IELTS Writing Task 1 Bar Graph

Updated on Nov 08, 2024, 12:57

The bar graph is the simplest form of a chart and one of the most straightforward questions in IELTS Writing Task 1.

While you may have seen bar graphs all your life, writing a good report for IELTS can be tricky. But don’t worry, as we’re here to help you!

This page will break down the IELTS Writing Task 1 bar graph into a step-by-step guide. We’ve also included a sample to help you ace the writing test. Let’s get started!

On This Page

1. IELTS Writing Task 1 Bar Graph: How to Answer

The bar graph task is part of the IELTS Writing Task 1. Ideally, you should spend only 20 minutes on this task.

1/ 6

2. IELTS Writing Task 1 Bar Graph: Sample Questions and Answers

Below are some samples to help you understand how to answer the IELTS task 1 bar graph questions!

2/ 6

3. IELTS Writing Task 1 Bar Graph Vocabulary

Vocabulary is key to scoring well in IELTS Writing Task 1, particularly when describing bar graphs.

3/ 6

4. Grammar for IELTS Writing Task 1 Bar Graph

When writing an IELTS Task 1 bar graph essay, it's important to use correct grammar and sentence structure to clearly and accurately convey the information.

4/ 6

5. Tips to Improve Your IELTS Writing Task 1 Bar Graph Essay

Getting a good score in IELTS task 1 bar graph essay requires a good grasp on grammar, wide vocabulary range and a clear, coherent writing style.

5/ 6

More for you

Boost your IELTS Writing score

Book Free Writing class

See how to score 8+ in Listening.

Get proven strategies to ace your IELTS Listening test.

Learn More

6/6

IELTS Writing Task 1 Bar Graph: How to Answer

The bar graph task is part of the IELTS Writing Task 1. Ideally, you should spend only 20 minutes on this task.

The task here is simple: analyse the given bar chart and summarise, highlight or compare the given features. The word limit for this task is a minimum of 150 words. While there’s no penalty for exceeding this limit, writing less than 150 words can result in losing marks. Ideally, you should aim to write around 200 words for clarity and detail.

Bar Graphs consist of rectangles depicting values. The length or height of each rectangle towards a certain value. Here’s how you can answer the bar graph task!

Analyse the Task at Hand

Read the question carefully and understand the information that’s given to you. The question may look like this:

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

The bar graph below shows the number of overseas students enrolled in a third-year Computer Science course at a Canadian college.

Summarise the information by describing the main features of the chart and making comparisons where appropriate.

Write at least 150 words.

Take 2 minutes to go through the chart in detail concerning what is asked of you. Bar graphs may be stacked together or divided into segments (like the above example).

Pay attention to the colours, lengths, and groups! Each type of bar graph has something different to convey.

Highlight the first 2-3 key features that stand out from the data. Since you only have 20 minutes to write, and considering you have to write in just 150 words, we recommend that you be wise about the features you choose. Don’t try to cover every single detail in the graph.

Identify the Main Features

Features that instantly stand out to you are essential. Note them down and analyse them further. These could be patterns, numbers, titles, or trends.

As part of your essay, you must further analyse and elaborate on these features. Some questions may also require you to compare and contrast between different points.

Practise how to interpret data. Here are some tips:

Understand the type of bar graph. Is it stacked? Is it divided into segments? What does it mean?
If you’re unclear about the data, look for annotations and labels that may help you further understand the context.
Note the length of each bar, and understand the number or quantity being measured.
Look for patterns. Are the bars continuously decreasing? Or increasing? Or they may be random. Typically, these are your main features.
Confirm the scale of the axis. Make sure you have not misunderstood the data.

Structure your Report/Description

Remember, your word limit is 150 words. Try to organise your thoughts sequentially without overwhelming the reader. Quote numbers and percentages from the graph wherever it’s relevant.

Here’s a standard format you can use for your analysis.

