IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 Map – Types of Questions, Structure and Techniques

Types of Map Questions in IELTS

When it comes to map questions in Writing Task 1, you will come across a variety of them. Jotted down below are some of them to help you understand the gist of these questions:

Explaining Data in the Present Scenario

This type of question is quite rare as you would have to explain the data about the present day. With such a question type, it could be a bit difficult to explain without making any comparison.

Explaining Information In Two Tenses: Present & Future

This type of question may come up occasionally, and you will have to write information in both present as well as future tenses. Generally, the questions will be about explaining the development of a city or a town in the future.

Explaining Information In Two Tenses: Past & Present

In this type of question, you will have to compare both the present as well as the past information. You will get two maps, and you will be asked to compare them, identifying main features.

Structure of Map Questions

As far as the structure is concerned, you will have to follow something specific. Below-mentioned is the entire structure that will help you get a better idea.

How to describe changes and locations?

Most of the time, students get stuck when describing a specific change, a general change or a location. Here are few examples of how you can do so:

IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 Map Techniques 

If you are planning to gain a band score of 6 and above, here are some techniques that you must keep in mind when attempting these questions:

Come Up with a Plan

Before you begin to write the explanation, you must plan and figure out how you want to go ahead with it. You can plan points that should be included in every paragraph. In case there is anything similar in both the maps, you can combine that information to write a common description.

Task Accomplishment 

You would have to ensure that you have accomplished the task by keeping up with all of the rules. In simple words, your description should be of at least 150 words; else, it will be regarded invalid. Also, before writing the content, you can take a few minutes to understand the requirements and key features.

Language & Coherence

When describing, keep in mind that you are not repeating any words provided in the question. Every sentence should be unique and written in your own words. Here, vocabulary takes all the brownie points. Also, it is necessary to maintain coherence. You must follow a specific format and not go off-track.