IELTS General Writing Task 1 formal Topics/Questions 2026

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This section presents a list of common IELTS General Writing Task 1 formal topics. All these topics were added in 2026 by students who took the IELTS recently. Pick a random topic and start practicing and improving your writing skills.

formal
You want to appear for an interview to an another city by train. The train departed late form the station and you could not reach in time. Write a letter to the railway officer of your city. In your letter : * When you travelled and why the train departed late * What happened as a result * How you feel about the problem

formal
You recently ordered furniture from an online retailer. The delivery and installation experience was very disappointing/ satisfying. Write a Letter to the manager of the online store to complain about/ praise the service. In your Letter: Say what you ordered Explain what happened/ describe the service Tell the manager how you feel

formal
A large company in your area has decided to spend a certain amount of money, either to sponsor a local children's sports team for two years, or to pay for two open-air concerts. It has asked for feedback from the general public. Write a letter to the company. In your letter: - describe the benefits of sponsoring the sports team - summarise the benefits of paying for the concerts - say how you think the company should spend some mone

formal
7.Write a letter to a book store manager who is living in another city. Ask him/her to make available a book that you are interested in. In your letter, you should tell: – What book you are looking for? – Why you need this book? – How you plan to purchase the book?

formal
On a recent holiday, you lost a valuable item. Fortunately you have travel insurance to cover the cost of the lost item. Write a letter to the insurance manager. In your letter: describe the item you lost, explain how you lost it, tell the insurance company what you would like them to do.

formal
you are leaving your job and would like to invite your friend as your replacement. Write a litter to your friend. In your letter, you should: describe the job explain the reason you leave tell him/her why you recommend the job to them.

formal
you live near a public school. the school has asked local residents to help with the maintenance of school buildings and play area. Write a letter to the principal. in your letter, -explain why you would like to help -tell them how you can help -let them know when you are available

formal
One of your colleagues is leaving for a new job, and your manager has asked you to arrange a farewell party for him/her. Write a letter to your manager. In your letter, suggest a suitable date and time for the party recommend a place discuss the food and entertainment options that should be available You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear Mr/Mrs ..................,

formal
You have read an article in a newspaper that contains incorrect information about your town/city. Write a letter to the editor of the newspaper to inform them about the mistake. In your letter - Describe your knowledge of the city. - Explain what information was incorrect in your opinion. - Suggest how the editor could fix this error.

formal
A road near your home is damaged. Please write your town/city council to complain about it. In your letter •tell them who you are and where you live; •explain the nature of your complaint; •say what you would like them to do about it.

formal
Write a letter of complaint to a company outlining a problem you had while visiting one of their stores. In your letter include: 􀈈􀀃 what the problem was 􀈈􀀃 why this problem has upset you 􀈈􀀃 what you want to happen as a result of your letter

formal
You recently used a taxi and left some important documents there. Write a letter to the taxi manager and say: – Describe what you left and where it happened. – Why are these papers important? – What would you like the manager to do about it?

formal
You live in a room in a college where you share it with another student. You find it very difficult to study and work there because your roommate always has friends visiting. He/she has parties in the room and sometimes borrows your things without asking you. Write a letter to the Accommodation Officer at the college and ask for a new room next term. You would prefer a single room and explain your reasons.

formal
You recently ordered an item of clothing through a store’s website. When you received it, you discovered that it was not the same item you had ordered. Write a letter to the store manager. In your letter, Describe the item you ordered Explain what was wrong with the item you received Say what you would like the manager to do

formal
You should spend about 20 minutes on this task. There have been some problems with the bus service, especially its reliability, in your area over the last two weeks. Write a letter to the manager of the bus company. In your letter • describe what the problems are • explain how these problems are affecting you • suggest what you would like the company to do

formal
Our local hospital has advertised people to do unpaid work helping at the hospital. You would like to do some work at the hospital in your free time. Write a letter to the hospital. In your letter •explain why you would like to do unpaid work at the hospital •say what type of unpaid work you would be able to do • give details of when you would be available for this work

