In IELTS writing task 1, besides the figurative diagrams of bar charts or pie charts, you may encounter map-related questions. These maps could involve a single site, S1 or S2, proposed for constructing a building or a shopping mall. Alternatively, there might be a question with two maps, depicting a city in two different time periods, requiring an explanation of the developments made in the city over a specific period, typically ten years. Let’s explore how to approach a map question in IELTS writing task 1.

Step 1: Carefully Read the Question and Examine the Map

Begin by thoroughly reading the IELTS writing task 1 map question and carefully examining the map itself. Identify the labels and symbols used in the map, and understand the areas they represent. Note if a compass is provided, which can be helpful for describing locations.

Step 2: Compose the Map Introduction

Craft an introduction using your paraphrasing skills. You can use synonyms or restructure phrases from the question to create a well-formed introduction. For instance:

Question Statement:

“The city planner of A city shows two proposed sites S1 and S2 for constructing a shopping mall.”

Introduction:

“The provided map of A city displays two sites, S1 and S2, recommended by city planners for constructing a shopping mall in the city.”

Step 3: Analyze the Map According to the Question

After writing the introduction, analyze the map to identify its essential highlights. Tailor your analysis to align with the question’s requirements. For example, if the question states that two sites are proposed for a shopping mall, examine the surroundings of both S1 and S2 areas to determine which could be a better location for the shopping mall.

Step 4: Write Body Paragraphs Describing Key Features of the Map

With some key points about S1 and S2 in the IELTS writing task 1 map question, start writing your body paragraphs. For example, you might describe S1 as follows: “S1 is located in the north-west region, closer to residential apartments. Constructing a shopping mall here would benefit the residents.” Structure your body paragraphs accordingly, dedicating one paragraph to S1 and another to S2, for better clarity of your ideas.

Step 5: Provide a Main Conclusion

The main summarized points of the IELTS writing task 1 question are crucial, and they should be included either after the introduction or at the end. In the map question, you may write the conclusive points in 2-3 lines that describe both S1 and S2 locations in totality or suggest which site might be a better choice and explain why.