IELTS General Writing Task 1: Letter Samples and Band 9 Tips

The IELTS General Writing Task 1 requires you to write a letter based on a given situation. It assesses your ability to communicate effectively in everyday contexts, whether it’s a formal, semi-formal, or informal letter.  

The task checks your skills in organizing information, using the right tone, and expressing ideas clearly within 150 words. It’s an essential part of the IELTS General Training Writing test and plays a key role in determining your writing IELTS band score. 

In this guide, you’ll read more about the IELTS General Writing Task 1 format, types of letters, writing tips, sample answers with PDFs, common mistakes to avoid, and expert strategies to help you score higher.  

Whether you’re new to IELTS or improving your writing skills, this guide covers everything you need to prepare confidently. 

Also learn about: How to Improve IELTS Score from 6.5 to 7 

What is IELTS General Writing Task 1? 

IELTS General Writing Task 1 is the first part of the IELTS General Training Writing test, where you need to write a letter based on a given situation. The task aims to evaluate your ability to communicate effectively in practical, everyday scenarios, such as writing to a friend, employer, landlord, or a company. 

In this task, you’ll be given a prompt describing a situation, and you must write a letter of at least 150 words. The tone of your letter depends on the type of situation: 

• Formal – for professional or official communication (e.g., job application, complaint) 
• Semi-formal – for polite letters to someone you know but not personally (e.g., colleague, neighbor) 
• Informal – for personal letters to friends or family 

Assessment Criteria include: 

• Task Achievement (how well you address the question) 
• Coherence and Cohesion (organization and flow) 
• Lexical Resource (use of vocabulary) 
• Grammatical Range and Accuracy (sentence structure and correctness) 

Task Details	Key Information
Word Limit	Minimum 150 words
Time Limit	20 minutes
Letter Types	Formal, Semi-formal, Informal
Marking Criteria	Task Achievement, Coherence, Vocabulary, Grammar

Understanding the IELTS General Writing Task 1 format helps you plan, structure, and write effectively within the time limit, an essential step to achieving a high band score in IELTS Writing Task 1 General Training. 

Also Read: IELTS Preparation 2025: Top Study Tips and Resources 

IELTS General Writing Task 1 Format 

The IELTS General Writing Task 1 format is designed to test how well you can write a letter that fits a real-life situation. You’ll receive a short prompt describing a scenario and are asked to write a letter based on it. The task checks your ability to organize ideas, choose the right tone, and use clear, correct English. 

You should write a letter of at least 150 words within 20 minutes. The letter must be written in one of the three tones depending on the context: 

• Formal – addressing someone you don’t know personally (e.g., a manager, official) 
• Semi-formal – writing to someone you know in a professional or polite context 
• Informal – communicating with friends or family 

Basic Structure of IELTS General Writing Task 1: 

1. Greeting/Salutation – e.g., Dear Sir/Madam, Dear John 
2. Opening Statement – introduce the purpose of your letter 
3. Main Body Paragraphs – explain the details clearly 
4. Closing Statement – summarize or request action 
5. Sign-off – e.g., Yours sincerely, Best regards 

Aspect	Details
Word Limit	Minimum 150 words
Time Allowed	20 minutes
Tone	Formal, Semi-formal, Informal
Purpose	Inform, complain, request, invite, thank, or apologize

A good understanding of the IELTS writing task 1 general training format helps you plan better, structure your letter logically, and ensure it matches the tone required for the given situation. 

Explore: Free IELTS Exam Preparation Online Course 

Types of Letters in IELTS General Writing Task 1 

In IELTS General Writing Task 1, you are required to write one of three types of letters: formal, semi-formal, or informal. Each letter type has a specific purpose, tone, and structure, and knowing how to differentiate them is key to scoring well. 

Here’s a quick overview of the types of letters in IELTS General Writing Task 1: 

1. Formal Letters 

These are written to someone you don’t know personally, such as an employer, company representative, or government official. 
Purpose: Job applications, complaints, requests, or official inquiries. 
Tone: Polite and professional. 
Example: Writing to a hotel manager about a booking issue. 

