Band 5.5 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 5.5 · Cambridge IELTS 21 · 2026-09-01

IELTS Writing Task 1 question

The chart and table below show the results of a survey of library users at a university.

Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

Categories of library users

Student answer (Band 5.5)

The table chart illustrates the survey result of library users at a university. And provide information about different categories.

Overall, in terms of five categories of library users like [ academic staff, full time undergraduate, full time post graduate, part time post graduate, distance learning{all courses} ]

the full time undergraduate students made up the largest portion of library users , while the academic staff is the smallest portion of library users.

According to the pie chart , the full time undergraduate library users is 44% . The full time postgraduate library users is 25%. followed by part time postgraduate is 16% . In comparison , distance learning and academic staff are the smallest portion is 8% and 7% respectively.

The table show that the helpfulness of staff had the highest level of satisfaction , with 95% of users being very satisfied but only 5% fairy satisfied

library opening hours also receive a high satisfaction rate with 65% very satisfied and the 35% fairy satisfied

Regarding the availability of books , 50% were satisfied and 35% fairy satisfied but only 10% were not satisfied

Finally , satisfaction with journals and wifi was comparatively lower. for journals , 45% were very satisfied and 35% were fairy satisfied but also 20% were not satisfied . The corresponding figures for wifi is 48% , 33% and 19 % were not satisfied

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 5.5

The response covers all parts of the task, including both the chart and the table. You successfully identified the main features, such as the largest and smallest user groups and the satisfaction levels for various services. However, the overview is slightly weak; it lists the categories rather than synthesizing the main trends. Additionally, there are some inaccuracies in data reporting, such as stating '50% were satisfied and 35% fairy satisfied' for book availability, which totals 85% without accounting for the remaining 15%. To improve, ensure that all data points are clearly presented and that your overview highlights the most significant trends rather than just listing information.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 5.5

The essay is organized into logical paragraphs, which helps the reader follow the information. However, the use of cohesive devices is somewhat mechanical and repetitive. For example, you start several sentences with 'The' or 'Regarding'. There is also a lack of sophisticated linking words to connect ideas between sentences. While the overall progression is clear, the transition between the pie chart data and the table data could be smoother. Using a wider variety of transition signals, such as 'In contrast,' 'Furthermore,' or 'Conversely,' would improve the flow and coherence of your writing.

Lexical Resource — Band 5.5

You have a sufficient range of vocabulary to convey the information, using terms like 'portion,' 'respectively,' and 'satisfaction rate.' However, there are some spelling errors, such as 'fairy' instead of 'fairly,' and some awkward phrasing like 'The table chart illustrates.' The vocabulary is generally functional but lacks the precision and variety required for a higher band. To improve, focus on using more academic collocations and ensure accurate spelling of descriptive terms. Avoid repeating the same words frequently and try to incorporate more precise synonyms for 'portion' or 'satisfied.'

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 5.5

The response uses a mix of simple and some complex sentence structures. However, there are frequent grammatical errors, particularly with subject-verb agreement (e.g., 'The table show that,' 'The corresponding figures for wifi is') and punctuation. Some sentences are fragmented or lack proper capitalization. While these errors do not completely impede communication, they are frequent enough to lower the score. To improve, pay closer attention to subject-verb agreement and ensure that your sentences are complete. Practicing the use of complex structures, such as relative clauses or passive voice, will also help you demonstrate better control.

See this exact question answered at other band scores — the same prompt compared across bands.

Browse more IELTS Writing model answers or get your own writing scored by the same AI examiner.