formal
You are a library. A new resident has inquired about becoming a member of your library. In your letter: • welcome them and introduce the library • provide information about membership requirements the library facilities • write about the opening hours and borrowing policies of the library

formal
You recently attended a series of English lessons in a language school. However, you were unhappy with the teaching quality. Write a letter to the director of the school. In your letter: • explain why you chose to study English at the school • describe the problems you had with the lessons • suggest how the classes could be improved

formal
A local newspaper is organising an award ceremony for local people who make a significant contribution to the community. Write a letter to the editor to recommend someone you know for an award. In your letter: • say who the person is • describe something they have done to benefit the local community • explain why you think they deserve to be given an award.

formal
You have recently been in a sports centre and noticed some issues in the changing rooms. Write a letter of complaint to the manager of the centre and say – What was the problem? – Explain why it is bothering you. – Suggest a possible solution.

formal
You should spend about 20 minutes on this task. People in your area are having problems with their internet connection. Write a letter to the company which provides the connection. In your letter, describe the problems explain how it is affecting people say what the company should do to help Write at least 150 words.

formal
You have just read an article in a national newspaper which claims that Darwin centres in your country or look very similar to each other. You do not fully agree with this opinion. Write a letter to the editor of the newspaper. In your letter Say which points in the article you agree with Explain ways in which your town centre is different from most other town centres Over to give a guided tour of your town to the writer of the article

formal
You are not satisfied with the service of a restaurant. Write a letter to the manager. 1. Describe the problem 2. Explain how it affected you 3. Suggest what the manager should do.

formal
Last week, you lost your luggage while traveling on holiday. Luckily, you have travel insurance. Write letter to the manager of your insurance company. In your letter: - Describe the characteristics of what you lost - Explain how you lost it - Tell the insurance company what you need from them

formal
you recently bought a large expensive item but when it was delivered to your home you found some problems with it. Write a letter to the manager of the shop. In your letter Give details of what you bought Describe the problems with your item Say what you want the shop to do

formal
Your work place does not have a parking area and it is causing some problems. Write a letter to your manager, Describe the problems it has caused. Explain what benefits a parking area would bring to the company. Suggest a solution.

formal
Writing task 1 general training -You have bought some clothing online and are not satisfied with your purchase Write letter to the company that you bought the clothing from.In your email -give details of the purchase Describe the problem -explain why you need a replacement urgently

formal
You recently made a journy by train. When you got on the train, you realiesd you had left a bag on the platform. Right a letter to the station manager . In your letter: give details of where and when you left the bag. describe the bag and its content suggest how you get the bag back

formal
You should spend about 20 minutes on this task. You work for a small company. You need to arrange for some time off work. Write a letter to your employer. In your letter • explain why you want to take time off work • give details of how long you will be away • suggest how you will make up for the lost time Write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear……………………,

formal
You have just read an article in an international travel magazine which contained some information about your town that is incorrect. Write a letter to the editor of magazie. IN your letter - Correct the information in the article - Explain why it is important for the magazine to give correct information - Suggest what the magazine should do about this situation

formal
You ordered an item from an online shop three weeks ago. The shop said you would get the item two days later but you have not received it yet. Last week you sent an email about the situation to the shop, but you did not receive a reply. Write a letter to the manager. In your letter explain the situation complain about the bad service ask for immediate delivery of your order or your money back You should write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear Sir or Madam,

formal
You have bought a new laptop computer and in a few days of purchase discovered a major flaw. Write a letter to the company. In your letter – introduce yourself – explain the situation – say what action you would like to company to take.

