IELTS Academic Writing Task 1: Step-by-Step Band 9 Tutorial (LingExam | Ultra-Interactive | Process Diagram)
Welcome! In this tutorial, you’ll master IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 (Process Diagram) for the following real exam question:
The diagram below shows the process by which sea water is converted into drinking water in a coastal desalination plant.
Follow each step below. Hover on any step to highlight and reveal expert Band 7+ tips for describing IELTS processes.
The diagram below shows the process by which sea water is converted into drinking water in a coastal desalination plant.
Follow each step below. Hover on any step to highlight and reveal expert Band 7+ tips for describing IELTS processes.
How to Answer IELTS Process Diagrams (Desalination): 12 Expert Steps
1
Carefully read the task prompt and all diagram labels. Understand what process is being described (here, turning sea water into drinking water). Underline the main purpose and note the input (sea water), output (drinking water), and overall context (coastal desalination plant). Identifying what you’re being asked to explain is the first step in writing a focused, clear report. Many candidates skip this and then misunderstand the diagram’s purpose, which lowers their band.
Example: The diagram describes each stage in desalination, from drawing sea water from the ocean to producing clean water for a city.
2
List out all major steps in the process, not just the obvious ones. For this diagram, stages include: sea water intake, coarse filtering, pre-treatment, high-pressure reverse osmosis, brine disposal, fresh water storage, mineral treatment, and final water distribution. Number the stages on a draft paper if you wish. This helps ensure you don’t miss any important details when you write.
Tip: Most IELTS processes have 6–10 clear steps; list each one before writing.
3
Write a brief introduction in your own words, paraphrasing the task. Use synonyms where possible and avoid copying the prompt exactly. Clearly state what the process is, and what the diagram illustrates.
Example: "The diagram illustrates the sequence of steps used to convert sea water into potable water in a desalination plant located by the coast."
4
Summarise the whole process in 1–2 sentences, covering the input, key transformations, and output. This shows you can see the “big picture” and is vital for Band 7+. Avoid mentioning detailed figures or individual steps here.
Example: "Overall, sea water undergoes several filtration and treatment stages, eventually being transformed into drinking water suitable for distribution."
5
Describe each stage in the order shown by the diagram (often left to right or top to bottom). Make sure to follow the actual flow—do not jump around or describe out of order, or you’ll lose coherence. If there are parallel stages, mention them after the main linear process.
Tip: In this diagram, start at the sea water intake and end with city distribution.
6
For each step, use the passive voice to describe the process. E.g., "Sea water is drawn from the ocean," "Water is passed through a filter," "Brine is discharged." This makes your writing more academic and formal, and is a key mark of Band 7+ answers.
Example: "Next, the water is pumped into a pre-treatment tank where additional filtering occurs."
7
Use linking phrases to show sequence and logical flow: "First," "After that," "Then," "Subsequently," "Once this is complete," "Finally." This improves your cohesion and progression score. Use a wide variety—not just "then"—for the highest bands.
Examples: "Initially," "At the next stage," "Once the process is complete..."
8
Describe not just the main product, but any waste or by-products. In this process, the main product is drinking water, but brine is also produced and returned to the sea. Mentioning these outputs makes your answer more complete.
Tip: Never ignore arrows showing materials going out of the system!
9
Use precise vocabulary from the diagram (but paraphrased if possible): "coarse filter," "pre-treatment tank," "reverse osmosis," "brine," "mineral treatment," "distribution." This shows you understand technical terms, a must for Band 8+.
Examples: "The water undergoes high-pressure reverse osmosis," "Brine is discharged into the ocean."
10
If the process has any stages happening simultaneously, mention this: Use phrases like "At the same time," "Meanwhile," or "In parallel." In this process, most steps are linear, but you can still comment on how the main stream splits into brine and fresh water after reverse osmosis.
Example: "Following high-pressure filtration, the water stream is split, with brine removed while the remaining water continues to purification."
11
Never explain why the process works, give opinions, or add information not shown in the diagram. Stick to what is visible and described in the image and labels only. Examiners reduce marks for speculation or extra info.
Example: "Brine is discharged into the sea," not "Brine is discharged because it is waste."
12
Proofread your report. Check that every stage is covered in logical order, passive voice is used, all arrows and outputs are mentioned, and your overview summarises the entire process. Make sure you have not given reasons, opinions, or missed any stages.
Checklist: Did you mention all key objects? Did you avoid extra explanation? Is your writing clear and easy to follow?
