map essay task 1

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IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 - Map questions (Lessons and questions included )

In your IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 preparation, you'll need to practice a total of 7 IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 data types. In this post, we'll look at the Map questions in IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 questions in detail and provide you 5 map practice questions.

Table Of Contents

How to tackle maps in ielts writing task 1 questions, vocabulary for ielts academic writing map questions.

• IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 - 5 Map Questions.

Maps occasionally show up in IELTS academic writing task 1 and when they do, you will see two maps. Often one map is in the past map, while the other is in the present. You’ll also encounter scenarios where both maps are in the past. You might also get maps which show proposals for the future such as a redevelopment scheme. Therefore, it is important to use the proper tenses to describe the changes.

Since there are 2 maps, the essay structure for this question is simple:

• Introduction: Paraphrase the question
• Overview: Describe what you consider to be the major changes over time.
• Body paragraph 1: Describe the first map in detail
• Body paragraph 2: Describe the second map in detail

We will use this essay structure for all map questions. Now, let’s join IELTS Instructor Tina below to learn how to approach IELTS Writing Task 1 Map questions.

IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 Maps Lesson

• Question 1 from the video
• Question 2 from the video

The diagrams below show the coastal village of Seaville in 1980 and 2010. Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features and make comparisons where relevant. Write at least 150 words.

Model Essay

Important functional words are highlighted in red Useful vocabulary and phrases are highlighted in green Synonyms and topic vocabulary are highlighted in blue

The maps illustrate significant changes in the seaside town of Seaville, over a thirty-year period, from 1980 to 2010.

Overall , the village developed substantially from a holiday settlement to a permanent town over the 30 year period . Similarly, infrastructure and amenities increased, along with the town’s capacity to provide for tourists.

In 1980, Seaville was tiny, attracting only a few tourists, who were accommodated in cottages or a small hotel. In contrast , East Bank was unspoilt .   To the east of the cottages, was a marsh, and there was woodland to the north . Regarding recreation, besides the beach, the town only offered a tea room.

However , the village had grown dramatically by 2010. Retirement villages had been built to the west of the main road. The marsh had been drained and the cottages demolished in order to construct houses. To cater for tourists, both a new high-rise hotel and holiday cottages on East Bank had been constructed. The woodlands had been cleared and supplanted by a golf course. Similarly , a boat club had been built on the west bank of the river. New infrastructure was created to access East Bank. On the other hand, the town had preserved the original hotel.

PRACTICE QUESTION 1 ON OUR IELTS APP

The maps below show the centre of a small town called Islip as it is now, and plans for its development. Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant. Write at least 150 words.

The diagrams illustrate some proposed changes to the central area of the town of Islip.

Overall, the principal change to the town will be the construction of a ring road around the centre. Various other developments with regard to shops and housing will accompany the building of this road.

As the first map reveals , lslip town center now is relatively small. There is a main road from the west to the east with shops on both sides . The northern area is rarely countryside , while the southern area is filled with houses with a school at the end of the fork road in the southwest corner and a park in the southeast area .

In the future , the main road is expected to reform into a dual carriageway as a round containing all the new buildings. The shops along the north side of the new pedestrian street will be demolished to make way for a bus station, shopping centre, car parks and new housing area. The shops along the south side of the street will remain, but it seems that the town’s park will be reduced in size so that more new houses can be built within the ring road.

PRACTICE QUESTION 2 ON OUR IELTS APP

When describing the location of something on a map, you can use the following phrases and vocabulary:

Now that you're familiar with the IELTS Writing Task 1 Map questions, it's time to practice. Check out the practice questions below.

IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 - Map Questions

This section presents a list of common IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 - Map questions. If you want to prepare for the IELTS Writing Test, these questions are a must study.

Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

Write at least 150 words.

The diagrams below show the coastal village of Seaville in 1980 and 2010. Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features and make comparisons where relevant. 

The maps below show the centre of a small town called Islip as it is now, and plans for its development. Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant. 

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IELTS academic writing task 1 maps lesson

How to write about maps in ielts..

Updated: June 2024

Maps often show up in IELTS academic writing task 1. There are different types of maps and the most common is the past and present (this task below) or sometimes both maps may be in the past. There are also maps which show proposals for the future such as a redevelopment scheme.

You will need to use specific vocabulary in this task and the grammar needed would be the past tense (was /were), the present perfect passive to describe change and prepositions . You also have to use specific language that shows location and change.

The structure for writing task 1

Click the blue button to see the structure for all IELTS task 1 academic tasks.

Key vocabulary to use for describing maps

Example sentences:

Note that the grammar used to describe changes is in the passive and these sentences are in the past tense, which describe 2 maps in the past.

• The offices were demolished and the surrounding area was redeveloped with a new leisure centre opening up .
• The shopping centre was extended and the parking area was enlarged to accommodate more cars
• The trees were cut down and a new office block was erected .
• A railway was constructed with the introduction of a new train station.
• The industrial area was modernised and made bigger with lots of new factories being built
• The local government had the sports facilities renovated and the small park was made into a children’s playground
• The park was replaced with a new housing complex.

Vocabulary for showing location

When describing the location of something on a map that has a compass symbol you should use phrases like:

• to the north of
• to the east of
• in the west
• to the south of
• north-west of

Prepositions are essential when describing the location on a map, such as:

•  from north to south
• from east to west
• across from
• The trees to the north of the river were cut down and a new office block has been built .
• A railway was constructed to the east of the housing estate to make way for a new train station.
• The forest to the west of the park was cut down and a new housing complex has been constructed.
• The industrial area to the south-west of the station was expanded.
• The shopping centre in the south of the city is planned to be demolished and a new stadium is expected to be built.

Prepositions:

• Houses were constructed next to the primary school.
• The forest near the river was cut down.
• A new railway running from north to south has been built.
• The footpath by the river has been expanded.
• Parking facilities were added to the city centre.
• The school across from the park was extended and new sports facilities were built.

Vocabulary for describing change over time

When describing change, the present perfect and the present perfect passive is often used. Time phrases are also used such as: over the 20 year period, from 1990 to 2000, over the years, in the last 10 years, in the years after 1990 and so on.

The present perfect and the present perfect passive shows that something started in the past up until the present moment (or near present)

Examples:  has witnessed big changes / has become more industrialised / has been built/ has been modernised

Theses sentences below are often used to give an overview of the main differences between the two maps.

• Over the 20 year period , the area has witnessed big changes especially to the farmland areas which were redeveloped.
• From 1990 to 2010 a new housing estate was constructed where a school once stood.
• The forests have been cut down and new housing has been built.
• In the period from 1990 onward , the leisure facilities were completely renovated.
• The city centre has seen dramatic changes over the years .
• In the years after 1990 , the city centre was extensively modernised.
• The town used to be very green but it has become much more industrialised in the last 15 years.
•  A new stadium has been built and more sports facilities have been opened up over the years.

The Overview

The overview comes just after the introduction and makes a general statement about the main differences between the maps. The overview is quite short, maybe about 2 or 3 sentences. Do not go into detail in the overview.

In the task below there are 2 maps. The past (1986) and present. In this case, you will need to use the past tense and the present perfect to describe the changes.

Model Answer

‘The two maps below show the changes in the town of Denham from 1986 to the present day. Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features and make comparisons where relevant.’

The maps illustrate the main changes which have taken place in the town of Denham from 1986 to the present moment.

Overall, the town has most notably shown an increase in housing development which indicates a higher population and a move away from agriculture and farming.

One change that stands out is that there has been a significant redevelopment over the whole period. To the east of the river stoke housing now dominates the area of what was once farmland. In 1986 there were shops and just a handful of residential properties. Now there are neither shops nor farmland left, although the post office is still there. The bridge over the river stoke still stands as it did in 1986.

Another noticeable change is that more roads have been built around the housing complex. Additionally, the gardens that were in front of the large house in 1986 have been removed and the house has been expanded and converted into a retirement home. The primary school still stands and has been extended in the decades since.

(175 words)

Aim for around 170 to 190 words in this task. You will not have time to go into a long report and you need to be selective in writing task 1.

Any questions? leave a comment below.

Also take a look at the instagram page-> click here to see it ., 1 thought on “ielts academic writing task 1 maps lesson”.

very informative

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IELTS Writing Task 1 Maps Lesson

Introduction.

This guide on IELTS Writing Task 1 maps questions will cover:

• Different kinds of map question
• Describing specific changes
• Describing general changes
• Describing locations
• Sample answer

You will also be able to learn some new vocabulary that will help you deal with any Task 1 maps question.

In the IELTS writing test, you might be asked to describe a map in task 1. This type of question is becoming increasingly popular- in fact, it was on the exam last weekend here in Vietnam- and in my opinion, the easiest one to score high marks in if you’re prepared.

Many students, books and teachers overlook this type of question, and it is, therefore, a bit of a shock when one comes up. Therefore, if you are prepared, you will probably do better than most of the other students.

Different Kinds of Map Question

There are three main types of map questions:

• Describe one map in the present day.
• Describe two maps- one in the present and one in the future.
• Describe two maps- one in the past and one in the present.

The first kind is very rare, as it only requires you to use the present simple, and no comparisons can be made.

The second kind occasionally comes up and requires you to use present and future tenses. This kind of question is normally about the future development of a town or city. It requires the same vocabulary as the other two.

The third is the most common and will be the main focus of this post.