Introduction: Paraphrase the first portion of your question to begin your essay. You must mention the title, timeline, and other important features.
Overview: Expand further by stating the obvious features from the chart. What are the labels mentioned? What data does it depict? Is there a trend forming?
Highlight main features: Write about the noticeable features in the graphs. What are the highest and lowest elements? What pattern does it have? Is there a trend? Talk about it in depth, and provide comparisons if necessary. This is the main body of your text.
Conclude: Summarise and provide final thoughts on the matter. Avoid introducing any new information in this section.

Also Read: IELTS General Writing Task 1

IELTS Writing Task 1 Bar Graph: Sample Questions and Answers

Below are some samples to help you understand how to answer the IELTS task 1 bar graph questions! Feel free to take inspiration from this and write your answer.

Questions and Answers 1

Sample Question

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

The chart below shows the percentage of households in owned or rented accommodation in England and Wales between 1918 and 2011.

Summarise this information by selecting and reporting the main features and comparing where relevant.

Write at least 150 words.

Sample Answer

The provided data illustrates the comparison of housing trends in England and Wales from 1918 to 2011, specifically focusing on the percentages of rented and owned accommodations.

Overall, rented accommodations constituted approximately 78% of the total in 1918, with a subsequent levelling off observed between 1939 and 1953. However, from 1961 to 2001, there was a significant drop to 32% in rented accommodation, which eventually increased in 2011, reaching 37%

During the same period, the ownership of houses increased from 23% in 1918 to 32% by 1953, with a gradual rise between 1961 and 1991. Ownership continued to rise, reaching 69% in 2001. However, ownership declined between 2001 and 2011, with the percentage dropping to 62%.

In a nutshell, the housing landscape in England and Wales evolved significantly over the years, with shifts in the rented and owned accommodations. Moreover, 1971 marked a crucial point in this transformation, where the percentages of both totals stood at 50%.

Questions and Answers 2

Sample Question

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

The chart below shows the number of men and women in further education in Britain in three periods and whether they were studying full-time or part-time.

Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features and make comparisons where relevant.

Write at least 150 words.

Sample Answer:

The chart illustrates the number of men and women participating in further education in Britain during three time periods, specifically focusing on their enrollment in full-time and part-time courses.

According to the chart, part-time education was consistently more popular than full-time education for both genders across all periods. In 1970/71, around 1 million men were enrolled in part-time courses, compared to just over 800,000 women. However, by 1990/91, the trend reversed, as female participation surged to nearly 1100,000, while male participation slightly declined.

In contrast, full-time education saw a steady rise for both men and women. Men’s full-time enrolment increased gradually, while women’s participation surged from 50,000 in 1970/71 to approximately 300,000 by 1990/91.

In conclusion, part-time education was the dominant mode of further education in Britain, with women consistently participating in higher numbers than men. Moreover, the trends for full-time education suggested a gradual increase till 1990/91, ultimately reaching the same number for both genders.

Also Read: IELTS Writing Samples 2024: Task 1 & Task 2 (Sample Questions & Tips)

IELTS Writing Task 1 Bar Graph Vocabulary

Vocabulary is key to scoring well in IELTS Writing Task 1, particularly when describing bar graphs. Using a rich and varied vocabulary can boost your score in the Lexical Resource category and help you communicate your ideas more effectively.

Here’s a list of useful vocabulary words for the IELTS Writing Task 1 bar graph:

Describing Trends and Comparisons

Vocabulary	Usage	Example
Decrease	To show a reduction in figures	There was a decrease in population after 2015.
Dropped	To describe a sudden decrease	Profits dropped by 20% last year.
Fell	To describe a downward trend	The number of visitors fell dramatically in 2021.
Fluctuated	To show continuous variation	The temperature fluctuated between 20 and 25 degrees.
Higher	Used to compare figures with another set of data	The income in 2020 was higher than in 2019.
Increase	To indicate a rise in figures	The sales increased by 10% in 2018.
Increased steadily	To describe a gradual rise	The exports increased steadily from 2016 to 2020.
Lower	Used to indicate smaller figures in comparison	Unemployment was lower in the first quarter.
Peaked	To show the highest point in a trend	Production peaked in July at 5,000 units.
Rose	To describe an upward trend	The number of students rose to 500 in 2022.

