IELTS Writing Task 1 Diagrams
Master IELTS Writing Task 1 diagram questions (mixed charts such as table + bar chart, chart + table, or multiple visuals) with this complete guide. Learn the key task requirements, high-band vocabulary, model answers and practical tips.
What is an IELTS Writing Task 1 Diagram Question?
A diagram question in IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 often combines more than one visual – for example, a table plus a bar chart, a chart and a table, or several graphs shown together. You must describe the main features clearly and compare the information across visuals.
What does this task test?
IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 asks you to summarise and describe visual data. The visuals can be line graphs, bar charts, tables, maps, processes – or a combination."Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant."
A diagram Task 1 tests whether you can:
- Select and summarise main features
- Compare categories (e.g. countries, groups)
- Describe changes over time (e.g. 2001 vs 2002)
- Use accurate data language and an appropriate academic style
Assessment Criteria
- Task Achievement:Cover main features, clear overview, accurate data reporting.
- Coherence:Logical paragraphing, grouping similar data, using linking words.
- Lexical Resource:Comparison verbs, proportion expressions, accurate spelling.
- Grammar:Complex sentences, correct tenses (past/present), comparative structures.
Timing & Rules
- Recommended time: 20 minutes
- Minimum length: 150 words
- Contains: Multiple visuals (e.g. Table + Chart).
Useful Vocabulary & Sentence Patterns
To reach Band 7–9 in IELTS diagram tasks, you need precise comparison language and effective data description.
Show: illustrate, compare, present data on
Change: increase, rise, grow, climb, soar, double
about, around, roughly, approximately
just under, just over, slightly more than
while, whereas, in contrast, by comparison
X was higher than Y, recorded far higher numbers
| Category | Examples |
|---|---|
| Reporting & Comparison Verbs |
|
| Proportion & Amount |
|
| Comparison & Grouping |
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| Core Patterns |
|
Core Sentence Patterns
- Intro: "The chart illustrates the number of high-speed internet connections as well as percentage changes in five countries."
- Overview: "Overall, all nations saw growth in connectivity, but the scale of increase varied greatly."
- Comparison: "South Korea and the USA already had far more connections than the other countries at the start of the period."
Band 9 Diagram Sample Answer
Analyze this high-scoring response to understand structure, data selection, and grouping for mixed charts (Table + Bar Chart).
The chart below gives information about the high-speed continuous internet connection of households in five countries in 2001 and 2002.
| Country | Percentage change |
|---|---|
| South Korea | +20 |
| USA | +170 |
| Germany | +80 |
| Switzerland | +120 |
| Britain | +230 |
Data Highlights
- Most Growth (Relative):Britain (+230%)
- Most Growth (Absolute):USA (+158.1)
- Highest Volume:USA (251.1)
Model Answer
The chart illustrates changes in high-speed continuous internet connections among households in five countries between 2001 and 2002. Overall, all nations saw growth in connectivity, but the scale of increase varied greatly, with Britain and the USA showing the most dramatic rises.
South Korea and the USA already had far more connections than the other countries at the start of the period. In South Korea, numbers grew modestly, resulting in a 20% increase, which suggests that the market was already close to saturation. By contrast, the USA experienced a 170% rise, with the number of high-speed connections climbing sharply over the two-year period.
Growth was also evident in the three European countries, though from a much lower base. Germany's figure rose steadily, leading to an 80% increase, while Switzerland recorded a stronger gain of 120%, reflecting rapid expansion of its digital infrastructure. Britain, however, showed the most remarkable change, with a 230% jump in high-speed internet access, indicating a rapid move towards widespread connectivity.
Overall, the data points to a clear trend of increasing reliance on high-speed internet across all five countries, albeit with markedly different rates of development.
Key Vocabulary Used
Essential Writing Tips for IELTS Diagram Essays
Task Response
Always provide a clear overview that summarises the main trends across all visuals. Don't describe each chart separately without linking them.
Coherence & Cohesion
Group data logically: by category (high vs low performers) or by time period. Use comparison linkers: while, whereas, in contrast, by comparison.
Data Selection
Focus on key figures: extremes (highest, lowest), significant changes, and relationships between the visuals. Don't try to include every number.
IELTS Writing Task 1 Diagram Sample Answers (Band 7–9)
Australian Tourists: Origin and Travel Behaviour
The pie chart and table below show the rate of Australian tourists from Asia, Europe, US and others as well as the staying length, accommodation, and activities.
Cinema Visits in Australia (1994–2002)
The table and graph below show the cinema visits in Australia between 1994 and 2002. Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features.
Population Size and Life Expectancy
The chart and table show the population size and life expectancy in three nations. Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features.
IELTS Writing Checker (Diagram & Other Tasks)
If you would like to practise IELTS Writing Task 1 & 2 (including diagram questions) with instant AI feedback, you can use Lingoleap, an AI-powered platform designed for IELTS and TOEFL learners.
On Lingoleap's IELTS page, you can:
- Generate and practise Writing Task 1 and Task 2 questions
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- Build your own bank of sample answers and vocabulary for different IELTS topics
- Combine writing practice with integrated speaking, reading and listening tools
FAQs about IELTS Writing Task 1 Diagrams
How do I structure an answer for mixed visuals (e.g. table + chart)?
Start with an introduction that mentions both visuals. Give an overview of the main trends. Then write body paragraphs that group data logically - either by category or by visual, making sure to link the information together.
Should I describe each visual separately?
Not entirely. While you may focus on one visual per paragraph, always make connections between them. The examiner wants to see that you can synthesise information from multiple sources.
What tense should I use for diagram questions?
If the data shows past years (e.g. 2001, 2002), use past simple. If the data is general or current, use present simple. Be consistent throughout your answer.
How do I avoid listing every number?
Select key data points: extremes (highest/lowest), significant changes, and interesting comparisons. Use approximations like 'roughly', 'about', 'just under' to sound natural.