You will normally be shown two maps, as above and asked to select and report the main features and make comparisons where relevant. You will obviously use both present and past tenses to describe the maps and how the town has developed.

Also, as this is a man-made process, we will use the passive.

Source: Cambridge English Practice Papers.

To describe two maps, I advise my students to follow a four-paragraph structure.

Paragraph 1- Paraphrase Sentence

Paraphrase  question using synonyms.

Paragraph 2- Overview

Make two general statements about the map. You should describe the maps generally and write about the most noticeable differences between the two maps. You could ask yourself the following questions to identify general changes. Is the map more or less residential? Is there more or less countryside? Are there more or fewer trees? Were the changes dramatic or negligible? Were there any major infrastructure improvements? How have the buildings and leisure facilities changed?

Paragraph 3- Main Body 1

Three to four sentences about specific changes that have occurred.

Paragraph 4- Main Body 2

Further, three to four sentences about specific changes that have occurred.

You can group information in paragraphs 3 and 4 by time or location, depending on the question asked.

Look at the sample answer below to see how I have used this structure.

How to Describe Specific Changes

The ability to describe change is crucial to answering these questions. The various buildings and features will normally be labelled for you. You need to work on how to write about how they have changed from the past up until the present day.

Tip: You may be asked to describe your hometown in the speaking test . The vocabulary and grammar in this post should come in very useful.

Below I will list various buildings, features, and verbs we could use to describe their change.

Buildings – demolished, knocked down, flattened, replaced, renovated, built, constructed, reconstructed, developed, extended, expanded, relocated, converted and modernized.

The government demolished the industrial estate and developed a sports ground.

They removed the shops and replaced them with a skyscraper.

A port was constructed at the edge of the river.

The factory in the city centre was demolished and relocated to the city’s north.

The old warehouses were replaced with new hotels.

The factory was converted into apartments.

Trees and Forests- cleared, cut down, chopped down, removed, planted.

The forest was cut down  and replaced with a shopping centre.

The trees were cleared to make way for houses.

Roads, bridges and railways lines- constructed, built, extended, expanded and removed.

The main road was extended, and a new bridge was built over the river.

Leisure facilities- opened, set up, developed.

A skate park was set up next to the swimming pool.

A park was developed beside the forest.

How to Describe General Changes

As this is an IELTS writing task 1 question, we must write an overview, where we generally talk about the main changes between the two maps.

Below are some examples of general statements we could use to describe change in towns and cities.

• Over the period, the area witnessed dramatic changes.
• From 1995 to 2005, the city centre saw spectacular developments.
• The village changed considerably over the period.
• During the 10-year period, the industrial area was totally transformed.
• Over the past 20 years, the residential area was totally reconstructed.
• Over the period, the old docks were totally redeveloped.
• Between 1995 and 2005, the old houses were rebuilt.
• The central business district was completely modernised during the period.

Pick two or three of the most noticeable differences in the map and write a general statement for each. This will be your overview paragraph.

The more specific changes should be included in your main body paragraphs.

How to Describe Locations

You will also be expected to describe where things are maps and describe where changes have occurred.

You can use ‘to the left’ and ‘to the right’, but a better way is to use ‘north’, ‘south’, ‘east’ and ‘west’. I normally advise my students to draw the symbols on the question paper if they are not already there.

The forest to the south of the river was cut down.

A golf course was constructed to the north of the airport.

The houses in the southwest of the town were demolished.

The green fields to the city’s northwest were redeveloped as a park.

The airport in the city’s centre was relocated to the northeast of the river.

The school to the southeast was knocked down and a new one was built to the east of the forest.

Finally, you will also be expected to use prepositions of place , e.g. at/in/on/by/beside/to/off/from, to describe where things are.

Dramatic changes took place in the city centre.

To the town’s south is a golf course surrounded by trees.

A new school was built next to the swimming pool.

The old road running from north to south was replaced by a new motorway.

A marina was built on the banks of the river.

Sample Answer

Both maps display an island before and after it was developed for tourism.

The island is approximately 250 metres long, has palm trees dotted around it, is surrounded by ocean and has a beach to the west. Over the period, the island was completely transformed with the addition of a hotel and a pier; however, the eastern part of the island appears to have been left undeveloped.

The most noticeable additions are the hotel rooms. 6 buildings, surrounding some trees, have been built in the west of the island, and 9 buildings have been constructed in the centre of the island.  A reception building and a restaurant have been developed between the two accommodation areas.

A pier has also been built on the island’s south coast, allowing yachts access to the resort. Apart from the trees, the beach remains the only natural feature to remain relatively untouched; however, it appears to be used for swimming.

Do you need me to correct your essays and give you feedback on them? Check out our essay correction service .

I hope this lesson has helped you and if you have any questions, please comment below.

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How to Describe or Compare IELTS Task 1 Maps

This type of question is simple to answer because there is usually no data to analyse. Instead, you will compare two or three maps. This type of question is becoming more common in the IELTS Writing task 1 section, so it's important to know how to compare maps effectively.

To answer this type of question, follow these seven steps:

Analyse the question.

Identify the major features.

Use the four-paragraph structure.

Paraphrase the question.

Write an overview paragraph.

Write body paragraph 1.

Write body paragraph 2.

It's a good idea to use the 7-step strategy for all questions in the IELTS Academic Writing Task 1. This approach can give you a big advantage when you're writing. But if you want to get the band score you need in the IELTS Writing test, you might want to try our guaranteed Writing Feedback Service . A former IELTS examiner will give you detailed feedback and step by step guidance towards your target band score.

Also, you can check the high band guaranteed  eBooks loaded with quality-contents written by a team of former IELTS examiners. These resource-rich eBooks reveal band 9 secrets with powerful tips and strategies how to achieve a high band score. The team of the examiners conducted extensive research to compile in-depth discussions covering all aspects of every possible IELTS essay type in these eBooks .

Now, let's look at an example question and apply the 7-step strategy to prepare an answer.

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

The maps below show the changes in a town after the construction of a hydroelectric power dam.

Write at least 150 words.

Source: Cambridge English IELTS Past Papers

1. How to Analyse A Task 1 Map Question

To answer the task 1 question effectively, we must identify three important things: the main topic of the question, specific details that can help us give a more precise answer, and any actions we need to take.

The topic words tell us the general subject of the question, like "two maps" and "changes from 1990 to 2010."

Micro keywords help us focus on specific details that we need to address, such as "construction of a hydroelectric power dam."

Action words tell us what we need to do, such as "compare" or "describe."

Once we've identified these important elements of the question, we can then look for the main features in the diagrams.

After completing the question analysis part, we need to find the major features in the diagrams. Before that, if you want more extensive discussion on  question analysis, please check the relevant chapter in the  eBook.

2. How to Identify Main Features in IELTS Task 1 Maps

Identifying the main features in IELTS Task 1 Maps is a critical first step in crafting a high-scoring response. Here's how you can do it:

Read the Instructions Carefully: Before you start, read the title and any accompanying notes. These will often tell you what the main focus of the map is. They may give you the specific time periods the map is depicting, or the changes that have taken place.

Compare Maps (if Provided): Often, you'll be given two maps to compare—one from the past and one from the present. Look for the differences and similarities between the maps. These changes or lack of them are the main features.

Identify Significant Changes: This could be anything from the construction of new buildings, roads, or landmarks, to changes in natural features like rivers, mountains, or forests. Also note changes in the layout of the area, such as new housing developments or industrial areas.

Spot Trends: Look for overall trends in the maps. Is the town expanding? Are green areas disappearing? Are there new transport links? These trends are significant features to include in your report.

Note Absence of Change: If something remains unchanged over time, it could be significant, especially if surrounding areas have undergone substantial alterations.

Remember, you're not expected to describe every detail from the map. Focus on the main features, and organize your descriptions logically. You could either go area by area, or follow the sequence of changes. Also, remember to use a variety of language and keep your descriptions as precise as possible. With practice, you'll get better at identifying the main features in IELTS Task 1 Maps.

Let's go through the above-stated steps to identify the main features in our sample maps:

Disappeared              Appeared

Forest                         The Dam

Ancient structure         Towers

Rare plants                  Hotel

Animals                       Artificial lake

Villages                       Blocked river 

Integrated farmland     

River flow 

3. IELTS Task 1 Maps Writing Structure

We can complete the essay using only 10 sentences! Yes, it is that much simple! Take a look how we place the 10 sentences in our 4 paragraph essay structure. In the eBook , you will find powerful strategies on how to write each paragraph perfectly.

1. Paraphrasing the Question Sentence

Paraphrase the question statement using just one or two sentences. 

2. Overview Paragraph

Sentence 1: summary statement 1(preview of the essay without presenting data)

Sentence 2: summary statement 2 (more preview without presenting data)

3. Body Paragraph 1

Sentence 1: first major point

Sentence 2: second major point

Sentence 3: extension sentence 1 (compare/combine the major points stated above)

Sentence 4: extension sentence 2 (extension of the previous sentence, or adding an exceptional feature).

4. Body Paragraph 2

Sentence 1: exceptional feature 

Sentence 2: extension of the exceptional feature

Sentence 3: final sentence (wrapping-up the whole essay, completely based on the discussion above, nothing new)

Let's develop the answer step by step applying the above-stated 4 paragraph essay structure.

