IELTS Writing Task 1 Samples & Examples (Band 9 Answers) | 2025 Library

Welcome to the most comprehensive collection of Band 9 IELTS Writing Task 1 samples on the web. Every example here comes with AI-powered expert analysis that breaks down exactly why it earns top marks—so you don't just see great writing, you understand it.

Whether you're preparing for Academic or General Training IELTS, this library has you covered with model answers for every question type you'll face on test day.

Academic Writing Task 1 Samples

Bar Chart Samples & Examples

Sample 1: University Enrollment by Subject (2020-2024)

Task: The bar chart below shows the number of students enrolled in five different subjects at a UK university between 2020 and 2024. Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

Band 9 Model Answer:

The bar chart illustrates enrollment figures for five academic disciplines at a British university over a five-year period from 2020 to 2024.

Overall, Computer Science experienced the most dramatic growth throughout this period, while Humanities saw a gradual decline. Business Studies remained the most popular subject for the majority of years shown.

In 2020, Business Studies attracted the highest number of students at approximately 3,500, followed by Engineering at around 3,000. Computer Science enrollment stood at just under 2,500 students, while both Humanities and Natural Sciences recorded similar figures of roughly 2,000 each.

By 2024, however, the landscape had shifted considerably. Computer Science surged to become the most popular discipline, with enrollment nearly doubling to close to 4,500 students. Business Studies maintained strong numbers at approximately 3,800, while Engineering showed modest growth to about 3,300. Conversely, Humanities declined steadily throughout the period, falling to its lowest point of around 1,500 students in 2024. Natural Sciences remained relatively stable, fluctuating between 2,000 and 2,300 students across the five years.

(Word count: 169)

🤖 AI Expert Analysis:

Why This Earns Band 9:

Task Achievement (9): Provides a clear overview identifying the two most significant trends (Computer Science growth, Humanities decline). Accurately describes all key features with precise data support.

Coherence & Cohesion (9): Logical structure with clear progression from overview to detailed comparisons. Effective use of cohesive devices: "Overall," "however," "Conversely," "throughout this period."

Lexical Resource (9): Sophisticated vocabulary range: "dramatic growth," "gradual decline," "surged," "fluctuating." Precise academic collocations like "enrollment figures" and "academic disciplines."

Grammatical Range (9): Complex sentence structures with subordinate clauses. Variety of comparative structures: "the most dramatic," "nearly doubling," "remained relatively stable."

Key Takeaways for Your Writing:

Always start with an overview that identifies the most striking trends

Use approximate language ("approximately," "around," "close to") when describing data

Vary your vocabulary for trends: increase/growth/surge vs. decline/fall/drop

Group similar data together for efficient comparison

Sample 2: Internet Usage Across Age Groups

Task: The bar chart compares the percentage of internet users in different age categories in 2015 and 2025. Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

Band 9 Model Answer:

The bar chart depicts internet usage rates across five age brackets in two separate years, 2015 and 2025, showing a decade of digital evolution.

Overall, internet penetration increased across all age groups during this ten-year period, with the most significant growth observed among senior citizens. By 2025, younger demographics had reached near-universal adoption rates.

In 2015, the 18-30 age bracket led internet usage at 95%, closely followed by the 31-45 group at 88%. Usage decreased progressively with age, with the 46-60 cohort at 65%, and those aged 61 and above recording the lowest figure at merely 23%.

A decade later, the picture had transformed considerably. The youngest two age groups had achieved virtually complete internet adoption, both exceeding 98%. The 46-60 age bracket experienced substantial growth, climbing to 87%—a 22 percentage point increase. Most remarkably, the 61+ category more than tripled its usage rate, soaring from 23% to 71%, representing the largest absolute and relative gain among all groups.

(Word count: 166)

🤖 AI Expert Analysis:

Why This Earns Band 9:

Task Achievement (9): Excellent overview highlighting the key trend (universal increase) and the most notable feature (senior growth). All significant data points covered with appropriate detail.

Coherence & Cohesion (9): Clear organizational structure moving from general to specific. Strong paragraph cohesion with phrases like "A decade later," "Most remarkably."

Lexical Resource (9): Advanced vocabulary: "penetration," "demographics," "cohort," "virtually complete adoption." Varied expressions for increase: "climbing," "soaring," "more than tripled."

