sample writing task 1 pie chart

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IELTS Writing Task 1: Pie Chart Model Score 9

How to compare two pie charts in IELTS writing task 1. This sample answer illustrates the method of organising the report as well as useful language and sentence structures to get a band score 9.

IELTS Pie Charts

The pie charts below show the comparison of different kinds of energy production of France in two years. Source: Above pie charts not created by IELTS Liz.

Pie Chart Sample Answer

The two pie charts illustrate the proportion of five types of energy production in France in 1995 and 2005. 

Overall, in both years, the most significant sources of energy  were gas and coal, which together accounted for over half the production of energy, while nuclear and other kinds of energy sources generated the least amount of energy in France. In all types of energy production there was only minimal change over the 10 year period.

Energy produced by coal comprised of 29.80% in the first year and this showed only a very slight increase of about a mere 1 % to 30.9% in 2005. Likewise, in 1995, gas generated 29.63% which rose marginally to 30.1% 10 years later.

With regards to the remaining methods of producing energy, there was an approximate 5% growth in production from both nuclear power and other sources to 10.10% and 9.10% respectively. Petrol, on the other hand, was the only source of energy which decreased in production from 29.27% in 1995 to around a fifth (19.55%) in 2005.

Pie Chart Tips

• Always highlight the largest and smallest proportions
• If there are two pie charts in different time periods, then you must highlight the key changes / trends
• Use pie chart language – accounts for / comprises of / represents
• The phrase “Units are measured in …” should be used when the units have not been stated in the previous sentence.

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hello Liz, can you please let me know if we need to mention the name of the segments of a pie chart in the introduction just like we mention the name of categories in line graph ?

It isn’t related to what type of chart, graph or table you get. That is irrelevant. They are all the same in this respect. The issue is about the logic of how many categories there are to introduce and how lengthy (in words) each category is. If you have for example six sports, such as “tennis, badminton, hockey, swimming, football and basketball”, then it’s logical to introduce them because that is only 7 words. But if the categories are “going shopping with friends, seeing a movie in a cinema etc etc. You can see that just one category has four or five words, not one word or two. So, if there are 6 categories with about four words each, then the list becomes over 20 words which is obviously just too long for a short report. So, if the list is too long or too many words, you can just say the number = “seven categories”.

Hi Liz, Could you please help take a look at whether the following sentences are correct in the context? I’m not sure if I use “a decent rise” in an appropriate way here.

The amount of energy generated by coal accounted for 29.80% in 1995 and then went up to 30.93% in 2005. Similarly, the proportion of energy from gas increased from 29.63% to 30.31% in 2005. By contrast, production by nuclear and other sources witnessed a decent rise of around 4% to reach 10.10% and 9.10% respectively in 2005.

Thanks a lot! Wish you all the best:)

Lily from China

Hi Lily, You write very well. You’ve got a strong control of grammar with the ability to write well controlled complex sentences. However, the problem is that the word “decent” is the wrong word to use. It isn’t appropriate to most IELTS lines graphs or charts of change over time. The words you can choose from are: – dramatic – considerable – significant – and of course, you have opposite adjectives such as insignificant, minimal, small etc You could also say ” it doubled” / “it more than doubled” / “it tripled” / “it almost tripled”. These are two options for the sentence: 1) …..witnessed a significant rise of around 4% to reach …. (but a 4% rise is only significant if we know the figures in the first year so this option is not as appropriate) 2) ….production of energy from nuclear and other sources almost doubled to reach 10.10% and 9.10% respectively in 2005. The second one is better because it gives us an idea of what the first year figures were which is important to know.

I hope this helps.

The two pie charts compare proportions of different energy sources in France in the years 1995 and 2005.

Overall, it is clear that coal, gas, and petrol were collectively largest share of energy production in both given years. It is also noteworthy that the only decrease in the proportion of energy production was experienced in the case of petrol.

In 1995, the most wide-spread energy resource was coal with 29.80%, which was slightly followed by gas and petrol. While the former accounted for 29,63% of total energy production, the latter made up 29,27%. A mere 6.4% of total energy was composed of nuclear power. The remaining 4,9% was responsible for other sources.

In 2005, gas and coal were primary energy sources, with both sharing approximately 60% of total energy production. Despite decrease in the percentage of petrol production, the figure remained its position with 19,55%. There was an almost twofold increase in the proportions of nuclear power and other sources production, consisting of 10,10% and 9,10%, respectively.

The two pie charts compare five types of energy production (gas, coal, petrol, nuclear and other sources) of France in 1995 and 2005. Overall, it can be seen that France produces the majority of its energy by only two ways, namely gas and coal, in both years. Moreover, while petrol production decreased, the remaining forms of producing energy witnessed an increase during the period given. Energy produced by coal and gas accounted for 29.8% and 29.6% respectively in 1995, and both of them experienced a slight increase of about 1% in 2005. Petrol, on the other hand, which accounted for 29.2% in 1995, almost the same as gas and coal, experienced a sharp decrease to 19.5% in 2005. In terms of Nuclear energy, it comprised of 6.4% in 1995, which grew to 10.1% in 2005. Similarly, the figure for other sources of energy approximately doubled, rising from 4.9% to 9.1% over the given period.

like this :).

HELLO, These graphs show the comparison of energy production in France in 1995 and 2005. Though there are different kinds of energy production, in these graphs mentioned the most important sources: gas, petro, coal and nuclear. In 1995, France was generated gas 29.63 % and this is almost the same percent of gas production in 2005. Also these graphs shown, coal is generated by France country nearly the same amount proportion in two years. there was a noticeable difference of other sources, especially petro .in 2005, it was generated 19.55%, otherwise it was generated 29,27% in 1995. The difference between these years was 10%. On the other hand, the small minority of energy production was nuclear. it was generated 6.40% in 1995 and with the slight change approximated to 3 % through ten years. In my point of view, France will be able to be generate enough energy and import its over production of energy to others in the future. So it will improve its economy and increase incomes in France.

could you possibly to check that? thanks

Hi Liz, I hope you’re doing well. I was just contemplating about the usage of the words “increase ” and “decrease ” since it’s a pie chart and not a line graph. My point is that, we don’t know if the rate did increase or decrease between the given period. For example, in 1997 or 2000 we don’t know for sure what exactly happened. So, will this affect my score? Thank you for your hard work. I’ll be waiting for your prompt response! My Regards

Your task is to report what you see in the chart. If 1995 is 29% and 2000 is 30%, it is your task to state that the percentage increased. The chart does not give any information about 1996, 1997 etc and it is not your task to guess or speculate. You only state what you see – the percentage went up by 1%. It makes no difference at all whether the date is presented as a pie chart, line graph or bar chart, if it shows change over a period of time, you will use the language that we often associate with line graphs – that language is not actually line graph language, it is the language of time over time. I hope this helps you understand. Your aim is to use language appropriate to the data shown.

All clear 👌. Thanks a lot! (;

The charts below compare the differences in 5 various energy production in France in 1995 and 2005. Looking from an overall perspective, all trends showed significant increases, while the usage of petrol energy decreased over a span At first, there were minimal growths in the indications of coal and gas energy. Compared to 1995, it increased, by patting 1.13% and 0.72%. Furthermore, the proportion of nuclear energy used grew sharply by 3.50% at 10.10%. Simultaneously, the figure for petrol energy constituted 29.27 percent in the initial year, but in 2005, it dropped unpredictably to 19.55 percent. Lastly, with other energy used, there was experienced a dramatic improvement of 9.10 percent, in comparison it improved by 4.80 percent during the time.

The pie charts illustrate the proportion of five types of energy production in France in 1995 to 2005. Overall, at the beginning of the period coal produced the most significant to the energy of France, while the other energy productions was the least to the energy production.In comparison, at the end of the period gas and coal become the largest enrgy production and the lowest production was made by nuclear and the other energys. Gas production was 29.63% of France’s energy in 1995, and experienced a slight growth of nearly 1% in 2005. Energy income from nuclear was 6.40% in 1995 and had increased to 10.10% in 2005.At the beginning of the period other energy productions made up around 5% of France’s energy and figure rose to about 10% in 2005. Coal, which produced almost 30% of France’s energy in 1995, up to 30.93% in 2005. In 1995 energy outputs from petro was at nearly 30% and decreased by 10% after 10 years of period. In contrast, over the period of time petro was the only energy production which is decreased.

The two pie charts illustrate the difference in the makeup of energy production in over a decade. Overall, gas and coal were still the preferred choices of energy production, making up nearly 60% and just over 61% in 1995 and 2005, respectively. Interestingly, nuclear and other types of energy production were preferred over petrol in 2005, as it was declining by close to 10% in ten years.

In 1995, coal generated nearly 30% of energy in France, and it only increased slightly by nearly 1% to marginally over 30% in the period of ten years. While still maintaining the top two preferred energy sources in 2005, the increment of gas was also quite low, only less than 1% in over a decade.

As the least preferred source of energy, nuclear and others increased significantly in the past decade. In 2005, nuclear energy contributed to slightly over 10%, almost a 4% increase compared to 1995. This growth was also seen in other types of energy, which also gained a 4% jump from nearly 5% in 1995 to approximately 9% in 2005. Meanwhile, petro failed to generate more contribution as it dropped close to 19%, compared to 1995 where it generated almost 30% of energy production.

Above designed pie chart compares the kinds of Energy production in France of between two years.

Overall, we can see that Coal has gradually increased in the meantime, taking Gas, Nuclear and other energies with it as well. However, in contrast to the values, Patro was found decreasing.

The chart reveals that in France, the sharp percentages of Coal, Nuclear, Gas, Patro and other energies stood at 29.80%, 6.40%, 29.63%, 29.27% and 4.90% respectively in the year 1995. Glancing a bit deeper, we can observe that the dominant among these was Coal with the highest percentage found in the fossils, being followed by Gas and Patro which are not very less in nature than Coal. However, the minor energies included Nuclear and other different energies of values 6.40% and 4.90% respectively.

In 2005, France didn’t much leave the way it was in 1995. However, except Patro, we can see a gradual increase in all fossil energies. The highest grown fossil among all was Nuclear, with a jump of a massive 4.50% leading others which stood at 0.73%. However, Coal and Gas, which cover almost 70% of the France area, just showed a slight change of 1-2%.

On the other hand, if we look at Patro, which dropped to a terrifying 10% which is going to have a major impact on the resources or industries using the particular fuel for the production.

Answer’s good, But you’re not allowed to give your personal opinions sir, like you did in the last paragraph.

thankyou for your answer

You’re welcome 🙂

This illustrations below show the comparision between different shapes of producing energy in france in the year 1995 and the year 2005. Overall,in comparision with the two years ,France was producing different kinds of energy with a light contrasting between the percentage in the production in the whole kinds ,such as coal,gas,nuclear and other kinds.Neverthelss,it was particularly noticed that the petro produced lesser in around 10 percentage in 2005 than before . According to the two pie charts ,it was obviously analayzed that in whole kinds of energy production the percentage grew up from the year 1995 to the year 2005.For instance ,the percentage of produced coal increased approximatly one percent from 29 to 30 percentage.Producing nuclear jumped around 4 percent. With regrads to the remaining ways to producing energy,we can notice that in the whol kinds of producing energy in France there was an increasing expect in petro.

The pie chart provides a comparative study of 5 kinds of energy (Coal, gas, petrol, nuclear and others) produced in France between the year 1995 and 2005.

Overall, the highest amount of energy sources manufactured in France in both the years were coal and gas , which altogether made up over half of the energy production. On the contrary, the least amount of energy sources produced in the country was nuclear and other powers.

According to the data in the pie chart, coal produced 29.80% of energy in 1995 and increased slightly by more than 1% in 2005. Similarly, energy manufactured by gas comprised of 29.63% in 1995, rising slightly upto 30.31%. The third largest amount of energy sources was generated by petrol which accounted for 29.27% in the first year, decreasing to about a fifth 10 years later.

With regards to remaining method of energy production, it is noted that there was precisely 5% growth of nuclear and other powers in ten years at 10.10% and 9.10% respectively

In fine it can be said that , coal and gas are the most significant sources of energy in France as these two methods are highly produced in the country.

“Energy produced by coal comprised of 29.80%.” Is this sentance truly grammatically correct? I thought “comprise” is not followed by “of” unless it is used in the passive, so it should be : energy produced by coal is comprised of 29.80%, right?

That’s correct. It should be “comprised” without the of.

The two pie charts illustrate the data about how energy manufacturing has changed in France in two different years in 1995 and 2005.

From an overall perspective, it is evident that Gas, Coal and Petroleum made up the main items of production in both years while others remained relatively unchanged in the given period.

It can be seen that the percentage of Coal and Gas manufacture had minor changes increasing about just 1%, making up from 29% to just over 30% respectively. Petro usage accounted for just under 30% at the beginning but this dropped by approximately 10% in 2005.

When it comes to others and Nuclear, both of them increased in amounts, others almost doubled the size climbing from 4.9% to 9.1% in 2005. Finally, the Nuclear production rate rose to about 10%, making a difference of nearly 4% at the end period.

The two pie charts give information about the percentage of five different types of energy productions in France in 1995 and 2005.

Overall, it is clearly seen that in two different years, the produced amount of coal and gas were the highest, while the production of nuclear and other energy resources were the lowest. Furthermore, there was a huge significant difference in the production of petro, nuclear and others in both years.

By the year 1995, the amount of gas being produced was at an approximately thirty percent and in the next ten years, it rose slightly by less than 1 % at 30.31. Same happened with the coal production in 1991, it increased only by 1 % at 30.93 in 2005.

With regards to the amount of petrol being produced in the beginning of time, it is noted that there was a huge decline by almost ten percent in the later year and ended up to one fifth of the total production. On the contrary to what happened to others and nuclear resources, their produced in 2005 increased at 9.10 and 10.10 percent respectively.

The pie chart present that the average of various energy manufacture of France in the year of 1995 and 2005. Overall, it is clear that, these year the nation produce the largest amount of power in three sectors, namely coal, gas, and petro. Moreover, the nuclear and other energy production was least in France. In 2005, the nation produce their greatest number of energy was on coal, which represent the proportion at 30.93%, meanwhile in 1995 the percentage of this source was slightly lower at 29.80%. Year 1995, the country manufacture 29.63% of gas, whereas in 2005 the amount was increase 0.63% at 30.31%. On the other hand the proportion of petro energy was decrease comparatively 9.72% were in 1995 and 2005 the percentage was 29.27% and 19.55% respectively. Finally, the smallest proportion of other sources energy production of France in 1995 the rate of manufacture was 4.90% which almost doubled in 2005 at 9.10%. These figures in nuclear energy were 6.40% and 10.10% respectively.

The two pie charts illustrate France’s energy production in 1995 and 2005, respectively. Overall, at the beginning of the period, coal produced the most energy, while other sources made up the smallest segment of the chart. In comparison, in 2005, gas production was the most significant part of energy production, and the other part is still the least important part of energy production, like it was 20 years ago. In 1995, the production of coal and gas made up 29.38% and 29.63%, respectively, which is roughly 10% over half of all energy production, and those figures rose to 30.39% and 30.31% in 2005. At the beginning of the period production of Petro was in third place with 29.27% and fell to 19.55% in 2005. In 1995, the production of nuclear and other segments was at 6.4% and 4.9%, respectively, and those sections slightly grow to 10.1% and 9,1%.

The given pie chart’s illustrate the contrast of several types of energy power generated by France in between 1995 to 2005

overall, it was clear from the pie chart both year year France Higley produced coal energy and other energies were they produced less. in both the year

In the year 1995 France produced 29.80% coal energy. However, after 10 year it increased to 1.13% (30.93%). Second gas production in France begin year it was 29.63%. Yet in 2005 it had no significant changes it was slightly increased just 0.32 parentage ( 30.31%).