Useful phrases: 

• I am writing to inquire about… 
• I would appreciate it if you could… 

2. Semi-Formal Letters 

These are used for polite communication with people you know, like a neighbor, teacher, or colleague. 
Purpose: Invitations, requests, or clarifications. 
Tone: Courteous but slightly more personal. 
Example: Writing to a neighbor to request help or share information. 

Useful phrases: 

• I hope you are doing well. 
• Could you please… 

3. Informal Letters 

Written to friends or family members in a friendly tone. 
Purpose: Invitations, sharing news, or expressing gratitude. 
Tone: Warm, personal, and conversational. 
Example: Writing to a friend to invite them to an event. 

Useful phrases: 

• How have you been? 
• Can’t wait to hear from you soon! 

Tip: Always match your tone and vocabulary with the letter type. Using an informal phrase in a formal letter can lower your IELTS writing score. 

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IELTS General Writing Task 1 Assessment Criteria 

In IELTS General Writing Task 1, your letter is evaluated based on four key assessment criteria. Understanding these can help you target areas that impact your band score the most. 

1. Task Achievement 

• Ensure your letter addresses all parts of the prompt. 
• Include all necessary information, such as purpose, details, and any requested points. 
• Stick to the word limit (minimum 150 words). 

2. Coherence and Cohesion 

• Organize your letter logically with clear paragraphs: introduction, main content, and conclusion. 
• Use linking words like furthermore, however, in addition to connect ideas. 
• Maintain a smooth flow to make your letter easy to read. 

3. Lexical Resource 

• Use appropriate vocabulary for the letter type (formal, semi-formal, or informal). 
• Avoid repetitive words; use synonyms and varied expressions. 
• Demonstrate your ability to use polite and natural phrases in context. 

4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy 

• Write with correct sentence structures and punctuation. 
• Use a mix of simple and complex sentences to show language flexibility. 
• Check for grammar, spelling, and tense consistency throughout the letter. 

Tip: Scoring well requires balancing all four criteria. Even if your ideas are strong, mistakes in grammar or inappropriate tone can lower your band score. 

By understanding these IELTS General Writing Task 1 assessment criteria, you can focus your preparation effectively and write letters that meet examiner expectations. 

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How to Plan and Write IELTS General Writing Task 1 

Successfully writing IELTS General Writing Task 1 requires careful planning and a structured approach. Following a step-by-step method can help you produce clear, coherent, and well-organized letters. 

Step 1 – Understand the Question Prompt 

• Read the prompt carefully to identify the purpose of the letter (formal, semi-formal, or informal). 
• Highlight key points or instructions you must address in your response. 
• Check for any specific requirements like tone, recipient, or details to include. 

Step 2 – Brainstorm and Organize Ideas 

• Take 2–3 minutes to jot down all relevant ideas. 
• Categorize them into introduction, main content, and conclusion. 
• Decide which ideas are most important to achieve task completion effectively. 

Step 3 – Structure the Letter Properly 

• Start with a salutation appropriate to the letter type. 
• Use clear paragraphs: 
• Introduction: State the purpose of the letter. 
• Body: Include all requested information logically. 
• Conclusion: Summarize or include a polite closing remark. 
• Maintain a coherent flow with linking words and clear sentences. 

Step 4 – Review and Proofread 

• Always check grammar, spelling, and punctuation to avoid losing marks. 
• Ensure the tone matches the letter type (formal/informal). 
• Verify that all key points from the prompt are included. 
• Make small improvements to vocabulary and sentence variety to enhance clarity. 

Tip: Spending 3–5 minutes on careful proofreading can significantly improve your IELTS General Writing Task 1 score. 

By following these steps, you can write letters that are clear, accurate, and aligned with IELTS assessment criteria. 