Grammatical Range (9): Sophisticated structures including present perfect ("had transformed"), complex noun phrases ("the largest absolute and relative gain"), and varied comparison forms.

Key Takeaways for Your Writing:

Use specific time expressions: "ten-year period," "A decade later"

Highlight the most dramatic changes with superlatives: "most significant," "largest"

Calculate differences when relevant: "22 percentage point increase"

Use varied vocabulary for percentages: "virtually complete," "exceeded 98%"

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Line Graph Samples & Examples

Sample 1: Global Carbon Emissions (1990-2025)

Task: The line graph below shows carbon dioxide emissions from four major economies between 1990 and 2025. Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

Band 9 Model Answer:

The line graph illustrates trends in CO₂ emissions from China, the United States, India, and the European Union over a 35-year span from 1990 to 2025, measured in billion tonnes.

Overall, while China's emissions rose dramatically throughout the period, both the US and EU demonstrated downward trajectories after initial peaks. India maintained a steady upward trend, though at considerably lower levels than the other nations.

In 1990, the United States was the leading emitter at 5 billion tonnes, followed by the EU at approximately 4 billion tonnes. China's emissions stood at around 2.5 billion tonnes, while India recorded the lowest figure at just under 1 billion tonnes.

Over the subsequent decades, China's emissions climbed sharply, surpassing the US around 2006 and continuing their ascent to reach approximately 11 billion tonnes by 2025—more than doubling their 1990 levels. In contrast, US emissions peaked at roughly 6 billion tonnes in 2005 before declining gradually to about 4.5 billion tonnes by 2025. The EU followed a similar pattern, reaching its maximum of 4.5 billion tonnes in the mid-1990s, then decreasing consistently to finish at approximately 2.8 billion tonnes. Meanwhile, India's emissions grew steadily throughout the period, rising from under 1 billion to around 3.5 billion tonnes, though remaining well below China and the US.

(Word count: 214)

🤖 AI Expert Analysis:

Why This Earns Band 9:

Task Achievement (9): Comprehensive overview identifying contrasting trends. All lines described with key turning points noted (peaks, crossover points). Data selection is judicious and relevant.

Coherence & Cohesion (9): Logical flow from overview to chronological detail. Excellent use of time markers: "In 1990," "Over the subsequent decades," "around 2006." Strong contrast signaling: "In contrast," "Meanwhile."

Lexical Resource (9): Sophisticated trend vocabulary: "rose dramatically," "downward trajectories," "climbed sharply," "decreasing consistently." Precise prepositions with trends: "peaked at," "climbing to," "declining to."

Grammatical Range (9): Complex sentences with multiple clauses. Variety of tenses (past simple for 1990, present perfect for changes over time). Effective use of participles: "measured in," "rising from."

Key Takeaways for Your Writing:

Always mention the units of measurement ("billion tonnes")

Identify key turning points: peaks, troughs, crossover points

Use a variety of time expressions to avoid repetition

Group similar trends together (US and EU both declining)

End with a final comparison to reinforce the overview

Sample 2: Mobile Phone Subscriptions by Region

Task: The graph below shows the number of mobile phone subscriptions in millions in three world regions from 2010 to 2025. Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

Band 9 Model Answer:

The line graph compares mobile phone subscription rates across Asia, Europe, and Africa over a fifteen-year period from 2010 to 2025, with figures expressed in millions.

Overall, all three regions experienced growth in mobile subscriptions, though at markedly different rates. Asia maintained the highest figures throughout, while Africa demonstrated the most rapid proportional increase from the lowest base.

In 2010, Asia led with approximately 2,000 million subscriptions, while Europe recorded 800 million and Africa just 400 million. Over the next five years, all regions showed steady growth, with Asia reaching 2,500 million, Europe approximately 900 million, and Africa climbing to 700 million by 2015.

From 2015 onwards, the trajectories diverged more distinctly. Asia's subscriptions continued their upward trend, though at a more gradual pace, reaching roughly 3,200 million by 2025. Europe's growth began to plateau around 2018 at about 950 million, remaining relatively stable thereafter and finishing at approximately 1,000 million. Most notably, Africa's subscriptions surged dramatically during this latter period, accelerating from 700 million in 2015 to nearly 1,800 million by 2025—an increase that saw it overtake Europe around 2022.