France petrol power energy production in 1995 was 29.27%, However in 2005 it was 19.55% it was mentioned negative feedback on petrol energy and deceleration trend. At the same year nuclear fusion power was 10.10% it was highest growth trend of French, In the past it was only 6.40%. In the case of green energy in 1995 it was 4.90%, however after the five year (2005) it showed huge change it was 9.10% it was Comparatively higher than gas, coal, petrol increasing trend

A glance at the pie chart provided reveals the information about variety kind of energy production of France in the years of 1995 and 2005

Looking from an overall perspective,the highest figure in the pie chart was in coal category, whereas a reverse trend was shown by the other category

In 1995,the rate of coal was just over 29%,whereas in 2005 this rate increased ,stood at just under 31%.A reverse figure in the 1995 was category of other which was well over 4%, in the other hand there was a slow increase , at well under 10% in the year of 2005 . In 1995, the rate of gas was about 29%, while in 2005 this percentage increased , indicating at about 31%. There was a steady increase in nuclear , at about 10% in 2005, which was well under 7% in 1995. The rate of petro decreased from about 29% to well under 20%. On the other hand, petro was the only source of energy which decreased in production

The pie charts given represents the scenario of energy sources in two different years for France.

Overall, the major sources of energy for France are gas and coal whereas the other sources are petroleum and nuclear energy.

The primary energy sources of France in the year of 1995 were gas and coal which remained same for the next ten years too. In between the years 1995 and 2005, the production of gas and coal increased very slightly from 29.63 % to 30.31% and 29.80 % to 30.93% respectively.

The contribution of petroleum products to the total energy band of the country decreased significantly from 29.27% to 19.55% in the time period shown. In order to recover this gap of energy supply, the generation of nuclear energy was escalated by 3.70% over the ten years. Additionally, the dependence on the miscellaneous energy sources also encountered a rise so that the energy demand of the country could be managed.

The two Pie charts illustrates the usage of 5 different types of energy(Coal, Gas, Petro, Nuclear and other )production in France in the 10 year( 1995 and 2005) Overall, in both the years the gas and coal production was recorded high, which together accounted half of the energy production in France, whereas the nuclear and other kind of energy production was accounted the least in both the years. There is a minimal increase in energy production over a decade. In the year 1995, coal alone accounted 29.80% with a slight increase in percentage in the year 2005 to 30.93%. Whereas the energy production of gas was 29.63% in the year 1995 which rose to 30.31% in the year 2005, Gas and coal contributed almost 60% of energy production in France Petro contributed around 30% in the year 1995 which should a downward trend and accounted to 19.53% in the year 2005. Nuclear and other source of energy has generated 6.40% and 4.90% in 1995 which increased to 10.10% and 9.10% in 10 years.

The pie charts illustrate the variation in the types of energy produced in France. It has been depicted for two different years (1995 and 2005).

Overall, the reliability on petrol has decreased significantly while the manufacture of all other types of fuel has experienced a marginal rise. The major increment has been in the production of nuclear energy and other kinds (3.7% and 4.2% respectively). However, compared to the 10 years gap over which the data has been recorded, the other categories have not experienced much change.

An in-depth analysis of the energy production in 1995 shows that Coal (29.8%), Gas (29.63%), and Petrol (29.27%) were all almost equally produced whereas the production of nuclear energy and other types of energy remained merely 6.4% and 4.9% respectively.

In 2005, The production of petrol submerged by a huge 9.72% (at 19.55%), while nuclear energy and other kinds of energy had a minor boost in production. The other categories of energy barely undergone any change in production.

The given piechart depicts the difference between various kinds of energy manufacturing in france in 1995 to 2005. In general, coal and gas both were more in demand whereas petrol , nuclear and other fuels were showing changes in two years . It is clearly evident that petrol consumption has decreased by 10%as compared to nuclear as it was consumed more in 2005 which is about 10.10% increased its consumption about 5 % in 10 years. However , gases and coal have almost similar trend showing difference of only 1 percent ,therefore, they were most preferred fuels in the 10 years .On the other hand , a category comprising other fuels were also showing a great change from 4.9 to 9.10.

The charts indicates the relation of various types of energy production (gas, coal, nuclear, petro and other sources) in France from 1995 to 2005. Overall, in both years there is a significant increase of coal and gas while nuclear and other kind of energy remains the least produced. During given period, coal was 29,8% in 1995 and slightly increased with at least 1,5% in 2005 with a proportion of 30,03% while gas on the other hand steadily goes up with about 5% in 1995 to 2005 (26.63% to 30,31% respectively). Furthermore, in 1995 nuclear maintained a percentage of 6,4% and an increase of about 4% is witnessed in 2005 (10,10%). Although other kind of energy increased in 2005 with 9,10% there was a decrease of production of 4,90% in 1995. Moreover, a high percentage of perto is noted in 1995 (29,7%) however a major decrease of about 10% is noted in 2005 with a proportion of 19,5%.

A stare at rendered pie graphs depict the energy generated in France through different sources in 1995 and 2005 From overall perspective, in 1995 maximum amount of energy was created by coal, gas and petroleum while the use of petrol was abridged in 2005 On scrutinizing the data, it is conspicious that in 1995 the proportion of energy generated through coal, gas and petroleum was nearly thirty , whereas, the percentum of energy produced though petrol was decreased by 10℅in a decade,on the other hand , the ratio of coal &gas energy had an trivial increment of 1percent . probing ahed, the percentile of energy generated through other and chemical sources was nearly 6&5percent which then hiked to approximately 10percent in 2005 .

The pie chart gives information about the main 5 sources of energy generation (gas, coal, petro, nuclear and others) used in France in two years 1995 and 2005.

Overall, gas and coal appeared to be the most used types of fuel in energy production over the given years as they compose around 60 %. Petro witnessed a decline in its use in 2005 compared to 1995 ( 19.22% and 29.27%, respectively) while nuclear usage has increased almost the double in 2005.

In 1995, coal, gas and petro almost had the same shares in the energy mix around 29%. Furthermore, nuclear had a small contribution of 6.4% compared to fossil fuels. On contrary, other sources of energy were not much popular and compromised a small fraction of around 5%. In 2005, fossil fuels kept the larger shares of energy production with a total around 80%. Meanwhile, petro usage decreased by almost a 10% compared to 1995; in addition, nuclear share rose to 10.10%. Other sources of energy were becoming more active and its share increased to 9.1%.

The given two pie charts illustrate the information about the percentage of five different kinds of energy production in France from 1995 to 2005.

Overall, it can be seen that the maximum amount of coal energy was produced in France . Whereas, other sources and nuclear energy were produced least amount of companies during the given period.

In 1995, the coal energy production in France company around (29.80). The second and three Highest amount of produced energy was gases and petroleum at (29.63%) and (29.27%) respectively, whereas nuclear energy was produce more than other energy sources (6.40% and 4.90%).

In 2005, the coal and gas energy production were 1% increased to (30.93%) and (30.31%) as compares to the 1995 at (29.80% and 29.63%) . While, the production of the petro energy was decreased (10%) from (29.27%) to (19.55%) . The maximum amount of the other energy sources and nuclear energy were incline (4%) to (9.10% and 10.10%) from 1995.

do leave a comment thanks

The bar chart illustrates the proportion of five different kinds of energy production such as coal, gas, petrol, nuclear and others in France in 1995 and 2005.

Overall, both years accounts high percentage in the production of gas as well as coal ratio. Furthermore, significant reduction of petrol was noted during 2005 (19.55%) from 10 years difference with approximately 9% less. Nuclear production on the other hand, gained at least 3% rise.

During the 1995 data, coal production seemingly the wide range used energy above all, with little to no difference up to the current year of 2005, respectfully. Moving on to gas element, similarly to coal, with scarcely no difference made. Meanwhile, Petrol had made an impact on the current data, during 1995 provided that it is the third top list energy production seemingly reduced approximately 9% in 2005.

Moreover, nuclear substance made slight rise 3% in about 2005. Thus, making others acquired minimal higher percentage in the given succeeding year.

These pie charts depict the proportion of various types of energy production between two periods 2005 and 1995 in France, measured in percentages.

Overall, it is clearly shown that the rates of coal had the highest numbers in both years. In addition, the second kind of energy productions used by France people was gas in both periods. However, other kinds were the lowest in the two decades.

According to what is shown, in 2005 coal was significantly increased about 30.93%, followed by gas 30.31% respectively. Whereas, the other energy production was the lowest rate 9.10%, compared with nuclear 10.10%. Furthermore, petrol was the third most popular energy production approximately 19.55%.

On the other hand, in France coal was 29.80% and gas about 29.63% were nearly close to each other in 1995. Petro showed a considerable increase compared with 2005 was 29.27%, it is similar as in 2005 was in the third level. Moreover, the other energy production was the lowest number of percentages 4.90%.

nice essay🔥🔥

The pie charts illustrate the information about five different types of energy produced in France in the year 1995 and 2005.

Overall, at the beginning of the period, coal, gas and petro contributed maximum in energy production of France, while nuclear and other contribution was least significant. In comparison, at the end of the period there was slight increment in production of nuclear and other in production of energy with a minimal increase in coal and gas. The production of pretro showed decrease in percentagewise contribution at the end of period.

Coal sector accounted for 29.80% of energy production of France in the year 1995, and experienced slight increase of 1.93% in the year 2005. Energy production from gas and petro were 29.63% and 29.27% in 1995. At the beginning of the period, nuclear and other contributed the least percentage of energy production of 6.40% and 4.90% respectively, and these figures rose to 10.10% to 9.10%.

Petro which comprised almost little less than 1/3rd of the energy production in 1995, fell to 19.55% in the year 2005. In 2005, nuclear and other increased in energy production 10.10% and 9.10%, both gained by around 5%, after 10-year period. In contrast, production of Gas remained to gain in the percentage of energy production to 30.31%.

The pie chart compares the percentage energy produced in France using different kinds of resources before and after a decade in year 1995 and 2005. Overall, coal was the biggest source of energy production in both years. Meanwhile, gas contributed almost equally in energy generation compared to remaining three sources. Production of petro energy decreased significantly in these ten years compared to nuclear and other forms of energy which increased slightly from 1995 to 2005. During 1995, the highest energy generating resources were coal, gas and petroleum contributing almost equally with a difference of only up to 0.6%. Nuclear and other forms of energy produced was only 6.40% and 4.90% respectively, which is very less in comparison to other three kinds. After a decade, nuclear form of energy production increased dramatically from 6.40% to 10.10%. Similarly other kinds of energy generation almost doubled from 4.90% to 9.10% which is a significant change. On the other hand, petroleum form of energy production decreased to one third as it was in 1995. Coal and gas contributed more or less same as ten years back in 1995.

The pie charts illustrates the percentage of energy produced by various sources in France in 1995 and 2005. Overall in the 10 years period, energy was primarily generated through gas and coal, which together accounted for two-third of the whole production. Petro on the other hand, the only source of energy which reduced considerable production. In France, energy is created through coal and gas accumulating to 60% of total energy produced. Both the sources shared equal contribution in the various period given. The chart shows a minimal increase in produce through gas and coal which was initially 29% in 1995 to 30% in 2005. Thus, the mutual share remained relatively stagnant. Whereas, the energy generated by Petro was 29%, which was equivalent to coal and gas in 1995, reduced drastically to 19% in the end of the period. Therefore, the remaining contribution to create power was relatively increased by nuclear and other sources. Previously in 1995, power produced through nuclear was 6.4 % and by other sources was around 5%. The proportion of power creation through nuclear and other sources rose significantly in 2005 to 10% and 9 % respectively.

The given both pie charts depict the five sources of energy contribution in France. Initially this data was recorded in 1995, and then again analyzed with a gap of 10 years in 2005. Overall in both charts, Coal, gas and petro have remained the major contributors of energy, comprising of almost 90% of energy production, where as nuclear and other are comparatively minor ones. Coal and Gas has experienced a slight growth of almost more or less than 1 %, whereas other sources’ figure rose to almost double after 10 years. Similarly nuclear sector has also advanced its production from 6.40% to 10.10% with an overall increase of almost 4% in 10 years. Petro, which is comprised of almost a quarter of France’s energy production in 1995 has faced a remarkable decline, subsequently has fallen to merely 19.55% in 2005 with an overall decline of almost 9% in 10 years duration.

For my eyes, yours is the best one 😉

The pie charts illustrate the differences between various types of energy yields in France in years 1995 and 2005 respectively. Overall, Energy production has seen a significant change in Nuclear and others, along with petrol, formulation of coal and gas is minimally progressed. At first, there is a slight improvement in the production of coal and gas, with hardly 2 percent growth cumulatively. However, it can be seen that there is a tremendous rise with respect to ‘others’ and ‘nuclear’, being at 9 and 10 percent approximately (compared to 5 percent and 7 percent around). On the other hand, the drastic decline, which can be seen in terms of petrol with 29 percent in 1995, falling to 20 percent in 2005 is a major change.

Hii liz hey i am very bad in grammer and i also lack of vocab how can i improve this …please help me

Consider getting my e-books: https://elizabethferguson.podia.com/

The pie charts show the details regarding the amount of energy which was generated from different sources in france in the two years 1995 to 2005.It is measured in percentage. A preliminary investigation of the pie charts reveal that coal and gas were the most popular sources for energy production,while the least amount of energy was produced by nuclear and other types of sources. At the beginning of the period,coal and gas stood at nearly 30 per cent of total energy.This figure was very similar in 2005.similarly,the propertion of energy from nuclear sources was at 6.4% in 1995,which was half of the energy production in 2005. Moreover,petro was also the most efficient source in 1995 with energy representing 29.27%, which was significantly decrease in 2005.At the end of the period,the propertion of energy which produces from other types of sources in 1995 and 2005 was at 4.90%and 10.10% respectively…….. #Plz evaluate my writing…

Hi Liz, first of all I have say that your lessons are very useful and thank you for doing such a nice work. I just wanted to ask when we writing the the academic writing task 1, is it ok to write our own opinion in the report?

An Academic Writing Task 1 should never contain an opinion. It is a factual report of the information given to you. You don’t interpret or add any information that isn’t present. Just report what is given.

The pie chart represent the proportion of various types of energy evolved of france between 1995 and 2005

After analysing the pie chart it can be clearly seen that the energy produced from petro was 29.27% but in later years it decreased by 10%. However nearly negligible difference can be seen for gases. Moreover, energy produced by nuclear was 6.40% and 10.10% in 1995 and 2005 year respectively, collectively 13% of the energy was evolved by the other gases

Further this pie chart depicts that, in 1995 it’s 29.98% for the coal whilst it slightly increases by 1%.

overall it is striking that that decrease in energy production is maximum in petro gas, on the other side increase in other gas and nuclear is more as compare to others.

Hello Liz, I have bought your e book of 150 essays but i have not yet received it in my mail. I have paid for it. Do let me know why is it happening.

Thank you suman

I’ve just checked my records. Looks like you spelled your email address incorrectly. I’ve just sent you an email to the correct email address that you are using in this website message. Take a look and let me know if you see it.

The two pie charts depict the contribution of five types of energy production during the years 1995 and 2005 in France.

Overall, the main contributors to energy production were gas and coal which accounted for more than half of the production, while nuclear and other kinds of energy were representing the least share in France. In all types of energy creation, there was only minimal growth over the 10 years duration.

The energy production of coal was 29.80%, which had grown to 30.93% within 10 years. The gas shared 29.63% in 1995 which merely increased to 30.31% in 2005.

In regards to the other energy products, petrol accounted for 10% fall from 29.27% in 1995 to 19.55% in 2005. Both the nuclear and other sectors of energy had grown with approximately 5% growth i.e 10% and 9.10%.

Hello Liz, Is it possible for me to interpret this chart or any one on your website and I get feedback? Because I am self studying and you’re my only guide.

Sorry, I don’t offer marking.

i love you liz

Is it right to use a phrase like ‘over the 10 years period’ which gives the idea that it has changed gradually? Also, can we use words such as ‘trend’ when we only have data for only 2 years? Is there a possibity that we lose marks for accuracy of data?

“over the ten year period” does not give the impression of change at all. I don’t understand your comment. It simply means “over 10 years” – it is a time phrase and nothing else. A trend is something that happens over a period of time. Accurate data is part of Task Achievement which is 25% of your marks. Please go the Writing Task 1 section of this website because the band score information and more tips are available there. Use the HOME page to access it or the RED MENU BAR at the top of the website.

