IELTS General Writing Task 1: Letter Writing (Samples)

In the IELTS general training test, there are four parts including Listening, Speaking, Reading, and Writing. However, students find the writing section very hard to score. To score well in this portion, students need practice and preparation to improve their writing skills. Thus, in this blog, we will talk everything about IELTS Genral Writing Task 1 to make students ready for the exam. So first let’s understand what does writing section of IELTS general includes.

Table of Contents

{"time":1732951250250,"blocks":[{"id":"542340qY-c","type":"header","data":{"text":"Introduction to IELTS General Writing Task 1","level":2}},{"id":"Bzsa5ov_mP","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"The IELTS general writing task 1 requires you to write a letter, it can be either a formal, informal, or semi-formal letter on a given subject. Three points are provided in the task for you to add to your letter. You need to write 150 words in 20 minutes. The main purpose of IELTS general writing task 1 is to evaluate your functional writing skills. It is to check whether you can write several types of letters such as apologize, complain, suggest, or ask for information. Now in our next section, we will look at the key factors for task achievement in IELTS letter writing."}},{"id":"jxbTt4CrkD","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Also Read: Agree Disagree Essay in IELTS"}},{"id":"0-tP7nzwHV","type":"header","data":{"text":"Key Factors for Task Achievement in IELTS Letter Writing","level":2}},{"id":"eLgE18t106","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"When preparing for the IELTS general writing task 1 there are certain features the examiner looks for in a letter. To make you clear regarding the specific points we have explained each factor in detail below. But first have a look at the image and read the factors for a better understanding."}},{"id":"-1K0HJEBYx","type":"image","data":{"caption":"Receive a detailed explanation on IELTS general writing letters types with Gradding.com","withBorder":false,"withBackground":false,"stretched":false,"file":{"url":"https://gradding.s3.ap-south-1.amazonaws.com/website-images/uploads/pages/6712058433521-assessment-factors-in-ielts-letter-writing.jpg"}}},{"id":"6UuHYCt2Bb","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Now let’s understand each point in detail."}},{"id":"oXr9P0oKin","type":"header","data":{"text":"State the Purpose","level":3}},{"id":"tzj6gTF82n","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Start writing your letter by clearly stating the purpose or expressing why you are writing this letter. In the general IELTS writing task 1, your letter needs to be presented in the opening paragraph. Further, you should ensure that the purpose of the letter is linked to the situation or question."}},{"id":"JXTW_96Glj","type":"header","data":{"text":"Use the Right Tone","level":3}},{"id":"ZuknC5rWC8","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Now next , the examiner will look for the tone of your letter. The tone refers to how you write the letter, whether it's formal, informal or semi-formal. However, you can find out the style of your letter by reading the instructions in a question."}},{"id":"WLLO8Dl_MP","type":"header","data":{"text":"Mention Bullet Points","level":3}},{"id":"Mi4lFmB85t","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"When writing a letter for the IELTS general writing task 1 you must include the bullet points given in the question. With the help of these points, you can frame your letter in a well-structured or logical way."}},{"id":"q8KDwrLyS_","type":"header","data":{"text":"Structure Your Letter","level":3}},{"id":"Leej2Ug-Bs","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"The final feature that an examiner will look at in your letter is how well you structure it. Your score will be judged on the format and will check whether you have mentioned all the bullet points or not. Further, this point is the deciding element for your letter."}},{"id":"HY8MRMWdPX","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Overall, these are the factors which will help the examiner decide how your letter is written. In the next section, you will find in detail about the types of letters in IELTS general writing task 1."