Know the six common visual families
Academic Task 1 can present bar charts, line graphs, tables, pie charts, maps or process diagrams. Some tasks combine two visuals, but the goal remains the same: select and summarise the main features accurately.
- Charts and tables require comparison
- Maps require location and change language
- Processes require clear sequencing and usually the passive voice
Build a four-part report
A reliable response includes an introduction, a clear overview and two detail paragraphs. The overview should identify the most important trends, stages or contrasts without listing every number.
- Paraphrase the task in the introduction
- State two or three main features in the overview
- Group related details instead of describing the visual line by line
Use the recommended time wisely
Task 1 should normally take about 20 minutes and requires at least 150 words. Accuracy, selection and organisation matter more than writing a long response.
- Plan the key features before writing
- Check units, dates and comparisons
- Reserve time for Task 2, which contributes twice as much to the Writing score