formal
Your local public library wants to make improvements to their services and facilities. In order to get ideas from the public, they have asked library users to send them suggestions in writing. Write a letter to the librarian. In your letter • describe what you like about the library • say what you don’t like • make suggestions for improvements

formal
You recently purchased a piece of equipment for your kitchen but it did not work properly. Write a letter to the store manager. In your letter: Describe the problem with the equipment. Explain how this issue has affected you. State what you would like the store to do about it.

formal
A young person is going to spend his first day at the office next month. Write a letter to explain what he should do on his first day. In your letter, you should tell: – what work should be done in the company – what he/she will do on the first day of work – what items/objects he /she needs to take along.

formal
Your internet connection has been slow and intermittent Write a letter to your internet service provider to complain about. In the letter: – Describe the problem and why you are unhappy – Arrange for an engineer to visit your home – Request a reduction in your bill

formal
The local council has some funds to invest in the neighborhood. They have asked for suggestions from the public. Write a letter to the local council. In your letter • thank them for considering the public’s opinion • explain ways in which the funds can be utilised • offer some ways in which you can contribute to the council You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear Sir or Madam

formal
You have been working in a company for three years, but now wish to leaving job. Write a letter to the manager of the company. In your letter- * What have you learned while working for the company? * Did you enjoyed working there? * What are you reasons for leaving the job?

formal
You recently took part in a training course. The organiser of the course has asked you for some feedback. Write a letter to the organiser of the course. In your letter: • give details of the course you took part in • say what you found useful on the course • suggest ways the course could be improved

formal
You left a bag in the cinema of this city that you were visiting. You want to recover the bank. Write a letter to the cinema manager. In your letter give detail of your visit. Describe the bag and its content. Explain what you want the manager to do

formal
You have a problem with the computer at the office which has affected your work Write a letter to your manager and say What problem do you have What difficulties does this create for you What could be done about it.

formal
You should spend about 20 minutes on this task. There have been some problems with the bus service, especially its reliability, in your area over the last two weeks. Write a letter to the manager of the bus company. In your letter • describe what the problems are • explain how these problems are affecting you • suggest what you would like the company to do You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear ...........,

formal
There is a problem related with the changing room of your gym in your community. You reported it several times, but it was not solved. Write a letter to the manager. In your letter, you should: • describe the problem • what they said while reporting the problem • what you want the manager to do.

formal
Write a letter to the local council about plans to close a children's playground in your area in your letter, you should: -say why children are not using the playground -Explain how important the playground is for the local community -Suggest how the playground could be improved

formal
You work for a large corporation. You want to apply for one month's leave owing to illness .Write to your manager requesting leave for the same In your letter Introduce yourself • describe about your illness • Infrom the manager how you intend to manage your job assignments in your absence.

formal
You recently did a short cookery courses a cookery school has asked for your feedback on this course write a letter to the coolest director at the cookery school in your letter describe what you enjoy about the course say how much cooking you have done since the course suggest another cookery course you do likes school to offer

formal
You are having some trouble with a work colleague. Write to your employer. In your letter 􀁸 Explain what the problem is 􀁸 Describe how it is affecting you 􀁸 Make a suggestion about what could be done

formal
You have just read an article in a national newspaper which claims that town centres in your country all look very similer to each other . You don’t’ fully agree with this opinion. Write a letter to the editor of the newspaper . In your letter Say which points in the article you agree with Explain ways in which your town centers is different from most other town centers Offer to give a guided tour of our town to the writer of the article

formal
you have an extra room in your apartment and would like to rent it out to a student. write a letter to the newspaper to publish an advert: - describe your apartment and the facilities available - what kind of tenant you would prefer -when you want the advertisement to be published and have you would pay the free.

formal
Task 1 You should spend about 20 minutes on this task. You live in a room in college which you share with another student. However, there are many problems with this arrangement and you find it very difficult to work. Write a letter to the accommodation officer at the college. In the letter, • describe the situation • explain your problems and why it is difficult to work • say what kind of accommodation you would prefer Write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any addresses.