Band 9 Example Introduction & Overview
Introduction Example:
"The diagram illustrates the sequence of stages in which sea water is processed and transformed into drinking water in a coastal desalination plant."
Overview Example:
"Overall, sea water is collected from the ocean and passes through several filtration and purification stages, ultimately resulting in fresh drinking water that is distributed to city residents, while waste brine is returned to the sea."
"The diagram illustrates the sequence of stages in which sea water is processed and transformed into drinking water in a coastal desalination plant."
Overview Example:
"Overall, sea water is collected from the ocean and passes through several filtration and purification stages, ultimately resulting in fresh drinking water that is distributed to city residents, while waste brine is returned to the sea."
IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 – Process Diagram
Task:
The diagram below shows the process by which sea water is converted into drinking water in a coastal desalination plant.
Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.
Diagram: Sea Water Desalination Process
Click the diagram to view full screen & zoom
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Pinch/scroll to zoom – Tap/click anywhere to exit
Your Answer:
Tip: After writing, check your grammar and make sure you describe each step of the process in clear, logical order!
Band 9 Model Answer & Step-by-Step Explanations
Read the full Band 9 sample answer, then expand each section for a deep explanation. Test your process writing skills with instant-feedback quiz questions!
1
Introduction
(Show/Hide)
The diagram illustrates how sea water is converted into potable water in a coastal desalination plant through a series of filtration and purification stages.
Explanation:
This sentence clearly paraphrases the task, mentions the main process (desalination), the input (sea water), and the output (potable water), and signals there are multiple stages. Using the passive voice and synonyms (“potable” for “drinking”) is essential for a Band 8–9 introduction. Avoid copying the prompt directly or omitting the “how” focus of the diagram.
This sentence clearly paraphrases the task, mentions the main process (desalination), the input (sea water), and the output (potable water), and signals there are multiple stages. Using the passive voice and synonyms (“potable” for “drinking”) is essential for a Band 8–9 introduction. Avoid copying the prompt directly or omitting the “how” focus of the diagram.
2
Overview
(Show/Hide)
Overall, the process involves drawing sea water from the ocean, filtering and purifying it through several stages, and finally delivering safe drinking water to city residents, while by-product brine is discharged back into the sea.
Explanation:
The overview gives the full “big picture” with the start and end points, the general nature of the stages, and the fate of both the main product (drinking water) and by-product (brine). This approach demonstrates the ability to see and summarise the whole system, a Band 7+ requirement. No details or numbers should be given in this paragraph.
The overview gives the full “big picture” with the start and end points, the general nature of the stages, and the fate of both the main product (drinking water) and by-product (brine). This approach demonstrates the ability to see and summarise the whole system, a Band 7+ requirement. No details or numbers should be given in this paragraph.
3
Detailed Stage-by-Stage Description
(Show/Hide)
Initially, sea water is drawn directly from the ocean and passes through a coarse filter to remove large particles and debris. The filtered water is then pumped into a pre-treatment tank for additional purification. Next, the pre-treated water undergoes high-pressure reverse osmosis, which separates fresh water from brine. The concentrated brine is discharged back into the sea, while the purified water is stored in a clean tank and treated with minerals. Finally, the resulting drinking water is distributed to the city for consumption.
Explanation:
The answer presents each stage in logical order, using sequencing phrases and the passive voice. Each stage’s function is included (“remove large particles”, “additional purification”, “treated with minerals”). All arrows and by-products (“brine is discharged”) are covered. This paragraph avoids opinions and technical errors, and demonstrates full process understanding.
The answer presents each stage in logical order, using sequencing phrases and the passive voice. Each stage’s function is included (“remove large particles”, “additional purification”, “treated with minerals”). All arrows and by-products (“brine is discharged”) are covered. This paragraph avoids opinions and technical errors, and demonstrates full process understanding.
4
Final Summary Sentence
(Show/Hide)
In summary, the diagram shows that desalination is a multi-stage process that transforms sea water into safe drinking water by means of filtration, reverse osmosis, and mineral treatment, with waste products managed responsibly.
Explanation:
The conclusion restates the main process using high-level vocabulary and avoids new details or opinions. It re-emphasises the overall transformation and correct management of waste, which helps to reinforce task achievement and coherence for Band 8–9.
The conclusion restates the main process using high-level vocabulary and avoids new details or opinions. It re-emphasises the overall transformation and correct management of waste, which helps to reinforce task achievement and coherence for Band 8–9.
Test Yourself: Process Diagram Quiz
Choose the best answer for each question about the model response. Instantly see a full explanation for each choice!