(Word count: 183)

🤖 AI Expert Analysis:

Why This Earns Band 9:

Task Achievement (9): Clear overview with key trends identified. Excellent selection of data points showing changes over time. Identifies the crossover between Africa and Europe—a key feature.

Coherence & Cohesion (9): Well-structured with clear time divisions (2010-2015, 2015-2025). Smooth transitions: "Over the next five years," "From 2015 onwards," "Most notably."

Lexical Resource (9): Varied vocabulary for changes: "steady growth," "upward trend," "began to plateau," "surged dramatically," "accelerating." Sophisticated phrases: "at markedly different rates," "from the lowest base."

Grammatical Range (9): Mix of simple and complex sentences. Effective use of participles and relative clauses. Varied subject positions to avoid monotony.

Key Takeaways for Your Writing:

Divide longer time periods into logical phases for clarity

Use comparative language: "the most rapid," "markedly different"

Describe the pace of change: "gradual pace," "dramatically"

Note any lines crossing each other—this is always significant

End with the most interesting or surprising trend

Pie Chart Samples & Examples

Sample 1: Global Energy Sources (2020 vs 2025)

Task: The pie charts below show the proportion of energy generated from different sources globally in 2020 and 2025. Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

Band 9 Model Answer:

The two pie charts compare the distribution of global energy production across six different sources in 2020 and 2025.

Overall, fossil fuels remained the dominant energy sources, though their combined share decreased over the five-year period. Renewable energy, particularly solar and wind, gained ground significantly, while nuclear power maintained a relatively stable proportion.

In 2020, fossil fuels accounted for the vast majority of energy production, with coal representing 38% of the total, oil 28%, and natural gas 22%—together comprising 88% of global energy. Renewable sources were considerably less prominent, with wind at 6%, solar at 3%, and hydroelectric power making up the remaining 3%.

By 2025, the energy landscape had begun to shift, albeit gradually. Coal's share had declined noticeably to 32%, while oil decreased marginally to 26% and natural gas to 20%. Conversely, renewable energy sources expanded their presence: solar more than doubled to 7%, while wind increased to 9%. Hydroelectric power saw a modest rise to 4%, and nuclear energy maintained its 2% share across both years.

(Word count: 171)

🤖 AI Expert Analysis:

Why This Earns Band 9:

Task Achievement (9): Strong overview identifying the main trend (fossil fuel decline, renewable increase). All significant categories mentioned with precise percentages.

Coherence & Cohesion (9): Clear structure comparing 2020 then 2025. Excellent use of contrastive language: "Conversely," "while," "though." Effective grouping of fossil fuels together.

Lexical Resource (9): Sophisticated vocabulary: "dominant," "gained ground," "comprised," "landscape had begun to shift." Varied expressions for proportions: "accounted for," "representing," "making up."

Grammatical Range (9): Complex comparative structures: "more than doubled," "considerably less prominent." Effective use of subordinate clauses and parallel structures.

Key Takeaways for Your Writing:

Group related categories when appropriate (fossil fuels together)

Always include exact percentages—don't just say "increased"

Use varied expressions for describing proportions

Identify if there are any categories with no/minimal change (nuclear stayed at 2%)

Calculate totals when grouping: "together comprising 88%"

Table Samples & Examples

Sample 1: Tourist Arrivals to Southeast Asian Countries

Task: The table below shows the number of international tourists (in millions) visiting five Southeast Asian countries in 2015 and 2025. Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

Band 9 Model Answer:

The table presents data on international tourist arrivals to five Southeast Asian nations across a ten-year span, comparing figures from 2015 and 2025, measured in millions.

Overall, all five countries experienced increases in tourist numbers, with Vietnam recording the most substantial growth both in absolute terms and percentage increase. Thailand maintained its position as the region's leading destination throughout the period.

In 2015, Thailand attracted by far the most visitors at 29.9 million, followed by Malaysia with 25.7 million and Singapore with 15.2 million. Vietnam received 7.9 million tourists, while Indonesia recorded the lowest figure at 10.4 million.

