IELTS Bar Graph - Find IELTS Writing Task 1 Samples: Bar Graphs and Charts

Overview of IELTS Bar Graph

IELTS Bar Graph: The IELTS Writing section of the IELTS exam lasts 60 minutes and is divided into two tasks. The IELTS Bar Graph or Chart Task 1 requires applicants to produce at least 150 words in roughly 20 minutes. Task 2 requires at least 250 words and should take approximately 40 minutes.

You must interpret and describe the information offered in a particular bar graph in the IELTS bar graph task. On this page, we will go over all you need to know about the IELTS bar graph questions that come in IELTS Academic Writing Task 1.

If you wish to ace your IELTS Writing task 1, then stick to this page till the very end to know about some important tips and sample questions related to the IELTS bar graph.

What is a Bar Graph?

Before we dig deep into the IELTS bar graph and charts, which are part of the IELTS Academic Writing task 1, let us first define a bar graph. A bar graph, often known as a bar chart, is a visual representation of categorised data that allows for comparison.

While plotting, a bar graph might be horizontal or vertical. In general, rectangular bars with lengths or heights are found. In layman's terms, an IELTS bar graph is a diagrammatic comparison of distinct factors.

IELTS Bar Graph and Charts

Bar graphs and charts are pretty common in IELTS Academic Writing Task 1. There are three different scenarios you will encounter in an IELTS bar graph task:

• A bar graph with categories on the x-axis,

• A bar graph with dates or years on the axis (functions as a line graph), or

• Two bar graphs are presented.

In each scenario, you will be required to write the report differently.

IELTS Bar Graph Vocabulary

To achieve a good score on the IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 while following the restricted instructions is a difficult undertaking. You must repeat numbers and particular words multiple times in a minimum of 150 words in 60 minutes. However, it causes the reader to lose interest. To correct this, you must be proficient in terminology.

You must employ a wide range of words that not only describe but also enrich and compare the subject. Use bold terms that clearly express your goal. IELTS bar graph vocabulary often includes up verbs, down verbs, degree adjectives and adverbs, and steady adjectives.

How to Tackle IELTS Bar Graph Questions?

You must organise your solution to IELTS Academic bar graph and chart questions within the time and word constraints. Let us go through some essentials for completing the IELTS bar graph and chart questions in IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 with a high score.

In IELTS Bar Graph Writing Task 1, describing a bar graph or chart consists of two steps:

1. To collect data, and

2. Data interpretation

Steps to Collect Data from IELTS Bar Graph

The step-by-step method to collect data from IELTS Bar Graph is as follows:

• Interpret the data and categorise it according to the task

• Analyse the task and data type (static or moving date), as well as time scales

• Find out what do the axes and units mean

• Arrange and group the data

• Determine the main characteristics

IELTS Bar Graph Structure

When you have all of your information/data available, it is time to answer the Bar Graph Writing Task 1. The flow or the structure of answering the IELTS Bar Graph or Chart Writing Task 1 is mentioned below:

• Introduction

• Overview

• Body paragraph

• Summary

You should demonstrate some advanced writing when preparing for your IELTS academic writing task. When taking your IELTS writing test, you may feel pressed for time, and it may be tough to conceive of complicated sentence patterns while keeping the important aspects in mind. Make sure you have covered all of the areas in your answer - there are four in the IELTS Bar Graph Writing Problem 1. 

When summarising statistics, make sure you include the correct figures too. It is often tempting to write too much for a Task 1 Essay, but by following the strategy outlined, you will be able to maintain focus. Pay attention to the most significant details. Compare the highest and lowest values, for example, rather than all the differences.

IELTS Bar Graph Writing Task 1 Sample Questions

Here are some past IELTS bar graph and chart sample questions that will help you practice the IELTS Academic Writing task 1 and score well:

Sample Question 1

Sample Question 2

 Here are some more IELTS Bar graph sample questions that you can check out and practice: 

1. The bar graph below depicts the percentage distribution of global vehicle-sharing programs between 2008 and 2016. Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the key points, and make comparisons as needed.

2. The bar graph depicts the top eight internet activities in Delhi for a given month. Summarize the information by selecting and reporting the key points, and make comparisons as needed.