20 Crucial Words for This IELTS Process Diagram Task
Master these high-impact vocabulary items for describing processes, technology, and scientific diagrams. Tap/click each word for a deep explanation, sample sentence, and common mistakes!
desalination ▼
Phonetics: /ˌdiːˌsæl.ɪˈneɪ.ʃən/ (BrE & AmE)
Part of speech: noun
Pattern: desalination of X; desalination plant
Definition: The process of removing salt from sea water to make it suitable for drinking.
Example: “Desalination is a key process in many coastal cities.” (It means removing salt.)
Common synonym: salt removal
Common mistakes: Misspelling as “desalinization” (U.S. only); omitting the “de-” prefix.
Part of speech: noun
Pattern: desalination of X; desalination plant
Definition: The process of removing salt from sea water to make it suitable for drinking.
Example: “Desalination is a key process in many coastal cities.” (It means removing salt.)
Common synonym: salt removal
Common mistakes: Misspelling as “desalinization” (U.S. only); omitting the “de-” prefix.
potable ▼
Phonetics: /ˈpəʊ.tə.bəl/ (BrE), /ˈpoʊ.t̬ə.bəl/ (AmE)
Part of speech: adjective
Pattern: potable water
Definition: Safe to drink.
Example: “The process produces potable water.” (It creates water you can drink.)
Common synonym: drinkable
Common mistakes: Confusing “potable” with “portable” (which means easy to carry).
Part of speech: adjective
Pattern: potable water
Definition: Safe to drink.
Example: “The process produces potable water.” (It creates water you can drink.)
Common synonym: drinkable
Common mistakes: Confusing “potable” with “portable” (which means easy to carry).
filtration ▼
Phonetics: /fɪlˈtreɪ.ʃən/ (BrE & AmE)
Part of speech: noun
Pattern: filtration of X; undergo filtration
Definition: The act of removing particles from a liquid by passing it through a filter.
Example: “The water undergoes filtration to remove debris.” (Particles are removed by a filter.)
Common synonym: filtering
Common mistakes: Using “filtrate” as a noun for “filtration” (they’re different).
Part of speech: noun
Pattern: filtration of X; undergo filtration
Definition: The act of removing particles from a liquid by passing it through a filter.
Example: “The water undergoes filtration to remove debris.” (Particles are removed by a filter.)
Common synonym: filtering
Common mistakes: Using “filtrate” as a noun for “filtration” (they’re different).
brine ▼
Phonetics: /braɪn/ (BrE & AmE)
Part of speech: noun
Pattern: brine is discharged; brine solution
Definition: Water that contains a high concentration of salt, especially as a by-product of desalination.
Example: “Brine is separated from the fresh water and released into the sea.”
Common synonym: salt water
Common mistakes: Confusing “brine” (salt water) with “bride” (wife).
Part of speech: noun
Pattern: brine is discharged; brine solution
Definition: Water that contains a high concentration of salt, especially as a by-product of desalination.
Example: “Brine is separated from the fresh water and released into the sea.”
Common synonym: salt water
Common mistakes: Confusing “brine” (salt water) with “bride” (wife).
reverse osmosis ▼
Phonetics: /rɪˈvɜːs ɒzˈməʊ.sɪs/ (BrE), /rɪˈvɝːs ɑːzˈmoʊ.sɪs/ (AmE)
Part of speech: noun phrase
Pattern: undergoes reverse osmosis
Definition: A process where water is forced through a membrane to remove salts and impurities.
Example: “The water undergoes reverse osmosis at high pressure.”
Common synonym: membrane filtration
Common mistakes: Writing “osmosis” without “reverse”; incorrect pronunciation.
Part of speech: noun phrase
Pattern: undergoes reverse osmosis
Definition: A process where water is forced through a membrane to remove salts and impurities.
Example: “The water undergoes reverse osmosis at high pressure.”
Common synonym: membrane filtration
Common mistakes: Writing “osmosis” without “reverse”; incorrect pronunciation.
intake ▼
Phonetics: /ˈɪn.teɪk/ (BrE & AmE)
Part of speech: noun
Pattern: water intake; intake pipe
Definition: The act or place of taking something in.
Example: “Sea water is drawn in through the intake.” (The point where it enters the system.)
Common synonym: entry
Common mistakes: Using “intake” as a verb (it’s a noun).
Part of speech: noun
Pattern: water intake; intake pipe
Definition: The act or place of taking something in.
Example: “Sea water is drawn in through the intake.” (The point where it enters the system.)
