Task 1 · Practice
IELTS Writing Task 1 Practice Questions
Task 1 is 20 minutes and a minimum of 150 words. Academic candidates describe data or a process objectively; General Training candidates write a letter in the appropriate register. Neither task rewards personal opinion.
Quick reference
- —Academic: describe charts, graphs, maps or processes — no opinion required or rewarded.
- —General Training: write a formal, semi-formal or informal letter at appropriate register.
- —Examiners reward overview, key features and comparisons — not exhaustive data lists.
IELTS Academic Task 1 — Chart and Diagram Practice
Academic Task 1 covers six data and diagram types. Each requires a slightly different vocabulary set and structural approach. Select a chart type below to study a full guide with annotated Band 7+ examples.
Line Graph
Describe trends over time
Bar Chart
Compare categories or time periods
Pie Chart
Describe proportions and percentages
Table
Extract key figures and comparisons
Map
Describe changes to a location over time
Process Diagram
Describe how something is made or works
Sample Academic Task 1 Practice Questions
The bar chart below shows the percentage of households with internet access in five countries between 2005 and 2020. Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.
The diagrams below show the layout of a town centre in 1990 and the present day. Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.
The line graph below shows the average monthly temperatures in three cities over the course of one year. Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.
IELTS General Training Task 1 — Letter Practice
General Training Task 1 always requires a letter. The tone and structure depend on the relationship with the reader. Use the guides below to master the register for each letter type.
Formal Letter
Written to someone you do not know, or in an official context
Semi-Formal Letter
Written to someone you know but in a professional context
Informal Letter
Written to a friend or someone you know well
Letter Practice Questions
You recently purchased a product from an online retailer and received the wrong item. Write a letter to the customer services department. In your letter: explain what you ordered and what you received; say how this has caused you inconvenience; state what action you would like the company to take.
You are interested in enrolling on a professional development course offered by a training organisation. Write a letter to the admissions office. In your letter: explain your current job and why you want to take the course; ask for information about course dates, costs and entry requirements; ask how you can apply.
There is a maintenance problem in the flat you are renting. Write a letter to your landlord. In your letter: describe the problem; explain how long it has existed and what effect it is having; ask when the landlord will arrange for it to be repaired.
You would like to take a period of annual leave at a time that is not the usual holiday season at your workplace. Write a letter to your manager. In your letter: explain why you need this particular period of leave; say how you will ensure your work is covered while you are away; ask for formal approval.
A friend has asked you to recommend a place to visit in your country. Write a letter to your friend. In your letter: recommend a specific place and say why you chose it; describe what there is to see and do there; suggest the best time of year to visit and how your friend could travel there.
You have received an invitation from a friend to attend an event, but you are unable to go. Write a letter to your friend. In your letter: apologise for not being able to attend; explain the reason why you cannot come; suggest another time when you could meet up instead.
Academic vs General Training Task 1 — Key Differences
| Feature | Academic Task 1 | General Training Task 1 |
|---|---|---|
| Format | Describe a chart, graph, map or process diagram | Write a letter (formal, semi-formal or informal) |
| Word count | Minimum 150 words | Minimum 150 words |
| Time | Approximately 20 minutes | Approximately 20 minutes |
| Focus | Objective description, overview and comparison of data | Appropriate register, tone and bullet-point coverage |
| What NOT to do | Do not give opinions or explain why trends occurred | Do not use the wrong register (e.g. informal to an employer) |
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between Academic and General Training Task 1?+
Academic Task 1 asks you to describe data or a process in 150 words or more — charts, graphs, maps, or diagrams. General Training Task 1 asks you to write a letter in 150 words or more. They are completely different tasks requiring different skills and are never interchangeable.
How long should I spend on Task 1?+
20 minutes maximum. Task 2 carries twice the marks (Task 1 is one-third of your Writing score; Task 2 is two-thirds). Many candidates overspend on Task 1, leaving insufficient time for Task 2. Set a strict 20-minute limit in every practice session.
Do I need to describe every detail in an Academic Task 1 chart?+
No. Examiners expect you to select and report the most significant features and make relevant comparisons. A word-for-word list of every data point without analysis or comparison is penalised under Task Achievement. Identify the main trend and two or three supporting details.
Can I give my opinion in Task 1?+
No in Academic Task 1 — it requires objective description only. In General Training Task 1 letters, you may include opinions if the task requires them (e.g. a complaint letter), but never add unsolicited personal commentary. Adding an opinion where it is not asked for lowers your Task Achievement score.
How is Task 1 marked?+
Against the same four IELTS criteria as Task 2: Task Achievement, Coherence and Cohesion, Lexical Resource, and Grammatical Range and Accuracy. Each criterion is equally weighted within the task. However, Task 1 as a whole counts for one-third of your overall Writing band score.
Want expert feedback on your Task 1 writing?
Practice with the prompts above, then send your answer for human correction. A qualified teacher marks against all four IELTS criteria and returns feedback within 48 hours.