Among the myriad of IELTS Writing Task 1 tests, what factor will make your test stand out and attract the attention of the examiner right from the first lines? That is definitely the introduction. The shorter and more concise the introduction is, the higher the score will be from the examiner.
In this article, let's learn with IDP how to write the most concise and effective introduction - Introduction Writing Task 1, and at the same time pocket the scoring phrases when writing the Introduction.
1. Overview of IELTS Writing Task 1
IELTS Writing Task 1 is the first part of the IELTS Writing test. In this task, candidates must summarize or compare key features in a visual such as a graph, table, chart, map, or a process. This section evaluates your ability to describe data, your vocabulary range, and the coherence of your writing.
A standard IELTS Writing Task 1 structure includes:
Introduction: Restate the given topic using your own words.
Overview: Highlight the main trends or key features before diving into detailed analysis.
Body paragraphs: Provide detailed comparisons, including specific data and timeframes. Usually, two body paragraphs are recommended for clear organization.
Tips for writing an effective Introduction:
Keep the introduction to one concise sentence.
Restate the task prompt using your own sentence structure and vocabulary.
Do not include personal opinions or interpretations.
Avoid copying phrases directly from the task prompt.
If the task includes more than one visual, clearly describe each one using linking words such as “while.”
2. How to Write an Introduction for IELTS Writing Task 1
2.1. Use Paraphrasing Techniques
The simplest way to write the introduction is by paraphrasing the task question using synonyms and your own phrasing. Common structure:
The chart/graph + shows/illustrates + what + where + when
Common verbs to paraphrase:
shows → illustrates / gives information on / depicts / describes / compares
Example:
Task prompt: The line graph below shows the consumption of fish and different kinds of meat in a European country between 1979 and 2004.
Paraphrased: The line graph illustrates the consumption of fish and various types of meat in a European country from 1979 to 2004.
Paraphrase useful phrases:
Original Phrase | Paraphrase |
|---|---|
the number of | how many / the figure / the data |
the amount of | how much / the figure / the data |
the percentage of | the proportion of |
expenditure | expense |
boys and girls | males and females |
from 2000 to 2010 | between 2000 and 2010 |
in 1980, 1990 and 2000 | in three different years |
until 2040 | up to 2040 |
Example:
Prompt: The charts below show the percentage of male and female workers in country A and country B.
Paraphrased: The given pie charts illustrate data on the proportion of male and female employees in three sectors in countries A and B.
2.2. Change the Sentence Structure
Besides paraphrasing, altering the sentence structure is a powerful technique. This approach allows you to create an introduction that is more distinct and impactful.
Common transformations:
Active → Passive:
Prompt: The two pie charts below illustrate changes in US population by states from 2000 to 2015.
Revised: Changes in the US population by states from 2000 to 2015 are illustrated in the two pie charts.
Using process-based structure:
Prompt: The diagram shows the process of producing cement.
Revised: The diagram illustrates how cement is produced from raw materials for construction purposes.
Using “how” structures (with timeframes):
Prompt: The maps show the changes made to a small museum and its surroundings in 1990 and 2010.
Revised: The maps depict how a small museum and its surrounding area changed between 1990 and 2010.
2.3. Use Relative Clauses
Another effective method is incorporating relative clauses such as “which,” “who,” and “that” in your introduction to increase complexity and coherence.
Example:
Prompt: The graph below shows the proportion of the population aged 65 and over between 1940 and 2040 in three different countries.
Revised: The line graph compares the proportion of people who are aged 65 and over in the USA, Sweden, and Japan from 1940 to 2040.
3. High-Scoring Phrases for Writing the Introduction
Use these high-impact phrases to impress examiners and enhance your Lexical Resource score:
Starting Phrases
The given / The presented / The supplied / The provided
The graph/chart/table/diagram
Reporting Verbs
illustrates / depicts / outlines / describes / provides data on / presents information on / indicates / compares / gives information about
Noun Phrases for Data Description
the percentage of / the proportion of / the number of / the amount of / the ratio of / the comparison of / the trend of / how the data changed
Master IELTS Writing Task 1 Introductions with IDP
We hope this guide helps you structure effective introductions for IELTS Writing Task 1. With years of experience supporting IELTS candidates, IDP offers free access to trusted preparation resources including expert-written articles, video tutorials, and practice materials.
You can also register for mock tests at IDP IELTS test centers or attend IELTS workshops led by official trainers. These sessions offer valuable insights into common mistakes, sample answers, and effective writing strategies.
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