Writing Task 1 Academic Templates for Every Chart Type

Task 1 requires you to describe visual data objectively in at least 150 words. The key is a clear overview and accurate data selection — not personal opinion.

Universal 4-Paragraph Structure

1. Introduction — paraphrase the prompt (do not copy it)
2. Overview — the 2 to 3 most significant trends (no data figures here)
3. Body paragraph 1 — most important trend with specific figures
4. Body paragraph 2 — second trend or comparison with specific figures

Line Graph Template

Introduction: 'The line graph illustrates [what] in [where] between [start year] and [end year].'

Overview: 'Overall, [main subject] experienced the most significant [increase/decrease], while [second subject] remained relatively [stable/constant].'

Body 1: 'Turning to [main category], [value] rose sharply / climbed gradually / fell steadily from [X] in [year] to [Y] by [year], representing an overall [increase/decrease] of [Z].'

Body 2: 'By contrast, [second category] began the period at [X] and fluctuated between / remained stable at / peaked at [Y] before falling to [Z] by the end of the period.'

Bar Chart Template (Comparison)

Intro: 'The bar chart compares [what] across [categories] in [time period or location].'

Overview: 'Overall, [category A] had the highest [value] throughout, while [category B] consistently recorded the lowest.'

Body 1: 'Among the [groups], [category A] recorded the highest figure at [X], significantly exceeding [category B] at [Y].'

Pie Chart Template

Intro: 'The pie chart shows the proportional breakdown of [what] in [where/when].'

• Use proportional language: "accounted for", "represented", "made up", "constituted"
• Avoid repeating the same verb — vary between "accounted for", "comprised", "totalled"
• Round to nearest whole number unless the chart shows decimals

Process Diagram Template

Process diagrams describe a sequence of stages. Use passive voice and sequence markers.

Intro: 'The diagram illustrates the process by which [product/material] is [produced/recycled/manufactured].'

• Sequence words: initially, then, subsequently, after this, following this, finally, ultimately
• Passive verbs: is extracted, is heated, is compressed, is transferred, is treated
• Never add personal opinion or evaluation

Map Template

Intro: 'The maps show [location] in [year 1] and [year 2] / the proposed changes to [location].'

• Spatial language: in the north/south/east/west, adjacent to, to the left of, opposite, in the centre
• Change verbs: was replaced by, was converted into, was extended, was demolished, was constructed
• Comparison: whereas previously…, by contrast, in contrast to the original…

Key Data Language to Vary