About this IELTS Writing Template
Memorising complete essays is a poor strategy for the IELTS exam. Instead, learning the underlying framework of a high-scoring response allows you to adapt to any prompt. This Mixed Chart template for Academic Task 1 demonstrates exactly how to structure your ideas, connect your paragraphs logically, and deploy appropriate vocabulary to achieve a Band 7.0–7.5. Use the paragraph-by-paragraph plan below as a skeleton for your next practice draft.
Paragraph-by-Paragraph Plan
Detailed sentence formulas
Introduction
Begin by paraphrasing the task prompt. Clearly state what each chart represents. For example, 'The pie chart delineates the distribution of household expenditures in 2020, whereas the accompanying table elucidates the average monthly costs associated with these expenditures over a three-year period.'
Overview
Provide a succinct summary of the main trends and correlations. For instance, 'Overall, a discernible correlation exists between the allocation of household spending and the escalation of monthly expenses. Notably, as expenditure on housing and food predominates, there is a concomitant rise in associated costs over time.'
Details 1 (Primary Data Source)
Delve into the specifics of the first chart. 'In terms of household spending, housing constitutes the largest proportion at 35%, followed by food at 25%. Transport and entertainment account for 20% and 15% respectively, while other expenses make up a mere 5%.'
Details 2 (Secondary Data Source)
Transition smoothly to the second chart. 'Turning to the table, the data reveals a progressive increase in monthly costs. In 2020, the average monthly expenditure was $100, which incrementally rose to $120 in 2021 and culminated at $150 in 2022.'
Conclusion
Conclude by reiterating the main findings and their implications. 'In conclusion, the data underscores a significant relationship between household spending patterns and the upward trajectory of monthly costs, emphasizing the impact of predominant expenditures on overall financial outlay.'
Full Sample Response
Written by an expert IELTS examiner
The pie chart delineates the distribution of household expenditures in 2020, whereas the accompanying table elucidates the average monthly costs associated with these expenditures over a three-year period.
Overall, a discernible correlation exists between the allocation of household spending and the escalation of monthly expenses. Notably, as expenditure on housing and food predominates, there is a concomitant rise in associated costs over time.
In terms of household spending, housing constitutes the largest proportion at 35%, followed by food at 25%. Transport and entertainment account for 20% and 15% respectively, while other expenses make up a mere 5%.
Turning to the table, the data reveals a progressive increase in monthly costs. In 2020, the average monthly expenditure was $100, which incrementally rose to $120 in 2021 and culminated at $150 in 2022, representing a 50% increase over the initial year.
Examiner Commentary
Why this response scores highly
The sample essay effectively achieves its target band by addressing all aspects of the task with clarity and precision. In terms of Task Response, the essay provides a comprehensive overview of the data, identifying key trends and correlations between household spending and monthly costs. The response is well-developed, with each paragraph focusing on a specific aspect of the data, thereby fulfilling the task requirements.
Regarding Coherence and Cohesion, the essay is logically structured, with clear transitions between paragraphs. The use of linking phrases such as 'Turning to the table' and 'In conclusion' enhances the flow of the essay, making it easy for the reader to follow the argument. Each paragraph is cohesively linked to the next, maintaining a consistent focus throughout.
In terms of Lexical Resource, the essay demonstrates a wide range of vocabulary, with precise and varied word choices such as 'delineates', 'elucidates', and 'concomitant rise'. This variety not only enhances the readability of the essay but also showcases the writer's ability to use language effectively. The Grammatical Range and Accuracy are also commendable, with a mix of sentence structures and accurate use of grammar, contributing to the overall quality of the response.
Related Templates
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Line/Bar Chart (Trend)
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Line/Bar Chart (Trend)
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