}},{"id":"frXKH8XQHE","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Suggested Read: Problem Solution Essay in IELTS"}},{"id":"l6FK1V20Sp","type":"header","data":{"text":"Types of Letters in IELTS General Training Writing Task 1","level":2}},{"id":"xpL-B_kR00","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"In the IELTS general writing task 1, you will be asked to write a letter requesting information or explaining a situation. You must write down 150 words in the timeframe of 20 minutes. However, the letter will be one of the following types as mentioned in the table:"}},{"id":"_AkazN5dZc","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Types of letters in IELTS general writing task 1 are as follows:"}},{"id":"_GTsOsh2An","type":"table","data":{"withHeadings":false,"stretched":false,"content":[["Formal Letter","This letter is written to officials, authorities, professionals, hiring managers or an organization"],["Semi-Formal Letter","This letter is written to those people whom we may know, but are not in a close relationship with."],["Informal Letter","This letter is written to those people whom we know well, like friends, family or relatives."]]}},{"id":"fE1q3jKjqK","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"These are the types of letters with their purpose. Further, in the next section will discuss about the format and samples of each type of letter in IELTS general writing task 1. "}},{"id":"mQfjObf6lR","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Must Read: Advantages and Disadvantages Essay in IELTS"}},{"id":"TlJHkzXdNi","type":"header","data":{"text":"Formal Letter in IELTS General Writing Task 1","level":3}},{"id":"jKaP5Zf4XV","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"The formal letter is written to officials, organizations, managers, professionals etc. Thus, it is important to plan the structure of the letter. See below to know the format for the IELTS formal letter in the general writing test."}},{"id":"Wi5j9QG4U3","type":"header","data":{"text":"1. Format of IELTS formal letter ","level":4}},{"id":"esJ1GO40nu","type":"list","data":{"style":"unordered","meta":{},"items":[{"content":"Dear Sir/Madam","meta":{},"items":[]},{"content":"Paragraph 1- Write why you are writing this letter. (I am writing this letter to inform you)","meta":{},"items":[]},{"content":"Paragraph 2- Give supporting details","meta":{},"items":[]},{"content":"Paragraph 3- Add more supporting details if any","meta":{},"items":[]},{"content":"I hope to hear from you","meta":{},"items":[]},{"content":"Yours faithfully","meta":{},"items":[]},{"content":"(Your Full Name)","meta":{},"items":[]}]}},{"id":"KGdNgor7xe","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"You can use this IELTS formal letter format to frame your answer before you start answering the question. Now the next section will let you know about the categories you can get to write the formal letter."}},{"id":"-T7aWlvEFq","type":"header","data":{"text":"2. Types of Formal Letters You Can Encounter","level":4}},{"id":"w03RlPtYur","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"In this section, we have compiled a collection of the types of formal letters you can get in general IELTS writing task 1. Have a look below:"}},{"id":"Nw8-5K4S8m","type":"list","data":{"style":"unordered","meta":{},"items":[{"content":"Letter of Reference","meta":{},"items":[]},{"content":"Letter of Complaint","meta":{},"items":[]},{"content":"Letter of Application","meta":{},"items":[]},{"content":"Letter of Request","meta":{},"items":[]},{"content":"Letter of Suggestions","meta":{},"items":[]}]}},{"id":"xvvza3jky1","type":"header","data":{"text":"3. Formal Letter Sample","level":4}},{"id":"heQoLx-8_P","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"This section presents IELTS general writing task 1 formal letter sample with its answer. If you want to excel in IELTS writing task 1, then you must practice the sample question. Thus, look for the question below and then read the answer in detail."}},{"id":"KHYwYru9YZ","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Writing Task 1"}},{"id":"wRr22jVgVQ","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"You should spend about 20 minutes on this task."}},{"id":"2xD-Cyr_UH","type":"raw","data":{"html":"