Common synonym: entry
Common mistakes: Using “intake” as a verb (it’s a noun).
coarse ▼
Phonetics: /kɔːs/ (BrE), /kɔːrs/ (AmE)
Part of speech: adjective
Pattern: coarse filter
Definition: Having large particles or a rough texture.
Example: “A coarse filter removes large debris from the water.”
Common synonym: rough
Common mistakes: Mixing up “coarse” (rough) with “course” (class or route).
Part of speech: adjective
Pattern: coarse filter
Definition: Having large particles or a rough texture.
Example: “A coarse filter removes large debris from the water.”
Common synonym: rough
Common mistakes: Mixing up “coarse” (rough) with “course” (class or route).
pre-treatment ▼
Phonetics: /ˌpriːˈtriːt.mənt/ (BrE & AmE)
Part of speech: noun
Pattern: pre-treatment tank/stage
Definition: An initial treatment before the main process, to prepare something.
Example: “Water passes through a pre-treatment tank for extra filtering.”
Common synonym: preliminary treatment
Common mistakes: Hyphen omission (“pretreatment” less common).
Part of speech: noun
Pattern: pre-treatment tank/stage
Definition: An initial treatment before the main process, to prepare something.
Example: “Water passes through a pre-treatment tank for extra filtering.”
Common synonym: preliminary treatment
Common mistakes: Hyphen omission (“pretreatment” less common).
membrane ▼
Phonetics: /ˈmem.breɪn/ (BrE & AmE)
Part of speech: noun
Pattern: membrane filter
Definition: A thin layer of material that allows some things to pass through but not others.
Example: “A membrane is used to separate salt from water.”
Common synonym: filter
Common mistakes: Pronouncing “b” strongly (it’s soft).
Part of speech: noun
Pattern: membrane filter
Definition: A thin layer of material that allows some things to pass through but not others.
Example: “A membrane is used to separate salt from water.”
Common synonym: filter
Common mistakes: Pronouncing “b” strongly (it’s soft).
discharge ▼
Phonetics: /dɪsˈtʃɑːdʒ/ (BrE), /dɪsˈtʃɑːrdʒ/ (AmE)
Part of speech: verb, noun
Pattern: discharge (waste) into X
Definition: To release (a substance) into a place, often waste.
Example: “Brine is discharged into the ocean.” (Brine is released.)
Common synonym: release
Common mistakes: Using only as a noun (in process writing, the verb is essential).
Part of speech: verb, noun
Pattern: discharge (waste) into X
Definition: To release (a substance) into a place, often waste.
Example: “Brine is discharged into the ocean.” (Brine is released.)
Common synonym: release
Common mistakes: Using only as a noun (in process writing, the verb is essential).
tank ▼
Phonetics: /tæŋk/ (BrE & AmE)
Part of speech: noun
Pattern: pre-treatment tank, storage tank
Definition: A large container for holding liquid.
Example: “The purified water is kept in a storage tank.”
Common synonym: container
Common mistakes: Using “tank” for small bottles (it’s for large volumes).
Part of speech: noun
Pattern: pre-treatment tank, storage tank
Definition: A large container for holding liquid.
Example: “The purified water is kept in a storage tank.”
Common synonym: container
Common mistakes: Using “tank” for small bottles (it’s for large volumes).
purification ▼
Phonetics: /ˌpjʊə.rɪ.fɪˈkeɪ.ʃən/ (BrE), /ˌpjʊr.ə.fəˈkeɪ.ʃən/ (AmE)
Part of speech: noun
Pattern: purification process; undergo purification
Definition: The process of making something clean and free from impurities.
Example: “The water undergoes purification after filtering.”
Common synonym: cleaning
Common mistakes: Using “purify” for equipment (should be for process).
Part of speech: noun
Pattern: purification process; undergo purification
Definition: The process of making something clean and free from impurities.
Example: “The water undergoes purification after filtering.”
Common synonym: cleaning
Common mistakes: Using “purify” for equipment (should be for process).
mineral ▼
Phonetics: /ˈmɪn.ər.əl/ (BrE & AmE)
Part of speech: noun, adjective
Pattern: mineral treatment
Definition: A substance that is naturally present in water and needed by the body.
Example: “Minerals are added to the water before distribution.”
Common synonym: nutrient
Common mistakes: Using “mineral” to mean “vitamin” (they are different).
Part of speech: noun, adjective
Pattern: mineral treatment
Definition: A substance that is naturally present in water and needed by the body.
Example: “Minerals are added to the water before distribution.”