The chart give information about various production of enegry in france during 1995 to 2005

It is noticeable that the production of gas coal and nuclear ,other source increase in futher year.But manfuture of petrol is decline over half decads

Looking at the information in more detail the production of coal was highest in early year at 29.80% after 10 year it was rised merely by 1.31% and reached to 30.03% in 2005.however gas was the second source of energy at 25.63% in 1995 and in later year it was grew only by 1% and it was accounted at 30.3% in 2005

with regard to other production of energy , increased pattern can seemed in both nuclear and other source by nearly 5% as it was accounted at 9.10% and 10.10% in 2005.By contrast ,the production of petrol in france was declined significantly by 10% from its 29.27% of the year 1995 by 2005 while it was only the source of energy to cut of its production.

Hi liz please how do i logically structure my paragraphs if there are three bar charts, with three different data collated.

Greetings mam Can we write idioms like birds of a feather,bone of contention etc in writing task 2 ?? Please mam help me

Some phrases are suitable for both formal and informal writing. Others are very clearly informal because they are so descriptive, such as “cool as a cucumber” – very informal. If you are not sure an idiom is suitable, don’t use it. You can still get a high score by using other idiomatic language such as suitable phrasal verbs.

are we supposed to write the OVERALL statement immediately after the introduction or we can write at the end as a conclusion

See this page: https://ieltsliz.com/ielts-writing-task-1-lessons-and-tips/

Hi,mam Overview is important in task 1.

For academic writing task 1, it is the most important paragraph that you will write.

Thank u so much Liz, your approach to questions teach me a lot

Thanks a lot. I love the way you answer your question

Hello Liz, I love your work. Thanks

The two pie charts represents different types of energy produced between 1995 and 2005 in France. Overall, coal, gas and petrol were equal in number in 1995 however after a decade production of petrol declined. Furthermore, nuclear and other energy also increased in production. In the year of 1995 coal accounts for 29.80% which produced more where as Gas and Petrol comprises of 29.63% and 29.27% respectively. And also, Nuclear production is 6.40% and other energy were 4.90%. After a decade, energy production rocketed except Petrol which reduced to 19.55%. Coal is 30.93% while gas is 30.31% which grows approximately 1% in both sources. However, Nuclear accounts for 10.10% and other energy production is 9.10% which is far more higher produced in a decade.

Good interpretation

Wow, you deserve a band score of 9 for this model ans 👍

Liz.. The best Teacher

Hello mam Can i rephrase the introduction of task 1 in passive form. For example …. The consumption of fules and the production of energy is represented in line graph during 2010. Is it right method or not

It is not a normal way to write an introduction. The introduction is about the line graph – and that means the subject of the sentence should be the line graph. You only use passive voice for particular reasons – not because you think it might help your score. Using it at the wrong time will actually damage your score.

Best tutorial i have ever seen and come to knew, i became a profound in ielts. However, i was more keen towards your ielts videos which help me a lot in writing task thank you madam for giving such a strategies which boost our confidence in real exam

Thanks a lot Liz. Your teaching is helpful

Best teacher

Thank you Liz for all your teachings. You happen to be one, if not the only, ielts teacher who is selfless and dedicated to her work. I finally made the scores I need after paying apt attention to your tutorials, mostly video subscriptions. Keep up the good work. YOU’RE THE BEST

Hi Liz, I hope you are well. I was just wondering if the term family is an acceptable alternative to the term parents in the context of paraphrasing. 🙂 Thanks in advanc

A family can include children which the word parents does not. A parent is a parent. It is not paraphrased. There are many other words in an essay that can be paraphrased – select your paraphrases carefully.

letter only come in ielts general?

Thank you so much mam Your the best one to teach IELTS Your lessons is very helpful to get high band in IELTS writing task 1 and 2. God bless you 😍

Hey Liz, is it necessary to write overall in task 1?

Yes. It is the most important paragraph in your writing task 1 report. This applies only to academic writing task 1.

Okay ma’am got it, thankyou 😊

hlo mam😊 you are amazing👌🏻 the way you teach is awesome🙏🏻

Hi Liz- can we get bar, pie or line charts in general training exam? Should i prepare for them ?

GT writing task 1 is a letter only. If you go to the main writing task 1 page on this site, it is all explained.

which one is tough according to you ..GT or Academic ?

On the whole, the Academic IELTS test is more difficult – but I’m sure there might be people who do not agree – it’s a personal opinion.

Thank you for your great support to students who preparing for the IELTS.

Can we use this sentence in the overview paragraph instead of writing just “overall”:”Overall, what stands out from the pie charts is…”?

It’s up to you but those words don’t add more to your score. They are not wrong or right – they are just not particularly needed. If, however, you are worried about how writing enough words, they can be useful.

Hello Liz, Could I write 25 % as exactly a quarter instead of 25 %.

We use that language for pie charts which show the amount based on a whole. Be careful using too much pie chart language for a bar chart.

Hi Liz. First of all thanks for this website. Every single word is a great help. Do you mean we cannot use quarter, fifth etc in bar chart? Can you please explain more.

“a quarter” means a quarter of a whole. Pie Charts show a whole, bar charts do not. It isn’t impossible to use for a bar chart, but it isn’t usual. A quarter is pie chart language.

Thanks for your reply. I get your point now. I guess I can use it when it describes accurately the bar chart, for example: the expenditure for item A is around a quarter of that of item B. I have my exam in 2 days. After getting 6.5 in writing in 4 exams 😢 I hope this time I can get more than 7. Wish me luck. Thanks again.

I wish you lots of luck!! Keep a logical approach to IELTS and don’t over-think. Also keep an eye on the clock for reading and writing to manage your time effectively. See this page too: https://ieltsliz.com/ielts-exam-tips-on-the-day/ 🙂

Thank you for this point. Now I understand.

Hi, Mam Can we use conclusion at the end of body paragraphs rather than a overview in second paragraph? Which will give high Band score?

It will not give a higher score. You can put the overview after the introduction or at the end – it makes no difference to your score. Remember this is not an essay – it is a report.

Hi Liz First off all, there is no word for your wonderful work really appreciate thanks. One think to correct in the paragraph overall at the end of sentence is it 10 year period or 10 years period?

Always check articles (a/the). “a ten-year period”. The noun is “a period”.

Thanks Liz..

(The phrase “Units are measured in ……” should be used when the units have not been stated in the previous sentence) What do you mean of this tip?

“The graph shows the proportion of …”. This already shows that the units are percentage – you don’t need to to repeat it by writing “Units are measured in percent”.

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IELTS Academic Writing Task 1: Pie Chart with Model Answer

This IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 question type might make you a little hungry. That’s because we’re going over pie charts today! To help give you an idea of what to expect and how to write a response, let’s look at this pie chart practice question with a model band 9 essay .

To see why this essay is band 9, see our Band 9 essay with scorer commentary , and check out the official IELTS rubric for Task 1 (PDF) .

This particular prompt is a pie chart. Your approach to this chart should be the same as your approach to any other Task 1 infographic Take a look at the information and think carefully. What is the best way to summarize the way the information is structured and the main points? From there, how can you best compare the most relevant pieces of information? Finally, how should you structure that summary and comparison? For more advice on how to approach this, see our article on IELTS Academic Task 1 paragraph structure , as well as our main page for IELTS sample questions and practice resources .

Try to do this prompt yourself. Then check out our band 9 model essay below the prompt and compare it to your own work to see how you did.

Model IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 Prompt: Pie Chart

The chart below gives information about the household percentage of spending on essential goods in China for the years 1995 and 2011

Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features and make comparisons where relevant.

The two pie graphs show differences in Chinese household spending in four essential categories. These categories are marked as percentages of total spending, with differences in spending for 1995 and 2011.

Food and clothing remained the largest categories in both years, with medicine and household goods remaining the smallest. Nonetheless, there were measurable changes in all four categories over the years. Changes to the household budget shares of food and medicine were particularly noticeable.

Both of the top two categories, clothing and food, shrank during this 16 year period. Clothing lost just 1% of its share, going from 19% to 18%, while food dropped more dramatically, starting at 68% but losing 9 points of share by 2011.

In both 1995 and 2011, medicine and household goods represented the lowest and second-lowest spending categories, respectively. Still, both gained a larger share of household spending in China by 2011. Medicine jumped 7 points from 4% to 11%, while household goods made a smaller but still-noticeable increase from 9 to 12 percent.

More Practice IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 Sample Questions and Model Essays

• IELTS Academic Writing Task 1: Process Diagram with Model Answer
• IELTS Academic Writing Task 1: Bar Chart With Model Answer
• IELTS Academic Writing Task 1: Map With Model Answer
• IELTS Academic Writing Task 1: Line Graph with Model Answer
• IELTS Academic Writing Task 1: Comparing two Graphics with Model Answer

And don’t forget to use Magoosh’s complete guide to IELTS Writing .

David is a Test Prep Expert for Magoosh TOEFL and IELTS. Additionally, he’s helped students with TOEIC, PET, FCE, BULATS, Eiken, SAT, ACT, GRE, and GMAT. David has a BS from the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire and an MA from the University of Wisconsin-River Falls. His work at Magoosh has been cited in many scholarly articles , his Master’s Thesis is featured on the Reading with Pictures website, and he’s presented at the WITESOL (link to PDF) and NAFSA conferences. David has taught K-12 ESL in South Korea as well as undergraduate English and MBA-level business English at American universities. He has also trained English teachers in America, Italy, and Peru. Come join David and the Magoosh team on Youtube , Facebook , and Instagram , or connect with him via LinkedIn !

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2 responses to “IELTS Academic Writing Task 1: Pie Chart with Model Answer”

The pie charts show data about the proportion of money which people spent on 4 main categories in China, between 1995 and 2011. İn general, more money reserved, which was a large proportion of pie charts, for food category.The proportion of household products and medicine was doubled total in 2 years.The percentage of money reserved for clothing category saw a decrease over the period in China. When looked in detail, in the beginning of the period, food category had the proportion of 68%. However, the figure dropped significantly to 59%. Household products and medicine category started at 9% and 4%. When the figure of household products went up slightly to 12%, the figure of medicine accounted for 11% which was an overwhelming change. The pie charts clearly show that, the amount of clothing category stood at 18%in 2011, which was 19% in the beginning.It is clear that clothing category had a minimal change.

The presented pie charts give information on household expenditures for staple commodities of the people of China. The charts indicate the changes for the years 1995 and 2011. Calibration of data is done in percentages and the outlays are represented by dividing them into 4 sections. As an overall trend food and clothing remained the biggest category during the mentioned period. Whereas the other two groups of medicine and household utilities showed the same indices relative to one another by the end of the timeframe. It is explicitly observed that spending on food stayed prevalent over the period demonstrating a slight change from 68% in 1995 to 59% in 2011. Expenses on clothing, likewise, mildly shrank from 19% to 18%. Concerning expenses on medicine and household goods both witnessed a moderate ascent, the former started at 4% in 1995 and eventuated at 11% in 2011. On the other hand, household goods gained 3 points and uplifted from 9% at the beginning to 12% by the end of the span.

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IELTS writing task 1: describing a pie chart

In this lesson we're going to learn how to effectively describe a pie chart in IELTS Writing task 1 . To get a band 9 for your answer, you should follow this answer structure :

• Introduction
• General overview
• Specific features

Let's look in detail how to apply this structure to answer IELTS pie chart question .

IELTS pie chart Question :

The two pie charts below show the percentages of industry sectors' contribution to the economy of Turkey in 2000 and 2016. Summarize the information by selecting and reporting the main features and make comparisons where relevant.

You can watch a video tutorial on how to describe pie charts in IELTS Academic Writing task 1:

And now let's learn how to describe IELTS pie charts by doing this example.

IELTS pie chart answering strategy :

1. Introduction

The first paragraph you write is an introduction . The introduction is 1 or 2 sentences, where you introduce your chart. In the introduction you have to paraphrase the information from your question and mention 2 important things:

• what your graph shows
• for what period of time

In our example, I wrote the introduction this way:

The two pie charts illustrate how different industry sectors contributed to the economy of Turkey percentagewise in the years 2000 and 2016.

So, I just took the information from the question card and paraphrased it in such way:

show → illustrate the percentages of industry sectors' contribution to the economy of Turkey → how different industry sectors contributed to the economy of Turkey percentagewise in 2000 and 2016 → in the years 2000 and 2016.

pie charts = pie charts (don't change this!)

2. General Overview

The second paragraph of your answer is a general overview , where you briefly describe 2-4 key features of your chart.

In our case there are two main options to describe key feature s:

• find the biggest and smallest slices of each pie chart
• find which slices became bigger/smaller or didn't change

Each option is fine, but don't write both of them because you have to keep your overview short. I have chosen then first option . Let's look again at our pie charts and identify the biggest/smallest slices :

Now include the information you've gathered from the chart into your overview. Always start your general overview with the word overall :

Overall, at the beginning of the period construction contributed the least to the economy of Turkey and agriculture was the most significant economic sector. In comparison, at the end of the period healthcare and education became the largest economic segment and the lowest contribution was made by financial, business and other services.

3. Specific details

The last part of your answer is specific details . You should group the specific details of your chart in 2 or 3 paragraphs .

You can group data in such way :

• Sectors that had an increase (construction; trade utilities & transportation; manufacturing; finance, business and other services)
• Sectors that had a decrease or didn't change (agriculture; government; leisure and hospitality; healthcare and education)

In our case, paragraphs with specific details may look as follows:

Construction sector accounted for 3% of Turkey's economy in 2000, and experienced a more than threefold increase to one-tenth in 2016. Economic income from trade, utilities and transportation was 14% in 2000 and experienced a slight growth of 2% in 2016. At the beginning of the period, manufacturing and finance, business and other services made up 8% and 5% of Turkey's economy, respectively, and these figures rose to 12% and 8% in 2016. Agriculture, which comprised almost a quarter of Turkey's economy in 2000, fell to 14% in 2016. In 2000 economic outputs from government and leisure and hospitality sectors were at 12% and 17%, respectively, and both decreased by 3% after 16-year period. In contrast, contribution from healthcare and education sector remained constant in both years at 17%.

Useful vocabulary to write a percentage of a certain sector: :

• sector X was 3%
• sector X made up 3%
• sector X accounted for 3%
• sector X comprised 3% of [the whole chart]

The full answer + Practice

It's the end, we have finally written the answer for IELTS bar chart question. And now, let's practice: fill in the gaps in this answer with appropriate words .

The two illustrate how different industry sectors contributed to the economy of Turkey percentagewise in the years 2000 and 2016.

, at the beginning of the period construction contributed the least to the economy of Turkey and agriculture was the most significant economic sector. In , at the end of the period healthcare and education became the largest economic segment and the lowest contribution was made by financial, business and other services.

Construction sector accounted for 3% of Turkey's economy in 2000, and experienced a more than increase to one-tenth in 2016. Economic income from trade, utilities and transportation was 14% in 2000 and experienced a slight of 2% in 2016. At the beginning of the period, manufacturing and finance, business and other services made up 8% and 5% of Turkey's economy, respectively, and these figures rose to 12% and 8% in 2016.

Agriculture, which almost a quarter of Turkey's economy in 2000, fell to 14% in 2016. In 2000 economic outputs from government and leisure and hospitality sectors were at 12% and 17%, , and both decreased by 3% after 16-year period. In contrast, contribution from healthcare and education sector remained in both years at 17%.

(203 words)

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Writing Task 1 Pie Chart

This writing task 1 pie chart is discussing proportions of staff employment in the public sector over two years. 

There are two charts, and if possible it's better to try and compare categories together ('age' in this case) rather than just describing one pie chart then describing the other. 

By doing this you will better highlight particular similarities and differences over the years. 

Now take a look at the question and model answer. There is a discussion of why the writing task 1 pie chart would get a good score below the model answer. 

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

The chart below shows the proportion of staff employed by age in the public sector in the UK in 2015 and 2020. 

Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features and make comparisons where relevant.

Write at least 150 words.

Writing Task 1 Pie Chart - Model Answer

The pie charts illustrate the ages of people employed in the UK public sector during two years, 2015 and 2020.  Overall, while the percentage of those employed in their 20s and 40s increased, employment for other ages groups, particularly the over 50s, fell.