You missed an international flight due to a problem at the airport.

Write a letter to the airline. In your letter:

Describe what happened that caused you to miss your flight
Explain how missing your flight impacted you
Clearly state what you would like the airline to do

Write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any addresses.

"}},{"id":"Za4Gf8wF6Y","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Now take a look below at the IELTS General Writing Task 1 formal letter sample question and answer."}},{"id":"v1Pl-5ZGh0","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Begin your letter as follows:"}},{"id":"q9loqvGtu0","type":"raw","data":{"html":"

Respected Sir or Ma’am,

I am writing this letter regarding an international flight that I missed due to reasons beyond my control.

For the past two weeks, I have been travelling for business purposes and speaking at international conferences. Unfortunately, I arrived at the Tokyo airport over three hours delayed yesterday afternoon, due to the technical difficulties experienced by one of your company’s air crafts. As a result, I missed my connecting flight from Tokyo to Madrid, and could not attend the conference.

As a result of the delay, my company had to send another executive to speak at the conference in Madrid. This is not only a major inconvenience from our end, but it is a costly expenditure as well. Further, I have had to pay out of pocket for my lodgings in Madrid.

Since the delay that was caused by your aircraft, I hope that you will repay me for the cost of my lodgings in Madrid as well as my additional flight home to Toronto, Canada.

I will look forward to your response.

Yours faithfully,

Samar Tanwar

"}},{"id":"goVPkq8sfm","type":"header","data":{"text":"Informal Letter in IELTS General Writing Task 1","level":3}},{"id":"Iyn5yacy0S","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"An informal letter is a personal letter written to a friend, relative or someone you know closely. It is generally less formal than other types of letters and includes personal details and narratives. Further, it is written in a casual and friendly tone that does not need any specific format but ensures cohesion and coherence. See below the format of writing an informal letter in IELTS general writing task 1."}},{"id":"4Cs5v9PJi_","type":"header","data":{"text":"1. Format of IELTS informal letter","level":4}},{"id":"b6hJN7uIuD","type":"list","data":{"style":"unordered","meta":{},"items":[{"content":"Dear ____________ (First name of your friend)","meta":{},"items":[]},{"content":"Paragraph 1- Write an introduction (I’m writing to let you know that...)","meta":{},"items":[]},{"content":"Paragraph 2- Bullet point 1 with relevant details","meta":{},"items":[]},{"content":"Paragraph 3- Bullet point 2 with relevant details","meta":{},"items":[]},{"content":"Paragraph 4- Bullet point 3 with relevant details","meta":{},"items":[]},{"content":"Looking forward to hear from you","meta":{},"items":[]},{"content":"Warm regards,","meta":{},"items":[]},{"content":"(Your first name)","meta":{},"items":[]}]}},{"id":"JXvwLaWamg","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"This is the format for writing an informal letter in IELTS general writing task 1. The next section will talk about the types or categories in which you write the informal letter."}},{"id":"HeKgk2pyZV","type":"header","data":{"text":"2. Types of Informal Letters You Can Encounter","level":4}},{"id":"OvpO-kWz-s","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"This section will cover some of the types of informal letters which can be asked in your exam. Look below for a better understanding."}},{"id":"tptkG_yDAC","type":"list","data":{"style":"unordered","meta":{},"items":[{"content":"Letter of Invitation","meta":{},"items":[]},{"content":"Letter of Advice","meta":{},"items":[]},{"content":"Letter of Apology","meta":{},"items":[]},{"content":"Letter of Requesting","meta":{},"items":[]},{"content":"Letter of Thanking","meta":{},"items":[]}]}},{"id":"Vs1ILVLkZ5","type":"header","data":{"text":"3. Informal Letter Sample","level":4}},{"id":"ZJFd0mtQ61","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"The following section will provide you with IELTS general writing task 1 informal letter sample with its answer. To score well in the exam, you must practice each type of letter so that you get prepared. Further, see the question below and then read the solution in brief."}},{"id":"77MHPSPifK","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Writing Task 1"}},{"id":"Z8P-pObfzP","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"You should spend about 20 minutes on this task."}},{"id":"kxEqBX9SgS","type":"raw","data":{"html":"

Your friend is thinking about learning to drive and would like some advice.

Write a letter to your friend. In your letter:

Say why a driving license is advantageous
Recommend a driving school
Give extra guidance/tips

Write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any addresses.

"}},{"id":"YsGbnhC2AK","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Write\nat least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any addresses."}},{"id":"h5aO1PZCK1","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Now take a look below at the IELTS General Writing Task 1 informal letter sample question and answer."}},{"id":"9WyXZ13u6s","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Begin your letter as follows:"}},{"id":"sXoGWExpTa","type":"raw","data":{"html":"

Dear Robin

I am glad to hear that you have finally decided to learn to drive. The idea of learning to drive will change your life.

But firstly, you must have your driving license which is a way to remove all the restrictions to drive anywhere with freedom. You will be independent in handling routine tasks for example office, shopping etc. Moreover, it is a social and legal responsibility to be an ideal citizen.

