP >> Remember to compare the information given, but focus on one idea in each main body paragraph.
TIP >> Remember to include numbers / stats / data in the main body paragraphs. This may seem obvious but many students do not include this.
Writing Task 1 Band Score 9 Criteria >>
We hope you found this post useful in helping you to study for the IELTS Test. If you have any questions please let us know in the comments below or on the Facebook page.
The best way to keep up to date with posts like this is to like us on Facebook, then follow us on Instagram and Pinterest.
If you need help preparing for the IELTS Test, join the IELTS Achieve Academy and see how we can assist you to achieve your desired band score. We offer an essay correction service, mock exams and online courses.