Turning first to the younger age groups, although the employment of workers under 21 actually fell from 14% in 2015 to 12% in 2020, the overall percentage of workers under 30 actually rose because of the surge in employment of 21-30 year olds, which increased significantly from 23% to 33%. Similarly, the proportion of employees over the age of 40 climbed from 19% in 2015 to 28% by 2020. 

However, other groups saw quite significant falls in employment. For 31-40 year olds, the employment figure plummeted from 21% in 2015 to just 11% by 2020, which represented a substantial drop of more than 50% in relative terms. Likewise, the employment of over 50s declined, though not by quite so much, standing at 23% in 2015 and 16% in 2020.

(172 Words)

The description fulfils the task as it summarises the information from the graph, selects the key information, and makes comparisons of the data. 

Rather than just listing each point it shows how each has changed over the two years, highlighting particular differences. 

There is also a clear overview presenting the main trends over the years:

Overall, while the percentage of those employed in their 20s and 40s increased, employment for other ages groups, particularly the over 50s, fell.

The writing task 1 pie chart is well organised into clear paragraphs, with the first body paragraph discussing the general categories that have risen, and the second showing which have fallen. 

There is a good mix of vocabulary, such as using ' rose', 'increased ' and ' climbed ' or ' fell', 'plummet' and ' drop ' rather than just repeating one particular word. There is also a good mix of compare and comparison language more generally.

There is also a good mix of sentence types, with several examples of complex sentences, such as:

• ...while the percentage of those employed in their 20s and 40s increased
• ... although the employment of workers under 21 actually fell  
• ... which represented a substantial fall of more than 50% in relative terms

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More on IELTS Pie Charts:

Task 1 Pie Chart: Using the past and future tenses

Task 1 pie chart for IELTS with model answer and tips on how to develop a high-scoring response to this type of chart. You need to use past and future tenses.

IELTS Pie Chart Strategies and Tips for a Band 7, 8 or 9

This IELTS pie chart lesson provides you with tips and advice on how to describe an IELTS Pie Chart in order to get a Band 7, 8 or 9.

IELTS Pie Chart Exercise: Improve your language flexibility

With this IELTS pie chart exercise you can Improve your language and grammar for writing about Task One charts. The focus is on comparing and on 'proportions'.

IELTS Sample Pie Chart: Describing four pie charts together

View a sample pie chart for the IELTS test on electricity generation, with a model answer. In a pie chart you have to use language connected to proportions and percentages.

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• IELTS writing

In Academic Task 1 of the Writing module , you are expected to write a short descriptive report based on visual information or data. This visual information may be presented as pie charts. Pie charts are circular charts divided into sectors or ‘pie slices’, usually illustrating percentages. The size of each pie slice shows the relative quantity of the data it represents. Together, the slices create a full circle. They are commonly used in the business world and the mass media, and are less common in scientific or technical publications.

Sample Questions

Accessing the news in canada and australia.

The pie charts compare ways of accessing the news in Canada and Australia.

Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

Employment sectors of graduates from Brighton University, 2019

The chart below shows the proportions of graduates from Brighton University in 2019 entering different employment sectors.

The devices people use to watch television in Canada

The pie charts below show the devices people in the 18 to 25 age group use to watch television in Canada in two different years.

World passenger car production, 2015

The graph shows data on the manufacture of passenger cars in 2015.

The post-school qualifications held by Canadians

The graphs below show the post-school qualifications held by Canadians in the age groups 25 to 35 and 45 to 55.

Government expenditure in 2010 and 2015

The charts below show local government expenditure in 2010 and 2015.

Most common advantages and disadvantages of Bowen Island

The pie charts below show the most common advantages and disadvantages of Bowen Island, according to a survey of visitors.

Number of journal articles read per week by all students, PhD students, and junior lecturers

The pie charts below illustrate the number of journal articles read per week by all students, PhD students, and junior lecturers at an Australian university.

Reasons for cycling to work

The charts below show the reasons why people travel to work by bicycle or by car.

Causes of worldwide land degradation

The pie chart below shows the main reasons why agricultural land becomes less productive. The table shows how these causes affected three regions of the world during the 1990s.

What makes people most happy?

The charts below show the results of a survey about what people of different age groups say makes them most happy.

Average Household Expenditures by Major Category

The pie charts below show the average household expenditures in Japan and Malaysia in the year 2010.

Employees and self-employed: by sex and occupation, 1992

The two pie charts below show some employment patterns in Great Britain in 1992.

Online sales for retail sectors in Canada

The two pie charts show the online shopping sales for retail sectors in Canada in 2005 and 2010.

Expenditure by local authorities in Someland

The three pie charts show the changes in annual spending by local authorities in Someland in 1980, 1990 and 2000.

Transport and car use in Edmonton

The diagrams give information on transport and car use in Edmonton.

Managing Finances

The diagrams show UK students' responses to the question of to what extent would they describe themselves as financially organised.

World population by region, 1900 and 2000

The pie charts give information about world population in 1900 and 2000.

Average Household Expenditure by Major Category

The pie charts show the average household expenditures in a country in 1950 and 2010.

Projected market share of the two companies in jeans

The pie chart shows the projected market share of the two companies in jeans at the end of next year.

Electricity generation by source in New Zealand and Germany in 1980 and 2010

The pie charts show electricity generation by source in New Zealand and Germany in 1980 and 2010.

Related topics

• Writing task one: pie charts
• IELTS Writing Task 1: comparing pie charts
• Writing Introduction
• IELTS Writing strategies
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IELTS Writing Task 1: Pie Chart

Updated on Mar 08, 2024, 10:52

IELTS Writing Task 1 encompasses different types of visual data, including a pie chart. Pie charts are easy to analyse; most of you would have learned about them in school! 

However, writing a description/report that meets IELTS Writing standards is challenging. That’s where we come in.   

On this page, we’ll explore various strategies that can be used to solve IELTS Writing Pie Chart question types and provide you with samples for better understanding. 

On This Page

1. IELTS Writing Pie Chart Task 1: Sample Answer

You can quickly climb the learning curve by practising regularly and referring to sample answers! 

2. IELTS Writing Pie Chart Task 1: How to Answer

Pie charts contain a circular chart comprising various divisions representing a value. 

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IELTS Writing Pie Chart Task 1: Sample Answer

You can quickly climb the learning curve by practising regularly and referring to sample answers!   

Pro tip: Remember, IELTS hates memorised answers. Try only to take inspiration from our samples and practice writing it yourself.   

Let’s see a sample answer for Pie Chart Task 1.

• The charts show projections for global production by sector in 2040 and 2060 .
• Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features and make comparisons where relevant.

Sample Answer: 

The pie charts provide a comprehensive overview of the projections for global production by sector from 2040 to 2060. Remarkably, the service sector dominates both pie charts holding the highest segment, whereas the agriculture sector remains the smallest in both the years.  

By observing the pie charts, it can be inferred that the manufacturing sector will rise from 31% in 2040 to 33% in 2060. The service sector will increase by 1% from 40% in 2040 to 41% in 2060. In contrast, agriculture production will decline by 3% from 4% in 2040 to 1% in 2060.  

Moreover, the Material and Info-Com Tech sectors will rise from 3% and 15% in 2040 to 4% and 16% in 2060, increasing by 1%, respectively. The energy sector will decline from 7% in 2040 to 5% in 2060.

Overall, no significant changes have been predicted. Though all the sectors have their importance, the service sector has the highest manufacturing projection in 2060.

IELTS Writing Pie Chart Task 1: How to Answer

Pie charts are named after their shape, as they look like a delicious pie! These charts contain a circular chart comprising various divisions representing a value. 

As a part of IELTS Writing Task 1, you must analyse the chart and respond to the given questions. Here’s how you can go about it. 

Analyse the Question

Read the question thoroughly. Understand what each value represents. The question may ask you to summarise the information, write about the main features, or compare the main features.  

Here’s an example of the same: 

• The pie chart shows the proportion of different categories of families living in poverty in the UK in 2002.

It’s essential to pay attention and directly respond to exactly what’s asked in the question. Try not to go overboard with your answers. Pick 2-3 that stands out when you talk about main features. Don’t attempt to cover everything. 

Identify the Main Features

How do you spot the main features? You can think of the main features as the things that naturally stand out from the graph. It could be a common and consistent trend or pattern, units of measurement, or even the graph's labels.   

For instance, if the chart concerns people living in poverty, can you spot which category has the highest and lowest poverty rate? These could easily be your main features!   

The main features will differ from one chart to another. Try to keep it simple; don’t get too mathematical. Here are some things you can do:   

• Read through the labels and titles carefully
• Examine the proportions of each division
• Identify the highest and lowest proportions
• Check if the chart has a pattern or trend 
• Conduct a quick comparison of the elements

Structure your Report/Description

Once you have figured out the fundamentals of your chart, structure your essay. Here’s the most classic structure for any writing piece:   

• Introduction:  Start with a simple paraphrase of your question. You could say, “The chart above depicts  the proportion of different categories of families living in poverty in the UK in 2002.” 
• Overview:  Highlight the main features in the text and write a small description about each of them.
• Dive into the details:  Expand the main features and get into the details. Write about the whys, whats, and hows. Quote the percentages in the pie chart to support your information. You can apply this to two paragraphs of the body of your essay. 
• Provide comparison:  If the question asks you to compare data, this is where you can compare the main elements of the graph. Try to do it sequentially, and try not to take sides. You can use words like “In contrast,” “Similarly,” or “On the other hand” to establish a comparison.
• Conclude:  Summarise your deductions from the chart and make any final recommendations, if necessary. 

Below is a sample for your better understanding!

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Related Articles

Q. How to analyse a pie chart?

A.  The best way to analyse a pie chart is as follows: 

• Analyse the key elements, such as the highest and lowest proportions 
• Look for patterns. Is there a common trend? 
• Pay attention to the label and numbers mentioned.

Q. How should I structure my essay for a Task 1 Pie Chart Question?

A.  You should ideally divide the essay into 3 parts, introduction, body and conclusion. Here’s how to go about it.

• Introduction:  Paraphrase the given question 
• Body: Highlight the main features of the text, and highlight descriptions of each text
• Conclusion: summarise and make any final recommendations, if necessary 

Q. Do I need to include all the data from the pie chart in my essay?

A.  No, you don't need to include every detail from the chart. In fact, it is recommended that you don’t cover each and every detail from the chart as it may unnecessarily expand your answers. Focus on the most significant trends and comparisons, and use those to support your analysis. But, make sure you’re covering all the important points.

Q. How long should my essay be for a Task 1 Pie Chart Question?

A.  Typically, IELTS writing task 2 questions should be 250-300 words long. The question will specify the required word count. You must make sure that your answer is not shorter than the given minimum word limit, or you may lose marks. However, you can freely exceed the word count if necessary. Try not to make your essay too lengthy. 

Q. What kind of vocabulary should I use in my essay for Task 1 Pie Chart Questions?

A.  Here are some useful words to use in Pie Chart questions of writing task 2: 

• Proportion 
• Trend 
• Distribution
• Comparison 

• Skip to main content

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How to describe Pie charts for IELTS

Home  »  IELTS Academic Task 1  »  Pie chart for IELTS

 In this  IELTS Writing Task 1  tutorial, you’ll learn different ways to structure and  describe a   pie chart for IELTS .

We will talk about the best language to use and teach you how to structure your writing task to get the best results in your  IELTS exam .

How to structure your writing task for academic task 1 – pie chart IELTS

To help with your  IELTS preparation  we will give you a step by step guide on how to structure your  pie charts description  to receive great results on your writing task 1 exam.

Remember that in IELTS writing task 1, your task is to summarise the main features and make comparisons where relevant. There are several tricks to help you do this.

Step 1 – Prepare

• Let’s start with selecting and reporting the main features of the pie chart. What does the pie chart show? Can you quickly think of any synonyms? Write these words under the IELTS pie chart diagram.
• Look for the biggest and smallest sections of your pie charts – What do they represent? What is the percentage?
• Make a quick analysis – note down the period of time, dates and measurements.
• See the big picture, avoid getting lost in the details. After all, this is a summarizing task.
• When you are confident you have selected the main features, carry on to step 2.

Step 2 – Organise your findings into two groups

When organising the information into two separate groups focus on these topics for your pie charts:

• Major trends
• Major groups
• Group information
• Other similar ideas

Note – you do not have to find examples for all these. The point is that by organising information into groups, you are doing two things at once; reporting the main features (two main trends) and you can also make comparisons where relevant (one group is bigger than the other).  

A trend could be that over time, students at the University of Cambridge always spent the most money while students at the British Council spent the least. Another trend could be that one category started out the least popular and became the 2nd most popular by the end of the period studied.

Step 3 – How to organise your paragraphs

Structure everything into this four-paragraph model

Here we have focused on the language we need when we see 2 or more pie charts to compare. The other issue is organization, how to structure and sequence our answer. Here are a couple of ideas:

How many  paragraphs  do we need – one paragraph is never enough. In fact, we are encouraged to write in paragraphs. Decide on a  simple paragraph structure  – there’s only 20 minutes for this. The best is the traditional “introduction”, summary “body”, structure with the main “body” part divided into two or three body paragraphs. Overall, you must write at least 150 words.

• Paragraph 1: In your essay introduction, write one sentence explaining what the graphs show. You can paraphrase the title. Example: Pie Chart title:   Holiday destinations chosen by Welsh people 1955-2005. Your first sentence:  The pie chart shows the vacation preferences of Welsh people over a fifty-year period starting in 1955 and finishing in 2005.
• Paragraph 2: In paragraph 2, you should talk about the information that you identified in step 2. This paragraph should focus on the first group. However, it’s good to include half a sentence if you can compare the first group to other data. For example; Consumers in Sweden, who spent more than twice as much in total than any other country…. follow with more detail about Sweden.
• Paragraph 3: Talk about the information that you have separated in step 2. This paragraph should focus on the second group. For example; In contrast, Belgian shoppers, who spent the least of any group… follow with more detail about Belgian shoppers.
• Paragraph 4: Two sentences summarising your description. (What are the major overall trends, changes, etc.)

Tips for interpreting pie charts in IELTS

We will begin by giving you some general tips for interpreting a pie chart in your IELTS academic writing task.

These tips are good to keep in mind from the moment you take the first look at the pie charts given to you, to the moment you finish your writing task 1:

• If you cannot compare the information on your pie charts, don’t panic. In such a case giving a summary of each picture is fine. Make comparisons where relevant. Take a look at our tutorial on how to compare pie charts  here .
• Avoid giving personal opinions at all costs.  ( E.g . If the graph shows rising prices and you know it’s because of a war in the Middle East, do not say anything. Your personal opinion must not be mentioned.)
• Always pay attention to the time frame of your pie charts and use the appropriate tense (past, present or future).
• Focus on getting all of the  appropriate  data from the pie charts/graphs into your writing.
• These are quick tips, if you are still struggling you should consider  enrolling in an online course  to prepare for IELTS.
• For pie chart interpretation examples and model essays, click  here .

Vocabulary for IELTS Pie Charts

Now that you have an understanding of how to structure your description of pie charts and graphs for IELTS writing task 1, let’s talk about the language you should use.

One of the EASIEST WAYS to make sure you ‘make comparisons where relevant’ is to use superlatives: the biggest, the smallest, the largest, the most expensive, the least expensive.

Every superlative you use is an automatic comparison.

Using referencing (which, it, that) helps you summarise the information and if you think carefully you can also include a superlative – potatoes, which were the most expensive type of root vegetable in 2019…

Here are a few  examples  of good wording for the largest section of your pie charts:

• It is clear that ____represents the largest portion of _____, whereas _____ is undoubtedly the smallest.
• Sales of _____ stood at __% in 1925, which is the majority of_____.
• (If the percentage is around 60%) – Nearly a third…
• (If the percentage is around 52%) – Over a half of all respondents…

Here are a few  examples  of good wording for the  smallest  section of your pie chart:

• A small fraction…
• Exactly 30% of students…
• (If the percentage is around 25%) Roughly a quarter of respondents
• … whereas sales for  _____  were just 10% .
• In 1955 approximately three quarters were ____, whereas in 1960 this had fallen to just under a fifth.