formal
You bought a piece of furniture from a store in another town recently. There is a problem with the item you bought. Write a letter to the store manager. In your letter,

formal
You have a suggestion for a park nearby where you live. Write a letter to your city’s council. In your letter include: •what your suggestion is • why you think this suggestion will improve the park • when you would like to see this suggestion in action

formal
You are unhappy about a plan to make your local airport bigger and increase the number of flights. You live near the airport. Write a letter to your local newspaper. In your letter explain where you live describe the problem give reasons why you do not want this development Write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows:

formal
You bought an electronic device, and it is not working properly. Write a letter to the manager. - Describe the product you bought - Tell me what you do to resolve the problem - Tell the manager what you want

formal
You used a moving service to move your house.At your new address you discovered that some of the items were damaged.Write a letter to a manager of a company. *Give details of your move. *Describe your damage. *What you would like than to do

formal
You recently moved house and you used a removal Company to help you move your belongings. However, some of your things were damaged in the move. Write a letter to the manager of the removal company. In your letter, •Give details of the move •Describe the damage • Say what you would like the manager to do.

formal
You work for an international company, and would like to spend six months working in its head office in another countryz. Write a letter to your manager. In your letter - explain why you want to work in the company's head office for six months - say how your work could be done while you are away - ask for his/her help in arranging it

formal
You should spend about 20 minutes on this task. You recently organised an all-day meeting for your company, which took place in a local hotel. In their feedback, participants at the meeting said that they liked the hotel, but they were unhappy about the food that was served for lunch. Write a letter to the manager of the hotel. In your letter: say what the participants liked about the hotel explain why they were unhappy about the food suggest what the manager should do to improve the food in future Write at least 150 words.

formal
you missed international flight due to a problem at the airport write a letter to the airline. in your letter: describe what happend that caused you to miss your flight explain how missing your flight impacted you clearly start what you would like the airline to do write at least 150 words. you do not need to write any adress

formal
You should spend about 20 minutes on this task. You saw an online post of an important English academy looking for teachers to help underprivileged foreigner students. Write a letter of application to the company. In your letter: • Introduce yourself • Explain why you are suitable for the job. • Provide details of your past work experience. Write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear Sir or Madam,

formal
Your local newspaper published an advertisement asking people to offer time for local environmental initiatives in your area. Write a letter to the project manager to offer your help. In your letter: Describe a local volunteer project that you are passionate about Explain what you would like to do to help Suggest how to gather more support for the cause Write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any addresses.

formal
You have just read an article in a national newspaper which claims that town centres in your country all look very similar to each other. You don’t fully agree with this opinion. Write a letter to the editor of the newspaper. In your letter, •say which points in the article you agree with •explain ways in which your town centre is different from most other town centres •offer to give a guided tour of your town to the writer of the article Write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear Sir or Madam,

formal
You missed a flight due to a problem at the airport. Write a letter to the airline. In your letter •Describe what happened that caused you to miss the flight •Explain how missing your flight affected you •Make it clear what you would like the airline to do

formal
You live in a room in college which you share with another student. However there are many problems with this arrangement and you find it very difficult to work. Write a letter to accommodation office at the college. In the letter, •Describe the situation •Explain your problem and why it is difficult to work •Say what kind of accommodation you would prefer.

formal
A museum near your home is looking for people to do part-time voluntary/unpaid work. You would like to do some voluntarylunpaid work at the museum. Write a letter to the museum director to apply for the voluntarylunpaid work, in your letter explain why you want to do voluntarylunpaid work at the museum describe some skills and qualities you have that would be useful give details of when you would be available for work

formal
You stayed at a hotel to attend a company meeting and you were dissatisfied with your stay. Write a letter to the hotel manager. In your letter – Provide the details of your meeting – Explain what you were dissatisfied with – Suggest what the hotel should do to resolve the issue.

