Welcome to GoatGuru English! If you’re preparing for the IELTS General Training module, you know that the first writing task is a letter. This 150-word task might seem simple, but it requires a clear understanding of tone, structure, and purpose to achieve a Band 7 or higher.
The key to success is knowing the differences between the three letter types and practicing with realistic, exam-style prompts. To save you time and supercharge your preparation, we have created the ultimate list of 45 IELTS letter topics.
Understanding the 3 Types of IELTS Letters
Before you dive into the prompts, remember that your tone and language must match the letter type:
- Formal Letters: Written to someone you don’t know or in an official context (e.g., a manager, a bank, a newspaper editor).
- Use: “Dear Sir/Madam,” and “Yours faithfully,”
- Semi-Formal Letters: Written to someone you know but not on a close personal level (e.g., a landlord, a colleague, a teacher).
- Use: “Dear Mr. Smith,” and “Yours sincerely,”
- Informal Letters: Written to a friend, family member, or someone you know very well.
- Use: “Dear John,” and “Best wishes,” or “All the best,”
How to Use This List Effectively
- Practice Variety: Don’t just stick to one type. Ensure you practice a mix of formal, semi-formal, and informal letters.
- Time Yourself: Give yourself 20 minutes to plan and write each letter, just as you would in the real exam.
- Cover All Points: The prompt will always have three bullet points. You must address all three to score well on Task Achievement. Underline them before you start writing!
- Check Your Word Count: Aim for at least 150 words. Writing significantly less will cost you marks.
Ready to practice? Below, you will find 15 unique prompts for each letter type, designed to reflect the latest exam patterns and challenge you with a wide range of scenarios.
I. Formal Letters
When to Use: You are writing to someone you do not know, typically in an official or professional context. The purpose is often to complain, request information, apply for a job, or make a suggestion.
Key Differences:
- Tone: Polite, respectful, and objective. Avoid contractions (use “I am” instead of “I’m”).
- Structure: Highly structured with clear paragraphs for each bullet point.
- Language: Use passive voice and formal vocabulary (e.g., “inquire” instead of “ask,” “assistance” instead of “help”).
Starting a Formal Letter
You must use a formal salutation. If you know the person’s title/name, use it. If not, use the standard formal address.
- Dear Sir/Madam,
- Dear Mr. Smith,
- Dear Dr. Jones,
- To the Manager of [Company Name],
First Sentence (Stating the Reason for Writing):
- I am writing to express my dissatisfaction with… (Complaint)
- I am writing to apply for the position of… (Job Application)
- I am writing to inquire about… (Requesting Information)
- I am writing to bring to your attention… (Highlighting a problem)
- I am writing to make a formal suggestion regarding… (Making a suggestion)
Writing the Body of a Formal Letter
Use formal linking words and complex sentences to develop your points.
Making a Request:
- I would be grateful if you could…
- I would like to request that you…
- Could you please provide me with information regarding…?
Expressing Dissatisfaction:
- I was extremely disappointed to find that…
- Unfortunately, the service I received was not up to the expected standard.
- I must complain about the poor quality of…
Making a Suggestion:
- I would strongly recommend that you consider…
- It would be highly beneficial if…
- One possible solution would be to…
Ending a Formal Letter
The closing must match the salutation.
- I look forward to your prompt response.
- Thank you for your attention to this matter.
- I trust you will take my concerns into consideration.
- Please do not hesitate to contact me if you require any further information.
Closing Phrase:
- Yours faithfully, (Use this if you started with “Dear Sir/Madam”)
- Yours sincerely, (Use this if you started with the person’s name, e.g., “Dear Mr. Smith”)
Formal Letter Topics:
- Complaint about Public Transport
You regularly use a bus service that connects your home to your workplace. Recently, you have faced several issues. Write a letter to the bus company manager. In your letter:- Describe the bus service you usually use.
- Explain the problems you have been experiencing.
- Suggest how the service could be improved.
