In IELTS Academic Writing Task 1, you are required to write a report with a minimum of 150 words. One type of question that may appear is a pie chart, and scoring Band 7 or above depends on how well you analyze and describe the chart. Let’s go through the steps to describe a pie chart effectively.

**Step 1: Read the Question Carefully and Select Information**

Before starting, carefully read the question to understand what the pie chart represents. Pay attention to the heading of the chart, the labels of each section, and any additional information provided. This will help you grasp the main idea and write a clear introduction.

**Step 2: Begin with a Clear Introduction**

Using paraphrasing skills, craft an introduction based on the information from the question statement and the chart’s heading or labels. For instance:

*Question statement:*

The pie chart shows the amount of food eaten by youngsters in Australia in the year 2000.

*Pie-chart heading:*

Consumption of Food by Australian Teenagers

*Paraphrased Introduction:*

The provided pie chart illustrates the proportions of food consumption among teenagers in Australia in the year 2000.

**Step 3: Analyze the Pie Chart Carefully**

Examine the pie chart thoroughly to identify its key features. Note the highest, lowest, and second highest percentage sections. If there are multiple pie charts, compare and contrast the data to identify similarities and differences. Also, observe any trends, such as increasing or decreasing percentages.

**Step 4: Write the Body Paragraph**

Maintain coherence and cohesion in your writing by arranging the key features logically in your body paragraph. Use proper paragraphing to enhance readability. Ensure you present the information from the pie chart in a structured and organized manner to avoid confusion. Utilize connective words, such as “whereas,” “however,” and “on the other hand,” to facilitate comparisons and contrasts.

**Step 5: Conclude with a Summary**

Your conclusion should reflect the overall idea of the pie chart. One approach is to mention the highest and/or lowest proportions represented in the chart. You may place the conclusion after the introduction or at the end of your report. Regardless of its location, make sure it effectively summarizes the information presented in the pie chart.