IELTS WRITING TASK 1
Maps
Points to remember:
1. Understand the labeling of maps and also understand the timeline. For
example whether the changes in maps have already been done or the
changes are projected in future.
2. You might be asked to describe either one map or two maps with differ-
ent times.
3. Learn how to use different directions.
4. Some maps would not give ‘Compass Directions’, in these cases use oth-
er alternative vocabularies to show the changes. You can use various
places of map as reference.
Example
The maps below show the development of the Lakeside town from 2000 to
2009. Summarize the information by selecting and reporting the main fea-
tures and make comparisons where relevant.
Write at least 150 words.
1. Introduction
The first paragraph you write is an introduction. The introduction is 1 or 2
sentences, where you introduce your diagram. In the introduction you have
to paraphrase the information from your question and mention 2 im-
portant things:
 What your diagram shows
 For what period
In above mentioned example, the introduction may be written as follows:
The given maps represent changes in Lakeside setting from year 2000 to
2009.
2. General Overview
The second paragraph of your answer is a general overview, where you
briefly describe the main changes.
 If you can not figure out main changes then don't worry, just write any
one or two changes in overview.
In above mentioned example, the overview may be written as follows:
A quick glance at the maps reveals that Lakeside town has witnessed many
developments. Mainly it can be said that Lakeside town was more of Resi-
dential oriented in 2000 and had become industry oriented in year 2009.
Elite Overseas Education Consultant
Using vocabularies in maps:
1. Over the course of 10 years, the area witnessed many changes.
2. From 2001 to 2010, the mall had undergone many developments.
3. The town changed noticeably over the time period.
4. During a decade, the industrial area was completely changed.
5. The residential area was totally reconstructed and made modernized.
6. Between 2001 and 2008, the public library was re-established.
Removed Introduced
Replaced Extended
Demolished Combined
Constructed Developed
Re-Constructed Refurbished
Re-developed In front of
Converted into Adjacent to
3. Details
Structuring the answer for maps requires understanding of the three types
of information categories:
 Some things in the maps have remained unchanged
 Some things were expanded/ contracted
 Some things were replaced with some other things
In above mentioned example, the detailed paragraphs may be written as
follows:
During these nine years, the residential area in the northwest and the
school in the center were maintained. The river continued to divide the
residential and commercial parts of the region from the industrial com-
plex. (Unchanged)
The industrial complex was expanded and was completely separated from
any residential area. The lake, which was the source of the river, shrunk
during this period into a pond. (Expanded/Contracted)
While the derelict warehouse in the north was replaced by a car parking,
offices and a university stood in place of the old town. A cinema was con-
structed in the west replacing the art center. Moreover, the residential
complex at the southern extreme of the lakeside was removed leaving the
industrial complex the only building in that region. (Replaced)
Your overall task response will look like somewhat this:
The given maps represent the changes in Lakeside setting from year 2000 to 2009.
A quick glance at the maps reveals that Lakeside town has witnessed many developments. Mainly
it can be said that Lakeside town was more of Residential oriented in 2000 and had become indus-
try oriented in year 2009.
During these nine years, the residential area in the northwest and the school in the center were
maintained. The river continued to divide the residential and commercial parts of the region from
the industrial complex.
The industrial complex was expanded and was completely separated from any residential area.
The lake, which was the source of the river, shrunk during this period into a pond.
While the derelict warehouse in the north was replaced by a car parking, offices and a university
stood in place of the old town. A cinema was constructed in the west replacing the art center.
Moreover, the residential complex at the southern extreme of the lakeside was removed leaving
the industrial complex the only building in that region.
Total words:172