IELTS Writing Task 1 – Line Graph

IELTS line graphs

Sometimes, in IELTS examination, you are asked to explain a Line graph. The IELTS line graph shows how data changes over time. These line graphs will have 2 axes, one is X-axis and another is Y-axis. 

The X-axis shows the time period and the Y-axis shows what is being measured. The line graph highlights the trends when the data goes up and down. You should take only 20 minutes to complete this task and it should be a 150-word essay.

Line graph – An example:

Types of Line Graphs: 

There are three types of line graphs. They are:

• Simple line graph
• Multiline graph (or) Polyline graph
• Compound line graph

Simple Line Graph:

Definition: These types of graphs have just a single line plotted on them.

Example: 

Explanation of the graph : The x-axis shows the number of days and the y-axis shows the earnings of a person on that day. 

Multiline graph (or) Polyline graph:

Definition: They are commonly used for comparison. These types of graphs have more than one line. ( on the same axis)

Example:

Explanation of the graph : The x-axis shows the year and the y-axis shows the population in some units. From the graph we can compare the population of Africa, America and Europe in the years given.

Compound line graph:

Definition: It is an advanced version of the multi-line graph. The area between two lines is shaded indicating the size of that part. 

Example:

Explanation of the graph : The x-axis shows the time and the y-axis shows the frequency. From the graph we can deduce the vehicle with the highest and lowest frequency.

Tips for IELTS Writing Task 1 Line Graph

• In the introduction part, you can paraphrase the question asked or the topic of the essay.
• When you explain the overall trend, identify the main feature and explain it.
• Ensure that each paragraph has examples that are percentages or numbers to support the sentence written as an explanation. 
• You can look into the various lessons available on the line graph in order to answer the complex questions.
• The last tip is to practice as much as possible so that you get a good hold on what to write in the examination when questions become complex.
• You also need to use suitable verbs, nouns, adverbs, adjectives, prepositions related to time.

IELTS Line Graph Vocabulary

Writing the exam without practicing is waste because you will not be able to understand anything in the exam. It may become complex and test-takers may skip the question which in turn will reduce your IELTS band score.

IELTS line graph exercises:

Below are the links provided with different line graph IELTS questions with the sample answers which you can refer in order to get an idea of how to answer questions on the line graph.

• Recent IELTS Writing Task 1 With Model Answer – Line Graph
• Academic IELTS Writing Task 1 Topic: Paris Metro Station Passengers – Line Graph
• Academic IELTS Writing Task 1 (Line Graph) & Band 9 Model Essay
• Academic IELTS Writing Task 1 Topic: Employment Patterns In The USA – Line Graph

FAQs