4. Paraphrasing the Question Statement

This is the first paragraph of our IELTS Task 1 essay. This paragraph is all about paraphrasing the question statement. That means you will restate the question sentence in your language without changing the meaning of the original sentence. If you want to write this paragraph perfectly, you need to have a good grip on paraphrasing techniques. You can master the paraphrasing technique reading its intensive discussion in the  eBook.

This paragraph conveys an impression to the examiner how well you have understood the question.

Let's look at the actual question statement that we are using on this page:

" The maps below show the changes in a town after the construction of a hydroelectric power dam. "

Considering the periods mentioned in the maps, we can paraphrase the question statement as below:

"The contrast graphics visually depict the structural changes that occurred in a town over a 20-year period, from 1990 to 2010, as a result of the construction of a hydroelectric power dam."

That's it, pretty straightforward. Our first paragraph is complete, and you have already used 32 out of 150 words. Let's move to the next part of the essay, the Overview Paragraph.

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5. Overview Paragraph

Overview is the second paragraph of our IELTS Writing Task 1 essay. This is the most important paragraph as well. Because without an overview paragraph in Task 1, you cannot expect more than band 5 in IELTS Writing section. Therefore, you need to take a very special care for this paragraph. You can check in-depth discussion in the eBook where a team of former IELTS examiners have revealed their guaranteed techniques on how to write a perfect overview paragraph.

Remember, an overview is a brief summary of the primary features you plan to describe in the diagram report. Therefore, you should avoid using specific data in this paragraph, rather just focus on the obvious features illustrated in maps/diagrams. This paragraph serves as an introduction to give readers a general idea of what your discussion is about.

Overview Paragraph Structure

Sentence 1 : summary statement 1(preview of the essay without presenting data)

Sentence 2 : summary statement 2 (more preview without presenting data)

Let's form the paragraph:

Sentence 1 ( S ummary Statement 1 )

" Overall, in a mere two decades, a tranquil riverbank community featuring unobstructed water flow and verdant forest underwent a transformation into a man-made concrete metropolis. "

Sentence 2 ( Summary Statement 2 )

" This transition culminated in the replacement of the town's pristine natural environment with an imposing hydroelectric power dam. "

Complete Overview Paragraph

"Overall, in a mere two decades, a tranquil riverbank community featuring unobstructed water flow and verdant forest underwent a transformation into a man-made concrete metropolis. This transition culminated in the replacement of the town's pristine natural environment with an imposing hydroelectric power dam."

Quite simple. Previously we wrote 32 words for the first paragraph (paraphrasing the question sentence). And just now we have added 43 more words to write the 2nd paragraph (Overview paragraph). That means we've completed the 1st two of our recommended 4 paragraph Task 1 report writing structure . Therefore, we're already halfway through. It's time to move to the Body Paragraph 1 and Body Paragraph 2,  respectively.

6. Body Paragraph 1

In the overview paragraph, we have given just a general statement of significant features, we haven't discussed any detail. Now, it's time to explain them in the body paragraphs.

Body Paragraph 1 Str ucture

We hope you can remember our Body Paragraph 1 structure:

Sentence 1 : f irst major point

Sentence 2 : s econd major point

Sentence 3 : extension  sentence 1 (compare/combine the  major points stated above)

Sentence 4 : extension  sentence 2 (extension of the previous sentence, or adding an exceptional feature).

Let's form the paragraph following the above-stated structure:

Sentence 1( First Major Point )

" The town in 1990 boasted a pristine river flowing through it, surrounded by ancient structures and verdant foliage. "

Sentence 2( Second Major Point )

" However, by 2010, the installation of a significant hydroelectric dam disrupted the river's flow and decimated the town's natural landscape, replaced by artificial concrete structures. "

Sentence 3( Extension Sentence 1 )

" On either side of the river, the unique creatures, exotic flora, and natural forest had vanished, replaced by imposing electric towers. "

Sentence 4( Extension Sentence 2 )

" This transformation marked a stark departure from the town's idyllic past. "

Complete Body Paragraph 1

"The town in 1990 boasted a pristine river flowing through it, surrounded by ancient structures and verdant foliage. However, by 2010, the installation of a significant hydroelectric dam disrupted the river's flow and decimated the town's natural landscape, replaced by artificial concrete structures. On either side of the river, the unique creatures, exotic flora, and natural forest had vanished, replaced by imposing electric towers. This transformation marked a stark departure from the town's idyllic past."

We have just added 70 more words to write the first body paragraph. That means we have already finished 75% of our IELTS Task 1 essay! See how simple it is! We are just describing the major features that are very obvious in the pictures.

We've written 32 for the first, 43 for the second and 75 words for the third paragraph. That means we have already used 150 words out of total 150 for an IELTS Task 1 essay question.

However, don't panic about the 150 word threshold, as long as you are not writing below 150. For the sake of a clear discussion, it is absolutely okay to write somewhere near 200 words.

So, let's move to the final paragraph, and wrap up the major contrast given in the maps.

7. Body Paragraph 2

Body paragraph 2 is the final paragraph of our suggested structure for a Task 1 Writing. This is the easiest paragraph in the whole description, because here we're simply going to state other features briefly in the first sentence, add a comparison statement in the second sentence, and then write the final sentence wrapping up the described major features. So, let's apply our structure for the second body paragraph:

Body Paragraph 2 Structure

Sentence 3: final sentence (wrapping-up the stated major points)

Sentence 1(Exceptional Feature)

"By 2010, an artificial lake and towering hotel had replaced the once-integrated farmland and river."

Sentence 2(Extension of the Exceptional Feature) 

"Only the mountains and some villages managed to evade this sweeping transformation."

Sentence 3(Final Sentence)

"The shift from natural forest, farmland, and river to a concrete, man-made town stands as a stark and striking contrast."

Complete Body Paragraph 2

"By 2010, an artificial lake and towering hotel had replaced the once-integrated farmland and river. Only the mountains and some villages managed to evade this sweeping transformation. The shift from natural forest, farmland, and river to a concrete, man-made town stands as a stark and striking contrast."

We've added 60 more words to the previous 138, and just finished the final part of our 4 paragraph structure. That means, we have completed the Task 1 response with 198 words, which is absolutely fine. In fact, you should write somewhere between 150 and 200 words.

To sum up, mastering the art of writing an IELTS Task 1 Maps Band 9 report is not an overnight task. It requires consistent practice, a clear understanding of the structure, and an ability to interpret geographical data effectively. When you combine these elements with a strong command of language and a clear understanding of the assessment criteria, you set yourself up for success.

Remember, coherence and cohesion, lexical resource, grammatical range and accuracy, and task achievement are the fundamental components the examiners look for. So, strive to deliver a well-structured report with relevant information, appropriate vocabulary, varied sentence structures, and accurate grammar.

If you've found our tips on how to write an IELTS Task 1 Maps Band 9 report helpful, we encourage you to explore further and practise with real IELTS map samples. Let your progress be guided by feedback and self-evaluation, honing your skills one map at a time. Crafting high-band IELTS map reports can open doors to studying or working abroad, so don't underestimate the value of acing this task.

Keep your eyes on the prize, and with consistent effort, you can overcome the challenge. You're one step closer to achieving that coveted Band 9 score, and we believe that with the right preparation, you will conquer the IELTS map task effectively and successfully.

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How to Describe Maps for IELTS Writing Task 1

Posted by David S. Wills | Mar 17, 2021 | IELTS Tips , Writing | 0

Today, I am going to show you how to describe maps for task 1 of the IELTS writing test. I have written about this before, but this will be the first in-depth lesson on map descriptions. In this lesson, you will find out everything you need to know in order to get a great score if you encounter a map in your next writing test.

Maps and IELTS: An Overview

First of all, you need to understand the purpose of IELTS map description. In fact, it is important to recognise the purpose of task 1 of the IELTS test! This part of the exam is designed to see how well you can describe things. In that regard, it is quite different from task 2.

Maps are used in IELTS because they require you to describe the physical layout of a location in addition to showing changes over time. Normally, you will be given two maps of the same area and you will be asked to explain what changes have occurred.

It is really important to know this because otherwise you might not understand how to approach the essay. There are many misconceptions about IELTS but really it is quite simple – you are required to show that you can use the language for different purposes.

Types of Map

You will see different types of map in the IELTS writing test. There are maps of streets, towns, villages, islands, parks, and even interior layouts of buildings in some rare cases. However, they pretty much all serve the same function – there will be two maps that show changes over a period of time.

You should not think too much about the type of map as the function is basically the same – it will show a physical location . Your job is to describe that location and then highlight the changes that take place.

Vocabulary for Map Descriptions

I have a full article on vocabulary for describing IELTS maps so you should read that if you want to know the details. This lesson is quite important because it teaches you about the key things you need to know. I will summarise the important parts here.

In describing a map, you have to imagine that your reader cannot see the same image that you see. Your job is to put that image into their head. This requires you to be accurate and concise in the words that you use.

Start with cardinal directions: north, south, east, and west. These will help you immensely. It is not enough to say “on the right” because that is relative. One person’s right could be another person’s left.

You need to know prepositions as well. This is incredibly important. If you get your prepositions wrong, it could lead to a totally inaccurate description of the map. That would be a huge problem.

Example of Direction and Preposition Use

Look at these two maps of a place called Felixstone:

We can see many changes but before we begin to describe them, we need to explain where those things were.

Where is the farmland?