Common synonym: nutrient
Common mistakes: Using “mineral” to mean “vitamin” (they are different).
distribution ▼
Phonetics: /ˌdɪs.trɪˈbjuː.ʃən/ (BrE), /ˌdɪs.trəˈbjuː.ʃən/ (AmE)
Part of speech: noun
Pattern: water distribution; distributed to X
Definition: The act of delivering or supplying something to people.
Example: “Drinking water is distributed to the city.”
Common synonym: supply
Common mistakes: Using as a verb (“to distribution water” is incorrect).
Part of speech: noun
Pattern: water distribution; distributed to X
Definition: The act of delivering or supplying something to people.
Example: “Drinking water is distributed to the city.”
Common synonym: supply
Common mistakes: Using as a verb (“to distribution water” is incorrect).
debris ▼
Phonetics: /ˈdeb.riː/ (BrE), /dəˈbriː/ (AmE)
Part of speech: noun
Pattern: remove debris
Definition: Small pieces of waste material.
Example: “A filter removes debris from sea water.”
Common synonym: waste
Common mistakes: Pronouncing final “s” (it’s silent).
Part of speech: noun
Pattern: remove debris
Definition: Small pieces of waste material.
Example: “A filter removes debris from sea water.”
Common synonym: waste
Common mistakes: Pronouncing final “s” (it’s silent).
residue ▼
Phonetics: /ˈrez.ɪ.djuː/ (BrE), /ˈrez.ə.duː/ (AmE)
Part of speech: noun
Pattern: residue is left/removed
Definition: A small amount of something that remains after the main part has been removed.
Example: “Brine is the residue after desalination.”
Common synonym: remains
Common mistakes: Using “reside” (which is a verb, not a noun).
Part of speech: noun
Pattern: residue is left/removed
Definition: A small amount of something that remains after the main part has been removed.
Example: “Brine is the residue after desalination.”
Common synonym: remains
Common mistakes: Using “reside” (which is a verb, not a noun).
consume ▼
Phonetics: /kənˈsjuːm/ (BrE), /kənˈsuːm/ (AmE)
Part of speech: verb
Pattern: consume water; to be consumed
Definition: To drink or use something.
Example: “The final product is consumed by city residents.”
Common synonym: drink
Common mistakes: Using “consume” for “buy” (it means to use or eat/drink).
Part of speech: verb
Pattern: consume water; to be consumed
Definition: To drink or use something.
Example: “The final product is consumed by city residents.”
Common synonym: drink
Common mistakes: Using “consume” for “buy” (it means to use or eat/drink).
process ▼
Phonetics: /ˈprəʊ.ses/ (BrE), /ˈprɑː.ses/ (AmE)
Part of speech: noun, verb
Pattern: process of X; to process water
Definition: A series of actions or steps taken to achieve a result.
Example: “The process involves several filtration stages.”
Common synonym: procedure
Common mistakes: Using “process” as an adjective (“process water” instead of “processed water”).
Part of speech: noun, verb
Pattern: process of X; to process water
Definition: A series of actions or steps taken to achieve a result.
Example: “The process involves several filtration stages.”
Common synonym: procedure
Common mistakes: Using “process” as an adjective (“process water” instead of “processed water”).
output ▼
Phonetics: /ˈaʊt.pʊt/ (BrE & AmE)
Part of speech: noun
Pattern: output of X; main output
Definition: The amount or result produced by a process.
Example: “The output of the plant is drinking water.”
Common synonym: product
Common mistakes: Using “outcome” (which means result, not product).
Part of speech: noun
Pattern: output of X; main output
Definition: The amount or result produced by a process.
Example: “The output of the plant is drinking water.”
Common synonym: product
Common mistakes: Using “outcome” (which means result, not product).
stage ▼
Phonetics: /steɪdʒ/ (BrE & AmE)
Part of speech: noun
Pattern: at each stage; the next stage
Definition: A particular step or part of a process.
Example: “Minerals are added at the final stage.”
Common synonym: phase, step
Common mistakes: Using “stage” as a verb (it’s a noun).
Part of speech: noun
Pattern: at each stage; the next stage
Definition: A particular step or part of a process.
Example: “Minerals are added at the final stage.”
Common synonym: phase, step
Common mistakes: Using “stage” as a verb (it’s a noun).
20 Crucial Phrases & Expressions for IELTS Process Diagrams
Learn and master the most useful expressions for describing, sequencing, and analysing processes in IELTS Task 1. Tap/click each phrase for a detailed breakdown, sample, and usage tip!
is drawn from ▼
Phonetics: /ɪz drɔːn frɒm/ (BrE), /ɪz drɔn frɑːm/ (AmE)
Part of speech: passive verb phrase
Pattern: X is drawn from Y
Definition: Taken or collected from a source.