formal
The system used for rubbish collection in your local area is not working properly. This is causing problems for you and your neighbors. Write a letter to the local council. In your letter ... 1.Describe how the rubbish collection system is not working properly 2.. Explain how this is affecting you and your neighbours 3.Suggest what should be done about the problem

formal
You travelled by plane last week and your suitcase was lost. You have still heard nothing from the airline company. Write to the airline and - Explain what happened. - Describe your suitcase and tell them what was in it. - Find out what they are going to do about it.

formal
For the past seven days, you were late for work due to some unavoidable issues at home. Write a letter to your manager explaining why you were late for work for several days. In your letter, explain why you were late for the last seven days apologise for the delay assure your manager that you will be on time from now on You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear Sir or Madam,

formal
The school library is seeking applicants for a job over summer break. Write a letter to the library’s manager, in your letter include: – A brief introduction of yourself – Your experience and relevant skills – Why you want the job

formal
you ordered a book online for exam preparation. It has been some time since you purchased it and you still have not received your book. Write a letter to the e-commerce company about that. 1. Describe your order 2. Explain the importance 3. Say what you want the company to do for you

formal
You have received a job advertisement and decide to apply for the job. Write a letter to the recruiter. In your letter Express your interest in the job Explain why you are suitable for this position Ask some questions about the job

formal
You are living in a University residence, and you have a problem with the high levels of noise from a new campus restaurant which is open late at night. Write a letter to the governor of the University. In your letter, Complain about the situation Say why this is a problem And propose ways to reduce the noise Begin your letter ‘Dear --------’ Do not write any addresses Write at least 150 words

formal
You are living in a University Residence, and you have a problem with the high levels of noise from a new campus restaurant which is open late at night. Write a letter to the Governor of the University. In your letter, Complain about the situation Say why this is a problem And Propose ways reduce the noise.

formal
A magazine wants to include contribution from its readers for an article called 'the book that influenced me most". Write a letter to the editor of the magazine about the book that influences you most. In your letter, describe what this book was about, explain how this book influenced you, say whether this book would be likely to influence other people

formal
One of your friends wants to apply for a job at a summer school camp as a sports trainer. Write a letter to the camp manager to recommend your friend. In your letter: osay how well you know your friend odescribe the qualifications and experience that your friend has oExplain why your friend would be suitable for this job.

formal
You live near a university and would like to earn some extra money by renting a room in your apartment to a student. Write a letter to the university housing office. In your letter, • introduce yourself • explain why your apartment would be a good living place for a student • describe the room you have for rent

formal
You are a teacher at a secondary school (high school). You have been asked to arrange a visit to a local museum or tourist attraction for some of your students. Write a letter to the manager of the museum or tourist attraction. In your letter you should: say who you are and which school you teach at say why the school would like the students to visit the museum/attraction ask about educational facilities or information that the museum/attraction can provide.

formal
You read an article in a news paper about a city . Some of the information in that article is wrong. Write a letter to the newspaper editions.

formal
You saw an advertisement in the paper for a property management position at an apartment complex. Write a letter to express your interest. Include •Why you are writing •Your suitability for the role •How you would approach the position

formal
A museum near your homw is looking for people to do part-time voluntary/unpaid work. You would like to do some voluntary/unpaid work at the museum. write a letter to the museum director to apply for the voluntary/unpaid work. In your letter explain why you want to do voluntary/unpaid work at the musesum. describe some skills and qualities you have that would be useful. give details of when you would be available for work

formal
You recently purchased a faulty product from an online store. Write a letter to the store manager outlining the issue and requesting a refund or replacement.

