Prompt
Task 1 – College enrolments by course
The table shows the number of students enrolled in five different courses at a college in 2015 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 table compares student enrolments in five college courses in 2015 and 2020.
Overall, Engineering attracted the largest number of students in both years and also experienced the most notable growth. By contrast, Arts and IT were the only subjects to record declines, and Arts remained the least popular option throughout.
In 2015, Engineering enrolled 400 students, ahead of Science (350) and Business (320). IT had a moderate intake of 280, while Arts had the smallest cohort, at 230. Five years later, Engineering expanded considerably to 450 students, consolidating its leading position. Science and Business also rose, though more modestly, to 360 and 340 respectively.
The remaining courses moved in the opposite direction. IT slipped slightly from 280 to 270, a fall of 10 students, whereas Arts dropped by 20 to just 210 in 2020. As a result, the overall pattern became more pronounced, with STEM-related courses—particularly Engineering—drawing higher enrolments than the creative arts.
Verified word count: 155
Why this answer works
explanation
It provides a clear overview of the main trends (top course, largest increase, only declines), then supports these points with accurate comparisons and selective figures. The structure is logical (intro → overview → details), and the language is precise and varied for describing change.
what this question tests
This Task 1 table question tests your ability to summarise and compare numerical data across two time points, highlight overall trends (highest/lowest, rises/falls), and support an overview with key figures.
Useful vocabulary and phrases
attracted the largest number of students
Accurately describes ranking in a formal Task 1 style.
Engineering attracted the largest number of students in both years.
record a decline
Concise trend language commonly rewarded in IELTS.
Arts and IT were the only subjects to record declines.
ahead of
Efficient comparative structure.
Engineering enrolled 400 students, ahead of Science.
rose modestly
Shows nuanced description of change.
Science and Business also rose modestly.
consolidate its leading position
Band-9 style collocation for ranking stability.
Engineering expanded to 450, consolidating its leading position.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Listing every number without summarising the main patterns in an overview.
- Failing to compare courses (only describing each row separately).
- Using vague language like “went up a lot” instead of giving key figures or precise qualifiers.
- Writing under 150 words or omitting the overview paragraph.
Want examiner-style feedback on your answer?
Submit your essay and unlock a band estimate, corrections, and improvement steps.
Get examiner-style feedback