Example: “Sea water is drawn from the ocean at the beginning of the process.”
Common synonym: taken from
Common mistakes: Writing “draw” instead of “drawn” (wrong tense for passive).
Part of speech: passive verb phrase
Pattern: X is drawn from Y
Definition: Taken or collected from a source.
Example: “Sea water is drawn from the ocean at the beginning of the process.”
Common synonym: taken from
Common mistakes: Writing “draw” instead of “drawn” (wrong tense for passive).
passes through ▼
Phonetics: /ˈpɑː.sɪz θruː/ (BrE), /ˈpæs.ɪz θruː/ (AmE)
Part of speech: verb phrase
Pattern: X passes through Y
Definition: Moves from one place to another, especially through a stage or filter.
Example: “The water passes through a coarse filter.”
Common synonym: goes through
Common mistakes: Omitting “through” (“passes a filter” is incorrect).
Part of speech: verb phrase
Pattern: X passes through Y
Definition: Moves from one place to another, especially through a stage or filter.
Example: “The water passes through a coarse filter.”
Common synonym: goes through
Common mistakes: Omitting “through” (“passes a filter” is incorrect).
undergoes filtration ▼
Phonetics: /ˌʌn.dəˈɡəʊz fɪlˈtreɪ.ʃən/ (BrE), /ˌʌn.dɚˈɡoʊz fɪlˈtreɪ.ʃən/ (AmE)
Part of speech: verb phrase
Pattern: X undergoes filtration
Definition: Experiences the process of filtering.
Example: “The water undergoes filtration to remove debris.”
Common synonym: is filtered
Common mistakes: Using “undergo” with passive (“is undergone”—incorrect).
Part of speech: verb phrase
Pattern: X undergoes filtration
Definition: Experiences the process of filtering.
Example: “The water undergoes filtration to remove debris.”
Common synonym: is filtered
Common mistakes: Using “undergo” with passive (“is undergone”—incorrect).
is pumped into ▼
Phonetics: /ɪz pʌmpt ˈɪntuː/ (BrE & AmE)
Part of speech: passive verb phrase
Pattern: X is pumped into Y
Definition: Forced or moved by a pump into another place or stage.
Example: “The filtered water is pumped into a pre-treatment tank.”
Common synonym: moved into
Common mistakes: Using “pump into” as a noun (“the pump into”—incorrect).
Part of speech: passive verb phrase
Pattern: X is pumped into Y
Definition: Forced or moved by a pump into another place or stage.
Example: “The filtered water is pumped into a pre-treatment tank.”
Common synonym: moved into
Common mistakes: Using “pump into” as a noun (“the pump into”—incorrect).
undergoes high-pressure reverse osmosis ▼
Phonetics: /ˌʌn.dəˈɡəʊz ˌhaɪˈpreʃ.ər rɪˈvɜːs ɒzˈməʊ.sɪs/ (BrE)
Part of speech: verb phrase
Pattern: X undergoes high-pressure reverse osmosis
Definition: Is subjected to a process where water is pushed through a membrane under pressure.
Example: “Next, the water undergoes high-pressure reverse osmosis.”
Common synonym: passes through a membrane
Common mistakes: Writing “do reverse osmosis” (should be “undergo”).
Part of speech: verb phrase
Pattern: X undergoes high-pressure reverse osmosis
Definition: Is subjected to a process where water is pushed through a membrane under pressure.
Example: “Next, the water undergoes high-pressure reverse osmosis.”
Common synonym: passes through a membrane
Common mistakes: Writing “do reverse osmosis” (should be “undergo”).
is separated from ▼
Phonetics: /ɪz ˈsep.ə.reɪtɪd frɒm/ (BrE), /ɪz ˈsep.əˌreɪtɪd frɑːm/ (AmE)
Part of speech: passive verb phrase
Pattern: X is separated from Y
Definition: Divided or removed from something else.
Example: “Brine is separated from the fresh water.”
Common synonym: removed from
Common mistakes: Omitting “from” or using “separates” (active voice).
Part of speech: passive verb phrase
Pattern: X is separated from Y
Definition: Divided or removed from something else.
Example: “Brine is separated from the fresh water.”
Common synonym: removed from
Common mistakes: Omitting “from” or using “separates” (active voice).
is discharged back into ▼
Phonetics: /ɪz dɪsˈtʃɑːdʒd ˈbæk ˈɪntuː/ (BrE & AmE)
Part of speech: passive verb phrase
Pattern: X is discharged back into Y
Definition: Released again into a place, especially as waste.