Written forms of percentages and fractions look like this:

• a half, 50%, 1/2,
• a third, 33%, 1/3,
• two thirds, 66%, 2/3,
• three quarters, 75%, 3/4,
• a quarter, 25%, 1/4

Which tense should you use to describe pie charts in IELTS?

These are the two basic rules you should follow:

Check the graph title, and the pie chart subtitles, look for dates! 

– if the year is before the present year (i.e. 2020), use the past tense – if the year is after the present year (i.e 2025), use the future tense – if there is no year, use the present simple tense.

Check you don’t accidentally switch the tense halfway through.

Sometimes you will get charts and graphs that will require you to use more than one tense, but do this deliberately and with caution.

For a more in-depth tutorial about tenses check out this page:  126 IELTS academic task 1 – What tense?!

A great tip to improve your answer when you are writing about past tense pie charts is to START your body paragraphs with fixed expressions in the present tense then switch to the past tense. For example:

The data shows that between 2000 and 2003, there was a significant decrease in the number of…

In contrast, it is evident that in the following year, sales of bread plummeted….

Model Answer for a Pie Chart

This pie chart shows the shares of total world food consumption held by each of seven different food types in 2014.

Meat is consumed the most, at 31.4 per cent. Fish has the second-highest consumption levels, at 27.9 per cent. Cereals consumption represents 11.7 per cent of the total. Fruits’ share of consumption is 10.6 per cent, followed closely by vegetables at 10.5 per cent, and then bread at 5.5 per cent. The smallest food group in terms of world consumption is rice, at 2.4 per cent.

The graphs show that overall global consumption is widely dispersed among food types; no one type has a majority share. Animal-based foods (meat and fish) do make up the majority of consumption when added together. It is important to note, however, that based on the information in this pie chart no conclusions can be drawn about the dietary diversity of an individual person.

How to compare two pie charts

The language to compare two pie charts

Summarising two pie charts for an  IELTS academic task 1  needs careful preparation. Here, I am going to focus on deciding the language we need because if we use the correct language, then we have a good chance to obtain a high band score .

Now we need to handle the language of percentages and proportions and, of course, the language we need will vary according to the topic and content of the pie charts. That is one reason why it is vital to study the title and any sub-headings of the charts.

Pie chart review

Take this example and decide what type of language we will need to describe it.

Naturally, we need in the first place  language to describe proportions . Some keywords are:

• per cent (correctly spelt as two words)

At the same time, we must be able to use  the language of comparison  – to say which country had the largest and smallest share etc. Some keywords here are:

• largest/smallest
• greater/smaller

Two pie charts: related topics, one-time frame  (pie chart comparison)

For two pie charts on a different topic and the same time frame you need to use the language of proportion and comparison

Usually, task 1 will not be just one pie chart to describe but two or maybe more. This might involve two pie charts related in terms of “opposition” but static in the sense that both refer to the same time frame, normally a year. Look at the following which presents for the year 2018 the principal European Union trade partners in terms of food and drink: the first chart concerns export partners and the second, import.

In this case, what kind of language do we need?

Of course, we still need the same  language of proportion and pie chart comparison.

The major difference is the need to  compare two pie charts, comparing  exports with imports, making the task more complex.

Two pie charts: one topic only at different times

For two pie charts on a related topic and in a different time frame, you need to use the language of proportion and comparison and change

Now, look at these pie charts. There are of course similarities with the first set. We will always need language to describe proportions and to compare items.

This set refers to agricultural exports from the USA to Cuba in 2005 and then in 2014. In other words, we have just one topic shown over time.

Therefore, we need to use language describing change and trends.

This may be more complex because we have to handle all of the following:

• proportion language – to describe percentages
• comparison language – to describe the biggest and the smallest
• trend language – to describe what changes over time

VIDEO: IELTS Writing Academic Task 1 – How to Describe a Pie Chart

Some final practical advice

• Do not start writing before giving yourself enough time to think. First, decide the language you will need in your answer. Give yourself 5 minutes to look, think and plan.
• Study the charts carefully: the titles for example to check if they deal with the same or connected topics.
• Check the time frames very carefully in the charts and plan how time differences will affect your choice of verb tenses.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How to write a pie chart in ielts task 1.

Try to divide the information into two groups. Focus on trends and exceptions for an easy way to do this. Think of synonyms for the keywords and most important numbers – for example, 20% is a fifth.

How do you describe a pie chart vocabulary?

Superlatives (the most, the largest, the smallest) combine description with the comparison which is crucial for a good score. Referencing (which, that, it) is a good way to paraphrase and demonstrate that you can write complex sentences.

How do you write a report on a pie chart?

Follow the 4 paragraph model. First, summarize the question. Second, talk about the first group of data. Third, the other group of data. Fourth, write a summary with the overall trends and patterns. Be sure to use the correct tense.

More useful IELTS Academic Task 1 lessons

• Academic Task 1 Sample Essays
• IELTS Writing Task 1 Vocabulary List With Examples
• Bar Chart IELTS
• How to describe a map
• Describe an image 
• Describe a natural process
• How to describe a table
• How to paraphrase
• Line graph sample answer
• Marking criteria for Task 1
• Map vocabulary for IELTS Task 1
• How to describe a flow chart
• Essential skills for Task 1
• How to get band 9 for academic task 1
• How to describe a process diagram
• Academic task 1: sentences and grammar to describe a chart
• IELTS Task 1 Sample Answer 2 Double Graph Pie Chart and Bar Chart

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IELTS Writing Task 1 Pie Chart: A Complete Guide with Writing Tips to Ace IELTS

Aspirants ​have a time of 2 hours and 45 minutes to finish all sections of the IELTS examination. Writing, reading and listening abilities are examined together, however, whether the quiz is computer-based or paper-based. The IELTS examination can be given online through the IELTS indicator test. You must discover creative techniques to enable you to speed up your task when attaining the IELTS quiz.

Smart policies will also help you enhance your precision. So, when you start your activity, observe the techniques to be utilized and use them in your training trial. The candidate is provided 60 minutes for the writing section, during which period he must obtain two assignments.

Each assignment has topics where the candidate needs to describe, put down his opinions, and examine the text. The competitor should fulfil well versed with the clever tricks to obtain the assignment in the stipulated period.

Pie Chart for IELTS Writing Task 1

In Academic assignment 1 of the writing section, you are required to compose a short descriptive summary based on visual data or information. This visual data may be illustrated as graphs, tables, maps or pie charts.

Pie charts are circular diagrams divided into ‘pie slices’ or sectors, usually demonstrating percentages. The quantity of each pie slice indicates the relative amount of the information it signifies. Together, the regions build an entire circle. They are generally used in the mass media, the business world and are slightly common in technical or scientific editions.

Pie Chart Samples with Model Answers for IELTS Writing Task

The aspirant is required to convert the data provided in the pie chart into a short descriptive report of about 150 words. The pie chart demonstrates certain data in the form of percentages.

Below given are a few sample pie charts with model answers for the pupils to get a notion of how to transform the visual representation into a short meaningful report. Read the article till the end to get a clear idea about the pie charts of the IELTS writing task 1.

Also Read: IELTS  Writing Task 1 Academic Topics 2021: A Complete Guide to Writing Preparation

Pie Chart Sample 1

Ielts writing task 1 pie chart model answer.

What makes people happy the most?

Numerous factors make people happy. Although every generation has different aspects of making them the happiest. Children, teenagers and old age people all have distinct sources of happiness in life. Let us discuss the similarities and differences between the facets of making people happy under the age of 30 and above it.

The above pie chart illustrates the resemblances and contrasts of the facets of making people happy of young and old generations. First, let’s focus on the resemblances. The greatest percentage of fact bringing people happiness of both generations is an achievement at work, 32% for people over 30 and 31% for people under 30. The next highest percentage indicates hobbies. Hobbies are a good source of making people delighted, especially the old people. They contribute 24% for the older generation and 22% for the younger generation in bringing happiness.

Coming to the differences, the next largest proportion of making old people glad is financial security which participates 20%. While for younger people having a good experience participates 18% in making them happy. 14% of old people’s happiness is being with their family. While 15% of younger people’s happiness is travelling.

Pie Chart Sample 2

Model answer for pie chart task 1 ielts.

Online sales for retail sectors in Canada.

The two pie charts depict the differences in the amounts of online sales across various retail areas in Canada in the years 2005 and 2010. As we can observe that 35% of online retail of electronics and appliances in 2005 has been deducted to 30% by 2010. While the sales of food and beverages being 22% in 2005, has been increased to 32% by 2010, during the 5 years. It made the highest proportion of the online retail sector in 2010.

The next highest percentage in 2005, is 25% of the sales of home furnishings enterprises which vastly decreased to 15% by 2010. The online video games sales were 18% in 2005, shockingly increased to 23% by 2010.

Also Read: How IELTS Ninja Helps You to Get 8+ Bands? Try the IELTS Indicator Test Now on IELTS Ninja

IELTS Writing Task 1 Pie Chart Sample 3

Reasons for cycling or driving to work in the UK.

The above given two pie charts illustrate the intentions of the population behind choosing cycling or driving to work. First, let’s discuss the objectives of the people who choose cycling to work.

The higher proportion of choosing a cycle is health and fitness. People prefer cycling as it’s a good habit to maintain a healthy and fit life. The same percentage of intention contributes to less pollution. Cycling causes less pollution and hence people prefer it extensively.

The next highest percentage, 15% of people, state that they like it because there are no parking issues.  13% of the population says that it is the cheapest means of transport. The least percentage of choosing a cycle to work, 12% states that it is faster than driving.

Moving on to the reasons for people choosing driving to work. The greatest percentage of people’s intention is comfort which contributes 40% in making people prefer driving a car to work. 21% of the people choose driving as they state that their work is too far away from their places to cycle.

While the same 14% of people say that it is faster than driving and they have to carry many things which cannot be carried by cycle. The least percentage, 11% of people, state that it is safer than cycling.

In general, we can conclude that most people choose cycling to maintain a healthy and fit life. While most people prefer driving for their comfort zone.

Pie Chart Sample 4

Ways of delivering the news in Canada and Australia

The above two pie charts depict the ways of delivering news in the two countries, Canada and Australia. As we notice the two countries show extensively similar patterns, though there are some variations.

The greatest and primary source of delivering news in Canada is online which covers one-third, 36% of the total percentage of discovering news. In Australia, more than half of the percentage, 52%, contributes to the online delivery of news to people. The second-highest percentage of sources delivering news is through watching tv being 40% in Canada and 37% in Australia. 14% of the news in Canada is delivered through prints and newspapers. While in Australia, it is only 7% through prints and newspapers. Radio contributes to news, 7% in Canada and only 2% in Australia.

Overall, it can be said that the largest source of discovering news is due to internet use in Australia and Canada as well. And the least percentage of sources in both countries is through radio.

Also Read: How to Write a Map in IELTS Writing Task 1? A Complete Guide For You

IELTS Writing Task 1 Pie Chart 5

The gadgets people use to watch television in  Canada.

The above two pie charts show the variation in gadgets used by people for watching television in 10 years from 2009 to 2019 in Canada. It is observed that the highest percentage of the gadgets used for watching television in 2009 is conventional television which is 34% while being extensively declined to 4% in 2019 .

The second-highest percentage, 20% of devices used for watching television in 2009 laptops. While in 2019 it brought down to 12%. The next highest proportion of gadgets is the desktop computer, 18% in 2009 and 12% in 2019. Mobile phones contributed 15% in 2009 and increased to 26% in 2019.

Watching television through flat screen tv was 18% in 2009 and decreased to 12% in 2019. The least per cent, 5% of devices in 2009 for watching television is through tablets. While in 2019 it increased to 19%.

Overall, it can be said that the given two pie charts demonstrate that television in Canada over the duration saw a move away from ancient equipment and towards more modern inventions.

IELTS Writing Task 1 Pie Chart Pie Chart 6

Model answer.

Government expenditure in 2010 and 2015

The above pie charts depict the government expenditure across nine sectors in 2010 and 2015. The variation in expenses over the five years.

As we can observe, in both years, the government expenditure was the highest in the sectors of healthcare, education, defence and pensions, with education taking the highest proportion, 24% in 2010 and 21% in 2015, healthcare taking 22% in 2010 and 20% in 2015, defence taking 17% in 2010 and 14% in 2015 and pensions equal 19 in both the years.

The small regions of expense were cultures, interests in borrowing, transport and leisure and “other expenses”. While the other expenses took 1% in 2010, while transport, culture and leisure and other expenses covered the minimum in 2015 that was 1% each. The interest on borrowing covered 5% in 2010 and 10% in 2015.

Altogether, the charts demonstrate that the government has had to cut expenses in most regions to finance the price of borrowing and welfare.

Also Read: What Sort of Vocabulary should be Used for IELTS? Six Techniques to Improve Your IELTS Writing Vocabulary Easily

IELTS Writing Task 1 Pie Chart Pie Chart 7

Model answer for ielts writing task 1 pie chart.

Merits and Demerits of Bowen Island

The above pie chart demonstrates the disadvantages and advantages of Bowen Island, which tourists enjoy most and the least while visiting. Let’s first look at the disadvantages of Bowen island. The greatest demerit of Bowen island is that it has a very high cost of living which contributes to 50% of the demerits.

The next disadvantage is the lack of entertainment on the island which contributes 25% of the demerits. 15% of the total disadvantage proportion participates in weather. The weather is not suitable for people visiting the island. Food contributes to the least percentage of disadvantage 10%.

Moving to the advantages of Bowen island. The greatest proportion of advantage of the island is the people, 42%. The population on the island is high making the people prefer visiting it. The next highest percentage of merit is 35% which covers the scenery of the place. 12% contributes to culture as an advantage of the place. And the least merit of the place is the good accommodation.

All around, it appears that most populations like Bowen Island because of the view and people. And the reason for people not visiting the place is due to expensive living.

Preparation Tips For IELTS Writing Task 1

# Don’t consume more than 20 minutes in this segment. It usually takes less than 20 minutes to write a brief report of 150 words.

# Always try to exceed the word count by 20-30 words. It is mentioned in the question to write a 150-word summary. Aspirant is suggested to exceed it to 170-180 words.

# Analyse the visual information carefully to make sure you don’t miss any data while transferring the information.

# Never cut off any data provided in the pie chart. Mention all details illustrated.

# Don’t add unnecessary information just to increase the word limit. Stick to the data provided.

Some More Tips

# Maintain paraphrasing in the context. Try to change the phrases and write in your own words. Make use of good synonyms which do not change the actual meaning of the sentence.

# During writing the summary of the information, divide the report into three paragraphs: introduction, body and conclusion.

# Pie charts that compare certain information need to be carefully analysed and paraphrased with all the variations illustrated.

Also, Read IELTS Writing Task 1 Academic Sample Questions: Here’s Your Way to Boost-up Your IELTS Preparation

Expecting that the above article helped you know everything related to pie charts of writing task 1 of the IELTS examination. The pattern and the manner how the descriptive report should be written is clearly illustrated above. Analyse the given samples of pie charts.

For aspirants who are desiring to move abroad to seek their higher education, they need to obtain a reasonable band score in the IELTS assessment which is above the minimum expected mark by their institute and the nation where they want to shift.

To get a favourable band score, ensure that you review each category individually and become well versed with the tactics to be utilised for each category to finish the assessment in the specified time and with incredible precision.

For more content related to IELTS and all English foreign tests, visit the website IELTS Ninja for great content and the best guidance for the aspirants for their promising future.

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How to Describe Pie Charts [IELTS Writing Task 1]

Posted by David S. Wills | Apr 12, 2021 | IELTS Tips , Writing | 0

In task 1 of the IELTS writing test, you may be given one or several pie charts to describe. You will be required to write at least 150 words discussing those pie charts and (sometimes) how they relate to tables or other types of data. In this lesson, I will show you how to describe pie charts by giving you tips on vocabulary, grammar, and content.

