Blog

Line graph in the IELTS Writing Task 1 is very common which requires candidates to interpret
the data in the graph. Generally, a line graph is a chart that uses lines to represent various data,
highlighting the changes in trends and is helpful in tracking changes over a certain period of
time or changes over the same period of time.
Depending on whether the line graph is simple or complex, it could include just one to two lines
or even more sometimes. In order to ace the Writing task 1 which requires you to write about
the line graph, it is very important that you read the question properly, read the heading
properly to understand the topic or the subject of the line graph. Often times, you may be able
to find units of measurements in the diagram which can be included in your introduction. The
line graph consists of X-axis (horizontal) and Y-axis (Vertical) which usually gives information
about the time period and measurement.
The instruction for Writing Task 1 requires you to ‘Summarise the information by selecting and
reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant’ and it is required that you
write at least 150 words. You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.
The basic elements required in the IELTS Writing Task 1 are an introduction, overview, body
paragraphs with details and summary.
Writing an introduction requires you to introduce the diagram clearly and here, paraphrasing
the question is your key which can help you save a lot of time. Remember to paraphrase and do
not copy! It is suggested that you also include the details in the x-axis and the y-axis when
introducing a line graph. At times when you are given two diagrams, it is very essential that you
introduce both the diagrams.
Writing an overview requires you to carefully analyse the line graph to identify the main trends
or changes. You can simply write an overview statement with the major increase or decrease
which is also referred to as the key point.
Writing body paragraph requires you to write in detail about the data represented however;
too much detail will not be required. You can give details about the starting point and the
ending point, information on the trends constantly increasing or decreasing or, when it reaches
the peak. The instruction requires you to summarise the information and because you will not
have enough time, you should make sure that you do not waste time writing every detail. The
number of paragraphs will solely depend on the information in the graph and could vary.
The key here is to make comparisons wherever relevant as suggested in the instruction. Writing
the details will not be enough if you fail to make comparisons between the trends and changes.

Often times, identifying the peak points, highest or the lowest range and intersection points can
help you compare the information.
Writing summary is essential and includes a concluding statement.
Apart from just focusing on the elements of the Writing Task 1, it is equally important that you
use a wide range of vocabulary. There are various nouns, verbs, adjectives, adverbs that could
be used to describe the changes in the trends.
Additionally, it is suggested that you spend some time before writing to carefully analyse the
diagram and plan on how you will organize your response. You can also think about the tense
that you are going to use considering the time frames in the line graph if any.
A lot of times, candidates give personal opinion which is not required. It is important to note
that the Writing Task 1 measures your ability to select the main features henceforth, avoid
writing too much detail.
And again, PRATICE IS THE KEY!