IELTS Academic Writing Task 1: how to write an overview that lifts your band
If your Task 1 has lots of numbers and no overview, your band is capped. The good news: an overview is two sentences, and you can learn to write one this week.
In Academic Writing Task 1 you describe a chart, graph, table, map or process in at least 150 words, in about 20 minutes. The single most common problem I see is this: the student describes every number carefully, and never says what the chart shows overall.
Take a look at this chart first. Before you read on, ask yourself: what are the two biggest things happening here?
What an overview is
An overview tells the reader the main trends or the biggest differences, with no small details. Think of it as what you would say if someone asked you, "So, what does the chart show?" and you had ten seconds.
The chart above.
What an overview is not
- It is not your opinion. Do not write why numbers changed unless the chart tells you.
- It is not a repeat of the question. "The line graph shows visitors to three museums" is your introduction, not your overview.
- It is not a list of every line. Two or three main points are enough.
Where to put it
Straight after your introduction is the safest place. The examiner sees it at once, and it guides the rest of your answer.
A process diagram of how glass bottles are recycled.
How to write your overview in 2 minutes
- Before writing, look at the chart for one full minute. Find the highest, the lowest and the biggest change.
- Start with Overall, and write the two biggest features. No numbers.
- Then write two body paragraphs, grouping the details. Do not go line by line through every year.
- Stay near 170 words. More words do not earn more marks.
Exam rules change. Always check with the exam provider and the organisation you are applying to.
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