3. The graph below depicts the proportion of boys and females in India who regularly engage in physical exercise in 2010. Summarize the information by selecting and reporting the key points, and make comparisons as needed.

4. The graphs below show smartphone ownership in India as a percentage of the population from 2000 to 2010, as well as by the level of education between 2000 and 2010. Summarize the data by selecting and reporting the key aspects, and making pertinent comparisons.

5. The bar charts depict education data for young adults aged 16 in ten different Indian states in 2015. The first graphic displays which states have the highest homework hours per week for adolescents. The second graphic reveals which countries performed best on a science test. Summarize the data by selecting and reporting the key aspects, and making pertinent comparisons.

Note: Sample questions and IELTS sample papers are hypothetically organised and are provided for reference only. They are subject to change based on IELTS guidelines and structure.

IELTS Bar Graph and Charts Samples

After going through the IELTS bar graph sample questions, here are some of the IELTS bar graph sample answers for you to have a look at:

Sample Answer 1

Sample Answer 2

Sample Answer 3

Tips for Describing IELTS Bar Graph Writing Task 1

Listed below are some important tips to answer the IELTS bar graph Writing task 1. These tips will aid you in preparing for the bar graph and chart interpretation task well.

• Read and understand the question: You have a graph in front of you that contains certain information. However, do not immediately respond to the task. Read the directions carefully and make sure you understand what you are supposed to accomplish.

• Identify and take note of the important information: After reading the question's requirements, you should acquire the necessary knowledge to complete the task successfully. Gather all numerical facts and plan in accordance with the query.

• Begin by paraphrasing the question: Make sure your introduction is straightforward and objective. Simply paraphrase and reiterate the information in the question. It could be just one sentence. Select the significant aspects of the bar graph to explain in detail. Write about the representation's high and low limits, as well as its similarities and differences. Remember that the overview is really important, and evaluators seek it because it accounts for nearly 25% of the total score.

• Explain in detail and make use of numerical data: You can write one body paragraph. However, two body paragraphs are generally preferred in IELTS Writing task 1. You must separate the information in a logical structure that makes total sense here. Organise the information with a wit so that it is clear. It is critical that statements in the body paragraphs be supported by relevant numerical data. If you do not support your sentences with enough numbers, you may be given a lower grade for the work. Don't disregard supporting evidence.

• Keep a close eye on your word count and time: Time management skills are always vital in any examination. So, in accordance with the required word count, keep an eye on the time limit (i.e. 20 minutes and a minimum of 150 words).

• Use good grammar and terminology: It is crucial to employ a wide range of sentence forms and terminology. This would improve your lexical score too. Maintaining grammatical accuracy is another important criterion. Grammar and vocabulary are two of the four grading criteria used by IELTS examiners. Complex sentences are essential for promoting your abilities to the grader. 

• Maintain consistency by using transition words: To keep your sentences flowing in the IELTS bar graph Writing task 1, you must employ linking words. Furthermore, linking words assist the reader by providing a hint as to what will happen next in the conversation. Words like in comparison to, compared to, opposing, while, whereas, and so on will help you achieve coherence and cohesion in your writing. Make sure you use them appropriately and relevantly to strengthen the meaning of the paragraphs.

• Don't voice your thoughts/opinions: Most applicants are often confused here. The IELTS bar graph Writing Task 1 analyzes your task achievement, whereas Task 2 considers your task answer to assess your ability. So, remember not to analyse or communicate your thoughts on the assigned assignment. You are asked to analyse and describe the given representation in your own words.

Note: Even if you write correct simple sentences, write what comes naturally at first. Allow some time, in the end, to go back and tweak some of your structures to fit more complex statements. If you want to get a high score on the IELTS, you should aim for sophisticated and correct structures.

Now that we have come to the end of this page, we hope that you have a clear understanding of the IELTS bar graph and chart questions and will be able to ace your IELTS Writing Task 1. Remember to go over the IELTS bar graph sample questions. It will help you retain language to describe data under pressure, determine what to include in your answer point by point, and ensure that you have addressed each category at least once.