A decade later, tourist arrivals had risen across the board. Thailand's numbers had grown to 39.8 million, solidifying its dominance despite facing the lowest percentage increase among the five at approximately 33%. Malaysia reached 35.1 million visitors, representing a 37% rise. Singapore's figures climbed to 19.1 million, marking a 26% increase. Most impressively, Vietnam's tourism sector flourished, with arrivals more than doubling to 18.0 million—a remarkable 128% surge that elevated it above Indonesia. Indonesia itself saw visitor numbers increase to 15.5 million, a respectable 49% growth.

(Word count: 186)

🤖 AI Expert Analysis:

Why This Earns Band 9:

Task Achievement (9): Comprehensive overview with clear identification of key features. Excellent use of both absolute numbers and percentages to show scale of changes.

Coherence & Cohesion (9): Logical organization comparing 2015 then 2025. Strong comparative language throughout. Clear ranking established: "by far the most," "followed by," "lowest figure."

Lexical Resource (9): Sophisticated vocabulary: "substantial growth," "solidifying its dominance," "flourished," "respectable growth." Varied expressions for numbers: "attracted," "received," "recorded."

Grammatical Range (9): Complex structures with embedded clauses. Effective use of participles: "marking," "representing." Varied sentence openings to maintain reader interest.

Key Takeaways for Your Writing:

With tables, establish rankings: highest, second, lowest

Calculate percentage changes when comparing two time periods

Use both absolute numbers AND percentages for complete analysis

Identify the highest and lowest changes as well as the highest/lowest figures

Make direct comparisons between countries where relevant

Map Samples & Examples

Sample 1: Town Centre Development (1990-2025)

Task: The maps below show a town called Islip in 1990 and its planned development by 2025. Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

Band 9 Model Answer:

The two maps illustrate the planned transformation of the town of Islip between the years 1990 and 2025.

Overall, the town is set to undergo a significant modernization, evolving from a simple village into a more developed urban area. The most notable changes include the construction of major new transport infrastructure, the replacement of green space with commercial facilities, and a substantial increase in housing.

In 1990, Islip was a small settlement with a main road running through its center. The town consisted of two housing areas, one to the north and one to the south of this road. A school and a row of shops were located to the north, while a large park lay to the south. The entire village was surrounded by open countryside.

By 2025, the town's layout is planned to be dramatically altered. The central main road will be converted into a pedestrian-only zone, and a new ring road will be constructed to bypass the town center. The large park will be entirely replaced by a new shopping center, a bus station, and a car park. Furthermore, the school will be expanded, and extensive new housing developments will be built on what is currently countryside to the north and southeast.

(Word count: 206)

🤖 AI Expert Analysis:

Why This Earns Band 9:

Task Achievement (9): The response fully addresses the prompt. It provides a clear overview that identifies the main trend (urbanization and modernization). It expertly selects all key changes (transport, commercial, residential, green space) and makes direct comparisons between the two time periods.

Coherence & Cohesion (9): The information is organized logically, progressing from a general overview to specific details of the 1990 layout and then the 2025 plans. Transitional phrases ("Overall," "In 1990," "By 2025") ensure a smooth flow. Directional language ("north of," "south of," "surrounded by") is used effectively.

Lexical Resource (9): A wide range of precise vocabulary is used to describe the changes. Words and phrases like "transformation," "modernization," "transport infrastructure," "pedestrian-only zone," "ring road," and "dramatically altered" demonstrate strong lexical control.

Grammatical Range (9): The answer displays a sophisticated use of various sentence structures. It correctly employs the passive voice and future tenses ("is set to undergo," "will be converted," "will be constructed") to describe the planned developments, which is a key grammatical feature for this type of task.

Key Takeaways for Your Writing:

Start with a Clear Overview: Always begin by summarizing the main change or trend shown on the map(s)

Use Directional Language: Orient the reader with terms like north, south, east, west, adjacent to, and opposite

Compare and Contrast: Don't just list features from each map; actively compare them. Note what disappears, what is added, and what is modified

Use Appropriate Tense: Use the past tense for the earlier map and future tenses (e.g., will be + past participle) for planned developments

Group Information Logically: Discuss related changes together, for example, grouping the new shopping center, bus station, and car park as a new commercial hub 

Process Diagram Samples & Examples

Sample 1: Coffee Production Process

Task: The diagram below shows the process of producing coffee from raw beans to the final product. Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features.