Also Read about IELTS Exam Slot Booking 2025: How to Book Your Test Date 

IELTS General Writing Task 1 Samples 

Practicing with IELTS General Writing Task 1 samples is one of the most effective ways to improve your writing skills. Reviewing model answers helps you understand the letter structure, tone, and vocabulary that examiners look for. 

IELTS General Writing Task 1 Samples with Answers 

• These samples provide ready-to-use examples for informal, semi-formal, and formal letters. 
• You can analyze sentence structures, linking words, and paragraphing to apply in your own writing. 
• Tip: Focus on how key points from the prompt are incorporated naturally in each sample. 

IELTS General Training Writing Task 1 Sample with Answer PDF 

• Downloadable PDFs offer offline practice and allow you to review multiple examples at your own pace. 
• They often include highlighted key phrases, vocabulary, and format tips for faster learning. 
• Use PDFs to time yourself while practicing to simulate real exam conditions. 

IELTS General Writing Task 1 Formal Letter Samples 

• Formal letter samples are crucial for understanding professional tone, polite expressions, and structured layouts. 
• These examples cover situations like complaints, requests, and official correspondence. 
• Practice with these samples to gain confidence in writing formal letters efficiently. 

Tip: Regularly analyzing and practicing from these samples helps you enhance your accuracy, vocabulary, and writing speed for the IELTS General Writing Task 1. 

If you are interested in IELTS academic or General Training, then you might like to know about difference between IELTS General Training vs IELTS Academic.   

Common Mistakes in IELTS General Writing Task 1 and How to Avoid Them 

Being aware of common mistakes can save valuable points in the IELTS General Writing Task 1.  Here’s what learners often get wrong and how to fix it. 

1. Ignoring the Letter Type 

• Mistake: Writing an informal letter when the prompt requires a formal tone, or vice versa. 
• Fix: Identify whether the letter is formal, semi-formal, or informal before you start. Use appropriate greetings, vocabulary, and closings. 

2. Poor Structure 

• Mistake: Writing letters without a clear introduction, body, and conclusion. 
• Fix: Follow a simple structure: 
• Opening – Address the recipient and state the purpose. 
• Body – Cover all points mentioned in the prompt. 
• Closing – End politely and summarize. 

3. Missing Key Points 

• Mistake: Skipping one or more bullet points from the task prompt. 
• Fix: Underline or note all points before writing. Ensure each is addressed in a separate paragraph. 

4. Grammar, Spelling, and Tone Errors 

• Mistake: Using incorrect verb forms, spelling mistakes, or inconsistent tone. 
• Fix: Proofread your letter. Focus on: 
• Grammar: Correct verb tenses, subject-verb agreement. 
• Spelling: Commonly misused words. 
• Tone: Maintain formal/informal style as per the letter type. 

5. Word Count Issues 

• Mistake: Writing too short or exceeding the recommended length. 
• Fix: Stick to 150–200 words. Use concise sentences to stay within the limit. 

Mistakes Checklist 

Mistake	How to Avoid
Wrong letter type	Identify formal, informal, or semi-formal
Poor structure	Follow opening, body, closing format
Missing key points	Note all points from prompt
Grammar & spelling errors	Proofread carefully
Word count issues	Stick to 150–200 words

Tip: Avoiding these mistakes ensures higher scores in IELTS General Writing Task 1, improves clarity, and demonstrates control over tone and structure. 

Convert your IELTS section scores to band scores and find overall band score by using our IELTS Band Score Calculator!   

IELTS General Writing Task 1 Tips 

Writing Task 1 in the IELTS General Training exam involves writing a letter based on a given situation. It could be formal, semi-formal, or informal, depending on the context. The key to scoring well is clear communication, proper structure, and using the right tone. Here are some essential tips to help you master this task. 

1. Understand the Task Clearly 

Before writing, read the prompt carefully. Identify: 

• Type of letter – formal, semi-formal, or informal. 
• Purpose – complaint, request, apology, or information. 
• Key points – usually 3 points you must cover. 

