Pie charts represent data as segments of a circle, showing how a whole is divided into parts. They are commonly used to illustrate proportions and percentages. When writing about pie charts, prioritise comparing the largest and smallest segments, noting similarities between categories, and using proportion-based language. If multiple pie charts are given, compare how distributions changed over time or differ between groups.
Essay Structure
1
Introduction
Paraphrase the question to explain what the pie chart or charts depict. Include the subject, the categories shown, and any time period or context provided.
2
Overview
Summarise the most striking features: which segment is the largest and smallest, and whether there are any notable similarities or changes between charts. Avoid specific figures in the overview.
3
Body Paragraph 1
Describe the dominant segments in detail, providing exact percentages. If there are two pie charts, compare the same categories across both charts.
4
Body Paragraph 2
Cover the smaller or remaining segments. Highlight any categories that are roughly equal, any surprising findings, and the least significant portions.
Key Vocabulary for Pie Chart
proportion
A part, share, or number considered in relation to the whole
constitute
To make up or form a component part of a whole
comprise
To be made up of; to consist of specified parts
segment
A distinct section or portion of something, such as a slice of a pie chart
account for
To represent or make up a particular amount or proportion of the total
majority
The greater part or more than half of a total
minority
The smaller part or less than half of a total
remainder
The part that is left over after the main portions have been described
dominant
Having the most influence or the largest share among all categories
negligible
So small or unimportant as to be not worth considering
Model Answer
The two pie charts compare how household spending was distributed across several categories in a European country in 2000 and 2020.
Overall, housing was the largest area of expenditure in both years, while clothing constituted the smallest proportion throughout. Spending on technology grew noticeably over the twenty-year period.
In 2000, housing accounted for 35% of total household spending, followed by food at 28%. Transport comprised 18% of expenditure, while entertainment and clothing made up 12% and 7%, respectively.
By 2020, the proportion spent on housing had risen slightly to 38%, maintaining its dominant position. However, spending on food declined to 20%, and transport fell marginally to 15%. The most significant change was in technology, which grew from a negligible share to approximately 14% of household budgets. Entertainment remained relatively stable at 10%, and clothing continued to represent the smallest segment at just 3%.
Practice Questions
The pie chart below shows the main sources of energy used in a country in 2022. Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.
The pie charts below illustrate the proportion of male and female employees in five sectors of the economy in a particular country. Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.
Top Tips
Compare the biggest and smallest segments first, as these represent the most significant features of the data.
Note similarities between categories — pointing out that two segments are roughly equal demonstrates strong analytical skills.
Use proportion-based language such as 'accounted for,' 'comprised,' and 'constituted' rather than repeatedly saying 'was' or 'had.'
Avoid listing every single segment with its percentage; instead, group smaller categories together or mention them briefly.
Practice Task 1
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