IELTS WRITING: ACADEMIC TASK 1 SAMPLE ESSAY- The bar graph displays data concerning the social media presence of small, medium, and large businesses in the UK between 2012 and 2016. Looking from an overall perspective, it is readily apparent that figures for all types of businesses grew, although there was a widespread and significant pullback in 2015. Large businesses increased the least, yet had by far the greatest presence each individual year. In terms of small businesses, less than 30% (the lowest data point on the chart) had a social media presence in 2012. This number then rose to 35% by 2014, before a pullback to 30%, and a final surge to less than 50% with a presence to end the period. The trend for medium-sized businesses was similar, beginning at 31%, rising significantly to slightly under 50% in 2013 and 2014, falling to 30% in 2015, before finally growing to 52% by 2016. The proportions for large businesses were more than double small and medium enterprises to begin the period (78%). This figure largely plateaued until 2015 when it fell to its nadir of 51%, preceding a final recovery to 79% in 2016. (187 words)