Academic Writing Task 1 · process diagram

The step by step process for obtaining a driving licence: IELTS Writing Task 1 sample answer

An IELTS Writing Task 1 process diagram question with a Band 8 sample answer, the chart redrawn with its data, the vocabulary that lifts the report and how to write about process diagrams.
  • 188 words
  • Process diagrams
  • Academic
  • 20 minutes

The question

The diagram below shows the process of getting a driving license.

Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant. Write at least 150 words.

The process of obtaining a driving licence
  1. 1.Visit licence centre
  2. 2.Complete application form
  3. 3.Take eye test
  4. 4.Pay fee
  5. 5.Take written test
  6. 6.Retake written test
  7. 7.Retake written test
  8. 8.Take driving test
  9. 9.Get licence

Chart redrawn by BandLadder from the data in the original IELTS practice task. Many IELTS practice tasks come from the Cambridge IELTS series (Cambridge University Press & Assessment); all rights in the original tasks remain with their owners.

Model answer

Band 8 sample answer

Band 8188 words. Every figure in the answer comes from the chart above.

The provided flowchart illustrates the sequential stages involved in acquiring a driving licence. Overall, the process is structured around a series of tests, with specific pathways for candidates depending on whether they pass or fail each assessment.

Initially, applicants must visit a licence centre to complete an application form. This is followed by an eye test. If a candidate fails this initial screening, the process concludes as 'not applicable'. Conversely, those who pass proceed to pay the required fee. Once the fee is settled, the applicant moves on to the written test. Failing the written test allows for two opportunities to retake it. If the candidate fails again, they must return to the fee payment stage.

Upon passing the written test, the applicant proceeds to the driving test. If this final practical assessment is failed, the candidate is required to pay the fee again before re-attempting the driving test. Successfully passing the driving test is the final step, which results in the candidate obtaining their licence. The entire procedure is designed to ensure that only those who meet the required standards at every stage are granted a licence.

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Process diagrams

How to write about process diagrams: tips and vocabulary

  • →Say how many stages there are and where the process starts and ends.
  • →Use the passive and sequencers: first, after this, once, finally.
  • →Keep every stage; a missing step costs task achievement.
  • sequential

    following a logical order or a set sequence

  • mandatory

    required by rules or laws; compulsory

  • conversely

    introducing a statement that reverses a previous one

  • assessment

    the evaluation or estimation of a person's ability

  • structured

    organized in a definite pattern or system

  • procedure

    an established or official way of doing something

Frequently asked questions

What should the overview say?+

The process involves a series of mandatory administrative and practical assessments, where failure at various stages necessitates either re-testing or fee repayment.

How many words and how long for IELTS Writing Task 1?+

At least 150 words; 170 to 200 is the safe range. Spend about 20 minutes on it and leave 40 for Task 2, which carries twice the marks.

How is IELTS Writing Task 1 scored?+

On four criteria: task achievement, coherence and cohesion, vocabulary, and grammatical range and accuracy. A clear overview of the main features is what most separates Band 6 from Band 7 and above.

How do I describe process diagrams?+

Say how many stages there are and where the process starts and ends. Use the passive and sequencers: first, after this, once, finally. Keep every stage; a missing step costs task achievement.

Keep practising

More process diagrams

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