- Job Application
You saw an advertisement for a part-time job in an international hotel. Write a letter to the hotel manager. In your letter:- Explain why you are interested in the job.
- Describe your relevant skills and experience.
- Suggest a time for an interview.
- Request for Information to City Council
You have recently moved to a new city and need information about recycling facilities. Write a letter to the local council. In your letter:- Introduce yourself and your reason for writing.
- Ask about the locations of recycling centres.
- Inquire about the types of materials that can be recycled.
- Formal Suggestion for a Public Park
You feel that a public park in your neighbourhood needs improvement. Write a letter to the head of the local parks department. In your letter:- Explain why you enjoy visiting the park.
- Describe the current problems with the park (e.g., lack of maintenance, insufficient facilities).
- Propose specific changes you would like to see.
- Letter to a Magazine Editor
You read an article in a magazine about the benefits of a vegetarian diet, but you feel it presented a one-sided view. Write a letter to the editor. In your letter:- Mention the article and where you read it.
- Explain why you think the view was unbalanced.
- Suggest what the magazine could do to present a more balanced perspective.
- Booking a Conference Venue
Your company is planning to organise a conference next month. You are responsible for finding a suitable venue. Write a letter to a hotel manager. In your letter:- Give details about the conference (dates, number of attendees).
- Specify your requirements for the venue and facilities.
- Ask about availability and pricing.
- Reporting Lost Item to Authorities
You lost a valuable item while travelling on a train. Fortunately, you are sure you left it on the train. Write a letter to the railway company’s lost property department. In your letter:- Describe the item you lost and where you think you lost it.
- Provide details about your journey (date, time, train number).
- Explain what you would like the company to do.
- Formal Invitation to a Speaker
Your college is organising a career fair and you would like a prominent business leader from your city to give a speech. Write a letter to this person. In your letter:- Introduce yourself and your college.
- Explain the purpose of the career fair and why you are inviting them.
- Suggest a possible date and time for the speech.
- Complaint about a Faulty Product
You recently purchased a kitchen appliance from a company’s online store. Upon delivery, you discovered it was damaged and does not work. Write a letter to the customer service manager. In your letter:- Provide the details of your purchase (product, order number).
- Describe the damage and the problem with the appliance.
- State what action you would like the company to take.
- Request for a Scholarship
You have been accepted to a university course but need financial assistance. Write a letter to the university’s scholarship committee. In your letter:- Express your enthusiasm for the course.
- Explain your financial situation and why you need the scholarship.
- Outline why you believe you are a deserving candidate.
- Proposal for a New Business Service
You have an idea for a new service that could benefit the company you work for. Write a formal proposal to your manager. In your letter:- Describe the new service you are proposing.
- Explain the potential benefits for the company.
- Suggest the next steps for implementing the idea.
- Formal Thanks for a Donation
You are the head of a local charity. A business recently made a significant donation. Write a letter to the owner of the business. In your letter:- Thank them for their generous donation.
- Explain how the money will be used.
- Invite them to a future charity event to see the impact of their contribution.
- Request for Permission to Film
You are a student filmmaker and want to film a short documentary in a local museum. Write a letter to the museum director. In your letter:- Introduce yourself and your project.
- Explain why the museum is a perfect location for your film.
- Request permission to film on a specific date and ask about any procedures.
- Feedback on a Public Service
You recently used the services of the public library and were very impressed. Write a letter to the head librarian. In your letter:- Explain which services you used and when.
- Describe what you found particularly helpful or efficient.
- Thank the staff for their excellent service.
- Application for a Visa Extension
You are a foreign student studying in an English-speaking country. You need to extend your student visa. Write a letter to the immigration office. In your letter:- State your reason for needing a visa extension.
- Provide details of your current course and your intended future studies.
- Enquire about the required documents and process.
II. Semi-Formal Letters
When to Use: You are writing to someone you know, but not on a close personal level. This includes your landlord, a colleague, a teacher, or a neighbour.
