IELTS Writing Topics

Category Icon

Letter Writing

IELTS General Task 1: Letter Writing

The IELTS General Writing Task 1 assesses your ability to communicate effectively in everyday situations through letter writing. The letter can be formal, semi-formal, or informal, depending on the context and the recipient. You are expected to write at least 150 words and complete the task within 20 minutes. 
 

Common types of letters include requests, complaints, invitations, apologies, or explanations. A well-written letter should demonstrate good grammar, vocabulary, and coherence to achieve a high band score.
 

Read more about the IELTS General Writing exam.
 


11 Topics

More about cue cards

FAQs

Q. What is formal letter writing?

Ans. Formal letter writing follows a structured format and is used for professional or official purposes, such as job applications, complaints, or requests. It includes a formal greeting, introduction, body paragraphs, and a polite closing. The tone should be respectful and concise, avoiding informal language or contractions.

Q. How to write a letter in IELTS Task 1?

Ans. In IELTS Task 1 (General Training), you must write a letter based on a given situation. Identify the letter type (formal, semi-formal, or informal), use appropriate greetings, address all bullet points, and maintain a clear structure. The letter should be around 150 words, with logical progression and suitable vocabulary.

Q. How can I get 7.5 in IELTS Writing General?

Ans. To achieve a 7.5 band score in IELTS General Writing, write clear, well-structured responses addressing all task requirements. Use varied vocabulary, accurate grammar, and linking words for coherence. Ensure your letter and essay are logically organised with strong supporting ideas and minimal language errors.

Q. How to do Writing Task 1 in IELTS?

Ans. In Academic Task 1, summarise visual data (graphs, charts, tables) in at least 150 words, focusing on trends and key details. In General Training, write a letter using the correct tone and format. Maintain logical flow, accurate grammar, and a range of vocabulary to meet scoring criteria.
 

Q. Where can I find letter writing IELTS examples?

Ans. You can find letter writing IELTS examples in official IELTS preparation books, online resources, and practice websites. These sources provide various letter-writing examples for IELTS, covering formal, informal, and semi-formal letters. Reviewing these samples can help you understand the structure, tone, and key phrases needed for a high-scoring response.