IELTS Writing Task 1
IELTS Writing Task 1: how to describe data and write letters
Task 1 asks for at least 150 words in about 20 minutes. Academic candidates describe visual information; General Training candidates write a letter.
Practise Task 1Academic Task 1 structure
A clear four-paragraph shape works for charts, tables, maps and processes:
- Introduction: paraphrase what the visual shows.
- Overview: two or three main trends or features — no exact numbers.
- Body 1 and Body 2: group details logically and compare them with data.
General Training letters
Decide first whether the letter is formal, semi-formal or informal, then cover all three bullet points in the prompt, each in its own paragraph.
Common mistakes
- Missing the overview — the most common reason for a low Task Achievement score.
- Listing every number instead of selecting key features.
- Adding opinions, which Academic Task 1 does not ask for.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a conclusion in Task 1?
Not a separate opinion conclusion. A clear overview of the main features is what examiners look for.