Band 9 Model Answer:

The flowchart illustrates the multi-stage process of coffee production, from the initial harvesting of cherries to the final packaged product.

Overall, the production process comprises eight distinct stages, beginning with the manual picking of the cherries and concluding with distribution. The procedure involves a combination of both manual and mechanical steps.

Initially, ripe coffee cherries are hand-picked from coffee plants. These cherries then undergo a drying process, where they are spread out under the sun for a period of two to three weeks. Once dried, the outer layers are mechanically removed to reveal the green coffee beans inside.

Subsequently, these green beans are roasted in a machine at temperatures of 200-250°C. Following the roasting stage, the beans are rapidly cooled with the help of a fan. The cooled beans are then ground in a grinder. Finally, the ground coffee is packaged in airtight containers and vacuum-sealed bags before being distributed to retailers and consumers.

(Word count: 159)

🤖 AI Expert Analysis:

Why This Earns Band 9:

Task Achievement (9): Perfectly fulfills the task. It provides a clear and accurate overview stating the number of stages. All steps are described in the correct logical sequence, and it includes every piece of detail provided in the diagram (e.g., timeframes, temperatures) without adding any external information or assumptions.

Coherence & Cohesion (9): Flawless. The stages are linked perfectly using appropriate sequencing words: "Initially," "then," "Once dried," "Subsequently," "Following," "Finally." The information is organized logically, making the process easy for the reader to follow.

Lexical Resource (9): Demonstrates a wide and precise range of vocabulary suitable for a process diagram. It effectively paraphrases the labels on the chart (e.g., "hand-pick" becomes "are hand-picked") and uses topic-specific vocabulary accurately ("comprises," "undergo," "roasted," "airtight containers").

Grammatical Range (9): Excellent use of a variety of sentence structures. The passive voice, which is ideal for describing processes, is used skillfully and accurately throughout the response (e.g., "are hand-picked," "are mechanically removed," "are rapidly cooled").

Key Takeaways for Your Writing:

Always use sequencing words for processes: first, then, next, subsequently, finally

Use passive voice predominantly: This is perfect for when the action is more important than who performs it, e.g., "the beans are roasted"

Include all specific details given: Never omit data like temperatures, timeframes, or measurements 

      Focus only on what is shown: Crucially, do not add information that is not in the diagram. Avoid explaining the purpose of a step (e.g., 'to preserve freshness') or adding your own background knowledge

      State the key features in your overview: Mentioning the total number of stages and the start/end points is a classic way to write a strong overview

General Training Writing Task 1 Samples

Formal Letter Samples & Examples

Sample 1: Complaint to Internet Service Provider

Task: You have been experiencing poor internet service from your provider. Write a letter to the company.

In your letter:

·      - Explain the problems you have been experiencing

·      - Say how these problems are affecting you

·      - Tell them what you would like them to do

Band 9 Model Answer:

Dear Sir or Madam,

I am writing to express my dissatisfaction with the internet service I have been receiving at my residential address, 45 Maple Drive, for the past three weeks.

Since early January, I have experienced intermittent connection failures, with the service dropping out multiple times daily, often for periods exceeding two hours. Additionally, when the connection is operational, the download speed rarely exceeds 5 Mbps, despite my subscription guaranteeing speeds of up to 100 Mbps. These issues persist regardless of the time of day or the number of devices connected.

These disruptions have had a significant impact on both my professional and personal life. As I work from home three days per week, the unreliable connection has resulted in missed video conferences and delayed project submissions. Furthermore, my children's online education has been severely compromised, with them unable to access their virtual learning platforms during scheduled lessons.

I would appreciate it if you could dispatch a technician to investigate the fault at your earliest convenience, preferably within the next 48 hours. Should the problem persist, I would expect either a service upgrade at no additional cost or appropriate compensation for the substandard service received. Please contact me at your earliest opportunity to arrange a suitable time.

I look forward to your prompt response and a swift resolution to this matter.

Yours faithfully,

Michael Thompson

(Word count: 226)

🤖 AI Expert Analysis:

Why This Earns Band 9:

Task Achievement (9): All three bullet points fully addressed with appropriate expansion. Letter has clear purpose and achieves its objective. Appropriate length and detail level.