Estimation of Figures

Vocabulary	Usage	Example
About	Used to estimate close to a specific number	About 200 people attended the event.
Approximately	To give an estimate rather than an exact figure	Approximately 60% of the population owns a smartphone.
Around	Similar to about or approximately	Around 40% of the budget was allocated to marketing.
Close to	To show proximity to a specific number	The company's revenue was close to $5 million.
Estimated	To indicate a predicted or guessed figure	The estimated cost of the project was $2 million.
More or less	To indicate a figure that is close but not exact	The population remained more or less stable.
Nearly	To indicate an estimate close to the actual number	Nearly 75% of the respondents were satisfied.
Predicted	To indicate future estimated numbers	It is predicted that sales will rise by 10% next year.
Roughly	Similar to approximately, indicating a near figure	Roughly 300,000 units were sold in 2019.
Upwards of	To indicate a figure greater than	Upwards of 1,000 people attended the conference.

Proportions

Vocabulary	Usage	Example
A fifth	To indicate 20% of the whole	A fifth of the population lives in urban areas.
A third	To indicate a proportion of one-third	A third of the respondents agreed with the statement.
Half	To indicate 50% of the whole	Half of the participants were under the age of 30.
Largest	To describe the biggest portion	The largest proportion of income was spent on housing.
Majority	To indicate more than half	The majority of students preferred online classes.
Majority share	To indicate the largest proportion	The majority share of the market belongs to smartphones.
Minority	To indicate less than half	A small minority chose to travel by bus.
Quarter	To describe 25% of the total	A quarter of the budget was allocated to marketing.
Smallest	To describe the smallest portion	The smallest segment was dedicated to education.
Two-thirds	To indicate two parts of a whole, divided into three	Two-thirds of the students passed the exam.

Adjectives and Adverbs

Vocabulary	Usage	Example
Considerably	To describe a noticeable amount	Exports increased considerably between 2010 and 2015.
Drastically	To describe an extreme change	The population drastically declined after the disaster.
Gradually	To describe slow, consistent change	The price of gold gradually increased over the years.
Marginally	To describe a very small amount	The company's profits increased marginally last year.
Moderately	To describe a mild or average change	Prices rose moderately during the summer.
Sharply	To describe a sudden and noticeable change	Production levels sharply declined in June.
Significantly	To describe a large and important change	The number of tourists significantly rose in 2020.
Slightly	To describe a small or minimal change	Sales slightly improved in the second quarter.
Steadily	To describe something happening consistently over time	The population increased steadily over the decade.
Steeply	To describe a sharp, rapid change	The unemployment rate steeply declined after 2018.

Time phrases

Vocabulary	Usage	Example
At the beginning	To refer to the start of a time period	At the beginning of the year, sales were low.
Between... and...	To describe a range of time	Between 2015 and 2020, the population increased by 10%.
By the end of	To indicate completion within a specific time frame	By the end of 2020, profits had tripled.
During the course of	To refer to an ongoing time period	During the course of the year, sales gradually rose.
From... to...	To specify the start and end of a time period	From 2000 to 2010, the industry grew steadily.
In the following three days	To indicate a span of time within days	In the following three days, the temperature rose.
Over the course of	To describe the entire duration of a process	Over the course of the decade, housing prices rose sharply.
Over the period	To refer to a specific span of time	Over the period of 10 years, the population doubled.
The final year	To refer to the last year of the given period	In the final year, sales peaked at $1 million.
Throughout	To refer to the entire duration	Throughout the period, the demand for energy rose.

Connectors

Vocabulary	Usage	Example
As opposed to	To compare differences	The urban population rose, as opposed to the rural population.
Compared to	To indicate a comparison between two elements	Sales in 2020 were higher compared to those in 2019.
However	To indicate a contrasting point	The exports grew, however, imports declined.
In contrast to	To describe a difference	In contrast to last year, profits have risen significantly.
Likewise	To indicate similarity	Likewise, sales increased in both regions.
Nevertheless	To indicate a contrast despite expectations	Profits were low; nevertheless, the company expanded.
On the other hand	To present an alternative point	On the other hand, sales in rural areas declined.
Similarly	To show the similarity between trends	Profits rose in January, similarly to the rise in February.
Whereas	To indicate a contrast between two points	Car sales increased, whereas bike sales decreased.
While	To indicate simultaneous events or comparisons	While the number of men decreased, the number of women increased.

