Task One Academic: Format
Whether you are describing a graph or a process for IELTS, you need to use the correct format. In both cases, the format is very similar.
IELTS Graph
There are three parts to the description:
- Introductory sentence
- Body
- Overview
1. Introductory sentence
In this, you explain what you are going to describe. This means giving the title of the graph and the time period it covers. If there are two graphs, you need to talk about both of them.
Example: This graph shows the number of international students visiting the UK between 1990 and 1999.
It should be a simple sentence and it is better if you make it a separate paragraph.
2. Body
In this part, you will give the key trends and key figures of the graph. You must include figures in this part to get good marks. You will also be comparing different parts of the graph. Look at language of graphs, time expressions and making comparisons for help.
3. Overview
Finally, you need to give an overall picture of the graph. You need to sum up all the information in one or two sentences. You can begin with a phrase like 'Overall,' or 'In general'. If you don't include an overview, you will lose a lot of marks. It is better if the overview is also a separate paragraph.
Check the model answer to see this format.
IELTS Process
For the process, there are only two parts:
- Introductory sentence
- Body
1. Introductory sentence
As with the graph, this sentence is used to say what you are going to describe. Again, it should be simple.
Example: This diagram shows the process which is known as the water cycle.
2. Body
In this part, you need to go through each step in the process. It is important to be clear and to be logical. Check this page for help with the language.
There is no need for an overview when you are describing a process. However, if you are describing a cycle, it is good to end with something like "Then the cycle begins again." to show that you understand this.
Check the model answer to see the format.