• In 1967, there was an area of farmland in the eastern part of the map, just to the north of the road.

Where is the private beach?

• In 2001, there was a private beach in the southeast of the map. It meets the road at its northernmost point and leads all the way to the sea at the south.

Where are the wind turbines?

• By 2001, four wind turbines had been added between the dunes and the sea.

Please note that there could be other great ways to describe any of these things. These are just a few examples to show you the uses of accurate language.

Sample Answer

Here is my full description to the Felixstone map:

There are two maps of a place called Felixstone. One map is from 1967 and the other from 2001. Many changes took place in the intervening years, including the removal of a marina and pier. In 1967, Felixstone was comprised of a road with a golf course, high street, and farmland to the north of it. To the south, there were trees and dunes, a hotel and a café, and a marina and fish market. By 2001, the farmland to the north of the road had been replaced by a hotel with a swimming pool and tennis courts. Half of the shops on the main street had been converted into apartments. To the south of the road, the hotel had gained a large car park and some wind turbines were added between the dunes and the sea. However, the biggest change was the removal of the marina and pier, which were replaced by a public beach and a private beach. The fish market beside the pier was also removed.

Tenses and IELTS Task 1 Maps

One thing that people often overlook is the importance of accurate tense use in IELTS task 1. Of course, verb tenses are always important in English. They are complicated but essential for conveying meaning. However, in task 1 people often focus on just describing the physical layout. This is important, but so is capturing time.

Considering my example above, let’s look at the first sentence of paragraph three:

• By 2001, the farmland to the north of the road had been replaced by a hotel with a swimming pool and tennis courts.

Why did I use the phrase “had been replaced”?

This is the passive form of the past perfect tense . I used the passive form because it was appropriate here. In describing map changes, we do not know who made the change, so passive voice is necessary. As for past perfect, this is how we look further into the past from the perspective of a point in the past.

Let me explain more: This map referred to two points of time – 1967 and 2001. Both of these points of time are in the past. Thus, when we look at changes that have occurred by 2001, we must use look back into the past from the past! It seems so complicated, but it really isn’t.

Choosing What to Describe

When it comes to IELTS maps, you might face two potential problems about choosing what to describe:

• There are too many things to describe.
• There aren’t enough things to describe.

This can be difficult, particularly in an exam scenario. I would offer the following advice:

• If it seems that there are too many things, then begin by picking the most important and then describe it as best you can. Then pick other things logically. If you find it is taking too long, you can finish and not worry about the others. After all, you don’t need to describe everything .
• If it seems that there aren’t enough things, you are going to need to get creative. You should devote a little extra effort to giving details about the key aspects of the map. Don’t just say “there is a bridge in the north.” Say “there is a bridge in the north of the map that goes over the Severn River. It connects the towns of Dorwith and Forlsom.” This will help you to use more words. However, it really shouldn’t be a problem as IELTS maps tend to contain enough data to easily write 150 words.

Anyway, the most important thing is that you select the most important data and sequence it logically.

How to Structure an IELTS Map Description

I wrote this article on IELTS writing task 1 essay structures. You should read this because maps really don’t require anything special. The structure will basically be the same as it would for charts, tables, and so on. It should look like this:

• Introduction – say what the map is and highlight a key change
• Body paragraph one – describe the first map
• Body paragraph two – describe the second map and highlight changes

There are other reasonable ways to approach this. You may, for example, devote a paragraph to the main changes and another paragraph to lesser changes. However, it is usually best to give a paragraph on each of the two maps.

One thing is the “general trend” sentence. As you probably know, IELTS writing task 1 essays require a sentence that gives the general trend of a chart or table. However, there is no such thing for maps. You can instead highlight a significant change or try to capture the gist of the differences.

Video about Difficult Maps for IELTS

Last year, I made this video about describing difficult IELTS maps. You might find it useful given the information in this lesson.

You can also find sample map descriptions here and here . On a related note, you can find IELTS listening map skills here .

About The Author

David S. Wills

David S. Wills is the author of Scientologist! William S. Burroughs and the 'Weird Cult' and the founder/editor of Beatdom literary journal. He lives and works in rural Cambodia and loves to travel. He has worked as an IELTS tutor since 2010, has completed both TEFL and CELTA courses, and has a certificate from Cambridge for Teaching Writing. David has worked in many different countries, and for several years designed a writing course for the University of Worcester. In 2018, he wrote the popular IELTS handbook, Grammar for IELTS Writing and he has since written two other books about IELTS. His other IELTS website is called IELTS Teaching.

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How to Describe an IELTS Writing Task 1 Map

Below, I’m going to walk you through the five steps to writing top-scored IELTS map essays:

• Master the basic vocabulary
• Understand the objectives of the task
• Fully describe the items on the map
• Describe the way elements of the map change (an IELTS Writing map is two part, showing how a place changes)
• Combine all of these skills into a full essay

A full walkthrough of Writing Task 1 maps, including a model essay, can be seen in Eliot’s video above. (You can watch the video now, or check it out later after reading this guide!)

IELTS Map Vocabulary

Before we look at the finer parts of how to write about an IELTS map, let’s think about the basic features of these maps and the IELTS map vocabulary used to describe them. In a nutshell, most IELTS maps will show a large location with buildings and other specific types of areas and locations. And typically, there will actually be two maps: a before and after map. With that in mind, there are three major important categories of vocabulary for describing such maps. For each of the three categories below, I’ve given a partial list of the kids of words you might use. This should give you a general idea, and I would encourage you to think up additional similar words on your own.

Words that Describe the Places

Adjectives:, words that describe the locations of places, compass words:.

• NOTE: Even if a compass does not appear on a map, you can assume that up is north, down is south, left is west, and right is east

DIRECTIONAL WORDS AND PREPOSITIONS:

• across from

Words that Describe Actions and Change

• constructed
• significant
• substantial

How to Write About an IELTS Map

How to write a map essay in IELTS involves a simple 5 step process:

1. Get Fluent in Basic IELTS Map Vocabulary

Develop your skills and knowledge for words that describe places, where places are located in relation to each other, and how places change in IELTS Writing maps. The lists I’ve provided are a great place to start.

2. Understand The Objectives

To tackle the challenge of describing a map for the exam, you must understand the objectives of the task at hand. Importantly, while 75% of your score represents your linguistic performance (coherence and cohesion, vocabulary, and grammar), 25% depends on your achievement of the task.

Earning a high band score for task 1 completion  is awarded for a “clear overview of main trends, differences, or stages.” If a clear overview cannot be achieved, you must minimally highlight the key features related to the prompt.

With this in mind, check out the image below:

If we want to consider key features or trends, it wouldn’t be enough to say that there are rides, recreational areas, and places where goods can be purchased. This doesn’t provide any overviews; it simply lists elements. Noting patterns and overall “trends” requires looking at the bigger picture, not isolated elements. An overview might point out instead that rides and tours tend to be farther from the parking area (i.e. the roller coaster, Ferris wheel, and magic castle), and that places where visitors can rest are closer to the theme park entrance (i.e. the food court and the playground/picnic area).

But you probably won’t be given an image and simply told, “describe it.” Instead, you will be given a specific task, and you will use the information in the image to complete it. For example, for the image above, a the full task is actually to describe the key features and differences between the current layout of the theme park, and the way the theme park will look after some planned future changes.

3. Go Beyond Naming

Ultimately, your task requires more than mere description. While nouns are obviously important (for naming various structures and natural elements and their basic positions on the map), task completion involves more than listing items. Describing trends, differences, or stages requires noting the relationship among elements and between images for comparison. Remember, there’s far more to IELTS Writing Task 1 vocabulary than just the names of things.

Imagine that your task is to examine before and after illustrations of a neighborhood over the course of a century.

For this task, it is clearly not enough to name what is new.  Don’t just describe what’s there, describe the relationship between what’s there.

For example, do not simply say “there is an office complex that wasn’t there before.” What relationship does this have to the big picture?  Remember, you must be able to provide an overview .

4. Describe the Changes Between the Two Maps

But, wait! Your overview shouldn’t just mention elements and their relationship to one another. How are the elements that you’re describing relevant to the prompt? What changes have been made?  We must connect these observations to the before and after context, reflecting change:

• The cannery along the northwest side of Oak Avenue was replaced by an office complex.
• The main road is connected to side roads that are closer to the lake and river. In the second map, the road that ended near the river now goes over the river via bridge.
• There is a petrol station on the other side of the road from the Yang Office Complex, where the elementary school had been on the older map.
• The main road currently has two shops, where previously there had been just one shop. These shops sit between the more recently constructed apartment buildings and an expanded set of homes.
• The smaller elementary school on the north side of Miller’s Lake was expanded and moved to the east side of the lake.

Now that’s more like it! Always remember that the IELTS Writing Task 1 map comparison between the old and new features is very important.

5. Put These Skills Together into a Full Essay

At this point, you’ve mastered the basic vocabulary, made your descriptions of the places on the map more detailed, and learned to describe change between two maps. Of course, these are just a few of many ways you could describe the map above. Your final step is to apply all this knowledge to map essays of your own creation. Try writing your own essay about the map above, or create an essay based on our full set of IELTS Writing Task 1 practice questions . That set includes a link to the full model IELTS Writing Task 2 essay based on the map above .

