What the examiner is looking for -

1. Academic Task 1: You must address all key features of the given data, such as trends, comparisons, and significant points. For example, if presented with a bar chart showing population growth in two countries, you need to comment on both countries and their trends over the period. Failing to mention significant features or providing irrelevant information will lower your score.
2. General Training Task 1: In General Task 1, the task usually asks you to write a letter (formal, semi-formal, or informal) that addresses specific bullet points. Each of these points must be covered in your letter. If any of the bullet points are missing or not fully addressed, you won’t meet the Task Achievement criterion.

1. Academic Task 1: Your report should have a clear focus and address the purpose of summarizing the visual information. The report should remain objective, without personal opinions, and stay relevant to the data presented. It’s important not to add details that are not in the chart or misinterpret the data.
2. General Training Task 1: For General Task 1, your letter must clearly convey the purpose, whether it’s to request information, apologize, make a complaint, or give advice. The tone of the letter (formal, informal, or semi-formal) should match the intended audience, and this must be maintained consistently throughout the letter. For instance, if you’re writing a formal letter to your manager, ensure that your tone remains professional from start to finish.

1. Academic Task 1: It’s essential to select and summarize the most relevant data, avoiding unnecessary detail or irrelevant information. For instance, you should focus on the most significant changes or trends, rather than mentioning every minor fluctuation. Providing too much irrelevant detail (e.g., small data points that don’t reflect overall trends) can make your response seem unfocused and limit your score.
2. General Training Task 1: You should provide sufficient detail for each bullet point, explaining your reasoning and supporting your requests or opinions where appropriate. For example, if the task asks you to explain why you need time off work, don’t just state, “I need a week off for a family matter.” Instead, offer a bit more explanation, such as, “I would appreciate a week off from work starting on the 15th of July, as I need to attend my sister’s wedding, which will take place overseas.”