If you want to boost your IELTS writing score quickly and effectively, you might be interested in my writing correction service .

How to Describe Pie Charts for IELTS Writing Task 1

First of all, we need to understand what the purpose of IELTS writing task 1 is. Basically, for this part of the test, you are required to describe some sort of data. This could be any of the following:

• Process diagram

The whole purpose is to test your ability at writing concise and accurate descriptions. This is very different from task 2, where you need to write an essay that discusses or argues something.

The three main aspects of task 1 are:

• Understanding the data
• Describing it accurately
• Grouping it effectively

This means that when you are given a pie chart (or several), then you will need to interpret it correctly and then write a short report in precise English that can be easily understood by the examiner.

That’s all there is to it. There are no tricks or tips or magical things you can do.

Now let’s look in a little more detail at how to do this properly.

Understanding Pie Charts for Task 1

A task 1 pie chart will more than likely be presented in two forms. Either you will be given one pie chart and some other form of data (line graph, table, etc) or you will be given several pie charts. The reason is that IELTS writing task 1 requires comparing and contrasting data. If you just had one single pie chart, there really would not be much to say about it.

Let’s look at some examples:

Here, you can see that we have two pie charts to compare. The important thing here would be to compare the differences over time.

Here again we have two pie charts, but this time we are not looking at differences over time. Instead, we are comparing two different countries. This requires different grammatical skills.

Now there are four pie charts! This sort of task would take more thought in the beginning, but actually it is not much harder to answer.

Finally, we have a mixture of a table and two pie charts. Actually, it is probably more common to say a table and one pie chart, but in this case there are two.

Pie Chart Vocabulary

There is really no special language that you need to know in order to describe pie charts. There are no unique features that require unusual vocabulary. Instead, you need a good knowledge of language that would also help you for line graphs, tables, and so on.

Perhaps the two most important words are “percentage” and “proportion.” This is because pie charts do not show a specific amount (dollars, kilograms, etc) but instead they show the proportion of something.

Thus, in descriptions of pie charts, you will frequently see the phrases:

• the percentage of…
• the proportion of…

Because pie charts contain this sort of data, they will invariably have many numbers for you to talk about. You should avoid using too many numbers (see this article for more information about describing numbers) and instead you should vary your language:

If you can do this effectively, you can avoid including too many numbers. This can make your essay look and sound better.

Some more advanced phrases:

Remember that you can also make your language more specific with adjectives, saying “a very small proportion” or “a tiny percentage of…”

Grammar for Pie Charts

Of course, it is not just vocabulary that is important when it comes to IELTS writing. In fact, grammar is far more important in many respects. When it comes to IELTS writing task 1, people really overlook the significance of accurate grammar.

First of all, you need to assess when the data took place or was gathered. Presumably it was in the past, but that is not always the case. Sometimes a pie chart will contain speculative data about the future. You need to choose the right verb form for an accurate description.

Many times, past simple will be the correct tense to use. You can say things like:

• In 1994, a quarter of people said that…
• In the first year, nearly half of shops made a profit…

However, we need to be aware that pie charts can show changes over time. This is true if there are two or three pie charts:

• In 1998, that number had dropped by six percent…
• Four years later, the proportion of bankrupt businesses had soared to…

In these cases, we have used past perfect because this accurately reflects changes between points of time in the past. We can pick one time and look further into the past from then.

Grouping Data for Pie Charts

Some people find that it is really difficult to group data effectively in IELTS. Sometimes it is hard because of a particular question but sometimes it can be much easier. You just need to think logically and make some choices.

To be honest, in most cases I would divide the data chronologically, which means “by time.” If you have a pie chart from 1991 and another from 2001, I would devote one paragraph to the first year and one to the second year. You can give a description of the first year and then in the next paragraph give some comparative details.

However, that is not the only way to approach it. You might also find it useful to break down the data by category if that is appropriate.

If there is a pie chart and a table, it might also be appropriate to deal with the pie chart in one paragraph and the table in another. It totally depends on the context.

You can read more about structuring task 1 essays here .

Sample Answers

Ok, now let’s explore further by looking at some sample band 9 answers.

Sample Answer #1 – online retail sales

There are two pie charts showing data about online shopping in Canada in two different years, 2005 and 2010. The data is divided between the various types of goods sold online, with four retail sectors represented, and there were some notable changes during the five-year period.

In 2005, electronics and appliances were the most commonly sold items, making up a third of Canadian online sales. Home furnishings came next with a quarter of the total, and this was followed by food and beverage and then video games, each with roughly a fifth of the total online sales.

By 2010, this had all changed. Food and beverages were now the highest selling items online, while electronics and appliances had slipped into second place, having dropped by five percent. Home furnishings had dropped from second to last place, and video games sales had increased so that they now made up 23% of all online shopping.

First of all, let’s point out that I have changed the formatting of the labels on this task. That’s really important! Many people just copy them into their essays, but actually one of the challenges of IELTS is changing labels or titles into proper grammar.

Next, notice that my introduction is in the present tenses and my body paragraphs use appropriate past tenses. This is because the first paragraph looks at the pie charts on the piece of paper in front of me whilst the next paragraphs examine the data that comes from the past.

How many numbers have I used here? Just one! I only say “23%” in the final line. Prior to that, I used phrases like “a third” and “second place.” This shows off my English rather than just repeating numbers, which tells the examiner nothing.

Sample Answer #2 – pie charts about education

These two pie charts give information about the highest levels of education attained by people in two different countries, with data drawn from people aged over twenty-one. In both nations, secondary school was the highest level of qualification achieved by the largest number of people.

In country A, 45% of people had secondary school as their highest level of education, compared to 35% in country B. Notably, both nations had exactly 30% of people giving vocational or technical school as their highest educational qualification. In this respect, the two countries were quite similar.

However, in country B, a quarter of the population had attended university, compared to just 5% in country A. Conversely, in country A it was much more likely that people had attended primary school as their highest level of education. In both nations, just 5% of the population had not gotten any form of education at all.

This essay uses more numbers but not too many. The grammar here is accurate but it is based upon an assumption that I have made – that the data is from the past. Of course, it could not be from the future and it is unlikely to reflect the present. However, you could theoretically describe this with the present simple tense.

Notice my structure: I have discussed both countries within each body paragraph. I did this in order to highlight differences more effectively. I thought that if I described one pie chart and then another, it would not be so obvious how they differed.

Sample Answer #3 – four pie charts about electricity

There are four pie charts that give information about the generation of electricity in France and Germany in the year 2009. One set of charts looks at the total generation of electricity, while the other looks at how renewable forms of energy were produced. The two countries had roughly similar amounts of renewable energy, but these came from totally different sources.

Almost six tenths of German electricity came from conventional thermal sources, with almost a quarter coming from nuclear power. In France, however, about three quarters came from nuclear power and just a tenth came from conventional thermal. Both countries had similar figures for renewable sources – 17.4% for Germany and 13.7% for France.

In terms of different renewable energy sources, Germany relied primarily upon biomass, with forty percent of its renewable energy from that source, compared to less than a tenth for France. More than eighty percent of French renewables came from hydropower, compared to less than a fifth in Germany. About a third of German renewable energy came from wind, while the figure was just a tenth in France, and both countries produced very little solar power.

Here we have four pie charts. It is important first of all to divide them into two different countries and then to understand that the pie charts on the right are subsets of the pie charts on the left. If you failed to realise this, your description would not be accurate.

Notice again that I have avoided an over reliance upon numbers by converting these into fractions like this: “Almost six tenths of German electricity…”

I have devoted one paragraph to the first set of pie charts (overall energy) and the next paragraph to the renewable section. This allows me to effectively compare and contrast the two countries.

Sample Answer #4 – tables and pie charts together

There is a table that gives the numbers of visitors to a museum before and after its renovation, as well as two pie charts that show details about visitor satisfaction. After refurbishment, the museum received many more visitors and they were much more satisfied with their visits.

In the year before the museum was renovated, there were 74,000 visitors, and in the year after that number soared to 92,000. Prior to this work being done, a half of all visitors were unhappy with the museum. According to the survey, forty percent of them were dissatisfied and a tenth were very dissatisfied. Only 45% seemed to have enjoyed their visit.

In the year following the museum’s refurbishment, visitors reported much more positive feelings towards their visits. The number of people who were unhappy with their museum visit dropped by a half, with those who were very dissatisfied falling to just 5% and only 15% of them now claiming to be dissatisfied. Three quarters of all visitors were at least satisfied.

In each survey, 5% of people gave no response.

This essay may look a little odd at first glance. The final paragraph is extremely short and normally I would advise against that, but in this instance it was fine because the data was relevant enough to include but not really connected to anything else, so it would have been strange within another paragraph. I also had to consider how to incorporate the data from the table, which certainly did not warrant a paragraph of its own. You can see that I slotted it into the second paragraph.

In order to describe this data effectively, I have combined some categories. The pie chart categorised people as “very satisfied” and “satisfied” but for the sake of simplicity I have put them together. This is ok as long as it is clear to your reader what you are doing. In this case, I achieved that by saying things like “Three quarters of all visitors were at least satisfied.”

If you want to learn more about pie charts, you can read the Wikipedia page for some ideas. This might help you to pick up some new language or see how different types of pie charts look.

About The Author

David S. Wills

David S. Wills is the author of Scientologist! William S. Burroughs and the 'Weird Cult' and the founder/editor of Beatdom literary journal. He lives and works in rural Cambodia and loves to travel. He has worked as an IELTS tutor since 2010, has completed both TEFL and CELTA courses, and has a certificate from Cambridge for Teaching Writing. David has worked in many different countries, and for several years designed a writing course for the University of Worcester. In 2018, he wrote the popular IELTS handbook, Grammar for IELTS Writing and he has since written two other books about IELTS. His other IELTS website is called IELTS Teaching.

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How To Write an IELTS Pie Chart Essay

Using this 5 steps process to plan and write IELTS pie chart essays will help you to achieve high marks in Task 1:

1)  Analyse the question

2)  Identify the main features

3)  Write an introduction

4)  Write an overview

5)  Write the details paragraphs

In this lesson, we’re going to work thorough each step as we answer a practice question and I want to start by highlighting the importance of steps 1 and 2. It is essential that you learn how to do this planning stage properly if you hope to write a high-scoring essay.

Before we begin, here’s a model essay structure that you can use as a guideline for all IELTS Academic Task 1 questions.

Ideally, your essay should have 4 paragraphs:

Paragraph 1  – Introduction

Paragraph 2  – Overview

Paragraph 3  – 1 st  main feature

Paragraph 4  – 2 nd  main feature

We now have everything we need to begin planning and writing our IELTS pie chart essay.

Here’s our practice question:

The chart below shows the reasons why people travel to work by bicycle or by car. 

Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

Write at least 150 words.

Source: Official website  IELTS Essentials

Step 1 –  Analyse the question

The format of every Academic Task 1 question is the same. Here is our practice question again with the words that will be included in all questions highlighted .

The chart below shows the reasons why people travel to work by bicycle or by car.

Every question consists of:

• Sentence 1 – A brief description of the graphic
• Sentence 2 – The instructions
• The graphic – chart, graph, table, etc.

Sentence 2 tells you what you have to do.

You must do 3 things:

1.     Select the main features.

2.     Write about the main features.

3.     Compare the main features.

All three tasks refer to the ‘ main features ’ of the graphic. You  do not  have to write about everything. Just pick out 2 or 3 key features and you’ll have plenty to write about.

Step 2 – Identify the Main Features

The graphic in IELTS pie chart questions should not be difficult to interpret. Each question has been created to  test your language skills, not your mathematics ability.

Pie charts always show percentages or proportions. Apart from that, they are essentially the same as bar charts and line graphs in that they are a way of presenting data visually.

All you are looking for are the main features. These will usually be the easiest things to spot. There will be lots of information in the graphic to help you identify them.

Here are some useful questions to ask?

• What are the units of measurements?
• What are the time periods?
• What can you learn from the title and any labels?
• What is the most obvious trend?
• Are there any notable similarities?

(I give more detail on how to use these questions, plus downloadable checklists for identifying the main features of all 7 different types of IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 questions, in the lesson on  How To Understand & Analyse Task 1 Questions .)

Pie charts generally have titles and labels or sometimes a key instead of segment labels as in our practice question. The key explains what each segment of the pie chart represents.

So, what information is contained in the two pie charts?

Here's our IELTS pie chart again.

They show two different methods of travelling to work and illustrate the reason why people choose these types of transport.

What main features stand out?

There are 2 main features in these IELTS pie charts:

Main feature 1:  The largest proportion of people who cycle do so for health and environmental reasons.

Main feature 2:  The highest percentage of people who drive do so because it’s comfortable.

Another notable feature is that the only reason included in both pie charts – that the method is faster – shares almost the same proportion for both modes of transport.

We may not have space to cover this final feature but we’ll note it just in case we need it to make up the words.

The key features you select will be the starting point for your essay. You will then go on to add more detail. However, with just 20 minutes allowed for Task 1, and a requirement of only 150 words, you won't be able to include many details.

We’re now ready to begin writing our essay. Here’s a reminder of the 4 part structure we’re going to use.

Step 3 – Write an Introduction 

In the introduction, you should simply paraphrase the question, that is, say the same thing in a different way. You can do this by using synonyms and changing the sentence structure. For example:

Introduction (Paragraph 1): 

The two pie charts display the key reasons why people choose to either cycle or drive to work by percentage. 

This is all you need to do for the introduction.

Step 4 – Write an Overview (Paragraph 2)

In the second paragraph, you should report the main features you can see in the pie charts, giving only general information. The detail comes later in the essay. You should also make any clear comparisons you spot.

Here are the ones we picked out above. I’ve added the additional feature as it will fit well in the overview.

Main feature 3:  For an almost equal proportion of people, their chosen method is the fastest.

Now form these ideas into two or three sentences with a total of around 40 words. State the information simply, using synonyms where possible. No elaborate vocabulary or grammar structures are required, just the appropriate words and correct verb tenses.

For example:

Overview  (Paragraph 2): 

The largest proportion of people who cycle, have made this choice for health and environmental reasons whilst the prime advantage of driving to work is considered to be the comfort of travelling by car. Notably, for an almost equal proportion of people, their chosen method is the fastest.

Step 5  – Write the 1st Detail Paragraph

Paragraphs 3 and 4 of your IELTS pie chart essay are where you include more detailed information about the data in the graphic. In paragraph 3, you should give evidence to support your first key feature. Don’t forget to make comparisons where relevant.

Here is our first main feature again:

Main feature 1:   The largest proportion of people who cycle do so for health and environmental reasons.

And this is an example of what you could write:

Paragraph 3 :

T aken together, health and fitness and less pollution are reasons given by over half of all people who prefer travelling by bike. Each represents a 30% portion which is double the next most popular reason which is a lack of parking issues at 15%.

Step 6  – Write the 2nd Detail Paragraph

For the fourth and final paragraph, you do the same thing for your second key feature. 

I’ve added the third main feature again as it will round off the essay well. In an exam situation, I would include it if I had time.

Here’s an example of what you could write:

Paragraph 4 :

A different set of concerns has affected the decision of those who choose to commute by car. Comfort is by far the most significant factor at 40% of people, but distance to work is a more important concern for just over a fifth of drivers. For 14% of people, a faster journey time is the key factor compared to a figure of 12% of cyclists who find their means of transport quicker.

I just want to say a quick word about verb tense in this sample essay. Since there is no time frame given in the question, you could use either the present simple tense or the past simple tense. I've used the present simple tense. Whichever tense you choose, remember to be consistent throughout your whole essay.

Here are the four paragraphs brought together to create our finished essay.

Finished IELTS Pie Chart Essay

This sample IELTS pie chart essay is over the minimum word limit so you can see that you don’t have space to include very much detail at all. That’s why it is essential to select just a couple of main features to write about.

Now use what you’ve learnt in this lesson to practice answering other IELTS  pie chart questions. Start slowly at first and keep practicing until you can plan and write a complete essay in around 20 minutes.

Want  to watch and listen to this lesson on how to write an IELTS Pie Chart essay?

Click on this video.

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Ielts academic writing task 1 – all lessons.

