Academic Writing Task 1 · table

Proportion of the population aged over 60 across different world regions

The table below gives information about the population of over 60-year-olds in six regions in 2000 and the predicted numbers of population over 60 in 2050. It also shows the world population over 60 in 2000 and 2050.

Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant. Write at least 150 words.

Percentage of population aged over 60 by region

Region	2000	2050
Africa	5%	12%
North America	11%	26%
Europe	22%	31%
Asia	12%	28%
Latin America	7%	18%
Oceania	11%	22%
Whole world	13%	24%

Chart redrawn by BandLadder from the data in the original IELTS practice task. Many IELTS practice tasks come from the Cambridge IELTS series (Cambridge University Press & Assessment); all rights in the original tasks remain with their owners.

Band 8 sample answer

The table illustrates the percentage of the population aged over 60 in six distinct regions in 2000, alongside projections for 2050. It also provides data for the global population in the same age bracket.

Overall, it is clear that the proportion of individuals aged over 60 is expected to increase significantly across all regions by 2050. Europe is set to remain the region with the highest share of elderly citizens, while Africa is projected to have the smallest proportion, despite experiencing a notable rise.

In 2000, Europe led with 22% of its population over 60, followed by Asia and Oceania at 12% and 11% respectively. North America also stood at 11%, while Latin America and Africa recorded lower figures of 7% and 5%. Globally, 13% of the population was over 60.

By 2050, these figures are anticipated to climb substantially. Europe is expected to reach 31%, remaining the highest. Asia and North America are projected to see sharp increases to 28% and 26%, respectively. Oceania and Latin America will also experience growth, reaching 22% and 18%. Africa’s proportion is predicted to more than double to 12%. Consequently, the global average is forecast to rise to 24%.

196 words. Every figure in the answer comes from the chart above.

How to write about tables

Tables hide the trend: find the highest, lowest and biggest change yourself.
Select; do not list every cell.
Organise paragraphs by row or by column, whichever gives the clearer comparison.

Proportion: A part, share, or number considered in comparative relation
Projected: Estimated or forecast based on current trends and data
Substantially: To a great or significant extent or degree
Anticipated: Regarded as probable or expected to happen in future
Consistently: In every case or on every occasion without change
Notable: Worth attention or notice because of being important

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Frequently asked questions

What should the overview say?

The proportion of people aged over 60 is projected to rise in all regions by 2050, with Europe consistently maintaining the highest percentage and Africa the lowest.

How long should an IELTS Task 1 answer be?

At least 150 words; 170 to 200 is the safe range. Spend about 20 minutes on it and leave 40 for Task 2, which carries twice the marks.

How do I describe tables?

Tables hide the trend: find the highest, lowest and biggest change yourself. Select; do not list every cell. Organise paragraphs by row or by column, whichever gives the clearer comparison.