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Line graphs are a common feature in IELTS Writing Task 1. They visually represent how data changes over time. Here's a breakdown of what to expect when encountering a line graph and the key grammar points to remember:

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Understanding IELTS Line Graphs:

• Axes: The x-axis (horizontal) usually represents time, while the y-axis (vertical) represents the data being measured.

• Lines: Each line on the graph depicts a trend for a specific category or variable.

• Key Features: Look for trends (upward, downward, fluctuations), significant changes, and comparisons between lines (if applicable).

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Grammar for Describing IELTS Line Graphs:

• Introduction: Briefly paraphrase the title and key features of the graph (e.g., "The line graph illustrates the changes in..." ).

• Overview Paragraph: Provide a general summary of the main trends across the entire time period.

• Body Paragraphs: Focus on specific trends, significant changes, or comparisons between lines.

• Verbs: Use present perfect tense to describe overall trends ("The number of..." has increased).

• Trend Verbs: Employ verbs like "to rise," "to decline," "to fluctuate," "to remain stable" to describe changes.

• Linking Words: Use transitions (e.g., "initially," "subsequently," "in contrast") to connect ideas and show chronological order.

• Quantifiers: Employ specific numbers and figures from the graph to support your observations (e.g., "There was a 20% increase...").

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Click here for the IELTS Line Graph Cheat Sheets, and here for the IELTS Summary Sheets.