Summary
Write A Letter
Approx. 20 Minutes
Write 150+ Words
Informal, Semi-Formal or Formal
Explained
The first task in the IELTS General Writing Exam is a letter. You are required to write an appropriate letter responding to a real world situation and it should take you around 20 minutes to complete. The content, style and language you use will depend on the situation you are given. For example, you might need to write in an informal way if you are writing to a friend, or in a formal way when writing to a local business. The task will also include the reason for the letter and points to include. Make sure you include all points and follow the IELTS writing marking criteria.
Writing Styles
Informal
Eg. Write a letter to a family member or close friend
Semi-Formal
Eg. Write a letter to a colleague you know quite well
Formal
Eg. Write a letter to your bank
Task Types
Requesting Information
Eg. Write a letter to request more information about a course you are interested in
Providing Information
Eg. Write a letter to a family member giving information about your upcoming vacation
Explaining a Problem or Situation
Eg. Write a letter to a local newspaper about plans to build a new shopping centre in your village
Explaining Your Needs / Making a Request
Eg. Write a letter to explain the problems you are having with the new technology in your office
Complaining About a Service or Product
Eg. Write a letter to complain about a faulty fridge you recently bought
Making a Suggestion or Recommendation
Eg. Write a letter to recommend places you think a friend should visit during their holiday
Example Letter Task
You have just moved into a new home and are planning to hold a party. You would like to invite your neighbour as a way to get to know them.
Write a letter to your neighbour. In your letter
- introduce yourself
- describe your plans for the party
- invite your neighbour to come
Write at least 150 words.
You do not need to write any addresses.
Begin your letter:
Dear ……….. ,
Remember!
This letter task tests your ability to write in a natural and appropriate way based on the given situation. Remember to be polite, clear or descriptive as necessary. Imagine this is a real letter. Use an appropriate style and suitable language.
