IELTS General Training Writing Task 1

IELTS General Training Task 1: How to Write a Winning Letter

For General Training test-takers, Task 1 involves writing a letter in response to a given situation. You are assessed on your ability to engage in personal written communication, using the correct tone and format.

Understanding Tone & Register

The first step is to identify who you are writing to, as this determines your tone:

Formal Letter: To someone you don’t know (e.g., a bank manager, a company, a newspaper editor). Use Mr./Ms., formal language, and avoid contractions.
Semi-Formal Letter: To someone you know but not well (e.g., a landlord, a colleague). Tone is polite and respectful but can be slightly less rigid than a formal letter.
Informal (Personal) Letter: To a friend or family member. Use informal language, contractions, and idiomatic expressions.

The Letter Prompt

The prompt will give you three bullet points you must address in your letter. They will tell you what information to include.

The Letter Structure (4 Paragraphs)

Purpose & Opening (Paragraph 1): State why you are writing the letter. (“I am writing to express my dissatisfaction with…” / “I’m writing to thank you for…”).
Body Paragraph 1 (Paragraph 2): Address the first bullet point from the prompt. Explain the situation in detail.
Body Paragraph 2 (Paragraph 3): Address the second bullet point. This is often where you request action, provide suggestions, or give more context.
Closing (Paragraph 4): Address the third bullet point and a polite closing. (“I look forward to your reply.” / “Please let me know if you require any further information.”). Finish with a closing like Yours sincerely, (if you know the name) or Yours faithfully, (if you don’t) for formal letters, or Best regards, / All the best, for informal ones. Sign your name underneath.

Essential Vocabulary for GT Task 1

Formal Openings: I am writing to inquire about… / I am writing to complain about…
Making Requests: I would be grateful if you could… / Would you please…?
Expressing Thanks: I truly appreciate… / Thank you kindly for…
Offering Suggestions: I strongly recommend that… / Perhaps you could consider…
Formal Closings: I look forward to hearing from you at your earliest convenience.

GT Task 1 Dos and Don’ts

DO cover all three bullet points completely. This is crucial for Task Achievement.
DO use the correct tone from start to finish.
DO include a clear purpose statement in your opening line.
DON’T use bullet points or note form in your answer. Write in full paragraphs.
DON’T forget to invent realistic details to fully explain the situation described in the prompt.
DON’T memorise entire letters, but do practice useful phrases for different situations.