Coherence & Cohesion (9): Perfect formal letter structure with clear paragraphing. Each paragraph has a single clear purpose. Logical flow from problem → impact → requested action.

Lexical Resource (9): Formal tone maintained throughout: "express my dissatisfaction," "at your earliest convenience," "dispatch a technician." Sophisticated vocabulary: "intermittent," "operational," "substandard service."

Grammatical Range (9): Complex sentences with subordinate clauses. Variety of conditional structures: "Should the problem persist." Perfect use of present perfect for ongoing situations: "have been experiencing."

Key Takeaways for Your Writing:

Start formal letters with: "Dear Sir or Madam," / end with "Yours faithfully,"

State your purpose clearly in the opening sentence

One paragraph per bullet point requirement

Maintain formal tone throughout—no contractions, slang, or casual language

End with a polite closing requesting action

Sample 2: Requesting Information About a Course

Task: You are interested in enrolling in a professional development course. Write a letter to the course administrator.

In your letter:

·        Explain your current situation and why you are interested

·        Ask about course details

·        Inquire about fees and payment options

Band 9 Model Answer:

Dear Course Administrator,

I am writing to inquire about the Advanced Digital Marketing certification course advertised on your website, which commences in September 2025.

Currently, I work as a Marketing Coordinator at a technology firm and am seeking to advance my career by acquiring specialized skills in digital strategy and analytics. Having recently been promoted to a role that requires more comprehensive knowledge of online marketing techniques, I believe this course would provide the expertise necessary to excel in my new position.

I would be grateful if you could provide further details about the programme structure. Specifically, I would like to know whether the course is delivered entirely online or includes any in-person components, the expected weekly time commitment, and the qualifications or prerequisites required for enrollment. Additionally, could you clarify whether participants receive any industry-recognized certification upon successful completion?

Regarding financial arrangements, I would appreciate information about the total course fees and whether there are instalment payment options available. My employer offers professional development support, so I would also like to know if you provide official documentation that I could submit for reimbursement purposes.

Thank you for your assistance. I would be happy to arrange a consultation call if that would be more convenient for discussing these details.

I look forward to hearing from you.

Yours sincerely,

Sarah Martinez

(Word count: 222)

🤖 AI Expert Analysis:

Why This Earns Band 9:

Task Achievement (9): All three requirements fully addressed with relevant detail. Context provided effectively. Appropriate register and format throughout.

Coherence & Cohesion (9): Excellent paragraphing with each section having clear focus. Smooth transitions between topics. Effective use of discourse markers: "Currently," "Specifically," "Additionally," "Regarding."

Lexical Resource (9): Sophisticated formal vocabulary: "acquire specialized skills," "comprehensive knowledge," "clarify," "professional development support." Precise collocations: "course structure," "instalment payment options."

Grammatical Range (9): Wide range of structures including conditional: "if you could provide," question forms embedded in statements, and perfect tenses: "Having been promoted." Complex noun phrases throughout.

Key Takeaways for Your Writing:

For known recipients: "Dear [Title + Name]," / end with "Yours sincerely,"

Provide relevant context about yourself to justify your request

Group related questions together in paragraphs

Use polite, indirect question forms: "I would like to know whether..."

Offer flexibility: "I would be happy to arrange..."

Informal Letter Samples & Examples

Sample 1: Invitation to a Friend

Task: You recently moved to a new home and want to invite your friend to visit. Write a letter to your friend.

In your letter:

·        Explain why you moved

·       Describe your new home

·        Invite them to visit and suggest what you could do together

Band 9 Model Answer:

Dear Jamie,

I hope this finds you well! I'm writing to share some exciting news—we've finally moved to our new place in Brighton, and I couldn't wait to tell you all about it.

The main reason for the move was the job opportunity I mentioned when we last spoke. My new position required me to be based along the coast, and after months of house hunting, we found the perfect property. I have to say, the commute has reduced from 90 minutes to just 15, which has made such a difference to my daily routine!

The house itself is absolutely stunning. It's a three-bedroom Victorian terrace with original features like exposed brick walls and wooden floorboards. The real highlight, though, is the small garden at the back, which gets sun all afternoon—perfect for those summer barbecues we always talk about! The location is fantastic too; we're just a five-minute walk from the seafront and surrounded by quirky independent cafes and shops.

