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IELTS Writing Task 1 Process Diagrams and Maps: Structure and Language

How to describe IELTS Academic Task 1 process diagrams and maps: overviews, sequencing language, passive verbs and a model answer.

By IELTSora teaching team · Updated · 2 min read

Why processes and maps need a different approach

Process diagrams and maps contain no numbers, so the usual language of trends does not work. Instead, you describe stages in order (processes) or changes in location and features (maps). Many candidates who are comfortable with line graphs struggle here, which makes it worth preparing specifically.

Process diagrams

Use the passive voice and clear sequencing:

  • Overview: state the number of stages and the start and end points.
  • Body: describe the stages in two groups, e.g. collection and preparation, then production and distribution.
  • Sequencing: 'First', 'Following this', 'Once the... has been...', 'Finally'.
  • Passive verbs: 'is harvested', 'are transported', 'is then heated'.

Model overview

Overall, the production of bottled juice involves eight stages, beginning with the harvesting of fruit and ending with the delivery of packaged juice to supermarkets.

Maps

Map tasks usually compare a place at two times. Your overview should state the biggest changes, for example that the area became more residential and lost most of its farmland. In the body, group changes by area (north and south) or by type (buildings removed, buildings added).

  • Location: 'to the north of', 'adjacent to', 'opposite'.
  • Change: 'was demolished', 'was replaced by', 'was extended', 'a new road was constructed'.

Practise on IELTSora

Write 150–180 words in 20 minutes on an IELTSora Task 1 prompt, then check the AI feedback for your overview and grammatical range. Compare with the charts guide for numerical tasks.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need an overview for a process?
Yes. Without an overview, Task Achievement is usually limited to band 5.
Should I give my opinion in Task 1?
No. Task 1 is purely descriptive.

Put this tip into practice

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