Tip: Underline important instructions so you don’t miss them. 

2. Follow the Right Structure 

A clear structure makes your letter easy to read. Use this format: 

Section	What to Include	Example Words/Phrases
Salutation	Address the recipient properly	Dear Sir/Madam, Hi John, Dear Mrs. Smith
Opening Sentence	State the purpose of the letter	I am writing to…, I am contacting you regarding…
Body Paragraphs	Cover the key points requested	Use clear paragraphs for each point; include details and explanations
Closing Sentence	Summarize or request action	I look forward to your reply, Thank you for your assistance
Sign-off	End appropriately based on tone	Yours faithfully, Best regards, Sincerely

3. Mind the Tone and Style 

The tone depends on your audience: 

• Formal – professional, polite, and respectful. Avoid contractions. 
• Semi-formal – polite but slightly relaxed. Some contractions are okay. 
• Informal – friendly and personal. Use casual phrases. 

Quick Tip: Match your vocabulary and greetings to the tone. For example, “I am writing to complain” is formal, while “Just wanted to let you know” is informal. 

4. Use Simple and Clear Language 

• Keep sentences short and precise. 
• Avoid unnecessary complex words. 
• Use linking words to connect ideas: Firstly, Moreover, In addition, Finally. 

Example Flow: 

1. Introduction: State reason for writing. 
2. Body: Explain each key point clearly. 
3. Conclusion: Summarize or make a request. 

5. Time Management 

You have 20 minutes for Task 1. A suggested approach: 

• 5 minutes – Analyze the question and plan points. 
• 12 minutes – Write the letter. 
• 3 minutes – Proofread for spelling, grammar, and tone. 

6. Common Mistakes to Avoid 

• Missing one of the required points. 
• Using the wrong tone or style. 
• Writing too short or exceeding word count (minimum 150 words). 
• Forgetting proper paragraphs and structure. 

By following these tips, you can approach IELTS General Writing Task 1 confidently, ensuring clarity and structure while demonstrating your English skills effectively. 

Confused about IELTS registration? Explore: Registration For IELTS: Step-by-Step IELTS Registration Process in India 

Practice Strategies for IELTS Writing Task 1 (General Training) 

Practicing effectively for IELTS General Writing Task 1 is key to improving both speed and accuracy. The goal is to communicate clearly while following the correct structure and tone. Here are some strategies to help you practice efficiently. 

1. Familiarize Yourself with Letter Types 

There are three main types of letters you might encounter: 

• Formal letters – To authorities, organizations, or professionals. 
• Semi-formal letters – To acquaintances or colleagues. 
• Informal letters – To friends or family. 

Practice Tip: Write at least two examples of each type. This builds confidence in using the correct tone and language. 

2. Plan Before Writing 

Spending a few minutes planning saves time and prevents mistakes. 

• Identify the purpose of your letter. 
• Note down the three key points you must cover. 
• Think of phrases or sentences for opening and closing lines. 

Example Planning Table: 

Key Point	Notes / Ideas	Example Phrases
Issue description	Late delivery of order	I am writing to inform you…
Request action	Ask for a refund	I would appreciate it if…
Express feelings	Frustration, disappointment	I am very concerned about…

 3. Practice Using Templates 

Having a few ready-to-use sentence structures can save time during the exam. 

• Opening: I am writing to… 
• Body: Firstly, I would like to… / In addition, I want to… 
• Closing: I look forward to your reply / Thank you for your support 

Tip: Avoid memorizing full letters; instead, practice adapting templates to different situations. 

4. Time Yourself 

You have only 20 minutes for Task 1, so practicing under time pressure is crucial. 

• 5 minutes for planning 
• 12–13 minutes for writing 
• 2–3 minutes for proofreading 

5. Review and Learn from Mistakes 

After writing each practice letter: 

• Check if you covered all key points. 
• Look for tone and style errors. 
• Correct grammar, punctuation, and spelling mistakes. 
• Note repeated errors and focus on improving them next time. 

