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IELTS Sample Letters for Writing Task 1, Sample Answers and Questions

IELTS sample letters for Writing Task 1 with clear examples, structures, tips, and model answers to help you prepare effectively.
authorImagePorishmita Paul20 May, 2025
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IELTS Sample Letters for Writing Task 1, Sample Answers and Questions

IELTS Sample Letters for Writing Task 1: IELTS General Training Writing Task 1 asks test takers to write a letter in response to a given situation. This IELTS Writing Task 1 evaluates your ability to communicate clearly and appropriately in written English for daily social and workplace contexts. Understanding the types of letters and practicing with sample questions is essential to achieve a high IELTS band scores.

Types of IELTS Sample Letters for Writing Task 1

In Task 1 of the General Training Writing module, you are required to write a letter of at least 150 words. The task includes a brief description of a situation followed by three bullet points you must address in your letter. You have 20 minutes to complete this task.

The letter can be:

  • Formal – written to someone you don’t know personally, like a company manager or public authority.

  • Semi-formal – written to someone you know professionally or casually, such as a neighbour or colleague.

  • Informal – written to a friend or close acquaintance.

Check:- Types of IELTS Writing Task 1 questions

Types of Letters in IELTS Writing Task 1

It is important to recognise the type of letter you're being asked to write. Here are the three main types:

Letter Type

Recipient

Tone

Example Situation

Formal

Someone you don’t know personally

Formal

Writing to a company or government office

Semi-formal

Someone you know in a professional setting

Polite but not overly formal

Writing to your landlord or teacher

Informal

A friend or close acquaintance

Casual and friendly

Writing to a friend or family member

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Structure of an IELTS Letter

To write an effective letter, you should follow a clear structure:

  1. Greeting (Dear Sir/Madam, Dear Mr Smith, Dear John)

  2. Introduction (State the purpose of the letter)

  3. Body Paragraph 1 (Address the first bullet point)

  4. Body Paragraph 2 (Address the second bullet point)

  5. Body Paragraph 3 (Address the third bullet point)

  6. Closing (Express expectations or gratitude)

  7. Sign-off (Yours sincerely, Best regards, etc.)

Also Check:

IELTS Sample Letter (Formal)

You recently ordered an item online, but the item arrived damaged. Write a letter to the online store.

In your letter:

  • Explain the situation

  • Describe the damage

  • Say what you want the company to do

Dear Sir or Madam,

I am writing to express my dissatisfaction with an item I purchased from your online store on 10 May 2025. I ordered a set of ceramic dishes (Order ID: 347891) and received the package yesterday.

Unfortunately, upon opening the parcel, I discovered that two of the plates were broken. The packaging appeared to be insufficient, and it seems the items were damaged during transit.

I would appreciate it if you could send me a replacement for the damaged items or issue a full refund. I have attached photographs of the broken plates as proof.

I look forward to your prompt response.

Yours faithfully,
James Taylor

IELTS Sample Letter (Semi-formal)

You live in a rented flat. The heating system has stopped working. Write a letter to your landlord.

In your letter:

  • Explain the situation

  • Describe how it is affecting you

  • Say what you would like the landlord to do

Dear Mr Singh,

I hope you are well. I am writing to inform you about an issue with the heating system in the flat I rent at 45 Greenview Avenue.

Since the past two days, the central heating has not been working. As the temperatures have dropped significantly, the flat has become quite uncomfortable, especially during the evenings. This is affecting my sleep and daily routine.

I would be grateful if you could arrange for a technician to repair the system at your earliest convenience. Please let me know if you would like me to coordinate with a repair service.

Thank you for your attention to this matter.

Best regards,
Sara Mitchell

IELTS Letter Writing Essential Tips

IELTS Sample Letter (Informal)

Your friend is coming to stay at your house while you are away. Write a letter to your friend.

In your letter:

  • Give your friend instructions about how to get into the house

  • Tell your friend what things he or she can do in your absence

  • Explain how to contact you

Dear Tom,

I’m so glad you’ll be staying at my place while I’m away next week! I’ve left the spare key under the flower pot near the back door. Once inside, feel free to use the guest room upstairs.

While I’m gone, you can use the Wi-Fi, watch Netflix on the TV, and even help yourself to the snacks in the kitchen. If the weather’s nice, the garden’s also a great place to relax.

If you need to reach me, just send a message on WhatsApp or email me. I’ll be checking both regularly.

Take care and enjoy your stay!

Cheers,
Alex

IELTS Writing Task 1 Related Links
IELTS Writing Task 1 Lessons Tips IELTS Writing Task 1 Table Chart
IELTS Writing Task 1 Line Graph IELTS Sample Charts for Writing Task 1
Types of IELTS Writing Task 1 Questions IELTS Writing Task 1 Life Cycle Diagram

Common Types of Letters in Task 1

Here are some common letter types you might encounter in the IELTS General Writing Task 1:

Letter Type

Typical Situation

Tone

Complaint

Faulty product, poor service, noise disturbance

Formal

Request

Asking for information, favours, documents

Formal/Semi-formal

Apology

Missing an event, causing inconvenience

Informal/Semi-formal

Invitation

Inviting a friend or colleague

Informal/Semi-formal

Advice/Recommendation

Suggesting actions or offering help

Informal/Semi-formal

Explanation

Giving reasons for an absence, delay, or issue

Formal/Informal

 
IELTS Writing Task 1 Related Links
IELTS General Writing Task 1 IELTS Writing Task 1 Connectors
IELTS Pie Chart Writing Task 1 IELTS Writing Word Limit Guidelines

Guidance of PW IELTS

Physics Wallah provides top-notch online IELTS coaching tailored for students. This course aims to effectively support students in their IELTS preparation journey.

IELTS Exam Other Related Links
IELTS exam IELTS Academic Vs General
IELTS Registration IELTS Eligibility Criteria
IELTS Exam Pattern IDP IELTS Test Centers
IELTS Cut Off IELTS Syllabus

IELTS Sample Letters for Writing Task 1 FAQs

How many words should I write for IELTS Writing Task 1?

A candidate should write at least 150 words for IELTS Writing Task 1. Remember answers below the minimum writing limit may result in a penalty.

Can I use contractions in formal letters?

No, students should not use contractions in formal letters for IELTS Writing Task 1.

How long should I spend on IELTS Writing Task 1?

Aspirants should spend around 20 minutes on the IELTS Writing Task 1. Managing time in Task 1 can ensure that you have enough time for IELTS Writing Task 2.

Can I write in bullet points in my IELTS letter?

No, students can not write in bullet points in their IELTS letter. Bullet points are accepted in formal or semi-formal letters.

What is the best way to start an informal letter?

To start an informal letter, use a friendly greeting such as “Dear”, or “Hi”, etc followed by a warm introduction.
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