Language for reference

Vocabulary	Usage	Example
According to	To reference a source or data	According to the report, sales have increased.
As per	To indicate data or official sources	As per the survey, unemployment dropped significantly.
Based on	To refer to data-driven conclusions	Based on the statistics, the population will rise.
Correspondingly	To indicate corresponding results or trends	The sales rose, and correspondingly, profits increased.
In line with	To show alignment with data or trends	The profits were in line with expectations.
In relation to	To compare figures or show the connection	In relation to last year, profits have doubled.
In turn	To indicate sequential steps	The rise in income led to increased spending, in turn boosting the economy.
Regarding	To indicate a reference to a particular element	Regarding profits, they have significantly increased.
Respectively	To refer to two or more corresponding figures	Sales and profits increased by 20% and 15% respectively.
With regard to	To indicate a reference to a specific point	With regard to the latest figures, profits have soared.

Grammar for IELTS Writing Task 1 Bar Graph

When writing an IELTS Task 1 bar graph essay, it's important to use correct grammar and sentence structure to clearly and accurately convey the information. Grammar plays a key role in improving your score for the Grammatical Range and Accuracy criteria, which accounts for 25% of your overall IELTS Writing band score.

Here are some grammar rules to keep in mind for your IELTS Task 1 bar graph essay:

1. Verb Tenses: Use the appropriate verb tense based on the time period shown in the chart. You can determine which tense to use in the following ways:

If the data is from the past, use the past tense.
If it includes future projections, use the future tense.
If no specific time period is given, use the present tense.

Make sure to stay consistent with your tense throughout the essay.

2. Comparatives

The comparative structures are used to compare data given in the bar graph, such as comparing the heights of two different bars. You can use comparative forms to highlight small or large differences, such as:

Higher
Much
A lot
Slightly
A bit
Lower
Considerably

For example, The average temperature in New York is slightly lower than that in Los Angeles.

3. Superlatives: The superlatives are used to identify the category with the highest or lowest value or to rank information. You can use phrases like "the highest," "the lowest," "the most," or "the least." For example, The United States had the highest GDP among all the countries listed.

4. Advanced comparisons: Use advanced structures to compare data given in the IELTS task 1 bar graph and showcase your grammar skills for a higher band score as follows:

Comparative Adjectives: Use the structure "X is not as + adjective + as Y" to compare two items directly. For example, The number of smartphones sold in 2023 was not as high as in 2024.
Comparative Verbs: This structure involves negating the verb or comparing in a negative way, formatted as "Not + verb + as + noun phrase + as." For example, The population of City A did not increase as much as the population of City B.
Quantitative Comparisons: This involves comparing numerical data across different categories using phrases such as "three times”,”half”,”twice as much”, “less as”. For example, The sales of electric cars in 2024 were three times as high as in 2020.

Using advanced comparisons allows you to clearly highlight the most significant data in your graph.

Tips to Improve Your IELTS Writing Task 1 Bar Graph Essay

Getting a good score in IELTS task 1 bar graph essay requires a good grasp on grammar, wide vocabulary range and a clear, coherent writing style.

Here are some tips to help you craft a well-structured essay:

Introduction

Don’t just rephrase the words to paraphrase the statement. Instead, try paraphrasing by changing the order of words, switching from active to passive voice, using synonyms, or changing word forms (e.g., from noun to verb).
Keep it concise, usually in 1-2 sentences.
Mention any additional relevant information from the bar graph, and include data in brackets where appropriate.

Overview

Study the bar chart carefully to identify 3-4 main features, trends or comparisons in the data.
Summarise the main points without including specific figures, as those should be mentioned in the body paragraphs.

Main body paragraphs

Use the correct verb tense to describe the data. For example, if the bar graph shows past data, use the past tense.
In each paragraph, focus on 1-2 key features in detail.
Use a wide range of vocabulary to describe trends and comparisons, avoiding repetition.
Support each point with specific data from the bar graph.
Use appropriate symbols for currency, percentages, etc. (e.g., $, %).
Demonstrate a range of grammatical structures in your task 1 bar graph essay.
Use connectors/linking words to ensure your ideas flow logically.