Example: “The brine is discharged back into the sea.”
Common synonym: released into
Common mistakes: Using “discharge” as a noun (needs to be verb here).
Part of speech: passive verb phrase
Pattern: X is discharged back into Y
Definition: Released again into a place, especially as waste.
Example: “The brine is discharged back into the sea.”
Common synonym: released into
Common mistakes: Using “discharge” as a noun (needs to be verb here).
is stored in ▼
Phonetics: /ɪz stɔːd ɪn/ (BrE), /ɪz stɔːrd ɪn/ (AmE)
Part of speech: passive verb phrase
Pattern: X is stored in Y
Definition: Kept or placed in a container for later use.
Example: “Fresh water is stored in a clean tank.”
Common synonym: kept in
Common mistakes: Using “stored at” (wrong preposition).
Part of speech: passive verb phrase
Pattern: X is stored in Y
Definition: Kept or placed in a container for later use.
Example: “Fresh water is stored in a clean tank.”
Common synonym: kept in
Common mistakes: Using “stored at” (wrong preposition).
is treated with ▼
Phonetics: /ɪz ˈtriː.tɪd wɪð/ (BrE), /ɪz ˈtriː.tɪd wɪθ/ (AmE)
Part of speech: passive verb phrase
Pattern: X is treated with Y
Definition: Has something added or a process applied, usually to improve quality.
Example: “The water is treated with minerals before distribution.”
Common synonym: enriched with
Common mistakes: Using “treated by” (should be “with” for substances).
Part of speech: passive verb phrase
Pattern: X is treated with Y
Definition: Has something added or a process applied, usually to improve quality.
Example: “The water is treated with minerals before distribution.”
Common synonym: enriched with
Common mistakes: Using “treated by” (should be “with” for substances).
is distributed to ▼
Phonetics: /ɪz ˌdɪs.trɪˈbjuː.tɪd tuː/ (BrE), /ɪz ˌdɪs.trəˈbjuː.t̬ɪd tuː/ (AmE)
Part of speech: passive verb phrase
Pattern: X is distributed to Y
Definition: Delivered or supplied to people or places.
Example: “The drinking water is distributed to the city.”
Common synonym: supplied to
Common mistakes: Writing “distributed for” (wrong preposition).
Part of speech: passive verb phrase
Pattern: X is distributed to Y
Definition: Delivered or supplied to people or places.
Example: “The drinking water is distributed to the city.”
Common synonym: supplied to
Common mistakes: Writing “distributed for” (wrong preposition).
at the next stage ▼
Phonetics: /ət ðə nekst steɪdʒ/ (BrE & AmE)
Part of speech: sequencing phrase
Pattern: At the next stage, ...
Definition: Used to show sequence in a process.
Example: “At the next stage, the water is mineralised.”
Common synonym: subsequently
Common mistakes: Using “in the next stage” (less natural).
Part of speech: sequencing phrase
Pattern: At the next stage, ...
Definition: Used to show sequence in a process.
Example: “At the next stage, the water is mineralised.”
Common synonym: subsequently
Common mistakes: Using “in the next stage” (less natural).
following this ▼
Phonetics: /ˈfɒl.əʊ.ɪŋ ðɪs/ (BrE), /ˈfɑː.loʊ.ɪŋ ðɪs/ (AmE)
Part of speech: sequencing/linking phrase
Pattern: Following this, ...
Definition: After a previous step or action.
Example: “Following this, the water is stored in a clean tank.”
Common synonym: after that
Common mistakes: Using as a noun (“the following this”—incorrect).
Part of speech: sequencing/linking phrase
Pattern: Following this, ...
Definition: After a previous step or action.
Example: “Following this, the water is stored in a clean tank.”
Common synonym: after that
Common mistakes: Using as a noun (“the following this”—incorrect).
is finally ▼
Phonetics: /ɪz ˈfaɪ.nəli/ (BrE & AmE)
Part of speech: adverbial phrase
Pattern: is finally + past participle
Definition: Used to introduce the last step.
Example: “The product is finally distributed to consumers.”
Common synonym: in the last step
Common mistakes: Placing “finally” at the start of a passive clause (“Finally, is...”).
Part of speech: adverbial phrase
Pattern: is finally + past participle
Definition: Used to introduce the last step.
Example: “The product is finally distributed to consumers.”
Common synonym: in the last step
Common mistakes: Placing “finally” at the start of a passive clause (“Finally, is...”).
as a result ▼
Phonetics: /æz ə rɪˈzʌlt/ (BrE & AmE)
Part of speech: linking phrase
Pattern: As a result, ...