Secondly, you must search for a good driving school with supportive and experienced instructors. I would like to recommend Hall Driving School downtown. I, myself, have learnt from this well-known driving school. All the instructors are well-educated and experienced professionals. They will make you learn in both theoretical as well as practical aspects. Moreover, you will also learn the traffic rules that are the most important in today’s life.

To become perfect in all aspects you need to appear for an exam to test your knowledge of driving before obtaining a license. I think a two-week course will be enough for you to be perfect and clear the driving trust.

I hope my advice will serve the purpose. Looking forward to hearing from you.

Love,

Robert

"}},{"id":"WFGlONlm78","type":"header","data":{"text":"Semi-Formal Letter in IELTS General Writing Task 1","level":3}},{"id":"4lNg_eDn8o","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"This is a letter that is written to someone you know personally but is not a close friend or relative. It is less formal than a formal letter but more formal than an informal letter. Further, look below at the format for semi-formal letters in IELTS general writing task 1."}},{"id":"oE8OcwccjD","type":"header","data":{"text":"1. Format of IELTS Semi-Formal Letter","level":4}},{"id":"BIx0mMZWvz","type":"list","data":{"style":"unordered","meta":{},"items":[{"content":"Dear (Mr/Mrs and Name)","meta":{},"items":[]},{"content":"Paragraph 1- State the purpose or introduce the letter ","meta":{},"items":[]},{"content":"Paragraph 2- Give details","meta":{},"items":[]},{"content":"Paragraph 3- Add supporting details if required","meta":{},"items":[]},{"content":"I hope to hear from you","meta":{},"items":[]},{"content":"Yours faithfully","meta":{},"items":[]},{"content":"(Your full name)","meta":{},"items":[]}]}},{"id":"WYxQlcCs1S","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"This is the format for the semi-formal letter in IELTS writing task 1. The next section will cover the types or categories in which you need to write the semi-formal letter."}},{"id":"pj6HPVTs5z","type":"header","data":{"text":"2. Types of Semi-Formal Letters You Can Encounter","level":4}},{"id":"kssIEZuaTZ","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"This part will talk about the types of semi-formal letters that can appear in your exam. Take a look for a better understanding."}},{"id":"eTO8ZLKE_d","type":"list","data":{"style":"unordered","meta":{},"items":[{"content":"Letter of Resignation","meta":{},"items":[]},{"content":"Letter of Apology","meta":{},"items":[]},{"content":"Letter of Acceptance","meta":{},"items":[]},{"content":"Letter of Request","meta":{},"items":[]},{"content":"Letter of Suggestions","meta":{},"items":[]}]}},{"id":"WXrWfUuUNj","type":"header","data":{"text":"3. Semi-Formal Letter Sample","level":4}},{"id":"ddFPTp9YXq","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"The following section will let you know about IELTS general writing task 1 semi-formal letter sample with the answer. To excel in the IELTS letter writing task you must practice the samples for each letter. Thus, look for the question below and then read the solution in detail."}},{"id":"7B4NlPbDe0","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Writing Task 1"}},{"id":"Yb948fSng8","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"You should spend about 20 minutes on this task."}},{"id":"imf3wAtyCt","type":"raw","data":{"html":"

You were absent from an important event held by the company you work for.

Write a letter to your manager. In your letter:

Apologize for your absence and explain the reasoning
Explain why you had to be at the other event
Explain what you will do to catch up

Write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any addresses.

"}},{"id":"p1OdHfQDEd","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Write\nat least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any addresses."}},{"id":"Cf51EIaQFu","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Now take a look below at the IELTS General Writing Task 1 semi-formal letter sample question and answer."}},{"id":"DglsKRs4Mf","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Begin your letter as follows:"}},{"id":"toV3D1t2CX","type":"raw","data":{"html":"

Dear Mr. Ashish,

I am writing regarding my absence from the annual company business meeting held last week.

Firstly, I would like to formally apologize for not being able to attend the business meeting. I recognize the importance of the event, mainly in terms of networking and growing as a team. However, my mother had an intrusive heart surgery last weekend, and I spent the last week taking care of her at home.

While the surgery was not dangerous, it was not a routine procedure either. My mother needed constant support and faced a long road to recovery. Since I am an only child of my mother, she relied on me during this difficult period. Also, my presence was an important part of her well-being.

