Academic Writing Task 1 · mixed chart

Transport methods in four countries and reasons for Canadian car use: IELTS Writing Task 1 sample answer

An IELTS Writing Task 1 mixed chart question with a Band 8 sample answer, the chart redrawn with its data, the vocabulary that lifts the report and how to write about mixed charts.
  • 210 words
  • Mixed charts
  • Academic
  • 20 minutes

The question

The table shows the percentage of journeys made by different forms of transport in four countries. The bar graph shows the results of a survey of car use.

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

Percentage of journeys made by different forms of transport
Journeys made byCanadaBelgiumGermanyNetherlands
Car90%72%68%47%
Bicycle1%2%2%26%
Public transport3%12%18%8%
On foot5%11%11%18%
Other1%3%1%1%
Most cited reasons people travel to work by car (Canada) (%)
01020304050Work nightshiftQuickerNeed for workConvenientNo alternative
View the data
Work nightshiftQuickerNeed for workConvenientNo alternative
Percentage812302238

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 8210 words. Every figure in the answer comes from the chart above.

The table compares the percentage of journeys made by various transport methods across four nations, while the bar chart details the primary motivations for Canadian commuters choosing to travel by car.

Overall, car travel is the most prevalent form of transport in all four countries, with Canada recording the highest proportion at 90%. Conversely, the Netherlands exhibits the most diverse transport habits, with significantly higher usage of bicycles and walking compared to the other nations. In Canada, the necessity of car travel is largely driven by a lack of viable alternatives.

Regarding transport modes, Canada relies heavily on cars (90%), whereas public transport and cycling remain marginal at 3% and 1% respectively. Belgium and Germany show similar patterns, with car usage at 72% and 68%. The Netherlands stands out, as only 47% of journeys are made by car, while bicycle usage reaches a substantial 26%. Walking is also most popular in the Netherlands at 18%, compared to just 5% in Canada.

As for the reasons behind Canadian car use, 'no alternative' is the most frequently cited factor at 38%. This is followed by 'need for work' at 30% and 'convenient' at 22%. Being 'quicker' and working 'nightshift' are the least common reasons, cited by 12% and 8% of respondents respectively.

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Mixed charts

How to write about mixed charts: tips and vocabulary

  • →Write one overview sentence that links the two visuals.
  • →Give each visual its own detail paragraph.
  • →Point out where one chart explains the other.
  • prevalent

    widespread or common in a particular area

  • conversely

    introducing a statement that reverses a previous one

  • marginal

    relating to or situated at the edge

  • substantial

    of considerable importance, size, or worth

  • cited

    mentioned as a reason or proof

  • proportion

    a part, share, or number considered comparatively

Frequently asked questions

What should the overview say?+

The table illustrates that car travel is the dominant mode of transport in all four countries, particularly in Canada, while the bar chart highlights that a lack of alternatives is the primary reason Canadians drive to work.

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 mixed charts?+

Write one overview sentence that links the two visuals. Give each visual its own detail paragraph. Point out where one chart explains the other.

Keep practising

More mixed charts

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