IELTS Academic Writing  –  A summary of the test including important facts, test format & assessment.

Academic Writing Task 1  – The format, the 7 question types & sample questions, assessment & marking criteria.  All the key information you need to know.

Understanding Task 1 Questions  – How to quickly and easily analyse and understand IELTS Writing Task 2 questions.

How To Plan a Task 1 Essay  –  Discover  3 reasons why you must plan, the 4 simple steps of essay planning and learn a simple 4 part essay structure.

Vocabulary for Task 1 Essays  –  Learn key vocabulary for a high-scoring essay. Word lists & a downloadable PDF.

Grammar for Task 1 Essays   – Essential grammar for Task 1 Academic essays including, verb tenses, key sentence structures, articles & prepositions.

The 7 Question Types:

Click the links below for a step-by-step lesson on each type of Task 1 question.

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• Academic Task 1

Bar Graph and Pie Chart in IELTS Academic Writing

• Task 1 Guide
• Table & Bar

Bar & Pie

• Table & Pie
• Compare Contrast
• Identifying Trends

This IELTS Academic Writing guide covers everything you need to know about IELTS writing task 1 combination bar chart and pie chart questions. Read on for example questions, sample answers and much more!

Table of Contents

1.1 objective, 1.2 skills used.

• IELTS Task 1 Combined Bar Chart and Pie Chart Questions

3.1 Introduction

3.2 overview, 3.3 main body paragraphs.

• IELTS Writing Task 1 Band Descriptors Explained

5.1 Vocabulary for Bar Charts

5.2 vocabulary for pie charts, 6.1 grammar for bar charts, 6.2 grammar for pie charts, 7.1 sample answer commentary, 8.1 problem 1, 8.2 problem 2.

• Quiz- Check Your Understanding

1. IELTS Bar Chart and Pie Chart Overview

You may be given both a bar chart and pie chart to summarise and compare in an IELTS writing task 1 question.

The objective of this task is the same for every writing task 1 question: produce a 150-word formal report that summarises and compares the most important features you see in both the bar chart and pie chart.

This part of this exam will test your ability to:

• Identify key features from a bar and pie chart
• Summarise the key features
• Make comparisons between the data where relevant

2. IELTS Task 1 Bar Chart and Pie Chart Question

The pie chart shows the percentage of males and females arrested in the UK from 2015-2020 and the bar chart shows the reasons for these people’s arrest.

Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features and make comparisons where relevant.

Write a minimum of 150 words

IELTS External links

Also, read the following IELTS Report Writing Guides

• IELTS Bar Chart
• Line Graph IELTS
• Pie Chart for IELTS
• IELTS Academic Table
• IELTS Academic Process Diagram
• Maps for IELTS
• Combined - Table and Bar Chart
• Combined - Bar Chart and Pie Chart
• Combined - Table and Pie Chart
• IELTS Writing Task 1 Guide

3. Structure for IELTS Bar Chart and Pie Chart Questions

Follow the advice below to write a successful introduction, overview and two main body paragraphs for this question type.

You need to paraphrase the given statement and write it in your own words. The difference with a combination question and a single source question is that you need two sentences to introduce both visuals. Here are possible ways to introduce both a bar chart and pie chart:

• The bar chart gives information about …
• The pie chart shows …

Here is an example of a paraphrased statement, can you identify the main changes?

Original statement: The pie chart shows the percentage of males and females arrested in the UK from 2015-2020 and the bar chart shows the reasons for these people’s arrest.

Paraphrased statement: The pie chart gives information about the number of men and women arrested over a five-year period from 2015-2020 while the bar graph details the reasons for their arrest.

Your overview needs to identify the key features and trends of both the bar chart and pie chart .

You should signal your overview using the linking phrase ‘ Overall …’ and you should avoid presenting details at this stage.

Aim to identify 4-6 key features to introduce in your overview. Use general language to describe the overall trends from both the bar and pie chart by asking yourself: What are the highest numbers? What are the lowest numbers? What happened over time? What are the largest differences?

You need to create a clear and logical structure to your main body paragraphs that is easy for the examiner to follow. Consider this example:

Main Body Paragraph 1 – The main features of the bar chart

Main body paragraph 2 – The main features of the pie chart and any relevant comparisons

You should go into more detail about each key feature you mentioned in your overview. Do not try and write about every feature as you are being tested on your ability to summarise the main features.

Read on for useful vocabulary and grammar that you can use in your body paragraphs.

4. IELTS Writing Task 1 Band Descriptors Explained

Check out our section on IELTS Writing Band descriptors   in our IELTS writing Task 1 Masterclass for helpful hints.

5. Vocabulary for IELTS Bar Charts and Pie Charts

When you cannot exactly determine a figure on a bar chart, you can use language to approximate:

Under : Considerably less than; Just under; Close to; Slightly under; Less than; Almost; Nearly

Over : Considerably more than; Slightly over; Marginally above; Well over; More than; Just over

About : Approximately; Around; Roughly; Near to; In the region of

Here is some useful language to use when describing pie charts:

• ____ was the least popular ____
• ____was the highest ____
• ____ was in first/second/third place…
• ____ was ranked bottom…
• ____ was ranked second…
• ____ was equally popular…
• The most popular was ____ followed by ____
• ____ came top at ____
• ____ was 55%…
• ____ made up 55%…
• ____ accounted for 55%…
• ____comprised 55% (of the entire chart)

6. Grammar for IELTS Writing Task 1 Bar Charts and Pie Charts

Comparative and superlative forms are very useful when describing bar charts. For example:

• Football was as popular as rugby
• Rugby was more popular than softball
• Swimming was the most popular sport

You can also use the words below to modify comparative forms and make then more accurate:

• Considerably
• Rugby was considerably more popular than baseball.
• Swimming was slightly more popular than golf.

You need to be accurate when choosing the tense to describe the data from pie charts. Follow the advice below to determine if you need the past, present or future tense:

• Is the pie chart year before or after the present day? If yes, then you will mainly need the past tense
• Is the year after the present day? If so, you need to use the future tense
• Is there no year given? In this case, you should use the present simple tense

It is acceptable to start a sentence with the present simple tense and then switch to the past or future, for example:

The data shows that between 2000 and 2010, there was a significant drop in the number of graduates.

7. IELTS Writing Task 1 Bar Chart and Pie Chart Sample Answer

The pie chart gives information about the number of men and women arrested over a five-year period from 2015-2020 while the bar graph details the reasons for their arrest.

Overall , it can be seen from the pie chart that the number of men arrested was higher than that of women over the given period. Furthermore, drinking in public was the major reason for arrests over 5 years while the lowest reason was theft for both genders.

In detail , the pie charts show that of the 41% of people arrested, 32% were male and just 9% were female. Regarding male arrests, public intoxication was the highest reason for arrest at just over 30% opposed to theft which was the lowest coming in at about 14% . The second highest reason for arrest was drink driving at slightly over 25% while the remaining reasons all ranged between 10% and 20%.

Similarly, the most common reason for females’ arrest was also public intoxication which peaked at just over 30%. Furthermore , assault was the second most common reason for female arrest at just under 20%.  The percentage of women committing theft was almost as high as breaking and entering with both reaching just over 10% .

The report above would receive an estimated 9.0 overall in the IELTS writing task 1 Academic paper.

It has been organised into four logical paragraphs that are clearly divided into an introduction, overview, and two separate body paragraphs. The minimum 150 word count has been exceeded. The report is written in a formal style (the writer has not included their opinion and has not used informal language).

The overview paragraph summarises the key features of both the bar and pie chart.

Linking words like ‘overall’, ‘in detail’ and ‘furthermore’ have been used to create cohesion in the report.

The data has been referred to accurately throughout and language has been used to talk about percentages e.g. ‘just over 30%’, ‘coming in at about 14%’, and ‘reaching just over 10%’.

8. Common Errors and How to Avoid Them

Problem Not including both the bar chart and pie chart in the overview.

Solution You need to dedicate at least one sentence to both the bar chart and pie chart in your overview.

Problem Reading the data incorrectly and giving inaccurate figures.

Solution Practice by looking at model essays for these question types and then finding the figures on the charts. Always give yourself a few minutes to read through your report and check if the figures are accurate.

9. Quiz- Check Your Understanding

Take this short quiz to test your understanding of writing task 1 and tables:

• True Answer: A. True

Explanation: A table can be turned into a line graph, pie chart or bar chart.

Explanation: You need to give equal attention to both charts in your report.

Explanation: You must avoid using the first person and giving any opinion in writing task 1

Explanation: Your main body paragraphs should provide the detail about your pie and bar charts.

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IELTS Writing Task 1: Pie Charts Guide

Do you have an idea what a pie chart is? Are you taking the IELTS test soon?

If your answer to the first question is ‘No’ and ‘Yes’ to the second question, then it is high time you learn what a pie chart is. It is because chances are, if you are taking the IELTS Academic Test, you will encounter one. 

On the other hand, even if you already know what a pie chart is, reviewing its basic features and how it is a significant part of the IELTS Writing Test will aid you achiever your desired band score in the IELTS Writing Task 1. 

This article will guide and help you prepare for the IELTS Writing Task 1 if the question is an IELTS pie chart. Please continue reading. 

What is IELTS Writing Task 1?

What is a pie chart, what are the major features of the pie chart, how to analyze the question, how to structure your essay for pie chart ielts question, points to remember while writing the response, practice tips for evaluating pie charts, words and phrases to use in ielts academic writing task 1, sample pie charts responses with feedback, additional faqs on ielts writing task 1: pie charts guide.

The IELTS Writing Task 1 is the first part of the IELTS Writing Test . 

It is different for the IELTS Academic and IELTS General Training modules. 

• For the IELTS Academic Writing , you are given either a graph, chart, table, or diagram, and you need to interpret, describe, and explain the information given. 
• On the other hand, the IELTS General Writing requires you to compose a letter in response to a given situation.
• Both tasks need you to have at least 150 words. 
• You are advised to spend 20 minutes at most finishing this task because the IELTS Writing Task 2 has more weight. 

An IELTS pie chart task is one of the tasks you might be given in the IELTS Academic Writing Task 1.

It is a form of a graph that uses a circular representation to display data. The graph’s parts are proportional to the percentage of the full number in each group. To put it simply, the size of a slice of the pie is proportional to the size of the group as a whole.

The full ‘pie’ represents 100% of the total pie, whereas the pie ‘slices’ represent parts of the whole. 

Pie charts have unique characteristics that make them different from the other tasks in the IELTS Writing Academic Task 1. Before taking the test, make it a point that you familiarize yourself with these features to avoid confusion. 

• Title : The title gives a quick summary of what is in your pie chart. This makes it easier for the readers to figure out what they are about to look at. It is not an issue if it is creative or simple as long as it explains the chart. 
• Legend : The legend explains what each slice stands for. It aids the reader in understanding what they are looking at. 
• Source : The source specifies where you obtained the data in your graph. It is critical to acknowledge those who gathered your data. 
• Data : The information, or data, that your chart contains is the most significant component of it. Data is shown in pie charts as part of a 100-point scale (a percentage). Each slice represents a unique piece of information.

Part of the criteria for your writing in the IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 is Task Achievement. Were you able to accomplish what is asked of you? That is why to get your desired band score. It is a must that you analyze the question carefully. 

• Examine the pie charts and make a plan of what you will write : This is probably the most important stage in the IELTS Writing Test because what you plan will dictate the flow of your writing. Keep in mind that you need to analyze the IELTS pie charts carefully. Study the given details before planning on what to write. 
• Compare the main features to each other : The IELTS pie chart is meant to compare and contrast the given information. These comparisons will aid you in developing a strategy for the body of your IELTS Writing Task 1. Remember that you should not state your opinions and that you are only asked to examine, describe and explain the data given. 
• Select the data for the overview statement : The next step is to consider what information should be included in the Overview statement. Remember that an ‘Overview Statement’ summarizes what you believe is the most important information to know about the pie chart. 
• Write the overview paragraph : The last step is to write your response in the IELTS Academic Writing pie chart task. The first paragraph, the ‘overview paragraph,’ must be written first. Remember two tips when writing your response. First, you need to paraphrase the task, and second, have your overview statement followed by supporting and relevant details. 

Paraphrasing the Question

Paraphrasing the question is essential in the IELTS Academic Writing pie chart task. It increases your chances of getting a high mark from the examiner as it demonstrates that you have a wide range of vocabulary. 

You should rephrase this by utilizing your own grammar and vocabulary as possible. You also need to get a little more specific about the kind of information in the pie chart.

The way you structure your writing in the IELTS Academic Writing pie chart task will dictate your fate in this part of the test. That is why, in the next section of this article, we have listed the steps that you should follow when writing your 150-word (or more) output. 

Step 1 — Analyze the question

Every IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 question has the same format. Here’s another version of our practice question, this time with the words that will appear in all of the questions highlighted.

The graph below depicts the reasons why people choose to commute to work by bicycle or car.

Select and summarize the most important data elements and draw comparisons where appropriate.

All questions in the IELTS Academic Writing pie chart task consist of: 

• 1 st sentence – A brief description of the task 
• 2 nd sentence – The instructions
• 3 rd sentence – The graphic (graph, chart, table, diagram) 

The second sentence of the IELTS Academic Writing pie chart task instructs you what to do. You should do the following:

• Choose the main features. 
• Write about the main features. 
• Compare and contrast the main features. 

Step 2 — Identify the Main Features 

In the IELTS Academic Writing pie chart tasks, the graphic should be simple to understand. Each question is designed to assess your language skills rather than your numerical skills.

Percentages or proportions are always shown in pie charts. Apart from that, they are similar to bar charts and line graphs in that they’re a visual representation of data.

Here are some good questions to ponder.

• What unit of measurements are used?
• What does the title and label say? 
• What is the most notable trend of the graphic? 
• What are the similarities and differences? 

Step 3 — Write the Introduction

Simply paraphrase the question in the introduction. Express similar sentences differently. This can be accomplished by employing synonyms and altering the phrase structure. 

Step 4 — Write an Overview

The primary elements shown in the pie charts should be reported in the second paragraph, with just broad information provided. The essay’s detail comes later. You should also make any obvious comparisons you notice.

Step 5 — Write the First-detail Paragraph

More specific information regarding the data in the image should be included in paragraphs 3 and 4 of your IELTS Academic Writing pie chart essay.

In paragraph 3, you should support your first essential characteristic with proof. Remember to make comparisons when appropriate.

Step 6 — Write the Second-detail Paragraph

You repeat the process for your second significant characteristic in the fourth and final paragraph. If you need to add a third primary feature to complete the essay nicely, do so. 

Because the question does not specify a time range, you can use either the present simple tense or the past simple tense. The present simple tense was used. Remember to be consistent with your tenses throughout your essay, regardless of which one you chose.

Sample — Complete IELTS Academic Writing Pie Chart Essay: 

To obtain a high mark in the IELTS Academic Writing pie chart task, you should bear in mind the following:

• Be consistent with the verb tenses : This means that if the pie chart image is in the present, your explanation should also be in the present tense. If your chart reflects the past, the explanation must be in the past tense.
• Meet the minimum number of words required : Write at least 150 words. Otherwise, it can be rejected. To avoid being rejected, make sure your answer is at least 155-190 words long while writing the explanation.
• Have a clear comparison of the data : Comparing two graphs is frequently easier than creating an explanation for a single graph. Because of this, you need to pay close attention to every aspect to develop excellent ideas to write about the chart.
• Do not deviate from the given topic : The answer you write must correspond to the chart exactly. When composing the explanation, you must exercise considerable caution. So, before you start writing on the chart, have a good look at it.
• Make it easier to read : When writing an IELTS Academic Writing pie chart task, organize material logically to make it easier to follow and read. Rather than writing about each chart independently, the most natural thing to do with an IELTS pie chart is to compare categories across charts, concentrating on similarities and contrasts.

Accomplishing an IELTS Academic Writing pie chart task is not as easy as it seems.

It entails a lot of preparation, and that is why you are advised to consider the following when you practice for the IELTS Academic Writing pie chart task.