Final Takeaways For Using IELTS Writing Task 1 Map Vocabulary

Main takeaways for using IELTS map vocabulary to compare and describe an IELTS map:

• Remember that the examiner is looking for an overview with main points, not an exhaustive list of elements. (Notice, for example that I didn’t precisely quantify housing units, describe exact comparative distances, or give the exact names of every location.)
• Think of the big picture. Rather than focusing on what’s there, think about how they’re related to the overall developments.
• Don’t forget your primary task – What changes have been made? What occurred, resulting in the differences you see?

Check out more helpful articles on the use of IELTS Writing Task 1 map vocabulary ( and this bonus IELTS Video! ) on preparing for the IELTS Academic Writing Task 1:

• How to Describe an IELTS Academic Pie Chart
• How to Describe an IELTS Academic Bar Chart
• How to Prepare for Academic IELTS Academic Writing Task 1

David is a Test Prep Expert for Magoosh TOEFL and IELTS. Additionally, he’s helped students with TOEIC, PET, FCE, BULATS, Eiken, SAT, ACT, GRE, and GMAT. David has a BS from the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire and an MA from the University of Wisconsin-River Falls. His work at Magoosh has been cited in many scholarly articles , his Master’s Thesis is featured on the Reading with Pictures website, and he’s presented at the WITESOL (link to PDF) and NAFSA conferences. David has taught K-12 ESL in South Korea as well as undergraduate English and MBA-level business English at American universities. He has also trained English teachers in America, Italy, and Peru. Come join David and the Magoosh team on Youtube , Facebook , and Instagram , or connect with him via LinkedIn !

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5 responses to “How to Describe an IELTS Writing Task 1 Map”

THANKS I LOVE IT !

Perfect explanation about the format of task 1.

Dear Sir/Madam,

If we use passive voice for present change then do we have to use have been or has been. In the above explanation, can we use has been instead of have been?

“Have been” is for plural subjects, and “has been” is for singular subjects. Here’s one of the examples from above:

The western and central parts of the island have been developed into a resort.

“Western and central parts” is plural, so you use “have.” If we change this sentence so that the subject is singular, it becomes:

“The western part of the island has been developed into a resort.”

Since this example has only one part, we use the singular “has.” I hope that answers your question!

nicely explained

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How To Write an IELTS Map Essay

IELTS map questions are the easiest to answer. There are no numbers to analyse, just 2 or 3 maps to compare. Very occasionally, there might only be a single map, but this is rare.

The maps will be of the same location at different times. This could be in the past, the present time or a plan for a proposed development in the future. You are required to write about the changes you see between the maps.

There are 5 steps to writing   a high-scoring IELTS map essay:

1)  Analyse the question

2)  Identify the main features

3)  Write an introduction

4)  Write an overview

5)  Write the details paragraphs

I must emphasise the importance of steps 1 and 2. It is essential that you complete this planning stage properly before you start writing. You’ll understand why when I guide you through it. It should only take 5 minutes, leaving you a full 15 minute to write your essay.

In this lesson, we’re going to work through the 5 stages step-by-step as we answer a practice IELTS map question.

Before we begin, here’s a model essay structure that you can use as a guideline for all IELTS Academic Task 1 questions.

Ideally, your essay should have 4 paragraphs:

Paragraph 1  – Introduction

Paragraph 2  – Overview

Paragraph 3  – 1 st  main feature

Paragraph 4  – 2 nd  main feature

We now have everything we need to begin planning and writing our IELTS map essay.

Here’s our practice question:

The maps below show the village of Stokeford in 1930 and 2010.

Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

Write at least 150 words.

Step 1 –  Analyse the question

The format of every Academic Task 1 question is the same. Here is our practice question again with the words that will be included in all questions highlighted.

Every question consists of:

• Sentence 1 – A brief description of the graphic
• Sentence 2 – The instructions
• The graphic – map, chart, graph, table, etc.

Sentence 2 tells you what you have to do.

You must do 3 things:

1.     Select the main features.

2.     Write about the main features.

3.     Compare the main features.

All three tasks refer to the ‘ main features ’ of the graphic. You  do not  have to write about everything. Just pick out 2 or 3 key features and you’ll have plenty to write about.

Step 2 – Identify the Main Features

All you are looking for are the main features. Start with the earliest map. Identify the key features and look to see how they have changed in the later map, and again in the final map if there are three.

Here are some useful questions to ask?

1) What time periods are shown?

Are the maps of past, present or future situations? This is important to note because it will determine whether you write your essay using past, present or future tenses.

The two maps in our practice IELTS map question show the village of Stokeford at two different times in the past. This immediately tells us that we will need to use the past tense in our essay.

2) What are the main differences between the maps?

What features have disappeared? What new features are in their place?

3) What features have remained the same over the time period?

Although the location on the maps will have undergone major development, some features may remain unchanged.

Also, think about directional language you can use, such as:

So,  what information is contained our maps? Here they are again.

Source: IELTS past paper

There are a number of different features we could select such as, the loss of the shops, the disappearance of farmland, the enlargement of the school and the development of the large house into a retirement home.

Many maps will contain far more changes than our sample maps and the changes may be more complex. In such cases, you won’t have time to write about all of them and will need to select just 2 or 3 main features to focus on.

Our maps are quite simple so we’ll list all 4 of the major changes I’ve just identified. 

Main feature 1:  The farmland has been built on.

Main feature 2:  The large house has been converted into a retirement home.

Main feature 3:  The school has been enlarged.

Main feature 4:  The shops have disappeared.

The key features you select will be the starting point for your IELTS map essay. You will then go on to add more detail later. However, with just 20 minutes allowed for Task 1, and a requirement of only 150 words, you won't be able to include many details.

We’re now ready to begin writing our essay. Here’s a reminder of the 4 part structure we’re going to use.

For this essay, we’ll adapt this a little to write about two of the features in Paragraph 3 and the other two features in Paragraph 4.

Step 3 – Write an Introduction 

In the introduction, you should simply paraphrase the question, that is, say the same thing in a different way. You can do this by using synonyms and changing the sentence structure. For example:

Introduction (Paragraph 1): 

The two maps illustrate how the village of Stokeford, situated on the east bank of the River Stoke, changed over an 80 year period from 1930 to 2010.

This is all you need to do for the introduction.

Step 4 – Write an Overview (Paragraph 2)

In the second paragraph, you should describe the general changes that have taken place. The detail comes later in the essay.

State the information simply. No elaborate vocabulary or grammar structures are required, just the appropriate words and correct verb tenses.

For example:

Overview  (Paragraph 2): 

There was considerable development of the settlement over these years and it was gradually transformed from a small rural village into a largely residential area.

Two sentences would be better than one for the second paragraph but we’ll be getting into the detail if we say more about these maps at this point, so we’ll leave the overview as one sentence.

Step 5  – Write the 1st Detail Paragraph

Paragraphs 3 and 4 of your IELTS map essay are where you include more detailed information. In paragraph 3, you should give evidence to support your first 1or 2 key features.

In the case of our main features, 1 and 3 are closely related so we’ll write about these two together.

Here they are again:

And this is an example of what you could write:

Paragraph 3 :

The most notable change is the presence of housing in 2010 on the areas that were farmland back in 1930. New roads were constructed on this land and many residential properties built. In response to the considerable increase in population, the primary school was extended to around double the size of the previous building.

Step 6  – Write the 2nd Detail Paragraph

For the fourth and final paragraph, you do the same thing for your remaining key features. 

Here are the two we have left:

This is an example of what you could write:

Paragraph 4 :

Whilst the post office remained as a village amenity, the two shops that can be seen to the north-west of the school in 1930, no longer existed by 2010, having been replaced by houses. There also used to be an extensive property standing in its own large gardens situated to the south-east of the school. At some time between 1930 and 2010, this was extended and converted into a retirement home. This was another significant transformation for the village.

Here are the four paragraphs brought together to create our finished essay.

Finished IELTS Map Essay

This sample IELTS map essay is well over the minimum word limit so you can see that you don’t have space to include very much detail at all. That’s why it is essential to select just a couple of main features to write about.

Now use what you’ve learnt in this lesson to practice answering other IELTS map  questions. Start slowly at first and keep practicing until you can plan and write a complete essay in around 20 minutes.

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Ielts academic writing task 1 – all lessons.

IELTS Academic Writing  –  A summary of the test including important facts, test format & assessment.

Academic Writing Task 1  – The format, the 7 question types & sample questions, assessment & marking criteria.  All the key information you need to know.

Understanding Task 1 Questions  – How to quickly and easily analyse and understand IELTS Writing Task 2 questions.

How To Plan a Task 1 Essay  –  Discover  3 reasons why you must plan, the 4 simple steps of essay planning and learn a simple 4 part essay structure.

Vocabulary for Task 1 Essays  –  Learn key vocabulary for a high-scoring essay. Word lists & a downloadable PDF.

Grammar for Task 1 Essays   – Essential grammar for Task 1 Academic essays including, verb tenses, key sentence structures, articles & prepositions.

The 7 Question Types:

Click the links below for a step-by-step lesson on each type of Task 1 question.

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IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 – Maps

In this post, we will look at how to structure your essay for this type of question, how to describe both the general and specific changes, vocabulary and sample answers.

These questions will require you to show your knowledge of vocabulary and grammar, using the correct tense . You will also use the passive in your writing.

Writing Task 1 – Maps Essay Structure >>

Paragraph 2 – Overview of the main features

Write about the specific details that you can see – looking closely at the main features and include detail, then make any comparisons if relevant. 