To catch up on what was covered during the event, I have scheduled a meeting with Mr. Andrew from the Finance department. After meeting with Mr. Andrew, I am confident enough that I will be brought up to speed with the rest of the team and ready to start working.

Thank you for understanding.

Sincerely,

Rishabh Malik

"}},{"id":"DggyntUqCa","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Overall, these are the IELTS general writing task 1 samples with their required answers. In the final section, we will look over some tips to excel in the IELTS writing task 1."}},{"id":"sp2zE93unE","type":"header","data":{"text":"Tips to Ace in IELTS General Writing Task 1","level":2}},{"id":"NxsnbqUaxC","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"To increase your performance in IELTS general writing task 1, you should be well aware of the techniques and strategies. Thus, learn about IELTS general writing task 1 tips for effective scores."}},{"id":"C6NorEPmlO","type":"list","data":{"style":"unordered","meta":{},"items":[{"content":"Identify the type of letter and its purpose after reading the question.","meta":{},"items":[]}]}},{"id":"FhM0a3F3kZ","type":"list","data":{"style":"unordered","meta":{},"items":[{"content":"Pay attention to who you are writing and the relationship you have with that person.","meta":{},"items":[]}]}},{"id":"6-XC1ad9pO","type":"list","data":{"style":"unordered","meta":{},"items":[{"content":"Understand the IELTS exam format for the General Training before appearing for the exam.","meta":{},"items":[]}]}},{"id":"sClEgiJ2lt","type":"list","data":{"style":"unordered","meta":{},"items":[{"content":"Use all three bullet points to structure your letter properly.","meta":{},"items":[]}]}},{"id":"h7vz_QN2u5","type":"list","data":{"style":"unordered","meta":{},"items":[{"content":"Use your imagination to fill in details like names of the people in your letter.","meta":{},"items":[]}]}},{"id":"ZkbmnkiwqH","type":"list","data":{"style":"unordered","meta":{},"items":[{"content":"Manage your time effectively.","meta":{},"items":[]}]}},{"id":"arMmVhv_Ss","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Suggested Read: Vocabulary for Pie Chart"}},{"id":"yn0GLKf1ty","type":"header","data":{"text":"Conclusion","level":2}},{"id":"z_ZZSkS4HD","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"To conclude, we have discussed everything about IELTS general writing task 1, including assessment factors, letters, format, samples, and tips. However, to be prepared for this task candidate needs more and more practice. Thus, if you are in doubt about where and how you can prepare for IELTS then you have landed on the right page. Connect with Gradding.com and start your IELTS exam preparation with us today. Also, take our free IELTS writing mock test online or offline."}},{"id":"JYbu0Hy6rA","type":"header","data":{"text":"FAQs","level":2}},{"id":"AE5jR0NOAE","type":"header","data":{"text":"1. Can an IELTS result come before 13 days?","level":3}},{"id":"Nbs24FZSlo","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"No, your IELTS result and Test Report Form (TRF) will be available 13 days after you complete the test."}},{"id":"Lgq1SBJf7O","type":"header","data":{"text":"2. Which types of letters can be asked in IELTS general writing task 1?","level":3}},{"id":"TnWJqmF195","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"In the IELTS general writing task 1, 3 types of letters can be asked and they are either Formal, Informal or Semi-formal letter."}},{"id":"EZLcmXrA61","type":"header","data":{"text":"3. What is asked in IELTS general writing task 1?","level":3}},{"id":"DDYVOSjFhV","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"In the IELTS general writing task 1 questions and answers, you will be given a common topic such as apologizing for missing a friend’s party, advising a friend etc."}},{"id":"GWmOh7NSgv","type":"header","data":{"text":"4. How can I practice writing for IELTS general?","level":3}},{"id":"5Zy1ZEBczm","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"You must solve the samples for each letter. Thus, we have also provided the above IELTS general training writing task 1 with sample and answer in detail."}},{"id":"YMVsNPUuoW","type":"header","data":{"text":"5. How to start a letter in IELTS?","level":3}},{"id":"voWC0Ufewk","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Start your letter in IELTS by clearly stating your purpose and why you are writing. It should be done in the opening paragraph."}}],"version":"2.30.7"}