If you’re preparing for the IELTS Academic test, you’ve probably heard that Writing Task 1 can be tricky. Many students lose easy marks not because of grammar, but because they don’t fully understand what the task requires.
In this detailed guide from LEAP Counsellors, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about IELTS Academic Writing Task 1, including tips, structure, vocabulary, common mistakes, and a sample breakdown — all aligned with what IELTS examiners are really looking for.
What is IELTS writing task 1 in the academic module?
In IELTS Writing Task 1 Academic, you’re presented with a visual — such as a graph, chart, table, map, or diagram — and asked to write a summary report of at least 150 words.
Your job is not to give opinions, but to:
- Describe the main trends
- Compare key features
- Highlight significant data points
This task tests your ability to interpret data and communicate academic-writing style clearly and objectively.
How much time should you spend on IELTS task 1?
The full IELTS Writing section is 60 minutes, and Task 1 is worth one-third of your score. You should aim to spend 20 minutes on Task 1 and 40 minutes on Task 2.
What types of questions appear in task 1?
You’ll be asked to summarize one or more of the following:
- Line Graphs (e.g., population changes over time)
- Bar Charts (e.g., sales by region)
- Pie Charts (e.g., energy sources breakdown)
- Tables (e.g., academic performance)
- Process Diagrams (e.g., how cement is produced)
- Maps (e.g., changes in a town before and after construction)
Sometimes, you may get two visuals together (e.g., a chart + table or two maps).
How should you structure your task 1 answer?
Use this 4-paragraph formula to write a well-organized response:
1. Introduction
- Paraphrase the question.
- Mention the type of visual and what it shows.
Example:
“The chart illustrates the percentage of students studying six different subjects at a UK university in 2023.”
2. Overview (Key Trends)
- Write a summary of the main features.
- No numbers here — just overall trends or patterns.
Example:
“Overall, science and business studies had the highest enrolment, while the arts were the least popular.”
3. Body Paragraph 1
- Present detailed data for 2–3 key trends.
- Use accurate figures, compare highs/lows, increases/decreases.
4. Body Paragraph 2
- Discuss additional data or make comparisons.
- Use linking phrases (e.g., whereas, in contrast, similarly).
Which vocabulary should you use for IELTS task 1?
Using the right academic vocabulary and grammar structures is crucial for Band 7+.
Vocabulary for Trends:
- Increase: rise, climb, grow, surge
- Decrease: fall, drop, decline, dip
- No change: remain stable, plateau
Comparison Phrases:
- In contrast, whereas, while, compared to, similarly, likewise
Adverbs for Degree:
- Slightly, moderately, significantly, dramatically, rapidly
What do examiners look for in IELTS task 1?
Your writing is scored on four criteria, each worth 25%:
| Band Descriptor | What It Means |
| Task Achievement | Did you cover all important features? Did you avoid opinions? |
| Coherence & Cohesion | Is the report well-structured and logically connected? |
| Lexical Resource | Did you use a range of academic vocabulary accurately? |
| Grammatical Range | Did you use complex sentences with correct grammar and punctuation? |
Common mistakes to avoid in IELTS academic task 1
- Writing your opinion (“I think…”)
- Including irrelevant details (e.g., colors or design of charts)
- Copy-pasting phrases from the prompt
- Not comparing the data
- Writing less than 150 words
Sample IELTS task 1 prompt + overview example
Prompt:
The table shows the percentage of household spending in five categories in four countries in 2020.
Sample Overview:
“Overall, food and housing accounted for the largest share of spending in all countries, while clothing and entertainment made up the smallest portions.”
FAQs about IELTS task 1
Can I write more than 150 words?
Yes, but keep it concise and focused. Quality > quantity.
Can I use bullet points?
No, write in full paragraphs using formal academic language.
Is Task 1 less important than Task 2?
Task 1 carries one-third of the total writing score — still very important!
Final tips to boost your IELTS writing band
- Practice paraphrasing Task 1 questions
- Build a visual vocabulary bank
- Review sample Band 9 answers
- Get professional feedback on your writing
Ready to improve your IELTS score?
At LEAP Counsellors, we offer:
Task-by-task IELTS training
Personalised writing feedback
Mock exams and timed practice
Academic writing skills for admissions
Whether you’re targeting a Band 7.0 or aiming for 8.5+, our IELTS mentors will get you there faster.
Book your free IELTS strategy session today with Mishal Iftikhar – Learning & Development Specialist at LEAP.
Mishal Iftikhar
Learning & Development Specialist
CEO at LEAP