Describing Changes To A Map >>

The maps are normally labelled for you, with buildings, features and sometimes locations. Below is an example of how to describe changes ;

Since 2010, all of the buildings on the Liverpool John Moores University campus have changed. There are quite a few improvements to both buildings and access. 

Providing More Detail >>

 how to describe general changes >>.

TIP >> Remember that you must report the information you see objectively, you don’t give your opinions or any extra unnecessary information. 

How To Describe Locations >>

Writing task 1 maps sample essays >>, sample map essay 1  , writing task 1 band score 9 criteria >>, related posts, governments should spend money on railways rather than roads. | ielts writing task 2, ielts advantage/disadvantage essay sample 1 – work, leave a comment cancel reply.

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IELTS Map Academic Writing Guide

• Task 1 Guide
• Table & Bar
• Bar & Pie
• Table & Pie
• Compare Contrast
• Identifying Trends

This guide will help you with IELTS map chart task 1 with sample questions and tips designed to achieve full marks in the IELTS Academic writing task 1 .

Table of Contents

1.1 objective, 1.2 skills used, 2.1 two maps- one in the past and one in the present, 2.2 two maps- one in the present and one in the future, 2.3 two maps- two in the past, 3.1 introduction, 3.2 overview, 3.3 main body paragraphs.

• IELTS Writing Task 1 Band Descriptors Explained

5.1 Verbs to Describe Changes in Maps

5.2 noun phrases, 5.3 language to describe location, 5.4 linking phrases for change, 5.5 linking phrases to introduce areas, 6.1 present perfect passive, 6.2 past simple passive, 6.3 past perfect passive, 6.4 relative clauses, 7.1 sample answer commentary.

• Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
• Quiz- Check Your Understanding

1. IELTS Map Overview

Maps are not a very common IELTS writing task 1 question for academic module. In this type of question, you will be given two or three maps and asked to describe the main changes that can be seen in different time periods (past, present or future). Each IELTS map will show a simplified diagram of the same fictional city or place and the changes that have occurred over time.

You have to write a 150-word formal task 1 report that summarises and compares the most important changes you see in the maps. You should produce your report in 20 minutes in the exam.

You are being tested on the same skills for each writing task 1. You need to:

• Produce a report using a formal register
• Report and summarise the key features of the maps
• Describe and compare any changes

2. IELTS Task 1 Map Questions

You will always be given more than one map so that you can compare the diagrams. You may be given two or even three maps that show changes in the same city or place in the past, present and/or future .

Here are some examples:

The maps below describe the main changes which have happened in the city of Oakville between 2010 and today.

Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features and make comparisons where relevant.

The maps below describe the main changes that are predicted to happen in the city of Oakville between 2010 and 2050.

The maps below describe the main changes that happened in the city of Oakville between 2010 and 2020.

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3. Structure for IELTS Map Questions

Your IELTS report should follow a clear and logical structure . The following sections will help you produce an excellent introduction , overview and main body paragraphs for an IELTS map in Academic Task 1 .

You only need to write one or two sentences for your introduction. All you have to do here is paraphrase the given statement and briefly mention any other important features of the maps.

Here are some possible ways to start your introduction:

• The two/three maps highlight
• The maps illustrate
• The maps show…

When you are paraphrasing, you do not need to change every word. However, you should aim to use synonyms, similar expressions and change the word order when it is appropriate to produce a sentence with the same meaning.

Here is an example of a well paraphrased statement for an IELTS map question:

Original statement: The maps below show the main changes which have happened in the city of Oakwood from 2010 to the present day.

Paraphrased statement: The maps highlight the key developments that have taken place in Oakwood, between 2010 and today.

Main Changes: The maps below show… The maps highlight …

…the main changes…

… the key developments …

…which have happened…

… that have taken place …

…from 2010 to the present day…

…between 2010 and today…

After your introduction, you must include an overview paragraph. This is where you summarise the main features of the maps (without going into too much detail). This paragraph is very important to help you do well in ‘ Task Achievement ’.

Here is a summary of what to include in your overview for IELTS map questions:

• Start your overview with ‘ Overall …’ , ‘ In summary ,… or ‘ To summarise …’ to make it easy for the examiner to locate your overview
• Identify general changes that have happened over time
• Consider if the city or place has become more modernised; more urban; more industrial; more attractive for tourists
• In general, what has been added or removed , e.g., are there more facilities or less green spaces?
• Make sure to use an appropriate tense (e.g. if the map is in the present day, use the present tense)

After your more general overview, you can go into detail about the maps in your main body paragraphs.

Consider the following points when writing your main body paragraphs:

• Make sure to use a range of correct tenses ( see Grammar for IELTS Writing Task 1 Map )
• Select between six and eight important changes to write about
• Include the year when referring to each map
• Use linking phrases for maps to introduce different areas of the city
• Include the main changes relating to: things that have been made bigger/smaller; been added; taken away; changed into something different
• Consider changes that relate to: transport; infrastructure; industry; buildings; size; location
• Include the location of the changes on the map (e.g., did the changes happen in the North, South-East etc.)

4. IELTS Writing Task 1 Band Descriptors Explained

Check out our section on IELTS Writing Band descriptors   in our IELTS writing Task 1 Masterclass for helpful hints.

5. Vocabulary for IELTS Maps

Here are some common verbs that are useful when describing different types of changes in maps:

You can also convert many of the verbs above to nouns to describe changes in maps using the structure the + noun + of + noun . For example:

To give accurate information about the maps, you need to include the location in which the changes have occurred. For example:

Compass directions (if the map has a compass)

• If we look at the south of the city…
• Regarding the north-west of the city…
• … to the east of the city…
• To the west of the river…
• … on the north/south/east/west side of the river…

Top/Bottom or Left/Right (if the map does not have a compass)

• In the top right hand corner of the map
• At the bottom left …

If you are using the construction the + noun + of + noun you need to introduce it with a linking phrase to complete the sentence. For example:

• The last few years have seen the conversion of offices to flats.
• One noticeable improvement is the redevelopment of the city centre.
• One significant change is the modernisation of the bus station.
• A further change is the extension of the road.
• An interesting development is the pedestrianisation of the city
• Another change has been the expansion of the library
• One change has been the introduction of shared bikes.
• A significant development is the removal of the old train station.

To develop cohesion in your report you can use linking phrases to introduce areas such as:

• If we look at the north/south/east/west of the city…
• Regarding the top/bottom of the map…
• As regards the city centre…

6. Grammar for IELTS Writing Task 1 Map

The present perfect passive can be used to describe changes in a map between a time in the past and now.

To form the present perfect passive, follow this structure : Object + have/has + been + past participle

Example: The trees in the city centre have been cut down and a new bus station has been built in their place.

The past simple passive is useful to describe changes in two maps that both occur in the past. You can not use the present perfect passive in this case as the time period is finished in the past.

To form the present simple passive, follow this structure: Object + was/were + past participle

Example: The trees in the city centre were cut down and a new bus station was built.

If you are describing two maps in the past, you can also discuss the date that something happened with the past perfect passive.

Example: In 2010, there were many trees in the south of the city, but by 2020, they had been cut down and replaced by a new bus station.

A relative clause is a type of complex sentence . Using a range of complex and simple sentences correctly can help to increase your score in Grammatical Range and Accuracy in IELTS writing task 1.

To form a relative clause, you need to use a relative pronoun .

Here are some examples of relative pronouns and how you can use them in an IELTS map question:

7. IELTS Writing Task 1 Map Sample Answer

The two maps highlight the main developments that have taken place in the coastal city of Oakville, over the period between 2010 and today.

Overall , what stands out from both maps is that Oakville has become far more developed and modern, with more accommodation, amenities and entertainment facilities, and fewer trees and green spaces.

In detail , if we look at the north of the city, one change has been that the forest in the north-east has been cut down and a cinema has been constructed in its place. In 2010, there did not used to be a university and student accommodation, but today these buildings have been erected in the north of the city . As regards the city centre , the past years have seen the introduction of an e-scooter rental scheme, making it easier for people to travel around the city centre without producing emissions.

Regarding the south of the city , a significant change is the conversion of the library in the south-west into new houses. Furthermore , new flats have also been built in the south-east of the city which could have become a green space in 2010. A further important development is the pedestrianisation of the road near the sea. Bars and restaurants have also been opened along the coast, meaning that this area is now nicer to visit for residents and tourists.

The report above would receive an estimated 9.0 overall in the IELTS writing task 1 Academic paper.

The overview paragraph has been clearly signposted using ‘overall’ and the key features introduced with the phrase ‘what stands out’.

A range of linking devices have been used successfully such as ‘in detail’, ‘as regards the city centre’, ‘regarding the south of the city’, ‘furthermore’ and ‘a further important development’.

Further details have been given in the main body paragraphs using vocabulary to describe location, e.g., ‘in the north-east’, ‘in the north of the city’ and ‘in the south-east of the city’.

A range of passive tenses have been used throughout the report, e.g., ‘these buildings have been erected’ and ‘bars and restaurants have also been opened’.

8. Common Errors and How to Avoid Them

Problem 1 Using the wrong tenses to describe changes in the maps.

Solution 1 Take a moment to understand what time periods you are comparing. If you are comparing a map from the past and a map from ‘today’, then the present perfect passive is useful as you are comparing changes from the past to the present. The present perfect passive would not be suitable when comparing two maps in the past. See Grammar for IELTS Writing Task 1 Map

Problem 2 Not describing the location or date of each map.

