Line graphs illustrate how data changes over a continuous period of time, making them ideal for showing trends, fluctuations, and turning points. When responding to a line graph question, focus on the overall direction of each line, key increases or decreases, and moments where lines intersect or diverge. Grouping lines with similar behaviour will strengthen your report.
Essay Structure
1
Introduction
Paraphrase the question to describe what the line graph shows. Mention the subject, the unit of measurement, and the time period covered.
2
Overview
Summarise the most important trends across the entire period. State which lines rose, fell, or remained stable, and note any points where lines crossed or overtook one another.
3
Body Paragraph 1
Describe the trends for one group of lines in detail, using specific data points and time references. Highlight starting values, peaks, troughs, and end values.
4
Body Paragraph 2
Describe the remaining lines, comparing them with the first group where appropriate. Note any contrasting trends, convergence, or divergence.
Key Vocabulary for Line Graph
trend
A general direction in which something is developing or changing over time
steadily
In a gradual, even, and regular manner without sudden changes
plateau
A period during which there is little or no change; to level off
peak
The highest point or maximum value reached during a given period
decline
A gradual and continuous decrease in quantity or quality
sharply
Quickly and by a large amount; steeply
gradual
Happening slowly over a long period of time; not sudden
overtake
To surpass or exceed another figure after previously being lower
fluctuate
To rise and fall irregularly within a given period
level off
To stop increasing or decreasing and remain stable
Model Answer
The line graph illustrates how the populations of three cities changed over a forty-year period from 1980 to 2020.
Overall, City A experienced steady growth throughout the period and remained the most populous, while City B saw a sharp rise before plateauing. City C declined consistently after an initial peak.
In 1980, City A had a population of approximately 2 million, which rose steadily to reach around 3.5 million by 2020. City B started at roughly 1.2 million and grew sharply between 1990 and 2005, climbing to about 2.8 million before levelling off for the remaining years.
By contrast, City C began the period with around 1.8 million residents, peaking at 2 million in 1985. From that point, it experienced a gradual but persistent decline, falling to approximately 1.1 million by 2020. Notably, City B overtook City C around 1998, and by the end of the period the gap between them had widened considerably.
Practice Questions
The line graph below shows the number of international students enrolled at three universities between 2000 and 2020. Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.
The line graph below illustrates changes in the average daily temperature in two cities over the course of a year. Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.
Top Tips
Describe overall trends first before moving into specific data points — this demonstrates strong analytical ability.
Group lines with similar patterns together in the same paragraph to create a coherent and well-organised report.
Use clear time markers such as 'from 1990 to 2000' or 'over the following decade' to guide the reader through your description.
Note turning points where lines change direction, intersect, or diverge, as these are often the most significant features.
Practice Task 1
Upload a chart or graph and get instant AI feedback with band scores and error corrections.