I'd love for you to come and visit soon. How about the first weekend of November? We could explore the Brighton Lanes, grab fish and chips on the pier, and maybe catch a gig at one of the live music venues. Plus, I'm dying to show you the house! Let me know if that works for you—the spare room is already set up and waiting.

Can't wait to see you!

Lots of love,

Alex

(Word count: 240)

🤖 AI Expert Analysis:

Why This Earns Band 9:

 Task Achievement (9): All three bullet points thoroughly covered with authentic detail. Warm, friendly tone appropriate for informal letter. Natural expansion of ideas.

Coherence & Cohesion (9): Clear paragraph structure with each section addressing one bullet point. Natural flow between ideas. Informal linking words: "though," "Plus," "The real highlight."

Lexical Resource (9): Rich vocabulary with informal expressions: "I couldn't wait to tell you," "I'm dying to show you," "quirky independent cafes." Vivid descriptions: "Victorian terrace," "exposed brick walls." Appropriate idioms: "Can't wait to see you."

Grammatical Range (9): Variety of sentence structures including exclamations, questions, and complex sentences. Natural use of present perfect: "we've finally moved," "has reduced." Colloquial contractions appropriate for informal register.

Key Takeaways for Your Writing:

For friends: "Dear [First Name]," / end with "Lots of love," "Best wishes," "Take care," etc.

Use contractions naturally: "I'm," "we've," "it's"

Include personal details and enthusiasm: exclamation marks, emotional language

Ask direct questions: "How about...?" "Let me know if..."

Include specific suggestions, not vague plans

It's Your Turn to Practice

🎯 You've Seen the Best, Now Check Your Own!

You've just reviewed some of the highest-scoring IELTS Writing Task 1 responses on the internet. You've seen what Band 9 looks like, you understand the structure, and you know what examiners are looking for.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is a good Task 1 sample?

A high-quality IELTS Writing Task 1 sample should demonstrate clear task achievement by accurately describing all key features of the visual data or addressing all parts of the letter prompt. It must have a logical structure with a strong overview for Academic tasks or appropriate letter format for General Training. The vocabulary should be varied and precise, with topic-specific terminology used naturally. Grammatically, it should display a range of complex structures with minimal errors. Band 9 samples typically range from 170-200 words, though slightly longer responses are acceptable if all content is relevant.

How many paragraphs should a Task 1 essay have?

For Academic Task 1, the standard structure consists of four paragraphs: an introduction that paraphrases the question, an overview paragraph that highlights the main trends or key features, and two body paragraphs that provide detailed descriptions with supporting data. For General Training letter tasks, use 4-5 paragraphs: an opening stating your purpose, 2-3 body paragraphs (one for each bullet point requirement), and a closing paragraph. The overview is crucial for Academic tasks as it demonstrates your ability to identify significant patterns rather than just listing details.

Where can I find more IELTS Writing Task 1 examples?

While this page provides a comprehensive collection of Band 9 samples across all question types, you can find additional resources and detailed strategies on our main IELTS Writing Task 1 guide page. That pillar page covers everything from fundamental strategies and common mistakes to scoring criteria and time management tips. Additionally, our AI IELTS Writing Checker not only scores your writing but also generates personalized sample answers based on your specific areas for improvement. For regular practice, we recommend writing your own responses to official IELTS questions and using our AI tool to receive expert feedback—this combination of studying model answers and producing your own work is the most effective approach to improvement.

How can I use these samples to improve my score?

Don't just read these samples passively—analyze them actively. For each example, identify: (1) How the overview captures the most important information in 1-2 sentences, (2) What vocabulary is used to describe trends and comparisons, (3) How data is selected and organized into logical paragraphs, and (4) What grammatical structures create variety and sophistication. Then, try rewriting the essay yourself without looking at the sample, and compare your version. Better yet, use a different question of the same type and apply the same techniques. Finally, submit your writing to our AI checker to see if you've successfully implemented these Band 9 strategies. The key is moving from recognition to reproduction—seeing what works is the first step, but doing it yourself is what actually raises your score.

Ready to transform your IELTS Writing score? Start by bookmarking this page for reference, then head to our AI Writing Checker to get personalized feedback on your next Task 1 response. Your Band 9 is closer than you think.