Introduction of General Writing Task

In IELTS General Writing Task 1, you will be asked to write a letter in response to a given situation. The purpose of this task is to assess your ability to communicate in English through written correspondence, which is a skill used in many real-life situations. You may be asked to write a letter to a friend, a colleague, a company, or an official institution. The letters may be formal, semi-formal, or informal, depending on the context.

You are required to write at least 150 words. You should spend about 20 minutes on this task, as it is worth one-third of the total writing score. It is essential to address all parts of the question and maintain a clear and appropriate tone throughout the letter.

Key Aspects of Task 1
  • Understanding the Context - Identify the purpose and the recipient of the letter. Your response will vary based on whether the letter is formal, semi-formal, or informal.
  • Correct Tone and Language - The tone of your letter should reflect your relationship with the recipient. For formal letters, use polite and professional language. For informal letters, a friendly tone is appropriate.
  • Structure -The letter should have a clear structure, including an introduction, main body, and conclusion. Make sure to answer all parts of the question fully.
  • Addressing All Points - The question will typically include three points that you need to cover. Be sure to address each one in your letter, without deviating from the topic.
Types of Letters in Task 1

There are three main types of letters you may encounter in IELTS General Writing

  • Formal Letters - These letters are addressed to people you do not know well or to official organizations. The tone should be polite and professional. You will need to use formal language and certain conventions (e.g., “Dear Sir/Madam,” “Yours faithfully”). ( download formal letter example here )
    Example Topics:
    Writing a complaint to a company about a product or service.
    Requesting information from an institution or government agency.
    Writing to a hotel regarding a reservation or a problem.
  • Semi-Formal Letters - These letters are typically addressed to people you know in a professional or formal capacity, such as a colleague, a supervisor, or a neighbor. The tone should be polite but not overly formal. ( download semi formal letters example here )
    Example Topics:
    Writing to a colleague about a work-related issue.
    Requesting a reference letter from a supervisor.
    Informing a neighbor about an issue with shared property.
  • Informal Letters -These letters are addressed to friends or family members. The tone should be friendly, conversational, and personal. You can use informal language (e.g., “Hi [Name],” “Love,” “Best wishes”). ( download informal letter example here )
    Example Topics:
    Writing to a friend to invite them to an event.
    Sharing news about a recent trip with a family member.
    Thanking a friend for their help or a gift.