Key Differences:
- Tone: Polite and respectful, but warmer and more friendly than a formal letter. Contractions are acceptable.
- Structure: Still structured, but can be slightly more conversational.
- Language: A mix of formal and informal expressions. It’s a “professional-friendly” tone.
Starting a Semi-Formal Letter
Use the person’s title and last name unless you typically use their first name.
- Dear Mr. Thompson,
- Dear Ms. Garcia,
- Dear Professor Lee,
- Dear Dr. Patel,
First Sentence (Stating the Reason for Writing):
- I am writing to ask for your advice regarding…
- I’m writing to inform you that… (more neutral)
- I’m writing to apologise for the recent issue with…
- I hope this letter finds you well. I’m writing to… (slightly warmer)
Writing the Body of a Semi-Formal Letter
The language is direct but polite. You can express personal feelings more openly than in a formal letter.
Making a Request:
- I was wondering if it would be possible for you to…
- Would you mind checking…?
- I would really appreciate it if you could…
Apologising:
- I sincerely apologise for the inconvenience caused.
- I’m very sorry about the misunderstanding yesterday.
- Please accept my apologies for…
Explaining a Problem:
- I’m having a slight issue with…
- I wanted to let you know that the heating system doesn’t seem to be working.
- There has been a small problem with…
Ending a Semi-Formal Letter
The closing is polite and often includes a forward-looking statement.
- Thank you for your understanding.
- I hope to hear from you at your earliest convenience.
- Please let me know what you think.
- I look forward to seeing you next week.
Closing Phrase:
- Yours sincerely, (Most common and safe)
- Best regards, (Slightly more modern and friendly, but still professional)
- Kind regards,
Semi-Formal Letter Topics:
- Letter to a Landlord
You are living in a rented apartment, and you have recently encountered a problem. Write a letter to your landlord. In your letter:- Explain the problem (e.g., a leaking roof, broken heater).
- Describe how this problem is affecting you.
- Suggest a convenient time for a repairperson to visit.
- Apology to a Neighbour
You recently had a party at your home which caused some disturbance to your neighbour. Write a letter to apologise. In your letter:- Apologise for the noise and disturbance.
- Explain the reason for the party.
- Invite them to your home for a drink to make amends.
- Letter to a Course Coordinator
You are unable to submit a project on time for your evening class. Write a letter to your course coordinator. In your letter:- Explain the reason for the delay (e.g., work commitments, illness).
- Propose a new submission date.
- Assure him/her that the work is almost complete.
- Request for a Reference Letter
You are applying for a new job and need a reference letter. Write a letter to your former manager. In your letter:- Remind them where you worked together and your role.
- Give details of the job you are applying for.
- Explain why you are asking them for a reference and what qualities you hope they can highlight.
- Complaint to a Hotel Manager (as a Guest)
You recently stayed in a hotel for a week and were dissatisfied with the room service. Write a letter to the manager. In your letter:- Give details of your stay (dates, room number).
- Explain the specific issues you had with the room service.
- Suggest what compensation you would like to receive.
- Letter to a Colleague You Supervise
A colleague you supervise has been underperforming recently. Write a letter to them to discuss this. In your letter:- Express your concern in a constructive manner.
- Mention a specific project where their performance was below standard.
- Offer to meet and discuss how you can support them.
- Thanks to a Teacher/Tutor
You have just finished a course that you found very beneficial. Write a letter to your teacher. In your letter:- Explain what you enjoyed most about the course.
- Describe how the course has helped you.
- Thank the teacher for their teaching style and support.
- Letter to a New Pen Pal
You have been matched with a pen pal from another country through a cultural exchange program. Write your first letter to them. In your letter:- Introduce yourself and your family.
- Describe your daily life and interests.
- Ask them questions about their life and culture.
- Request for Time Off from Work
You need to take some unexpected time off from work. Write a letter to your manager. In your letter:- Explain the reason for your request (e.g., a family emergency).
- Specify the dates you will be absent.
