Describing Maps & Plans

Map questions in IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 ask you to describe changes to a place over time or compare two different locations. They appear less frequently than graphs or charts but require specific vocabulary and techniques. This lesson prepares you to handle map questions confidently at Band 7+ level.

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Types of Map Questions

Type 1: Before and After (Most Common)

You are shown two maps of the same place at different times (e.g., a town in 1990 and the same town in 2020). You must describe the changes.

Type 2: Proposed Development

You are shown a current map and a plan for future development. You must describe the proposed changes.

Type 3: Two Different Locations

You are shown two maps of different places (e.g., two proposed sites for a new supermarket). You must compare them.

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Key Vocabulary for Maps

Describing Location

Position                    Language
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North / South / East / West "In the north of the town..."
                            "To the south of the river..."
                            "On the eastern side..."

Centre / Edge               "In the centre of the area..."
                            "On the outskirts / periphery..."