Pie Chart IELTS Task 1: Band 9 Sample Answers and Writing Tips

Pie chart IELTS Task 1 is a key part of the IELTS Academic Writing section, where you must describe and compare data shown in visual formats. In fact, nearly 20% of Task 1 questions feature pie charts, making them one of the most common visuals you’ll encounter.

In this task, you're required to write a minimum 150-word summary in 20 minutes, explaining key trends, comparing categories, and highlighting insights without adding personal opinions. You could be given a single pie chart or multiple charts to analyse together.

You’ll be assessed on:

• Task Achievement
• Coherence and Cohesion
• Lexical Resource
• Grammatical Range and Accuracy

To score Band 9, you need more than just good vocabulary; you must understand how to interpret the visual logically, organize ideas clearly, and write concisely.

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In this blog, you’ll find Band 9 sample answers, a proven structure, and writing strategies to help you excel at pie chart IELTS Task 1.

Sample Answers for IELTS Writing Task 1 Pie Chart

Below are Band 9-level sample answers for different pie chart scenarios commonly found in the IELTS exam. Each sample demonstrates ideal structure, paraphrasing, and comparative analysis.

Sample 1: IELTS Pie Chart – Energy Consumption by Sector

Question:
The pie chart below shows the percentage of energy consumption by sector in a country in 2022.

Answer:
The pie chart illustrates how energy was consumed across four major sectors in a country in 2022.

Overall, the industrial sector consumed the highest proportion of energy, while the residential sector accounted for the least. The commercial and transportation sectors also had significant but relatively smaller shares.

Industrial use dominated energy consumption at 40%, indicating the country’s dependence on heavy manufacturing and production. Transportation followed at 30%, suggesting a well-developed transport infrastructure requiring considerable fuel or electricity. The commercial sector made up 20%, likely covering retail and office energy needs. In contrast, residential use was minimal, contributing just 10%, which may reflect efficient household energy practices or fewer households overall.

This distribution highlights the country’s focus on industrial and transport development, possibly at the cost of greener alternatives. Energy efficiency measures might be needed to balance long-term consumption.

Sample 2: IELTS Pie Chart Comparison – Internet Users in 2000 and 2020

Question:
The pie charts show the percentage distribution of internet users by region in 2000 and 2020.

Answer:
The two pie charts compare the distribution of global internet users by region in the years 2000 and 2020.

Overall, Asia experienced a substantial rise in internet usage share over the two decades, whereas North America and Europe saw declines in their respective proportions.

In 2000, North America accounted for the largest percentage of users at 35%, closely followed by Europe at 30%. Asia represented 20%, with other regions like Africa and Latin America making up the remaining 15%. By 2020, the landscape had changed significantly: Asia surged to 50%, becoming the dominant region. Europe’s share dropped to 25%, and North America decreased further to 15%. Africa and Latin America together comprised the remaining 10%.

These shifts suggest rapid internet penetration in Asian countries over the two decades, possibly driven by technological advancement and population growth. Meanwhile, slower growth in mature markets like North America caused their global share to shrink despite stable usage.

Sample 3: IELTS Pie Chart and Table – Government Spending Overview

Question:
The pie chart shows how government spending was allocated in 2020. The table provides a breakdown of healthcare and education costs.

Answer:
The pie chart presents the distribution of government spending across five sectors in 2020, while the table offers additional data on the costs associated with healthcare and education during that period.

Overall, the largest share of government expenditure was directed towards healthcare, whereas environmental protection received the least funding.

Healthcare accounted for 35% of total spending, underlining its priority within the national budget. Education followed at 25%, reflecting significant investment in public learning. Defence received 20%, while infrastructure projects took up 10%. Environmental protection had the smallest allocation, at just 5%.

The table further reveals that healthcare costs rose by 20% compared to the previous year, driven mainly by increased staffing and medical equipment needs. Education expenses also grew by 15%, particularly in the areas of digital infrastructure and school maintenance.

These figures indicate a strong focus on social sectors, particularly healthcare, likely influenced by public health demands in 2020.

Sample 4: IELTS Pie Chart with Comparison – Age Group Distribution

Question:
The pie charts show the distribution of population by age group in a country in 2000 and 2020.

Answer:
The two pie charts depict the percentage distribution of a country’s population by age group in 2000 and 2020.

Overall, the most notable trend is the ageing of the population, with the proportion of elderly people rising sharply over the two decades, while the share of young people declined.

In 2000, individuals aged 0–14 made up 30% of the population. This figure dropped to 20% in 2020. Meanwhile, the 60+ age group increased from 15% to 30%, indicating significant demographic changes. The working-age group (15–59 years) remained relatively consistent, comprising around 55% in both years.

This demographic shift suggests lower birth rates and improved life expectancy. The rise in the elderly population could impact future government policies, especially those related to healthcare and pensions, while the shrinking youth segment might pose challenges for the future labour force.

