All questions

The line graph shows GDP per capita (purchasing power parity) in four countries from 1990 to 2020.

Compare living standards over three decades — the US held a wide lead while China and India closed the gap with Brazil.

Task 1 · Academic·20 min·≥ 150 words

Ready to write?

Attempt this question

Built-in timer, word counter, auto-save. We grade the moment you submit.

Start or read a Band 9 model →
GDP per capita (PPP), four countries, 1990–2020GDP per capita (PPP), four countries, 1990–2020constant int. dollars010,00020,00030,00040,00050,00060,00070,00019902000201020152020USAChinaBrazilIndia
The line graph below shows gross domestic product per capita, adjusted for purchasing power parity and expressed in constant international dollars, in four countries between 1990 and 2020.
Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

Write at least 150 words.
🧠 5-step plan

How to crack it

Open if you want a structure to follow

  1. 1

    Read the question twice.

    Underline every keyword. The instruction word ("agree", "discuss") decides your structure. Get this wrong and you cap at 5.

  2. 2

    Plan for 5 minutes.

    Two body paragraphs. One main idea each. Pick examples BEFORE you write the intro.

  3. 3

    Write your intro last in your head.

    Once you know the conclusion, the intro writes itself. Paraphrase the question, don’t copy it.

  4. 4

    Aim for 270–290 words.

    Less = task incomplete. More = grammar errors. Stay in the pocket.

  5. 5

    Leave 3 minutes to proofread.

    Hunt articles ("a/an/the"), subject-verb agreement, and "make/do" mix-ups. They’re your usual suspects.

⚠️ Examiner watch-outs

What loses you the band

The four traps this question sets

  • ⚠️

    Off-topic intro

    Paraphrase the question. Don’t broaden it.

  • ⚠️

    Conclusion that just repeats

    Add one new reason. Or a recommendation.

  • ⚠️

    "Make a damage"

    Collocation slip. Use "cause damage".

  • ⚠️

    "Furthermore. Moreover."

    Pick one. Both = robotic.

Model answer