Overview
In IELTS Academic Writing Task 1, you are given two maps showing the same place at different times.
The maps show how the area has changed over time, like new buildings, roads, or other facilities being added or removed.
Your job is to describe the main features of both maps and highlight the important changes between the two time periods, such as new developments or changes in infrastructure.
A visual example of sample question —
Sample Question✅Key characteristics :
- You will be given one or two maps showing a place (like a town, park, or building) at different times — for example, in the past and now, or now and the future.
- Your task is to describe the changes between the maps. This includes what was added, removed, replaced, expanded, or stayed the same.
- You may need to compare two time periods or describe developments that are planned for the future.
- Focus on location and direction. Use terms like north, south, east, west, in the centre, along the road, etc.
- Use clear change-related vocabulary, such as:
- was built, was demolished, was replaced by, was extended, remained unchanged.
- Use prepositions of place (e.g., next to, opposite, between, near, at the corner of) and prepositions of direction (e.g., to the north of, towards the east).
- Start with an introduction by paraphrasing the task question.
- Write an overview paragraph describing the main changes or features (e.g., “The area became more urbanized” or “There were major developments in transport and housing”).
- In the body paragraphs, describe specific changes in a clear and logical order — either from left to right, top to bottom, or by grouping similar changes.
- You must write at least 150 words, and complete the task in about 20 minutes.
- Use formal and neutral language. Do not give personal opinions or reasons for the changes — just describe what the maps show.
⭐️ Important Tips :
- The question often requires you to compare the two maps and discuss differences in infrastructure, land use, or buildings.
- Paraphrase the task and state what the maps show.
- Summarize major changes (e.g., new buildings, roads added, areas removed).Avoid specific figures here.
- Compare the maps, focusing on key features (e.g., new developments, infrastructure changes).
- Ensure your paragraphs are organized logically (e.g., description of the north, south, etc.).
- Use past tense for changes, present tense for current layout.
- Be concise; describe key developments, not every small detail.