Prompt
Task 1 – Coffee prices over time
The line graph shows the average price of a cup of coffee in three countries between 2005 and 2020. Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.
Band 9 sample answer
Band 9 sample answer
The line graph compares changes in the average price of a cup of coffee in Countries X, Y and Z from 2005 to 2020.
Overall, coffee became more expensive in all three countries over the period. Country X consistently recorded the highest prices and experienced the largest absolute increase, whereas Country Z remained the cheapest throughout, despite a steady rise.
In 2005, a cup of coffee cost roughly 4.6 in Country X, compared with about 3.3 in Country Y and around 2.2 in Country Z. Prices in Country X climbed gradually to approximately 5.0 by 2008, dipped slightly around 2009, and then rose more strongly, reaching close to 5.9 in 2016. After a brief levelling-off in 2017, the figure increased again, ending at about 6.2 in 2020.
Country Y followed a similar but lower trajectory. Starting at just over 3.2, it increased to roughly 3.8 by 2010, fluctuated mildly in the early 2010s, and then grew to around 4.3–4.4 in the mid-to-late 2010s, finishing at approximately 4.7.
Country Z rose more modestly, from about 2.2 to around 2.8–2.9 by 2010, and then to roughly 3.7 by 2020, with minor variations after 2016.
Verified word count: 195
Why this answer works
explanation
It provides a clear overview, correctly identifies the key comparisons (X highest, Z lowest), and reports main trends with accurate approximations, while grouping details logically and avoiding unnecessary year-by-year listing.
what this question tests
This Academic Task 1 line graph assesses your ability to summarise trends over time, highlight overall patterns (highest/lowest, growth, fluctuations), and make clear comparisons with approximate figures across three data series.
Useful vocabulary and phrases
consistently recorded the highest
Highlights ranking clearly in a formal Task 1 style.
Country X consistently recorded the highest prices.
experienced the largest absolute increase
Shows analytical comparison beyond simple description.
Country X experienced the largest absolute increase overall.
dip slightly
Accurate verb choice for minor declines.
Prices dipped slightly around 2009.
rose more strongly
Adds sophistication by describing changes in growth rate.
The figure then rose more strongly after 2010.
levelling-off
Common high-band language for plateaus.
After a brief levelling-off, prices increased again.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Listing every single year instead of selecting key points and comparisons.
- Omitting an Overview paragraph (required for a strong response).
- Confusing relative change (percentage) with absolute change (numerical).
- Reporting exact numbers when the graph only supports approximations.
Want examiner-style feedback on your answer?
Submit your essay and unlock a band estimate, corrections, and improvement steps.
Get examiner-style feedback