Maps

What Maps Test

Map questions ask you to describe changes to a place over time or compare two different locations. They test your ability to describe spatial changes using location language and transformation verbs — a completely different skill set from data charts.

Two Types of Map Questions

Before and After: Two maps of the same place at different times. Describe what changed between the two periods.

Comparison: Two maps of different locations. Describe the differences and similarities.

Essential Location Language

Position: in the north, in the southern part, to the east of, adjacent to, opposite, alongside, in the centre, on the outskirts, in the top left corner, bordering

Reference points: next to the river, near the entrance, beside the road, across from, behind the main building

Essential Transformation Verbs

Built: was constructed, was built, was developed, was established Removed: was demolished, was knocked down, was cleared, was removed Changed to: was converted into, was transformed into, was replaced by, was turned into Stayed the same: remained unchanged, was retained, was preserved, continued to exist

The Passive Voice Rule

Map descriptions almost exclusively use the passive voice because the focus is on what happened to buildings and areas, not who did it. "A new road was constructed" not "They built a new road." This is one of the few places in IELTS writing where passive voice is expected and rewarded.

Structure

Introduction: State what the maps show — the location, the time periods or places being compared.

Overview: Identify the most significant overall changes — did the area develop significantly? Did it shrink? Did it modernize?

Body Paragraph 1: Describe changes in one part of the map, typically starting with the most significant transformation.

Body Paragraph 2: Describe changes in another area, using comparison language to link back to Body 1.

Common Mistakes

Using active voice throughout — "They built a shopping centre" instead of "A shopping centre was constructed."

Describing position without describing change — always note what was there before and what is there now.

Ignoring unchanged features — "The river remained in the same position" or "The church was retained" shows comprehensive coverage.