- Assure your manager that you have delegated your urgent tasks.
- Feedback to a Seminar Organiser
You recently attended a professional seminar. Write a letter to the organiser. In your letter:- Mention what you liked about the seminar.
- Describe one or two areas that could be improved.
- Thank them for the opportunity and suggest a topic for a future seminar.
- Letter to a Host Family
You are going to stay with a host family while attending a language course abroad. Write a letter to them before you arrive. In your letter:- Introduce yourself and thank them for hosting you.
- Inform them of your arrival date and time.
- Mention any dietary requirements or allergies you have.
- Complaint about a Neighbour’s Pet
Your neighbour’s dog barks continuously during the day, causing a disturbance while you work from home. Write a letter to your neighbour. In your letter:- Explain the problem politely.
- Describe how it is affecting you.
- Suggest a possible solution.
- Recommendation for a Former Employee
A former employee who worked for you has applied to a new company and listed you as a reference. Write a letter of recommendation to the new employer. In your letter:- Describe your professional relationship with the applicant.
- Outline their key strengths and contributions.
- State your confidence in their abilities for the new role.
- Request for a Meeting with a Professor
You are a university student and want to discuss your research project with your professor. Write an email to request a meeting. In your letter:- Briefly state the topic of your research.
- Explain the specific areas where you need guidance.
- Suggest two possible times for the meeting.
- Letter to a Local Business Owner
You are a regular customer at a local café, but you have noticed a decline in the quality of the coffee recently. Write a letter to the owner. In your letter:- Explain that you are a loyal customer.
- Describe the recent change in quality.
- Express your hope that the standard will improve.
III. Informal Letters
When to Use: You are writing to a close friend, a family member, or someone you know very well.
Key Differences:
- Tone: Casual, friendly, and conversational. Feel free to use idioms, contractions, and exclamation points.
- Structure: Very flexible. You can use shorter paragraphs and more personal anecdotes.
- Language: Everyday, colloquial English. It should sound like you’re talking to them.
Starting an Informal Letter
Use the friend’s first name and a very casual, friendly opening.
- Dear Alex,
- Hi Sarah,
- Hello James,
First Sentence (Often a friendly opener before the main reason):
- How are you? Hope you’re doing well!
- Thanks for your last letter; it was great to hear from you.
- I’m sorry I haven’t written for a while, but I have some exciting news!
- You won’t believe what happened to me last week!
Writing the Body of an Informal Letter
Use questions, phrasal verbs, and informal expressions to create a natural flow.
Asking for Advice/Favour:
- Could you do me a huge favour?
- What do you think I should do?
- I was hoping you could help me with…
Sharing News (Good or Bad):
- I’m absolutely thrilled to tell you that…
- You’ll never guess what! I…
- I’m really sorry to have to tell you this, but…
Making a Suggestion/Invitation:
- Why don’t we meet up for coffee next week?
- How about coming to stay with me for the weekend?
- It would be amazing if you could come to the party!
Ending an Informal Letter
The closing is warm and friendly.
- Well, that’s all my news for now.
- I can’t wait to see you soon!
- Give my love to your family.
- Say hi to Mark for me!
Closing Phrase:
- Best wishes,
- All the best,
- Lots of love, (for very close friends/family)
- See you soon,
Informal Letter Topics:
- Invitation to a Celebration
You are planning to celebrate a special occasion (e.g., a birthday, graduation). Write a letter to your friend inviting them to the celebration. In your letter:- Explain what you are celebrating.
- Give the date, time, and venue of the event.
- Suggest what your friend could bring or wear.
- Apology for Missing an Event
You were supposed to attend a friend’s party but couldn’t make it at the last minute. Write a letter to apologise. In your letter:- Apologise for missing the party.
- Explain the reason why you couldn’t attend.
- Ask about how the party went and suggest meeting up soon.
- Thanks for a Gift/Hospitality
You recently stayed at your friend’s house for the weekend. Write a letter to thank them. In your letter:- Thank them for their hospitality.
