Academic Writing Task 1 · process diagram

The process of how rain-shadow deserts are formed geographically

The diagram below shows how one type of desert, known as a rain-shadow desert, is formed.

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

The formation of rain-shadow deserts

1.Winds approach coast
2.Winds pushed upwards
3.Moist air rises and cools
4.Clouds form
5.Rain falls
6.Dry air continues over mountain
7.Dry winds reach inland areas

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 provided diagram illustrates the sequential stages involved in the formation of a rain-shadow desert. Overall, the process is driven by the interaction between prevailing winds and mountain ranges, which leads to a significant disparity in moisture levels between the windward and leeward sides of the terrain.

The cycle begins as winds approach the coast from the sea, carrying moisture inland. As these winds encounter a mountain range, they are forced upwards. As the air rises, it undergoes cooling, which facilitates the formation of clouds. This leads to the fifth stage, where rain falls on the windward side of the mountain, effectively depleting the air mass of its moisture content.

Following the precipitation, the now-dry air continues its journey over the mountain peak towards the leeward side. In the final stage, these dry winds descend and reach inland areas. Because the moisture has been lost on the windward side, the inland region experiences extremely arid conditions, ultimately resulting in the creation of a rain-shadow desert. This entire geographical process spans thousands of kilometres, demonstrating how topographical barriers significantly influence regional climate patterns.

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

How to write about process diagrams

Say how many stages there are and where the process starts and ends.
Use the passive and sequencers: first, after this, once, finally.
Keep every stage; a missing step costs task achievement.

sequential: following a logical order or a set sequence
disparity: a great difference between two or more things
facilitates: makes an action or process easier to happen
depleting: using up the supply or resources of something
arid: having little or no rain; too dry for vegetation
topographical: relating to the arrangement of physical landscape features

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Frequently asked questions

What should the overview say?

The process illustrates a seven-stage cycle where moist air from the sea is forced upwards by mountains, resulting in precipitation on the windward side and arid conditions inland.

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 process diagrams?

Say how many stages there are and where the process starts and ends. Use the passive and sequencers: first, after this, once, finally. Keep every stage; a missing step costs task achievement.