In the previous tip for IELTS writing task 1, you learned important information about the different parts you should include your answer: an introduction, an overview, specific details, and a summary statement.
Now, let’s look at an example answer so you can understand more clearly. Key points are provided next to each section, but you may wish to look back at the previous tip for more information.
You should spend 20 minutes on this task.
The line graph shows changes in the amount of three types of fast food consumed by New Zealand teenagers from 1975 to 2000.
Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.
Write at least 150 words.
Advice
Example
Introduction
This is a nice paraphrase of the title, and it includes the time period shown in the graph.
The line graph compares the fast food consumption of teenagers in New Zealand over a 25-year period, from 1975 to 2000.
Overview
The main trend is identified. There are no specific details/data.
Overall, the amount of fish and chips consumed between 1975 and 2000 fell while the number of pizza and hamburgers eaten increased.
Body – Specific details
The information is much more specific. Data and figures from the graph are included to support the statements.
Each paragraph focuses on a different pattern.
In 1975, the preferred fast food with New Zealand teenagers was fish and chips, which they ate 110 times a year. This was far higher than pizza and hamburgers, which were consumed approximately 10 and 5 times a year, respectively. However, over the following 25 years, the consumption of fish and chips steadily declined to finish at just under 40 in 2000.
On the other hand, teenagers consumed considerably more of the other two fast foods. The amount of pizza consumed gradually increased, and by 1995, had overtaken the amount of fish and chips eaten. It then leveled off from 1995 to 2000, being consumed 80 times per year. Hamburgers recorded the biggest increase. From 1975 to 1985, consumption sharply rose and had exceeded that of fish and chips by 1990. It finished at the highest level of the three types of fast food, with consumption at 100 times a year.
Summary statement
Highlights the main points. Does not offer an explanation for the data.
In short, pizza and hamburgers became a more common choice over the period whereas fish and chips were consumed less.