IELTS Writing Task 1: Describing Trends Questions and Answers

Question 1

When describing a line graph that shows data from a finished period in the past (e.g., 1990-2010), which verb tense is most appropriate to use for describing the specific trends?

Accepted Answer

Past Simple

Answer

For data where the time period is clearly finished and in the past, the Past Simple tense is the correct choice. For example, 'The number of visitors increased in 2005.' The Present Simple is used for timeless facts or graphs with no date, and future tenses are for projections.

Question 2

A test-taker is describing a graph and writes: 'The number of sales went up. Then the number of sales went down. Then the number of sales went up again.' Which of the following revisions best improves this description for a high score in Lexical Resource?

Accepted Answer

There was a significant increase in the number of sales, followed by a dramatic drop and a subsequent recovery.

Answer

This answer is best because it replaces the repetitive 'went up/down' with a varied and precise vocabulary ('significant increase', 'dramatic drop', 'subsequent recovery'). This demonstrates a wider range of language and the ability to describe the degree of change, which is crucial for a higher band score.

Question 3

In the context of IELTS Writing Task 1, what is the primary purpose of an 'overview' paragraph?

Accepted Answer

To summarize the main trends, key features, or overall patterns without specific data.

Answer

The overview is a crucial part of the Task 1 response and should provide a short summary of the most significant trends or patterns visible in the graph. It should not contain specific figures or opinions. A missing or weak overview can significantly limit the Task Achievement score.

Question 4

Which of the following sentences correctly uses a verb and an adverb to describe a slow, consistent increase?

Accepted Answer

Profits climbed steadily.

Answer

The verb 'climbed' correctly indicates an increase, and the adverb 'steadily' accurately describes a slow and consistent pace. 'Rocketed dramatically' suggests a very fast and large increase, 'plunged slightly' describes a decrease, and 'remained stable' indicates no change.

Question 5

A graph shows the number of factory workers from 2000 to 2020. The number was 5,000 in 2000, fell to a low of 4,500 in 2010, and then rose to 6,000 by 2020. Which sentence best describes this trend?

Accepted Answer

After an initial dip, the number of factory workers saw a significant rise, finishing at a peak in 2020.

Answer

This sentence accurately captures the three key stages of the trend: the initial decrease ('dip'), the subsequent increase ('significant rise'), and the final state ('finishing at a peak'). The other options misrepresent the overall pattern.

IELTS Practice Test

IELTS Practice Test

IELTS Writing Task 1: Describing Trends Questions and Answers