Flow-chart completion is a question type found in the IELTS Listening and Reading sections. In this task, candidates are presented with a diagram or chart that illustrates a process, sequence, or set of stages. Some parts of the flow-chart are left blank, and candidates must fill in these gaps using information from the audio recording (in Listening) or the passage (in Reading).
Why it matters for IELTS bands
- Assessment of comprehension: Flow-chart completion tests a candidate’s ability to understand and follow a process or sequence of events, which is a key skill in both academic and workplace contexts.
- Attention to detail: Candidates must accurately locate and transfer specific information, demonstrating careful reading or listening and the ability to paraphrase or use keywords.
- Impact on score: Correctly completed flow-charts contribute to the overall raw score in the relevant section, which is then converted to a band score. Each correct answer counts equally, but errors such as spelling mistakes or exceeding word limits may result in a loss of marks.
Example
- In IELTS Listening, a candidate might hear a description of how to recycle paper. The flow-chart could include steps like "Collect paper," "Sort by type," and "Remove staples," with some steps missing. The candidate must listen for the correct words or phrases to complete the chart accurately.
