IELTS General Training Writing Task 1: Letter Writing

In General Training Writing Task 1, you are presented with a situation and asked to write a letter requesting information or explaining the situation. You should write at least 150 words and spend about 20 minutes on this task.

The task requires you to understand the purpose of the letter, who you are writing to, and maintain an appropriate tone (formal, semi-formal, or informal).

Letter Types and Tone

The tone of your letter depends on who you are writing to:

Formal: Writing to someone you don't know, often in an official position (e.g., a company manager, a landlord agency, a government department). Use formal language, avoid contractions (don't, isn't), and use polite structures. Start with "Dear Sir/Madam," or "Dear Mr./Ms. [Surname]," and end with "Yours faithfully," or "Yours sincerely,".
Semi-Formal: Writing to someone you know, but not well, or someone in a position of authority where a formal tone isn't necessary but informality is inappropriate (e.g., your neighbour about a minor issue, your professor, sometimes your direct manager). Tone is polite and respectful, but slightly less rigid than formal. Start with "Dear Mr./Ms. [Surname]," and end with "Yours sincerely," or "Best regards,".
Informal: Writing to a friend or close family member. Use casual language, contractions, idioms (appropriately), and a friendly tone. Start with "Dear [First Name]," or "Hi [First Name]," and end with "Best wishes," "Regards," "Love," etc.

Using the wrong tone is a common mistake. Always identify the recipient and the situation described in the prompt.

Recommended Letter Structure

Salutation: Start with the appropriate greeting (e.g., Dear Sir/Madam, Dear Mr. Smith, Dear John,).
Opening Paragraph: State the clear purpose of your letter immediately. Why are you writing? (e.g., "I am writing to enquire about...", "I am writing in response to your advertisement...", "I am writing to complain about...", "I hope this letter finds you well. I'm writing about...")
Body Paragraphs (2-3 paragraphs): Address each of the bullet points given in the task prompt. Dedicate a separate paragraph to each main point or group related points together logically. Provide necessary details and explanations.
Closing Paragraph: Summarise your purpose briefly or state what action you expect the recipient to take (if applicable). (e.g., "I look forward to hearing from you soon.", "Thank you for your time and consideration.", "Please let me know what you think.")
Closing & Signature: Use the appropriate closing phrase (e.g., Yours faithfully, Yours sincerely, Best regards, Best wishes,) followed by your name (just your first name for informal, full name for formal/semi-formal).

Ensure you cover all the bullet points mentioned in the task prompt and write at least 150 words.

Common Letter Purposes

You might be asked to write letters such as:

Letter of complaint (e.g., about a product or service)
Letter requesting information (e.g., about a course or accommodation)
Letter making arrangements (e.g., suggesting a meeting)
Letter of application (e.g., for part-time work)
Letter of apology
Letter of invitation
Letter explaining a situation to a friend or neighbour

See General Writing Tips

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