Solution 2 To improve your score in task achievement, you need to make it clear to the examiner what map you are referring to. Make sure to include the year of the map or ‘today’ for maps in the present. You should also use vocabulary to describe the location of the map feature you are referring to See Vocabulary for IELTS Maps

9. Quiz- Check Your Understanding

Take this short quiz to test your understanding of writing task 1 and maps:

• Four Answer: C. Four Exp × Explanation: You need to include an introduction, an overview, and two main body paragraphs.

Explanation: Although a map is not a very common IELTS writing task 1 question type, it is still important to be prepared in case it comes up in your IELTS exam.

Explanation: There are at least four types of IELTS map questions:

Two Maps- One in the Past and One in the Present

Two Maps- One in the Present and One in the Future

Two Maps- Two in the Past

Three Maps- Two in the Past and One in the Present

• The graphs show…

Explanation: A. ‘The graphs show…’ would only be appropriate when introducing a line or bar graph, not when writing about a map.

• In summary…
• Broadly, it can be seen that…
• To summarise, …

Explanation: All of the phrases above would be appropriate to use in an IELTS map overview.

Explanation: It is important to refer to dates to make it clear which map you are referring to throughout your report.

• Development

Explanation: Development and Expansion are nouns not verbs, but they can also be used to describe change.

• The modernisation of the bus station… Answer: A.
• the modernising of the bus station…
• modernisation of the bus station…
• The trees in the city had been cut down.

Explanation: A. is an example of the past perfect passive and C. is an example of the past simple passive.

• The trees in the city were cut down
• An interesting development is…
• One change has been…

Explanation: ‘In summary’ is a suitable linker for your overview paragraph, not a linking phrase for change.

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IELTS Writing Task 1 Tips, Model Answers & More

Useful IELTS writing task 1 tips, answers, lessons & videos for success achieving a high score. This page contains all the information and help you need to do well. Learn about the IELTS marking criteria, paragraphing, vocabulary and much more. This page has tips for Academic writing task 1 and GT writing task 1. You can find GT task 1 at the bottom of this page.

On this page, you will find the following for Academic Task 1:

• Writing Task 1 Test Information 
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Writing Task 1 Model Answers

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Go directly to GT Writing Task 1:  GT Task 1 Letter 

IELTS Writing Task 1 Academic

Overview of the IELTS Writing Task 1 Academic Test:

• You have one hour in total for your whole writing test (both task 1 and task 2).
• IELTS recommend you spend no more than 20 mins on writing task 1.
• You can manage your own time in the writing test. The one hour is yours to use as you wish. If you want to do task 2 first, you can.
• The instructions say “Write at least 150 words”. This means you need to write over 150 words.
• Writing Task 1 is a report, not an essay.
• Writing Task 1 counts for about 33% of your writing marks.
• Task Achievement / Coherence & Cohesion / Vocabulary / Grammar
• Band Score Details & Tips for Improvement: IELTS WRITING TASK 1 BAND SCORES EXPLAINED

Types of IELTS Writing Task 1 (Academic)

Below are the six types of tasks that can appear in IELTS Writing task 1. You can also get a combination of two tasks together. You will find MODEL ANSWERS and SAMPLE PRACTICE TASKS linked below for each type of writing task 1.

Charts that compare and contrast data. Data is divided into columns representing categories and compared with between two groups, such as men and women.

Line Graphs

A graph that shows trends of two lines over a period of time. The lines represent numbers in two or more categories. This shows increases, decreases and other changes.

A table containing data that can be complex with many categories divided into rows and columns. These could be compare/contrast or change over time.

These show proportions of a whole divided into different categories. Sometimes compare/contrast and sometimes change over time.

It could be a process of how something works or how it is made. Or it could be a cycle such as a life cycle or water cycle. or a cycle. Diagrams contain stages and steps.

A map of a town/city or report or a floor plan of a building. Describing the  layout, position of places and special features on the map. Sometimes there are two maps to compare in different time periods.

IELTS Writing Task 1 Practice Charts

Below is a link to a collection of practice tables, line graphs, bar charts, maps and diagrams for you to practice with at home.

• IELTS SAMPLE PRACTICE CHARTS

IELTS Writing Task 1 Tips & Techniques

Although writing task 1 is only worth 33% of your total writing marks, it is often the reason why people struggle to hit band score 7. Task 1 is a report and not an essay. This is important to know because you can learn strategies for report writing more easily that for essay writing. So, take your time to improve your task 1. 

ESSENTIAL TIPS FOR WRITING TASK 1

• How to Prepare for Writing Task 1
• Structure & Paragraphs
• Vocabulary for Line Graphs
• Grammar Tips
• How to Organise Information
• Step by Step Guide
• How Many Words Should you Write?
• Video : How to Describe a Bar Chart with model answer
• How words are counted

Recent Feature Video: Introduction Paragraph

IELTS model answers for charts, graphs, diagrams, maps and tables.. Each sample answer is estimated band score 9. These model answer are there to guide you and to learn from. Think about the content, structure, linking, language, overview, grammar and word count when you review them. Also, read the comments on each page to learn more – some comments are like extra lessons. 

Diagram Model Answer

Bar Chart & Pie Charts Model Answer

Tables – Two Model Answers

Map Model Answer with Tips & Vocabulary

Line Graph – Two Model Answers

Bar Chart Model Answer

Complex Table Model Answer

Bar Chart over Time Model Answer

Pie Chart Model Answer

Bar Chart of Age Groups Model Answer

Table Future Tense Model Answer

Line Graph & Bar Chart Model Answer

Table & Single Pie Chart Model Answer

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IELTS Writing Task 1 Practice Lessons

IELTS writing task 1 free practice lessons to help you develop report writing skills and understand about the requirements of writing task 1 academic. Many of these lessons contain model answers so they really are worth reviewing.

• Table & Pie Charts: Exercise & Model Answer
• Video: Using Accurate Language for Data
• IELTS Diagram Rainwater: Exercise & Model Answer
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• IELTS Bar Chart: Vocabulary Exercise  & Model Answer
• IELTS Line Graph: Vocabulary Exercise
• IELTS Diagrams: Grammar Exercise
• IELTS Line Graph: How to Describe Guidelines
• IELTS Line Graph: Vocabulary & Model Answer
• Task 1 Improving  Line Graph Introduction Paragraph
• IELTS Map: Comparison Exercise
• IELTS Two Charts Practice: Pie Chart & Bar Chart
• IELTS Bar Chart: Exercise & Model Answer
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• Introduction Paragraph: Correcting Errors
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IELTS GENERAL TRAINING (GT) Letter – WRITING TASK 1

For IELTS Writing Task 1 General Training, you will be asked to write a letter (not a report on a chart).

Read below for an overview:

• IELTS recommend you spend no more than 20 mins on your writing task 1 letter.
• The instructions say “Write at least 150 words”. This means you need to write over 150 words. On average, you should aim for your letter to be between 170 and 190 words. A shorter letter does not allow enough detail for a high score.
• GT letters have different aims, styles and tones, for example formal or informal. See the essential tips below for information.
• Task Achievement is about completing the letter and fulfilling the aims of the letter.
• Coherence & Cohesion is about the structure, organisation and linking methods of information in your letter.

IELTS GT Sample Practice Letters

Below is a link to a collection of practice letters which show the range of formal, informal and all the different aims of letters so that you can practise at home.

Sample Practice Letters for GT IELTS  

IELTS GT Letter Essential Tips

The following links are for IELTS candidates who are preparing for the General Training Writing Test. Your task will be asked to write a letter. You will not be writing a report as in the Academic Test. Use the links below to help you prepare:

10 Essential Tips for IELTS Letter Writing

How to Improve your IELTS GT Letter

Differences between GT & Academic Writing

Using the bullet points properly

IELTS GT Model Letter Answers

• Apology Letter: Model Answers Formal & Informal
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• Letter to a Friend: Model Answer
• Invitation Letter: Model Answer

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IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 Maps Topics 2024

This list contains a selection of IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 maps topics that were submitted by students who completed the IELTS exam in 2024 . Select a topic at random and start practicing and enhancing your writing abilities.

Write on this topic Answers ···

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IELTS Task 1 Essay: Building with 3 Maps

by Dave | Sample Answers | 0 Comment

This is an IELTS writing task 1 sample answer essay on the topic of a map of a ground floor in a building and containing 3 maps.

Find my full IELTS Ebooks here .

You can find maps here and line charts here and bar charts here .

The floorplan shows how a building has changed from 1958 to the present day. Looking from an overall perspective, it is readily apparent that the building has served both commercial and residential purposes with the only area remaining unchanged being the kitchen. At present, the flower shop has a more open layout relative to when it was an apartment and office.

In 1958, the building was used as an office with a meeting room in the top left corner of the floorplan, an assistant’s and secretary’s office below there and a toilet in the bottom left corner. In 1985, the meeting room was extended and turned into a living room and a large bathroom and shower took the place of the offices and toilet. The florist shop contained a gift card room in the top left, above a large open space for flowers and a play area in the bottom left corner.

On the right side, the kitchen in the top corner was unaltered across all iterations of the ground floor. In comparison, there was a manager’s office on the right hand side and a reception area in the bottom corner. These spaces were allocated for bedrooms in the apartment and are now an office and additional space for flowers.

