How to Handle the IELTS Writing Task 1: Process Diagram

In the past, the Process Diagram was considered an infrequent type of question in the IELTS Writing Task 1 exam. However, in recent years, the Process Diagram type has continuously appeared in the IELTS Writing Task 1 exam, causing many candidates to feel confused and overwhelmed. Therefore, in this article, PREP will guide you on how to handle the "killer" IELTS Writing Task 1: Process Diagram. Refer to the article and leave your comments below!

I. What is IELTS Writing Task 1: Process Diagram?

The Process Diagram is one of the question types in IELTS Writing Task 1 that is presented in the form of an arrow diagram. This type requires candidates to write at least 150 words to provide readers with an overview of the given process.

The diagram depicts a process, providing details about the stages required to complete a specific task. These stages are presented in a sequential order, either numbered or indicated by arrows, to illustrate the progression of the process. To effectively analyze the process, it is essential for the writer to thoroughly comprehend each step and accurately describe them in the correct sequence, ensuring that no step is overlooked or omitted.

You can refer to the image below to have a better understanding of the IELTS Writing Task 1: Process Diagram:

II. Common types of IELTS Writing Task 1: Process Diagram

Below are the two most common types of IELTS Writing Task 1: Process Diagram:

1. Manufacturing process

The Manufacturing Process diagram is one of the most commonly encountered types of IELTS Writing Task 1: Process Diagram. This diagram typically illustrates the process of manufacturing consumer products, goods, the assembly process of an engine, etc. Refer to the example below to have a better understanding of this type of Process Diagram:

2. Natural process

In the Natural Process type in IELTS Writing Task 1, candidates are provided with a cyclic diagram representing natural processes. The task requires candidates to describe the given diagram using at least 150 words.

This type of IELTS Writing Task 1: Process Diagram often focuses on the formation of weather phenomena and other natural occurrences. Refer to the example below to have a better understanding of this type of Process Diagram.

III. Vocabulary in IELTS Writing Task 1: Process Diagram

To excel in the Process Diagram type of task, candidates need to have a clear grasp of vocabulary that earns points, specifically as listed in the table below:

IV. Structure of an IELTS Writing Task 1: Process Diagram

Before proceeding to write the IELTS Writing Task 1 essay, candidates need to develop a detailed structure to ensure they cover all the necessary points and stay on topic. Refer to the following structure to achieve a high band score:

Please refer to the following articles:

• How to write IELTS Writing Task 1 Line Graph/ Graph with a trend
• A comprehensive guide on how to write IELTS Writing Task 1: Comparative Graphs

V. Steps to Approach an IELTS Writing Task 1: Process Diagram

1. Step1: Introduction

Similar to other types of tasks in the IELTS Writing Task 1, the opening paragraph of a Process Diagram should start with paraphrasing the given task description. Therefore, candidates should rephrase the given task in their own language and structure, avoiding the words used in the task. Please refer to the following examples of structures that can be used in the Introduction.

• The chart/ diagram (shows/ describes/ illustrates) how + clause
• The production of…
• The process of producing/ making…
• How…is produced/ made.
• Show how to produce/ make…
• At the first stage of...

2. Step 2: Overview

One of the most important steps in the process of completing the task is to identify the key details to include in the Overview. There are various ways to write an effective Overview. However, the simplest way is to provide a concise introduction to the sequence of the given Process, starting with a specific step and ending with another step.

Grammar structures that candidates can use in this section include:

• There are .... main stages (steps) in the process/in the process of producing..., beginning with… and ending with...
• The … involves …main steps/stages beginning with…and finishing with…
• This flow chart provides an overview of…

3. Step 3: Body 

In the Body paragraph of an IELTS Writing Task 1: Process Diagram, candidates can write two paragraphs to present and describe the specific steps of the diagram. Body paragraph 1 covers the initial steps until the middle of the process, while Body paragraph 2 covers the middle to the end of the process. To achieve a high band score, it is important to use appropriate linking words. To accurately determine the stages for dividing the Body section, consider the following: 

• Circular Diagram: In cyclic processes depicted in Circular Diagrams, the starting point of the process coincides with the ending point, forming a closed-loop system. Consequently, there isn't a distinct starting point in such processes. Regarding the numbering within the diagram, candidates can easily discern the division between Body paragraph 1 and Body paragraph 2.
• Linear Diagram: In the case of a numbered diagram, candidates can simply divide the paragraphs based on those numbers. If there are no numbers, you can rely on the meaning of the process in the task to determine the steps and divide Body Paragraph 1 and Body Paragraph 2 accordingly.

Some linking words that can be used in the Body section are:

• Firstly/Secondly/Finally….
• Once/When….
• Before/ After….
• Followed by…

VI. Sample Model Answer for IELTS Writing Task 1: Process Diagram

Process Diagram IELTS Writing Task 1: The diagram below shows how geothermal energy is used to produce electricity. Summarize the information by selecting and reporting the main features and make comparisons where relevant.

A Sample Model Answer for Process Diagram in IELTS Writing Task 1 is as follow:

The process illustrates how electricity can be generated from a geothermal source. Overall, there are five stages in the process, beginning with the pumping of cold water into the ground and culminating in electricity generation at a generator.

In the first stage, cold water is injected 4.5km deep into the ground through a vertical well. At this depth, the water then passes through a series of hot rocks, also known as the geothermal zone. After being heated in this zone to almost a boiling point, the water reaches the production well in the third step, ready to be pumped up.

In the fourth stage, the hot water pumped from underground goes into the condenser where steam is created. This steam spins the turbine in the last step, which in turn powers the generator to produce electricity. The electricity is finally transmitted to the national grid to be used by consumers.

Hopefully, the above-written article will be extremely helpful in assisting you to tackle the IELTS Writing Task 1: Process Diagram efficiently. If you still have any questions regarding this task, please feel free to contact PREP immediately or leave a comment below to receive our 24/7 guidance!