Conclusion

Summarise the main trends or comparisons you’ve discussed in the body paragraphs in a concise manner.
Avoid introducing any new details or information in this part.

By following these tips, you'll be able to write a clear and effective bar graph essay for your IELTS Task 1.

Also Read: IELTS Task 1 Marking Criteria: Writing Band Score Calculation Guide

Next Up

IELTS Writing Task 1: Diagram

Read Now

IELTS Writing Task 1: Line Graph

Read Now

IELTS Writing Task 1: Pie Chart

Read Now

IELTS Writing Task 1: Table Chart

Read Now

IELTS Writing Task 1: Map

Read Now

IELTS Writing Practice Test

Read Now

IELTS Accepting Countries

Study In USA

Study In Canada

Study In UK

Study In Australia

Study In Ireland

Study In USA	Study In Canada	Study In UK
Study In Australia	Study In Ireland

IELTS Writing Task 1: Diagram

IELTS Writing Task 1: Table Chart

IELTS Writing Task 1: Pie Chart

FAQs

Q. What is a bar graph in IELTS Writing Task 1?

Ans. A bar graph consists of rectangular blocks whose height and length indicate a certain value. In IELTS Writing Task 2, you must analyse the given bar graph, write a description highlighting the main elements, and summarise the information. Bar graphs may be given in linear or non-linear format.

Q. How do you analyse a bar chart in IELTS writing task 1?

Ans. You can analyse a bar chart by using the following techniques:

Pay attention to the labels on both axis
Pay attention to the given scale, as values depend on it
Notice the highs and lows in the graph
Notice if there is an ongoing pattern in the graph

Q. What are the common mistakes to avoid when writing about a bar chart in IELTS Writing Task 1?

Ans. Here are things you should avoid doing while attempting IELTS Writing Task 2:

Avoid writing one or two-word sentences, and make sure you expand and provide context to your writing.
Do not rush while interpreting the data given to you, as misinformation may cost you marks.
Do not compromise on the quality of your writing. Pay attention to grammar and language.

Q. How can I improve my organisation skills for IELTS task 1 bar graph reports?

Ans. You can improve your organisation skills by creating an outline, dividing reports into sections, and using linking words. Prioritise main trends and supporting details. Practice planning and writing within time limits. Ensure coherence and cohesion throughout. Review model answers and seek feedback. Use transitional phrases to connect ideas.

Q. Are there specific phrases or structures that can enhance my IELTS task 1 bar graph essay?

Ans. Use comparative phrases (e.g., "similarly," "in contrast"), descriptive language (e.g., "notable increase," "significant decline"), and transitional phrases (e.g., "meanwhile," "however"). Utilise sentence structures like "According to the graph..." or "As can be seen...". Employ passive voice for data description. Incorporate phrases highlighting trends, such as "the most notable difference".

Q. How do I effectively compare trends in an IELTS task 1 bar graph?

Ans. You can compare trends in the IELTS task 1 bar graph by Identifying patterns and relationships between data and then highlighting similarities and differences. Focus on significant changes, peaks, and troughs. Use comparative language and phrases like "the most notable difference" or "a steady increase". Ensure comparisons are clear and concise. Support comparisons with data values. Use linking words to connect ideas.

Q. What should I include in my introduction for a bar graph?

Ans. You should include a brief paraphrased title, a description of the graph, and an overview of the main trends. Introduce key categories or variables. Avoid analysis or detail. Use simple language to set the context. Keep the introduction concise (2-3 sentences). Provide a thesis statement outlining the report content.

Q. What is the structure of a good bar graph report?

Ans. A good report should follow this structure:

Introduction (paraphrased title, graph description, overview)
Overview (main trends, key features)
Body (detailed description of data, comparisons)
Conclusion (summary of main points). Use clear headings, linking words, and transitional phrases. Ensure logical flow and coherence.