• Know what a pie chart is :

Pie charts are extremely useful when comparing a specified category (a slice of the pie) to the whole (the entire pie). The area of pie chart slices is a better representation of the relative size. Inflations and deflations, numbers per category, or direct correlations between categories in which one set of statistics depends on another should not be shown using pie charts. Using a line graph is a better format to utilize in this scenario.

• Have annotations :

Outside of minor fractions like 1/2 (50 percent), 1/3 (33 percent), and 1/4 (25 percent), it is actually quite difficult to deduce exact proportions from pie charts (25 percent). Furthermore, if the slice values are designed to represent amounts rather than proportions, pie charts usually lack the tick markings that allow direct value calculation based on slice sizes. Annotations are a regular feature of pie charts because of these reasons.

• Think about the order of the slices :

A solid slice order can make it easier for a reader to understand what is being said in the pie chart. When there are categories with relatively comparable values, a usual ordering goes from the largest slice to the smallest slice, which is highly useful. If the category levels have a natural ordering, plotting slices is usually preferable.

• Keep the amount of pie pieces to a minimum :

It can be tough to understand pie charts with many slices. It is difficult to identify the smallest slices, and it can also be difficult to select enough colors to distinguish all of the slices. Recommendations vary, but you should consider utilizing a different chart type if you have more than five categories. Another possibility is to combine little pieces into a single ‘others’ slice, which would be colored in a neutral gray.

• Do not use distorting effects: 

To read a pie chart correctly, slices of the areas, arc lengths, and angles must all relate to an appropriate depiction of the data. While it is good to prevent 3-d effects in any plot, it is especially critical with pie charts. Squeezing or expanding the circle, or adding too much depth, can easily alter the size of each slice in relation to the total.

Vocabulary accounts for 25% of your marks in the IELTS Writing Test.

To earn a good score, you must produce accurate and strong descriptions and analyses for the provided graph(s) or diagram. It is simple to keep repeating phrases and numbers in this minimum 150-word essay.

However, this is not an excellent way to get a decent grade. You must utilize a variety of terminology that describes and emphasizes the changes, similarities, and contrasts in the data. 

Here are some of the words and phrases that will help you accomplish the IELTS Academic Writing pie chart task. 

Adjectives : 

• significant
• considerable
• fluctuation
• dramatically
• significantly
• considerably

General Trend:

• It is clear…
• In general…
• It is obvious…
• At the onset…
•  It is clear that…
• As can be seen…
• As it is observed…
• As a general trend…
• As it is presented…
• At first glance…
• Generally speaking…
• It can be clearly seen that…
• As an overall trend/ As overall trend…
• A glance at the graph(s) reveals that…
• According to… 
• It is clear that…
• According to the…
• It is possible that… 
• It is worth noting…
• It is obvious that… 
• It is stated directly that…
• Categorically speaking…
• As shown in the image… 
• Returning to the specifics… 
• As can be observed in the… 
• It is without a doubt/clear that…
• It can plainly be seen that… 
• Now, returning to the details… 
• It is worth mentioning that…
• It appears to be the case that…
• It is evident from the statistics… 
• As you can see from the diagram…
• Based on the facts, it appears that…
• The figure is depicted in the graph…

Summarizing:

• Overall, the picture is clear…
• The majority/minority, in general…
• To summarize, the most significant difference is…
• To summarize, the most notable tendency is…

Predictions:

• is shown to…
• is expected to…
• is forecast to…
• is predicted to…
• is projected to…

Approximations:

• Just around
• Approximately
• More or less
• A little more than
• A little less than
• 33% – nearly a third
• 4% – a tiny fraction
• 50% – exactly a half
• 48% – around a half
• 52% – just over a half
• 48% – just under a half
• 23% – almost a quarter
• 27% – roughly one quarter
• 75% – nearly three quarters
• 78% – approximately three quarters

Proportions:

• 12% – a small minority
• 80% – a large proportion
• 68% – a significant majority
• 4% – an insignificant minority

To get an idea of how the questions in the IELTS Academic Writing pie chart task are posed, you are advised to study some sample responses. It will also help you structure your essay. Here are some of them:

How Do You Write an Answer IELTS Pie Chart Question?

To write an IELTS Academic Writing pie chart task, you need to analyze the question first. Then, identify its main features.

Next, you have to write the introduction, overview, and summary.  Please review our suggestions discussed above to ace this question type.

How Do You Write a Summary for the IELTS Academic Writing Pie Chart Task? 

The summary is the last part of the IELTS Academic Writing pie chart task.

Therefore, before you can write one, you should first analyze the data and identify its main features. From there, you can write your summary.

Do not make it too long. It should be a short and brief conclusion on what you have written. 

How Long Should I Spend in the IELTS Academic Writing Pie Chart Task? 

You are strongly advised to spend no more than 20 minutes on the IELTS Academic Writing pie chart task because the second task carries more weight.

However, that is not to say that you should neglect this part of the test. The first task also accounts for your overall marks in the IELTS Writing Test, so you should give your best performance in both tasks. 

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Two graphs give different information related to eight professional groups. The bar chart indicates the number of weekly work hours done by the groups while the pie graph illustrates the percentages of people suffering from stress related illness in the different professi ons given.

In general, business men work the longest among the eight groups while the smallest amount of time is normally worked by lecturers. According to the pie chart, lecturers struggle the most with work -related stress. Although their average working hours is smaller than any other group in the chart, lecturers suffer from the highest level of stress caused by their job.

The bar graph shows that business men and movie producers work the most at about 70 hours and 62 hours per week respectively. At the opposite end of the scale, lecturers work only around 25 hours. Working hours of other professionals varied with doctors, writers, programmers, lawyers and chefs working approximately 52, 46, 35 and 32 hours per week in the name ordered.

The pie graph shows that the professional who has the highest incidence of stress related illnesses is lecturers at 25%. Movie producers and doctors also have high rates with 18% and 15% each. The figures for business men, lawyers, chefs and writers can be grouped into percentages between 11 and 8%. The lowest rate of stress illness is attributed to programmers at only 5%, which is only a fifth the figure for lecturers.

(239 words)

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IELTS Writing Task 1: Cambridge 14 Test 1, three pie charts; analysis of candidate’s answer, strategies & a band 8+ sample answer

In this IELTS Writing Task 1 post, we are going to have a look at an Academic Writing Task 1 question from Cambridge IELTS Series 14 , the latest publication of Cambridge IELTS Series. IELTS candidates will find an analysis of the 6.5 grade model answer for these three pie charts combined in the last part of the book for this question and then an attempt to make the answer a better one which can be graded a far greater band-score. This post is intended to guide IELTS learners and candidates to gather a better idea about Writing Task 1.

Cambridge IELTS 14 Test 1 Writing Task 1: Three pie charts on nutrients in American meals

As you can see, this is a pie chart question where some datum are given on the percentage of nutrition values in three nutrients found in four typical or classic USA meals, namely breakfast , lunch , dinner and snacks . The meals are separated in each pie chart using different colour patterns. We have three pie charts here; the first one representing Sodium , the second one for Saturated fat and the third one symbolizing Added sugar . 

In this post, first we’re going to analyse the sample answer written by a candidate provided in the last part of the book which was awarded a 6.5 band-score.

Here’s the sample answer:

The diagrams illustrate the average proportions of three types of nutrients in typical meals, which can be unhealthy if consumed too much. The three types include sodium, saturated fats and added sugar. The data is taken from the United States of America.

The first chart shows the average percentages of sodium. Dinner contains the most sodium (43%). Breakfast and snacks include an equal proportion of sodium consumed, with each of them adding up 14% of sodium. Through eating lunch, 29% sodium is consumed. The second chart shows the percentage of saturated fat in meals. By eating dinner, 37% saturated fat is consumed. Lunch contributes to a consumption of 26% saturated fat, followed by snacks with 21% and breakfast with 16%.The last chart illustrates the proportions of added sugar. Snacks contain the highest amount of added sugar (42%). Dinner includes 23% A typical dinner includes 23% added sugar, while lunch contains 19% and breakfast includes 16%.

All in all, the diagrams show that every typical meal consumed in the USA contains a percentage of at least 14% of nutrients that can be unhealthy is eaten too much. 

• Now let’s have a look at what the examiner has to say about this 6.5 band-score answer:

Here is the examiner’s comment:

The candidate has accurately reported the data for each chart and has presented a summary of the information, but could achieve a higher score by making comparisons across the charts, e.g. breakfast contains the lowest amounts of sodium, saturated fats and added sugar. The information is logically organised and there is a clear progression throughout the script. The main points are clearly signaled [ The first chart | The second chart | All in all ] and there are examples of other cohesive devices [ each of them ]. The range of vocabulary is varied [ data | contains | an equal proportion of   | consumed   | consumption   | illustrates ]. Minor errors do not cause misunderstanding [ adding up 14% of sodium ]. There is a mix of simple and complex sentence structure, using active, passive and modal verb forms and there is also subordination through the use of participles [ Through eating lunch | By eating dinner | followed by ]. More variety in grammatical structures would perhaps achieve a higher score.

Here’s how I’ve analysed this model answer and prepared a better answer:

Most of the experts in IELTS convey that a Task 1 report should have the introduction and the summary/overall trend/ general trend in the beginning of the answer. This is because the examiner always expects to gather a great impression about the candidate to score him/her better than others and the best way to get that impression is by producing a striking INTRODUCTION.

A striking introduction to a Task 1 report is produced in the following way using 2 sentences:

Sentence no. 1: Paraphrase the question title using some uncommon vocabulary but do not write too extravagant words. Keep it simple but decorate the sentence with some eye-catching and relevant words.

Sentence no. 2: Present an overview/summary/overall trend/general trend right after the introductory sentence. Remember, you are giving a summarized picture of all the information combined in the TASK 1 illustrations/diagrams/charts/tables/graphs. So, never put down any personal comments such as reasons or effects or any personal opinion.

The provided sample answer has two problems here:

First, the introduction is in three sentences which could have been written in only one sentence .   Take a look:

Second, the overview is given at the end , after the description or body paragraph. Additionally, the candidate has also repeated the line ‘ can be unhealthy is eaten too much’ in the summary which has already been mentioned earlier in the introduction.

This could have been written right after the introduction .

The candidate could write like the following band score 8+ example introduction and summary :

The average proportions of three types of nutrients such as sodium, saturated fats and added sugar in typical American meals are compared in the depicted charts which may be detrimental to health if consumed excessively.

Overall, the charts clearly show that dinner and snacks contain more saturated fats and added sugar compared to breakfast and lunch which make the former meals unhealthier than the latter ones.

Now, let’s have a look at the body paragraph/description of the candidate’s answer and analyse it to find out the problems:

The first chart shows the average percentages of sodium. Dinner contains the most sodium (43%). Breakfast and snacks include an equal proportion of sodium consumed, with each of them adding up 14% of sodium . Through eating lunch, 29% sodium is consumed. The second chart shows the percentage of saturated fat in meals. By eating dinner, 37% saturated fat is consumed. Lunch contributes to a consumption of 26% saturated fat, followed by snacks with 21% and breakfast with 16%. The last chart illustrates the proportions of added sugar. Snacks contain the highest amount of added sugar (42%). Dinner includes 23% A typical dinner includes 23% added sugar, while lunch contains 19% and breakfast includes 16%.

• Here, in the description, the major problem is that we don’t find a good amount of comparison among the different types, and this problem contributed to the lower score. The candidate should have tried comparing between two types of meals taken by US people and show the difference of same nutrients.
• The candidate’s description doesn’t contain much sentence errors (except for with each of them adding up 14% of sodium ). He could have written “Breakfast and snacks include an equal proportion of sodium which is 14%.”
• The answer also contains good usage of cohesive devices/linkers/connectors but it could have been better and that would have made the answer stand out.

Here’s a band 8+ model description that you can use:

The first chart, that presents the average rates of sodium, depicts that dinner contains the highest proportion of sodium (43%) while lunch is in the second position with 29%. Both breakfast and snacks include an equal proportion of sodium (14%) which is the lowest amount for this type of nutrient. The chart showing the rates of saturated fats display nearly the similar account of sodium. Here, dinner contains the maximum and breakfast holds the minimum amount of saturated fats. Lunch has 26% fats but snacks have 5% saturated fats less than lunch. In the third chart, snacks offer quite a contradictory picture as they contribute to the consumption of 42% added sugar which makes this type of meal the most vulnerable. Additionally, the Americans consume 23% added sugar by taking their dinner which is 4% higher than lunch and 6% more than breakfast.

This is how you can describe the charts by showing a good number comparison using simple, complex and compound sentences. I’ve also used both active and passive sentences here. I’ve used some synonyms such as present, show, depict, display, offer, etc. I’ve also used different synonyms for eat ( take, consume etc.). The use of cohesive devices is ample in the introduction, summary and description, and so the answer flows smoothly.

Here’s the complete band 8+ answer for you:

Word count: 209 

N.B.: You need not use three paragraphs for all Task 1 answers. I’ve used an extra paragraph to show the summary/ overview/ overall trend because it is nearly of the same size of the introduction.

Click here for learning about cohesive devices/connectors/linkers/connecting words

5 thoughts on “ IELTS Writing Task 1: Cambridge 14 Test 1, three pie charts; analysis of candidate’s answer, strategies & a band 8+ sample answer ”

I’ve found this article pretty useful, because I was able to compare both Sample answers for a band 6,5 and 8+ with my own essay and understood my own mistakes.But,I would be even happier if Mr. Rasul could check my essay.

Dear Muzaffarjon,

It will be my pleasure to check your writings.

Please, send me a mail to know more about the service or follow this link: http://ieltsdeal.com/ielts-writing-correction-service-get-your-writings-checked-and-improve-further-to-higher-scores/

The charts illustrate average percentages in food meals of three kinds of nutrients, all of them can be bad for reported Americans. Overview, details show that the Americans consume mostly sodium (43 percentage ) and saturated fat ( 37 percentage ) for dinner. Meanwhile added sugar is also consumed for the dinner but in a smaller percentage of 23. Looking from the charts results we can see that for lunch we have almost equal percentages in consuming sodium (29 %) and saturated fat (26%). Added sugar have again smaller percentages (19%). Americans almost use the same amount of three nutritions for the breakfast. Rapidly change happends for snacks. Here the main nutrition is added sugar (42 percentage ), following the saturated fat (21 percentage) and the last is sodium (14 percentage). All in all, the charts details us that consuming each nutritions in bigger amounts can be very damaging for health. We may consider that healthy life- style needs to be in balance between all meals of the day. Can You please help me with rating this ?

at present i can doo ielts exam of reading module can u plss make all others modules like acadimic 15 , 16 etc or if there pls send to mail

The pie charts compare the proportions of sodium, saturated fat and added sugar in four kinds of American meals. Overall, dinner and snacks constituted the highest percentages of saturated fats and added sugars, whereas breakfast and lunch had the lowest proportion of these nutrients. Looking at the first chart, dinner contains more than two-fifths of sodium (43%), while lunch is in the second position at 29%. By contrast, breakfast and snacks account for the smallest amount of sodium at 14% each. In terms of saturated fats, dinner and lunch hold the highest numbers of this nutrient at 37% and 26% respectively. The figures for snacks and breakfast have roughly 5% and 10% saturated fats less than lunch. In the USA the four types of American meals also contain a higher number of added sugars. Just under half is found in snacks, followed by less than a quarter (23%) at dinner. On the other hand, added sugar proportions for breakfast and lunch are below 20% and the difference between them is around 3%.

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IELTS Writing Task 2: Agree disagree topic on using forensics to solve old cases; with 3 model answers

This IELTS Writing Task 2 post offers some sample answers to an agree-disagree topic. This agree-disagree topic asks the candidates to provide arguments as to whether new science related to criminal forensics should be used to look at old cases or not. In this post, you will find three great model answers which may help […]

IELTS Writing Task 2: an advantage-disadvantage essay on taking a gap year before starting university education; with plans and model answer

This IELTS Writing Task 2 post offers the insights of writing a great answer to an advantage-disadvantage essay. This task 2 question asks the candidates to provide their personal opinions on taking a gap year before starting university education. In this post, you will find a plan that can help you to write this answer […]