Task 1: Effectively Comparing Key Points

By Ashlee Fisher 

In the writing section of the IELTS test, candidates are required to complete two tasks, with Academic Task 1 being a report summarizing, describing, or explaining visual information (graphs, charts, tables, diagrams, etc.). Effectively comparing key points is an essential aspect of Task 1 writing. Here are some strategies for effectively comparing key points in Task 1 on the IELTS test.

The first step to effectively compare key points in Task 1 is to understand the task requirements. The task may require you to describe changes over time, compare and contrast data, or identify trends and patterns. You need to carefully read and analyze the visual information given in the prompt to determine the type of comparison required. Once you have a clear understanding of the task requirements, you can start planning your report.

Example:

1. The table illustrates the sales figures of two different regions in 2009. 

2. The graph indicates the changes in the percentage of people who use public transportation over a period of five years.

To effectively compare key points in Task 1, you need to have a clear organizational structure for your report. You may choose to organize your report using chronological order, from highest to lowest, or from most significant to least significant. The key is to choose an organizational structure that is appropriate for the type of comparison required in the task. For example, if the task requires you to describe changes over time, you may choose to organize your report chronologically.

Example:

1. In 2002, over 50 million tourists visited Europe, which was twice as many as the next most popular destination, Asia. 

2. The most notable change was the growth in student numbers from 375 in 1987 to 2300 in 2001.

Using appropriate language is another crucial aspect of effectively comparing key points in Task 1. You need to use language that accurately describes the visual information and effectively communicates your analysis and comparison of the key points. You should use a mix of simple and complex sentences to convey your ideas clearly and accurately. You should also use appropriate vocabulary related to the topic and the type of comparison required. For example, if the task requires you to compare and contrast data, you may use words such as "similarly," "in contrast," "however," and "nevertheless."

Example:

1. The most notable change was the growth in student numbers from 375 in 1987 to 2300 in 2001. However, that same figure dropped slightly in 2005 by 5%. 

2. In the next step, the carrots are boiled, cleaned, and peeled, before being cut into slices. In contrast, the beef goes through a more labour-intensive process.

Before you start comparing key points, it's essential to identify the key features of the visual information provided in the prompt. These key features may include trends, patterns, significant changes, and outliers. Once you have identified the key features, you can start comparing them to analyze the data effectively. You should also use data from the visual information provided to support your comparison of the key features.

Example:

1. The difference between the poorest 10% and the richest 10% is greater in Australia than in New Zealand. 

2. During the period, the percentage of tourists who travelled abroad remained unchanged between 1995 and 2000, standing at 22% until 2001 when it dropped significantly to 12%.

Comparative language is language used to compare two or more things. It is an essential aspect of effectively comparing key points in Task 1. Some examples of comparative language include "more than," "less than," "similar to," "different from," and "in comparison to." Using comparative language effectively helps to make your comparison more concise and clear. You should use comparative language in your report to compare and contrast data effectively.

Example:

1. Between 1960 and 1975, the percentage of the population living in South America almost doubled, from 40% to 78%. On the other hand, the percentage in North America only increased by 11%. 

2. The number of students increased whereas the number of staff members decreased. Furthermore, in 2012, the number of female students was also much higher than before.

Using appropriate grammar is another critical aspect of effectively comparing key points in Task 1. You should use a mix of simple and complex sentences, but you should also ensure that your sentences are grammatically correct. Using incorrect grammar can make your report confusing and difficult to understand. You should also use appropriate punctuation to make your report easier to read and understand. Example:

1. The most striking feature of the chart is the sudden decrease in the popularity of fast food. 

2. It can be seen that the majority of nurses are female as the percentage of nurses who are male is only 7%. 

Effectively comparing key points is a crucial aspect of Task 1 writing on the IELTS test. To do this effectively, you need to understand the task requirements, organize your report, use appropriate language, identify key features, use comparative language, and use appropriate grammar. By following these strategies, you can effectively compare key points and analyze visual information to communicate your ideas clearly and accurately in your report.