- Mention a specific thing you enjoyed about your stay.
- Invite them to stay at your place in the near future.
- Asking for Advice
You are planning to take a holiday and are considering visiting your friend’s hometown. Write a letter to your friend. In your letter:- Express your interest in visiting their city.
- Ask for recommendations for places to stay and see.
- Inquire about the best time of year to visit.
- Sharing Some Good News
You have recently received some excellent news (e.g., getting a new job, passing an important exam). Write a letter to a friend to tell them the news. In your letter:- Explain what the good news is.
- Describe how you heard about it and how you felt.
- Tell them about your future plans related to this news.
- Request for a Favour
You are moving to a new apartment and need some help. Write a letter to a friend. In your letter:- Explain that you are moving and give the date.
- Ask if your friend is available to help you move.
- Offer to provide food and drinks as a thank you.
- Letter of Condolence
Your friend has recently lost a family member. Write a letter to express your sympathy. In your letter:- Express your sadness and offer your condolences.
- Share a positive memory you have of the person (if appropriate).
- Offer your help and support during this difficult time.
- Describing a Recent Vacation
You have just returned from a fantastic trip. Write a letter to a friend to tell them about it. In your letter:- Say where you went and who you travelled with.
- Describe two of the most memorable things you did.
- Suggest that your friend should visit this place too.
- Asking About a Friend’s Life Update
You haven’t heard from a close friend in a long time. Write a letter to them. In your letter:- Apologise for not being in touch and explain why you have been busy.
- Ask about what has been happening in their life.
- Tell them about an important event in your own life.
- Recommending a Book/Film
You have recently read a book or seen a film that you think your friend would love. Write a letter to them. In your letter:- Briefly describe the plot of the book/film.
- Explain why you enjoyed it so much and why you think they will too.
- Ask if they have any recommendations for you.
- Planning a Surprise Party for a Mutual Friend
You are planning a surprise party for a mutual friend. Write a letter to another close friend to organise it. In your letter:- Explain the plan for the surprise party.
- Ask for their help with specific tasks (e.g., inviting people, bringing food).
- Stress the importance of keeping it a secret.
- Congratulating a Friend on an Achievement
Your friend has just achieved something significant (e.g., running a marathon, having a baby, starting a business). Write a letter to congratulate them. In your letter:- Express your congratulations and excitement.
- Acknowledge the hard work you know it required.
- Suggest meeting up to celebrate properly.
- Letter About a New Hobby
You have recently started a new hobby that you are very enthusiastic about. Write a letter to a friend to tell them about it. In your letter:- Explain what the new hobby is and how you got into it.
- Describe what you enjoy about it.
- Try to persuade your friend to try it with you.
- Asking for a Recipe
You had a delicious meal at your friend’s house and would like to make it yourself. Write a letter to your friend. In your letter:- Thank them again for the lovely meal.
- Ask for the recipe for the specific dish you enjoyed.
- Tell them about a new restaurant you think they would like.
- Describing Your New Home
You have recently moved to a new house or apartment. Write a letter to a friend describing your new home. In your letter:- Describe the new neighbourhood and the house itself.
- Mention one thing you like and one thing you dislike about it.
- Invite your friend to come and visit you soon.
Your Action Plan:
- Identify the Type: Before you write a single word, look at the prompt and ask: “Who am I writing to?” This will tell you the tone.
- Memorise Openers/Closers: Learn 2-3 standard openings and closings for each type so you can start and finish confidently.
- Plan Your Bullets: Spend 2-3 minutes planning one paragraph for each of the three bullet points in the prompt.
- Practice with Purpose: Use the list of 45 prompts below to practice each type, consciously using the recommended expressions and language.
Now you are armed with the knowledge and the practice material. By practicing with these diverse prompts, you will be well-prepared for any letter topic that appears in the IELTS General Training exam. Remember to always identify the type of letter, cover all three bullet points, and use the appropriate tone and language. Good luck
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