Key takeaways
- General Training Task 1 is always a letter, and the tone depends on who you are writing to: formal, semi formal or informal.
- Cover every bullet point in the task, usually in separate short paragraphs, and write at least 150 words.
- Match the greeting and sign off to the tone: Dear Sir or Madam with Yours faithfully, Dear Mr Smith with Yours sincerely, and Dear Anna with Best wishes.
- Plan for two minutes, write for 15 and check for three.
If you take IELTS General Training, Writing Task 1 asks you to write a letter of at least 150 words in about 20 minutes. The task gives a situation and three bullet points, such as complaining about a service, asking for information or inviting a friend. The examiner checks that you answer every bullet point, organise the letter clearly and use language that suits the reader.
Three types of letter
| Type | Who you write to | Greeting | Sign off | Tone |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Formal | A manager, company or official you do not know | Dear Sir or Madam | Yours faithfully | Polite, direct, no contractions |
| Semi formal | Someone you know slightly, such as a neighbour or landlord | Dear Mr Smith or Dear Ms Jones | Yours sincerely or Kind regards | Polite and friendly |
| Informal | A friend or relative | Dear Anna | Best wishes or See you soon | Relaxed, with contractions |
A reliable structure
- Opening line: say why you are writing ('I am writing to complain about...', 'I just wanted to ask if...').
- Paragraph for bullet point 1: give the key details.
- Paragraph for bullet point 2: explain further, or describe the effect.
- Paragraph for bullet point 3: make the request, suggestion or offer.
- Closing line: a polite ending, such as 'I look forward to hearing from you', then the sign off.
Useful phrases by purpose
- Complaining: I was extremely disappointed with..., I would be grateful if you could...
- Requesting: I was wondering if you could..., Could you please let me know...
- Apologising: I am sorry for any inconvenience, Please accept my apologies.
- Inviting: I would love you to come, It would be great if you could join us.
- Thanking: Thank you so much for..., I really appreciate your help.
What the examiner looks for
Letters are marked on task achievement (all bullet points covered, with a clear purpose), coherence and cohesion (logical paragraphs and linking), lexical resource (suitable vocabulary and tone) and grammatical range and accuracy. A letter that is too casual for a manager, or too stiff for a friend, loses marks even if the grammar is accurate.
Common mistakes
- Missing a bullet point or giving it only one sentence.
- Mixing formal and informal language in one letter.
- Starting with a long background story before stating the purpose.
- Writing under 150 words, or copying the bullet points word for word.
- Forgetting to match the sign off to the greeting.
Try the letter tasks in our IELTS Writing practice tests, such as the General Training tests on a hotel complaint, a weekend break and looking after a neighbour's house, and read the notes under each question. To improve your sentences, see complex sentences for IELTS Writing.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to write addresses in the letter?
No. The task says you do not need to write any addresses. Start with the greeting.
How do I know whether to be formal or informal?
Look at who the reader is. A stranger or someone in authority needs a formal letter, a friend needs an informal one and someone you know a little needs a semi formal tone.
Should I use contractions?
Avoid contractions in formal and semi formal letters. They are natural in informal letters.
How long should each paragraph be?
Two to four sentences. Each bullet point should have its own paragraph with enough detail to show you have answered it fully.