Definition: Therefore; what happens because of previous steps.
Example: “As a result, potable water is produced.”
Common synonym: consequently
Common mistakes: Using “as result” (missing “a”).
Part of speech: linking phrase
Pattern: As a result, ...
Definition: Therefore; what happens because of previous steps.
Example: “As a result, potable water is produced.”
Common synonym: consequently
Common mistakes: Using “as result” (missing “a”).
at each stage ▼
Phonetics: /ət iːtʃ steɪdʒ/ (BrE & AmE)
Part of speech: prepositional phrase
Pattern: at each stage, ...
Definition: Referring to every part of a process.
Example: “At each stage, the water becomes cleaner.”
Common synonym: at every step
Common mistakes: Using “in each stage” (less natural).
Part of speech: prepositional phrase
Pattern: at each stage, ...
Definition: Referring to every part of a process.
Example: “At each stage, the water becomes cleaner.”
Common synonym: at every step
Common mistakes: Using “in each stage” (less natural).
the main output ▼
Phonetics: /ðə meɪn ˈaʊt.pʊt/ (BrE & AmE)
Part of speech: noun phrase
Pattern: the main output is ...
Definition: The principal product produced by a process.
Example: “The main output is drinking water.”
Common synonym: main product
Common mistakes: Using “output” as a verb.
Part of speech: noun phrase
Pattern: the main output is ...
Definition: The principal product produced by a process.
Example: “The main output is drinking water.”
Common synonym: main product
Common mistakes: Using “output” as a verb.
by means of ▼
Phonetics: /baɪ miːnz ɒv/ (BrE), /baɪ miːnz ʌv/ (AmE)
Part of speech: prepositional phrase
Pattern: by means of + noun
Definition: Using or with the help of something.
Example: “Salt is removed by means of reverse osmosis.”
Common synonym: using
Common mistakes: Writing “by mean of” (singular—incorrect).
Part of speech: prepositional phrase
Pattern: by means of + noun
Definition: Using or with the help of something.
Example: “Salt is removed by means of reverse osmosis.”
Common synonym: using
Common mistakes: Writing “by mean of” (singular—incorrect).
in sequence ▼
Phonetics: /ɪn ˈsiː.kwəns/ (BrE), /ɪn ˈsiː.kwəns/ (AmE)
Part of speech: adverbial phrase
Pattern: in sequence, ...
Definition: One after another in order.
Example: “Each step is completed in sequence.”
Common synonym: in order
Common mistakes: Using “on sequence” (wrong preposition).
Part of speech: adverbial phrase
Pattern: in sequence, ...
Definition: One after another in order.
Example: “Each step is completed in sequence.”
Common synonym: in order
Common mistakes: Using “on sequence” (wrong preposition).
the diagram illustrates ▼
Phonetics: /ðə ˈdaɪ.ə.ɡræm ˈɪl.ə.streɪts/ (BrE & AmE)
Part of speech: reporting phrase
Pattern: The diagram illustrates ...
Definition: The image or process shows ...
Example: “The diagram illustrates how sea water is converted into drinking water.”
Common synonym: shows, depicts
Common mistakes: Using “diagram is illustrate” (wrong verb form).
Part of speech: reporting phrase
Pattern: The diagram illustrates ...
Definition: The image or process shows ...
Example: “The diagram illustrates how sea water is converted into drinking water.”
Common synonym: shows, depicts
Common mistakes: Using “diagram is illustrate” (wrong verb form).
the final product ▼
Phonetics: /ðə ˈfaɪ.nəl ˈprɒd.ʌkt/ (BrE), /ðə ˈfaɪ.nəl ˈprɑː.dʌkt/ (AmE)
Part of speech: noun phrase
Pattern: the final product is ...
Definition: The end result of a process.
Example: “The final product is safe drinking water.”
Common synonym: end result
Common mistakes: Using “finally product” (adverb + noun—incorrect).
Part of speech: noun phrase
Pattern: the final product is ...
Definition: The end result of a process.
Example: “The final product is safe drinking water.”
Common synonym: end result
Common mistakes: Using “finally product” (adverb + noun—incorrect).
Exercise 1: Master Key Words & Phrases
Practice your understanding of the most important words and phrases for describing process diagrams. Select the best answer for each question and get instant feedback!
Exercise 2: Deepen Your Mastery (Words & Phrases)
Strengthen your process vocabulary with another challenging quiz! Select the best answer for each question and review the detailed instant feedback.
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