1. The floorplan shows how a building has changed from 1958 to the present day. 2. Looking from an overall perspective, it is readily apparent that the building has served both commercial and residential purposes with the only area remaining unchanged being the kitchen. 3. At present, the flower shop has a more open layout relative to when it was an apartment and office.

• Paraphrase what the map shows.
• Write a clear overview summarising the differences.
• Add a second sentence to make sure everything is covered.

1. In 1958, the building was used as an office with a meeting room in the top left corner of the floorplan, an assistant’s and secretary’s office below there and a toilet in the bottom left corner. 2. In 1985, the meeting room was extended and turned into a living room and a large bathroom and shower took the place of the offices and toilet. 3. The florist shop contained a gift card room in the top left, above a large open space for flowers and a play area in the bottom left corner.

• Begin writing about the map.
• Make sure you compare as much as possible.
• Don’t leave anything out.

1. On the right side, the kitchen in the top corner was unaltered across all iterations of the ground floor. 2. In comparison, there was a manager’s office on the right hand side and a reception area in the bottom corner. 3. These spaces were allocated for bedrooms in the apartment and are now an office and additional space for flowers.

• Write about the final, other parts of the map – include everything!
• Compare the categories.
• Add in everything, even what has not changed.

What do the words in bold below mean? Take some notes on a piece of paper to aid your memory:

The floorplan shows how a building has changed from 1958 to the present day . Looking from an overall perspective, it is readily apparent that the building has served both commercial and residential purposes with the only area remaining unchanged being the kitchen. At present , the flower shop has a more open layout relative to when it was an apartment and office.

In 1958, the building was used as an office with a meeting room in the top left corner of the floor, an assistant’s and secretary’s office below there and a toilet in the bottom left corner . In 1985, the meeting room was extended and turned into a living room and a large bathroom and shower took the place of the offices and toilet. The florist shop contained a gift card room in the top left, above a large open space for flowers and a play area in the bottom left corner.

On the right side, the kitchen in the top corner was unaltered across all iterations of the ground floor . In comparison , there was a manager’s office on the right hand side and a reception area in the bottom corner. These spaces were allocated for bedrooms in the apartment and are now an office and additional space for flowers.

Try to write down or think of an antonym/opposite word for further practice:

floorplan blueprint

from … to the present day starting then up until now

Looking from an overall perspective, it is readily apparent that overall

served both commercial and residential purposes was for business and for living

remaining unchanged was not altered

At present now

open layout lots of space

relative to when compared to the time

meeting room place to meet

top left corner northwest

assistant’s people helping out

secretary’s office below assistant’s working space under that

bottom left corner southwest

extended lengthened

turned into transformed into

took the place of replaced

florist shop contained flower shop has

gift card room place to sell cards

play area where kid’s can play

unaltered across all iterations of the ground floor didn’t change through the years

In comparison compared to that

manager’s boss’s

on the right hand side to the right

reception area area to get help from a receptionist

allocated for made for

additional extra

Pronunciation

Practice saying the words below using this tip with Google voice dictation :

flɔː plæn   frɒm  …  tuː ðə ˈprɛznt deɪ   ˈlʊkɪŋ frɒm ən ˈəʊvərɔːl pəˈspɛktɪv ,  ɪt ɪz ˈrɛdɪli əˈpærənt ðæt   sɜːvd bəʊθ kəˈmɜːʃəl ænd ˌrɛzɪˈdɛnʃəl ˈpɜːpəsɪz   rɪˈmeɪnɪŋ ʌnˈʧeɪnʤd   æt ˈprɛznt   ˈəʊpən ˈleɪaʊt   ˈrɛlətɪv tuː wɛn   ˈmiːtɪŋ ruːm   tɒp lɛft ˈkɔːnə   əˈsɪstənts   ˈsɛkrətriz ˈɒfɪs bɪˈləʊ   ˈbɒtəm lɛft ˈkɔːnə   ɪksˈtɛndɪd   tɜːnd ˈɪntuː   tʊk ðə pleɪs ɒv   ˈflɒrɪst ʃɒp kənˈteɪnd   ɡɪft kɑːd ruːm pleɪ ˈeərɪə   ʌnˈɔːltəd əˈkrɒs ɔːl ˌɪtəˈreɪʃᵊnz ɒv ðə ɡraʊnd flɔː   ɪn kəmˈpærɪsn   ˈmænɪʤəz   ɒn ðə raɪt hænd saɪd   rɪˈsɛpʃᵊn ˈeərɪə   ˈæləʊkeɪtɪd fɔː   əˈdɪʃənl  

Vocabulary Practice

Remember and fill in the blanks . Note it on a piece of paper so you can remember better:

The f_________n shows how a building has changed f____m 1958 t _________________ y . L______________________________________________________________t the building has s_____________________________________________s with the only area r_____________________d being the kitchen. A_________________t , the flower shop has a more o _____________________________ n it was an apartment and office.

In 1958, the building was used as an office with a m_________________m in the t______________r of the floor, an a_______________s and s________________________w there and a toilet in the b__________________r . In 1985, the meeting room was e ___________ d and t______________o a living room and a large bathroom and shower t___________________f the offices and toilet. The f______________________d a g__________d room in the top left, above a large open space for flowers and a p__________a in the bottom left corner.

On the right side, the kitchen in the top corner was u______________________________________________________r . I_______________n , there was a m___________s office o___________________e and a r_____________a in the bottom corner. These spaces were a______________r bedrooms in the apartment and are now an office and a_______________l space for flowers.

Listening Practice

Listen to the related topic below and practice with these activities :

Reading Practice

Read more and use these ideas to practice:

https://thursd.com/articles/8-floral-shops-from-around-the-world-you-should-visit

Speaking Practice

Practice with the following related questions from the real IELTS speaking exam :

• Do you work in an office?
• Is it common for people in your country to work in office?
• Where do most of your friends work?
• Would you like to design an office?

Writing Practice

Practice with the related map below and then check with my sample answer:

IELTS Task 1 Essay: Map of a Museum in 1990 and 2010

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Actual tests in May 20th, 2023 Writing Task 1 (paper-based): Map

WRITING TASK 1

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

The maps below show the changes of a school from 1985 to present time.

You should write at least 150 words.

Sample :  

The map displays the layout of a school in 1985 and now. 

Overall, it is obvious that a great number of new facilities have been constructed in this school to cater for the needs of the growing student population.

In 1985, with a students’ population size of 1500, the school used to have a rectangular car park and a road located in the north of the school. In the eastern part of the school, there was a classroom block with two levels. A large playing area was situated in the southern part of the map, and to the west of the school, there were some buildings including an office, a library, a small car park, and a small classroom block.

At present, the population of this school has increased significantly to 2300. The car park in the north remains but its size is slightly smaller. To the west of the school, the classroom block has been renovated with the addition of the third storey so as to accommodate a substantially increasing number of students. The playing grounds in the south have been redeveloped to make way for a brand new pool and fitness centre. On the left of the school’s layout, the small car park has been demolished to construct some new classrooms, and the library has been converted into a learning resource centre with a computer room.

(228 words)

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IELTS Writing Task 1 Samples

Here you will find IELTS Writing Task 1 Samples for a variety of common tasks that appear in the writing exam.

The model answers all have tips and strategies for how you may approach the question and comments on the sample answer.

It's a great way to help you to prepare for the test. 

The amount of money that a children's charity located in the USA spent and received in one year, 2016.

Model Answer >>>

The Proportions of Pupils Attending Four Secondary School Types Between Between 2000 and 2009.

The city of Brandfield. City planners have decided to build a new shopping mall for the area, and two sites, S1 and S2 have been proposed.

Process Diagram

The process that is used to manufacture bricks for the building industry.

The components of GDP in the UK from 1992 to 2000.

The scores of teams A, B and C over four different seasons.

The electricity generated in Germany and France from all sources and renewables in the year 2009.

British Emigration to selected destinations between 2004 and 2007.

Line and Bar Chart

Visits to and from the UK from 1979 to 1999, and the most popular countries visited by UK residents in 1999.

Thefts per thousand vehicles in four countries between 1990 and 1999.

Pie and Bar Chart

The percentage of persons arrested in the five years ending 1994 and the most recent reasons for arrest.

The different modes of transport used to travel to and from work in one European city in 1960, 1980 and 2000.

The proportion of monthly household income five European countries spend on food and drink, housing, clothing and entertainment.

How chocolate is produced.

The monthly spending in dollars of a family in the USA on three items in 2010.

How tea leaves are processed into five tea types.

Pie and  Bar Chart

The percentage of women in poverty and the poverty rates by sex and age in the United States in 2008.

Line and Pie Chart

The number of books that were borrowed in four different months in 2014 from four village libraries, and the pie chart shows the percentage of books, by type, that were borrowed over this time.

Four countries of residence of overseas students in Australia

Development of the village of Ryemouth between 1995 and present.

Public Sector Employment in 2015 and 2020.

Cultural Activities of Differing Age Groups

Construction of Tourist Facilities on an island.

Average House Price Comparison.

Average carbon dioxide (Co2) emissions per person

Leisure Activities amongst Australian children.

Structure used to generate electricity from wave power.

Bar & Pie Chart

Men and women attending various evening courses

Changes to Grange Park.

Populations in Yemen and Italy.

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