IELTS / TOEFL: How to Solve IELTS Writing Task 1 - Bar Charts and Column Graphs

How to Solve: IELTS Writing Task 1 – Bar Charts and Column Graphs

Introduction Scoring 7 or above in this task can increase your overall IELTS band score by 1-2 points, making it a game-changer for students aiming for top universities or immigration purposes.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW FIRST

1. You should already be familiar with basic essay structure (introduction, body paragraphs, conclusion) and have a good understanding of vocabulary related to charts and graphs.
2. You should also be able to paraphrase and summarize information from the chart in your own words.
3. Familiarity with basic grammar rules, such as verb tenses and sentence structure, is also essential.

CORE CONTENT

Anatomy of the task: The question will typically ask you to describe and explain a bar chart or column graph, usually with a specific theme or topic. The question will usually be in the following format: "The graph below shows the [theme/topic]. Summarize the information by describing and explaining the main features, and make comparisons where relevant."

Step-by-step strategy:

1. Read the question carefully: Understand what the question is asking and what type of chart you are looking at.
2. Identify the main features: Look for the key information on the chart, such as the title, labels, and data points.
3. Describe the main features: Write a clear and concise description of the main features of the chart, using your own words.
4. Make comparisons and explanations: Use the data from the chart to make comparisons and explanations, highlighting any trends, patterns, or relationships.
5. Use vocabulary and grammar effectively: Use a range of vocabulary related to charts and graphs, and ensure your grammar is accurate and consistent.

Solved example:

Question: The graph below shows the number of students enrolled in different subjects at a university over a 5-year period. Summarize the information by describing and explaining the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

Chart:

Model answer:

The graph shows the number of students enrolled in different subjects at a university over a 5-year period. The main feature of the graph is the significant increase in the number of students enrolled in Science, from 100 in 2015 to 200 in 2019. In contrast, the number of students enrolled in Arts and Humanities has remained relatively stable, with a slight increase of 10-20 students per year.

Common Mistakes (3-5)

1. Mistake: Failing to describe the main features of the chart. Why it happens: Students may not take the time to carefully read the chart and identify the key information. How to fix it: Make sure to read the chart carefully and identify the main features before starting to write.
2. Mistake: Using too much technical vocabulary or jargon. Why it happens: Students may try to use complex vocabulary to sound more impressive, but end up confusing the reader. How to fix it: Use a range of vocabulary related to charts and graphs, but make sure it is clear and concise.
3. Mistake: Failing to make comparisons and explanations. Why it happens: Students may focus too much on describing the chart and forget to make connections between the data. How to fix it: Make sure to use the data from the chart to make comparisons and explanations, highlighting any trends, patterns, or relationships.
4. Mistake: Using the wrong verb tense. Why it happens: Students may use the wrong verb tense, such as using the present tense to describe a past trend. How to fix it: Make sure to use the correct verb tense, such as the past simple or past perfect, to describe the data.
5. Mistake: Failing to use a clear and concise writing style. Why it happens: Students may try to use complex sentences or overly technical language, making the text hard to read. How to fix it: Use a clear and concise writing style, breaking up long sentences into shorter ones and using simple language.

CRAM SHEET

1. Read the question carefully and understand what is being asked. ⚠️
2. Identify the main features of the chart and describe them clearly.
3. Use a range of vocabulary related to charts and graphs.
4. Make comparisons and explanations using the data from the chart.
5. Use the correct verb tense to describe the data.
6. Use a clear and concise writing style.
7. Break up long sentences into shorter ones.
8. Use simple language to explain complex concepts.
9. Make sure to paraphrase and summarize information from the chart.
10. Practice, practice, practice to improve your skills!