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IELTS Bar chart – Tips to score a high score
In the IELTS Academic Writing Task 1, the bar graph is one of the most common questions. Put simply, you’ll be presented with a bar graph and will be asked to describe the same. Within the given timeline of 20 minutes, you need to complete writing 150 words.
This section is meant to evaluate your data analysis skills along with the task completion abilities with utmost grammar accuracy and vocabulary. While this may seem easier, most people complain about the inability to score the maximum in this section.
Thus, to help you out, we have come up with some of the most helpful tips that will assist you in scoring higher than before.
Describing the Bar Graph in IELTS:
With the bar graph section, you must structure the response within the word count and time given. To do so, there are two essential steps that you must not miss.
- Gathering Data:
With this step, the first thing to do is understand and segregate the data as per the task. The next step is to analyze the task and the data type, whether it is static or moving data. Then concentrate on the axes and units. The last step would be to group your data and discover the key features.
- Interpreting Data:
Now that you have gathered the data, the next step is to interpret the same. To do so, try to put the accumulated data into four different sections, such as Introduction, Overview, Body Paragraph and Summary.
Tips to Score Higher in Bar Chart
Now, let’s move towards some of the best tips and strategies to score high in the IELTS bar chart.
1. Read The Questions to Identify:
One of the mistakes that most people make is trying to answer straight away. You have a bar chart in front of you that contains information. Thus, take your time and read instructions as well as questions carefully. Once done, gather the key information and all the numerical data to answer effectively.
2. Begin by Question Paraphrasing:
Keep in mind that your introduction is not extravagant but simple, concise and objective. Paraphrase the information available in the question and keep it a maximum of one sentence. To explain the overview, select the key concepts. You can write about the similarities, high and low limits and the contrasts available in the graph. Keep in mind that the overview covers 25% of your score; thus, don’t take this section lightly.
3. Use Numeric Data to Explain in Detail:
If you’re planning to write only one body paragraph, know that the general requirement is two body paragraphs. Here, you’d have to divide the information in such a way that it makes logical sense. Organize the given data in a way that it communicates precise information. Also, make sure you’re supporting your sentences with numerical data to score high.
4. Use Transition Words to Keep Consistency:
It’s recommended to use transition words to maintain logical consistency between sentences. Moreover, linking words also allow the reader to get an idea of what’s coming next. Words like whereas, in comparison with, in contrast to, and more enable you to get cohesion and coherence in the writing. Again, linking words contribute to 25% of your marking. So, use them wisely.
Harper Harrison is a reporter for The Hear UP. Harper got an internship at the NPR and worked as a reporter and producer. harper has also worked as a reporter for the Medium. Harper covers health and science for The Hear UP.