Academic Writing Task 1 · mixed chart

Transport methods in four countries and reasons for Canadian car use

The table shows the percentage of journeys made by different forms of transport in four countries. The bar graph shows the results of a survey of car use.

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

Percentage of journeys made by different forms of transport

Journeys made by	Canada	Belgium	Germany	Netherlands
Car	90%	72%	68%	47%
Bicycle	1%	2%	2%	26%
Public transport	3%	12%	18%	8%
On foot	5%	11%	11%	18%
Other	1%	3%	1%	1%

Most cited reasons people travel to work by car (Canada) (%)

View the data

	Work nightshift	Quicker	Need for work	Convenient	No alternative
Percentage	8	12	30	22	38

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 compares the percentage of journeys made by various transport methods across four nations, while the bar chart details the primary motivations for Canadian commuters choosing to travel by car.

Overall, car travel is the most prevalent form of transport in all four countries, with Canada recording the highest proportion at 90%. Conversely, the Netherlands exhibits the most diverse transport habits, with significantly higher usage of bicycles and walking compared to the other nations. In Canada, the necessity of car travel is largely driven by a lack of viable alternatives.

Regarding transport modes, Canada relies heavily on cars (90%), whereas public transport and cycling remain marginal at 3% and 1% respectively. Belgium and Germany show similar patterns, with car usage at 72% and 68%. The Netherlands stands out, as only 47% of journeys are made by car, while bicycle usage reaches a substantial 26%. Walking is also most popular in the Netherlands at 18%, compared to just 5% in Canada.

As for the reasons behind Canadian car use, 'no alternative' is the most frequently cited factor at 38%. This is followed by 'need for work' at 30% and 'convenient' at 22%. Being 'quicker' and working 'nightshift' are the least common reasons, cited by 12% and 8% of respondents respectively.

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

How to write about mixed charts

Write one overview sentence that links the two visuals.
Give each visual its own detail paragraph.
Point out where one chart explains the other.

prevalent: widespread or common in a particular area
conversely: introducing a statement that reverses a previous one
marginal: relating to or situated at the edge
substantial: of considerable importance, size, or worth
cited: mentioned as a reason or proof
proportion: a part, share, or number considered comparatively

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Frequently asked questions

What should the overview say?

The table illustrates that car travel is the dominant mode of transport in all four countries, particularly in Canada, while the bar chart highlights that a lack of alternatives is the primary reason Canadians drive to work.

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 mixed charts?

Write one overview sentence that links the two visuals. Give each visual its own detail paragraph. Point out where one chart explains the other.