Check out: How to Describe Bar Chart & Bar Graph For IELTS 2025- Key Bar Chart Vocabulary

How to Analyse a Pie Chart in IELTS Writing Task 1

To write a strong response for pie chart IELTS Task 1, your first task is to understand and analyse the visual correctly. Pie charts present data as proportions or percentages, and your goal is to summarise key features, make comparisons, and highlight trends—not describe every segment in detail.

Follow these steps for effective analysis:

Step 1: Read the question prompt

Begin by carefully reading the task statement. Identify what the chart represents (e.g., spending habits, energy usage, population distribution), the units of measurement (usually percentages), and the time frame (if applicable). Also, check if you’re given one pie chart or two for comparison.

Step 2: Observe key data points

Focus on:

• The largest and smallest segments
• Categories that are similar in proportion
• Any notable patterns or contrasts, especially if two charts are provided (e.g., before vs. after)

Avoid covering every small percentage—prioritise significant data.

Step 3: Group related data

Rather than listing data mechanically, group related items. For example, if several categories are related to leisure or education, they can be discussed together. This enhances coherence.

Step 4: Plan your structure

Spend a few minutes outlining your response. A strong structure includes:

• Introduction: Paraphrase the question
• Overview: Summarise main trends
• Body Paragraphs: Describe and compare key features

Step 5: Use accurate and varied language

Use a range of comparative phrases and data descriptors like:

• The majority of.
• A small minority.
• Roughly equal portions.
• Slightly larger than...

Pro Tip: Never include personal opinions or explanations—your task is to describe the data objectively.

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Structure for Writing Task 1 Pie Chart Answer

A well-structured response is key to scoring high in pie chart IELTS Task 1. Examiners look for clarity, logical flow, and how effectively you highlight and compare data. Here’s a proven four-paragraph structure you can follow:

1. Introduction (1–2 sentences)

Paraphrase the question prompt using synonyms and rephrased structure.

Example:
 The pie chart illustrates the distribution of household spending across six categories in a European country in 2020.

2. Overview (2–3 sentences)

Summarise the most noticeable trends without giving detailed numbers. Focus on:

• The largest and smallest segments
• General comparisons
• Any significant patterns

Example:
 Overall, housing accounted for the largest proportion of spending, while healthcare received the least. A clear difference is seen between essential and non-essential expenses.

 3. Body Paragraph 1 (3–4 sentences)

Describe 2–3 significant data points. Use percentages, compare sizes, and link similar or contrasting segments.

Example:
 Housing expenses made up 35% of the total, nearly twice as much as food at 18%. Transportation and education were both under 15%.

4. Body Paragraph 2 (3–4 sentences)

Continue with other relevant data. Mention any groups of similar size, trends over time (if two charts), or notable differences.

Example:
Healthcare had the smallest share at just 5%. Leisure and education showed relatively similar figures, both under 10%, indicating minimal spending in non-essential areas.

Pro Tip: Stick to a neutral tone. Avoid personal interpretations or explanations—just describe what the chart shows.

Top Tips for Writing a High-Scoring IELTS Pie Chart Report

Writing a strong response for the pie chart IELTS Task 1 requires more than just describing numbers. Follow these proven tips to boost your score in coherence, grammar, and task response:

1. Paraphrase the Question in Your Introduction
Start by rephrasing the prompt in your own words. This shows the examiner your vocabulary range and helps avoid repetition.

Example: "The pie charts illustrate…" instead of repeating "The pie charts show..."

2. Use Clear Comparative Language
Since pie charts often involve proportions, focus on making comparisons like “higher than,” “accounted for,” or “made up the smallest share.”

Use phrases like “the largest segment,” “a notable increase,” or “in contrast to.”

3. Include an Overview Paragraph
Always summarize the main trends without diving into exact figures. Focus on what stands out — such as the biggest or smallest categories, or significant changes.

Example: “Overall, the majority of spending was allocated to healthcare, while the environment received the least.”

4. Group Similar Data in Body Paragraphs
Organize your essay logically by grouping similar data points together rather than listing every number. This improves coherence.

✅ Compare sectors with similar proportions or highlight changes across years.

5. Avoid Personal Opinions or Explanations
Task 1 is a factual report — don’t speculate or give reasons unless explicitly asked. Stick to describing the visual data.

🚫 Avoid: “This is probably because…”
✅ Instead: “This sector accounted for…”

6. Use a Variety of Vocabulary and Grammar Structures
Synonyms for common words (like “proportion,” “percentage,” “share”) and complex sentence structures will improve your score.

Example: “While X made up 25%, Y constituted a slightly smaller proportion at 22%.”

7. Stay Within the Word Limit but Be Thorough
Your answer should be at least 150 words. Aim for 170–190 words to fully develop your response without overcomplicating it.

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Conclusion

Mastering the pie chart IELTS Task 1 is key to achieving a high band score in the Writing section. By focusing on clear comparisons, structured overviews, and data-driven analysis, you can confidently tackle any pie chart question. Practice with sample answers, use varied vocabulary, and stay objective in your report.

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