Task 1 Writing Guide
Task 1 asks you to describe visual or written information clearly and accurately. The approach differs between Academic and General Training — here's everything you need for both.
150
Minimum words
20 min
Recommended time
33%
Weight of total score
Chart & Diagram Types
Recommended Structure (Academic)
Total: ~250 words
Paraphrase the task prompt in your own words. Never copy the question. One or two sentences.
Example
"The bar chart illustrates the percentage of households owning various electronic devices in the UK between 2000 and 2020."
Summarise the 2–3 most striking features without specific data. This is the most important paragraph for Task Achievement.
Example
"Overall, ownership of smartphones rose dramatically across the period, while television ownership remained relatively stable."
Describe and compare the most significant data. Include specific figures with approximate language.
Example
"In 2000, only 12% of households owned a smartphone, compared to 87% by 2020 — an increase of 75 percentage points."
Cover remaining key data. Group similar items together rather than going data point by data point.
Example
"By contrast, television ownership fell slightly from 98% in 2000 to 93% in 2020, while computer ownership grew moderately from 38% to 71%."
Key Language for Trends
Increase
Decrease
Stable
Approximate
Letter Writing
General Training Task 1 requires a letter. The question tells you the purpose and three bullet points to address — you must cover all three to score well on Task Achievement.
Opening
Dear Sir or Madam,
Closing
Yours faithfully,
e.g. Complaint to a company, request to an authority, job application
Opening
Dear Mr/Ms [Surname],
Closing
Yours sincerely,
e.g. Request to a boss, letter to a neighbour, to a teacher
Opening
Dear [First name],
Closing
Best wishes, / Take care,
e.g. Inviting a friend, recommending something, apologising to a relative
Deep Dive by Chart Type
Structure, vocabulary, Band 7+ overview examples, and key language — for each Academic chart type.