formal
You and some friends ate a meal at a restaurant to celebrate a special occasion, and you were very pleased with the food and service. Write a letter to the restaurant manager. In your letter: give details of your visit to the restaurant explain the reason for the celebration say what was good about the food and the service Write at least 150 words. Dear Sir/ Madam,

formal
Ameuseum near your home is looking for perople to do parttime volantary work . your would like to do some voluntary work at museum.Write a letter to the museum director to apply for the voluntary work in your letter , explain why you wannt to so voluntary work and describe some skills and qualities you have that can be useful and details of when you would be available for work

formal
You have a bad experince at a restaurent and write a letter to complain to the manager

formal
You are visiting another town next month for a short break. Write a letter to the tourist information centre. In your letter Tell how long you are staying Ask for some suggestions for what to do Find out if there is any local events happening at the time

formal
Your local council is considering closing a sports and leisure center that it runs, to save money. Write a letter to the local council. In your latter Gives details of how you and your friends or family use the center. Explain why the sports and leisure center is important for the local community. Describe the possible effects on local people if the center closes.

formal
One of your friends wants to apply for a job at a summer school camp as a sports trainer. Write a letter to the camp manager to recommend your friend. In your letter: 1. Say how well you know your friend. 2. Describe the qualifications and experience that your friend has. 3. Explain why your friend would be suitable for this job.

formal
A cafe near your home puts some chairs and tables on the pavement for customers. This creates a problem for you. Write a letter to the cafe manager to complain about this matter. In your letter: describe the problem; explain how it affects you; say what you will do if this matter is not resolved

formal
You have read a magazine article that mentioned a place you are familiar with. There was a mistake in the article. Write a letter to the editor of the magazine and say:  What the error was  Explain that you are familiar with the place  Why it is important to correct the error

formal
You recently attended a meeting at a hotel. When you returned home, you realized you had left some important documents at the hotel. Write a letter to the manager of the hotel. In your letter: Explain the situation Describe the documents Say what action you would like the manager to take You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear Sir/Madam,

formal
You work for an international company, and would like to spend six months working in its head office in another country. Write a letter to your manager. In your letter: •explain why you want to work in the company’s head office for six months •say how your work could be done while you are away •ask for his/her help in arranging it,

formal
You saw an advert for the post of finance manager at the vacancy board. You want to apply for the same job. But, you have been late for applying for the same. Write a letter along with your resume to your prospective employer. In your letter • introduce yourself • talkaboutyourskills • reasonsforyourdelay

formal
You recently missed a flight. You think thiswas the fault of the airline. Write a letter to the airline. In your letter - explain why you believe the airline was at fault. - describe the impact this had on your journey. - say what you want the airline to do. Begin you letter with Dear Sir or Madam,

formal
Write a letter expressing your interest in a job in a different country. Write to a job recruiter. Your letter should include: • Why you want to work abroad • What type of job you want to have • Questions about working abroad

formal
You had a minor accident at work, and you got injured. According to the company rules, you must report it to your manager in writing. Write a letter to your manager. In your letter describe what happened and your injury; explain what the result of the accident was; suggest a way to avoid similar accidents in the future.

formal
You have read about a scholarship offered by a university and wish to apply. Write a letter to the university and include the following information. ● the scholarship you wish to apply for ● some detail about yourself ● your academic suitability for the scholarship

formal
You recently organised and old a meeting for your company. Which took place in local hotel. In their feedback, participant at the meeting said that they liked the hotel but they were unhappy about the food that was served for lunch. Write a letter to the manager of the hotel. In your letter: say what the participants liked about the hotel explain why they were unhappy about the food suggest what the managers should do to improve the food in future

formal
You have been invited to attend an interview for a place on a course of study at a college. Unfortunately, because of a previous appointment, you cannot go to the interview at the time they wish. Write a letter to the admissions tutor. In your letter explain why you cannot keep the appointment apologise and offer to arrange a new appointment ask how long the interview will be, and whether there will be any tests during it You should write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear Sir or Madam,

formal
You recently finished studying at a university in another country where you shared a house with a fellow student. Something urgent came up while your housemate was away on a short trip and you had to leave without saying goodbye. Write to your housemate. In your letter Apologize for leaving without saying goodbye. Explain why you had to leave.

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