6. Use Real Exam Prompts 

Practicing with authentic IELTS General Training Writing Task 1 prompts is the best way to prepare. 

• Search for past papers or sample questions online. 
• Simulate exam conditions to get used to writing within 20 minutes. 
• Rotate between formal, semi-formal, and informal prompts. 

By following these practice strategies consistently, even beginners can gain confidence, improve speed, and write clear, well-structured letters in the IELTS General Writing Task 1 exam. 

Also Read: IELTS Exam Fees 2025: Complete Fee Structure and Payment Guide 

Expert Tips to Score Band 8+ in IELTS General Writing Task 1 

Scoring a Band 8 or higher in IELTS General Writing Task 1 requires clarity, accuracy, and a polished writing style. Even beginners can achieve this by focusing on structure, tone, and language. Here are expert tips to help you reach that level. 

1. Master the Letter Structure 

A well-organized letter immediately impresses examiners. Always follow this structure: 

Section	Purpose	Tips
Salutation	Greet the recipient appropriately	Dear Sir/Madam (formal), Hi John (informal)
Opening Sentence	State the purpose of your letter clearly	I am writing to…, I am contacting you regarding…
Body Paragraphs	Cover all key points with details	Use separate paragraphs for each point. Include explanations and examples.
Closing Sentence	Summarize or make a polite request	I look forward to your reply, Thank you for your support
Sign-off	End according to tone	Yours faithfully, Best regards, Sincerely

Tip: Stick to this format to maintain flow and coherence. 

2. Use Appropriate Tone and Style 

Matching tone to the letter type is crucial for a high band: 

• Formal letters – Professional, polite, avoid contractions. 
• Semi-formal letters – Polite but slightly relaxed. 
• Informal letters – Friendly and personal, use conversational language. 

Quick Check: Ask yourself, “Does this sound natural for my reader?” If yes, you’re on the right track. 

3. Showcase Advanced but Clear Vocabulary 

Band 8 requires precise and varied vocabulary without overcomplicating sentences. 

• Use words like appreciate, concern, urgent, regarding appropriately. 
• Avoid repeating the same words; use synonyms. 
• Include polite expressions for requests or complaints: I would be grateful if… / Could you please… 

Example Phrase Table: 

Purpose	Phrases for Band 8+
Request	I would appreciate it if you could…
Complaint	I am concerned about…
Suggestion	May I suggest…
Thanks	Thank you for your prompt attention to this matter

 4. Pay Attention to Grammar and Sentence Variety 

• Mix simple, compound, and complex sentences. 
• Use correct tense consistently. 
• Avoid errors in articles, prepositions, and subject-verb agreement. 

Tip: Small grammar mistakes can lower your score, so double-check while proofreading. 

5. Time Management and Word Count 

• Plan: 3–5 minutes to outline your points. 
• Write: 12–15 minutes for the letter. 
• Proofread: 2–3 minutes for spelling, grammar, and tone. 
• Word Count: Stick to 150–180 words. Too short or too long can affect your band. 

6. Practice Regularly with Feedback 

• Write letters daily using different prompts. 
• Review your work for tone, grammar, and clarity. 
• Seek feedback from teachers or peers to identify weak areas. 

Following these tips consistently can significantly improve your performance and help you score Band 8+ in IELTS General Writing Task 1. 

Conclusion 

Mastering IELTS General Writing Task 1 is all about clarity, structure, and consistent practice. By understanding the different letter types, following the proper format, and using the right tone and vocabulary, you can communicate your ideas effectively.  

Regular practice, time management, and reviewing your work for mistakes will help you improve steadily. Even beginners can aim for a high band by focusing on planning, covering all key points, and refining grammar and sentence variety.  

Remember, consistency and smart strategies are the keys to confidence and success in this task.