Focus
Precise vocabulary for describing data is essential for Band 7+ in Writing Task 1.
WRITING · Theory
Describing Trends & Data
Theory lesson in Task 1 Fundamentals
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# Describing Trends & Data
01
Section
Upward Trends
| Verb | Noun | Intensity |
|---|---|---|
| increase | an increase | neutral |
| rise | a rise | neutral |
| grow | growth | neutral |
| climb | a climb | moderate |
| surge | a surge | strong |
| soar | — | very strong |
| rocket | — | very strong |
| double/triple | a doubling | specific |
02
Section
Downward Trends
| Verb | Noun | Intensity |
|---|---|---|
| decrease | a decrease | neutral |
| fall | a fall | neutral |
| decline | a decline | neutral |
| drop | a drop | moderate |
| plummet | — | very strong |
| plunge | a plunge | very strong |
| halve | a halving | specific |
03
Section
Stability
- remained stable / constant / unchanged
- levelled off (after rising or falling)
- fluctuated (went up and down repeatedly)
- plateaued (stopped rising and stayed flat)
04
Section
Describing Speed of Change
- dramatically / significantly / considerably — big change
- steadily / gradually / moderately — medium change
- slightly / marginally / minimally — small change
05
Section
Describing Amounts
- approximately / around / roughly — not exact
- exactly / precisely — exact figure
- just over / just under — slightly above/below
- the vast majority / a small minority — proportions
06
Section
Example Sentences
"The number of visitors rose sharply from 2 million in 2010 to 5 million in 2015."
"There was a gradual decline in coal consumption over the period."
"After reaching a peak of 45% in 2005, the figure levelled off at around 40%."