Q. Can I include my opinions or interpretations in my report?

Ans. No, IELTS Writing Task 1 requires objective reporting. Avoid personal opinions, interpretations, or biases. Focus on describing data accurately. Use neutral language and avoid evaluative words (e.g., "good," "bad"). Stick to factual information. Report data without emotional tone or perspective.

Q. How can I practise for the IELTS Writing Task 1 involving bar graphs?

Ans. You can practice with sample graphs, practice tests, and online resources. Improve vocabulary, grammar, and descriptive skills. Time yourself to simulate test conditions. Seek feedback from teachers or peers. Analyse model answers and learn from mistakes. Join online forums or study groups for support.

Q. How do I identify key features in a bar graph?

Ans. You can Identify key features by examining:

Highest/lowest values
Significant changes or trends
Patterns or relationships
Peaks/troughs
Outliers or anomalies
Comparisons between categories. Note these features to support the report and overview.
Analyze graph axes, labels, and legends for context.

Also Read

View All

IELTS Writing Task 1: Diagram

IELTS Writing Task 1: Table Chart

IELTS Writing Task 1: Pie Chart

IELTS Exam	IELTS Exam Date	IELTS Exam Fee
IELTS Modules	IELTS Listening Practice Test	IELTS Speaking Practice Test
IELTS Reading Practice Test	IELTS Writing Practice Test	IELTS Test Centres
IELTS Results	Types of IELTS	IELTS Pattern
IELTS Exam Eligibilty	IELTS Slot Booking	IELTS Band Score
IELTS Registration	IELTS Books	IELTS Preparation
IELTS Practice Test

Massachusetts Institute Of Technology	The University Of British Columbia	Harvard University
University Of Toronto	Conestoga College	University Of East London
Stanford University	University Of Alberta	Coventry University
New York University

IELTS Speaking Practice Test	IELTS Writing Practice Test	IELTS Reading Practice Test
IELTS Listening Practice Test	IELTS Speaking Cue Card	IELTS Speaking Part 1
IELTS Writing Task 1	IELTS Writing Task 2	Task 1 Pie Chart
Task 1 Table Chart	Task 1 Map	Task 1 Bar Graph
Task 1 Line Graph	Task 1 Diagram

IELTS Test Centre and Dates in Hyderabad	IELTS Test Centre and Dates in Bangalore	IELTS Test Centre and Dates in Chennai
IELTS Test Centre and Dates in Amritsar	IELTS Centre and Dates in Ludhiana	IELTS Test Centre and Dates in Mumbai
IELTS Test Centres and Dates in Ahmedabad	IELTS Centre and Dates in Delhi	IELTS Test Centres and Dates in Chandigarh
IELTS Center and Dates in Pune

IELTS Writing Task 1 Bar Graph

IELTS Writing Task 1 Bar Graph: How to Answer

Analyse the Task at Hand

Identify the Main Features

Structure your Report/Description

IELTS Writing Task 1 Bar Graph: Sample Questions and Answers

Questions and Answers 1

Sample Question

Sample Answer

Questions and Answers 2

Sample Question

Sample Answer:

IELTS Writing Task 1 Bar Graph Vocabulary

Describing Trends and Comparisons

Estimation of Figures

Proportions

Adjectives and Adverbs

Time phrases

Connectors

Language for reference

Grammar for IELTS Writing Task 1 Bar Graph

Tips to Improve Your IELTS Writing Task 1 Bar Graph Essay

Next Up

Related Articles

FAQs

Q. What is a bar graph in IELTS Writing Task 1?

Q. How do you analyse a bar chart in IELTS writing task 1?

Q. What are the common mistakes to avoid when writing about a bar chart in IELTS Writing Task 1?

Q. How can I improve my organisation skills for IELTS task 1 bar graph reports?

Q. Are there specific phrases or structures that can enhance my IELTS task 1 bar graph essay?

Q. How do I effectively compare trends in an IELTS task 1 bar graph?

Q. What should I include in my introduction for a bar graph?

Q. What is the structure of a good bar graph report?

Q. Can I include my opinions or interpretations in my report?

Q. How can I practise for the IELTS Writing Task 1 involving bar graphs?

Q. How do I identify key features in a bar graph?

Also Read