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
TASK-1 You have recently noticed that your work computer is getting too slow and out-of-date. Write a letter to your manager. In your letter -explain the problems with your computer -give some examples of how this has affected your work -make some suggestions for what can be done to help adress this issue

formal
Your local council is considering closing a sports and leisure center that it runs, in order to save money. Write a letter to the local council. In your letter: •give details of how you and your friends or family use the center •explain why the sports leisure center is important for the local community •describe the possible effects on local people if the center closes

formal
You work for an international company and need to take some time off work to celebrate a family event. Write a letter to your manager. In your letter ● give details of the family event and why it is important you attend ● say how much time you will need away from the office ● suggest how your work could be covered while you are away

formal
Every year your company organize a sports event for a local community but this year they can’t do it. Write a letter to your local newspaper about this. In your letter : Express your feelings about missing the sports event. : Tell them about your plan for next year. : Explain how this sports event is useful.

formal
You ordered a book online for exam preparation. It has been some time since you ordered it and still have not received your book. Write a letter to e-commerce company about this.

formal
You recently stayed at a hotel and had a bad experience. Write a letter to the hotel manager. In your letter: Explain the issues you faced Describe how they affected you Suggest what the hotel should do to improve

formal
You should spend about 20 minutes on this task. You were supposed to go on an interview in a few weeks, but you have since found out you cannot go on the date arranged. Write a letter to the potential employer. In your letter, tell them why you need to move the interview time ask to change the interview date explain that you are still interested in being interviewed for the job Write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any addresses.

formal
The company you work for has decided to close the cafeteria as the staff is not using it much. You are not happy with the decision. Write a letter to the director: - Give reasons of low usage - How will it affect the staff - Suggest ways to improve it

formal
You lost an item while traveling on a bus. An employee of the bus company assisted you in recovering your lost item. Write a letter to the company manager to thank the employee. In your letter •describe what you lost and why it was important to you •how the employee helped you find it •and explain how you felt after recovering it.

formal
You recently did a short cookery course. The cookery school has asked for your feedback on this course. Write a letter to the course director at the cookery school. In your letter, ⦁ describe what you enjoyed about the course ⦁ say how much cooking you've done since the course ⦁ suggest another cookery course you'd like the school to offer

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 lost an item of value on a train. Write a letter to the railway company. In your letter •describe the item •explain where and when you left it • say what action you would like the company to take

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

formal
ou bought a piece of furniture from a store in another town recently. There is a problem with the item you purchased. Write a letter to the store manager. In your letter explain the details of your purchase describe the problem that you have with it suggest what can be done about it

formal
You recently bought some train tickets for a journey a week in advance. When you went to the station to catch the train, you were told you could not use the tickets and the staff were very unhelpful to you. Write a letter to the train company. In your letter •describe the problem you had with the tickets •say why you were unhappy with the staff I •suggest what action the train company should take

formal
You recently read an article in a newspaper about your childhood friend with whom you have lost contact for a long time. Write a letter to the editor. In your letter: •Say which edition and when did the article appear •Explain why you lost contact with your friend •Say how you want them to help you to get back in touch Write at least 150 words

formal
Write a letter to the bus company. In your letter, inform the bus company of when and to where you travelled describe your suitcase and what happened to it explain why the company should pay for a new suitcase

formal
You went to a museum with your elderly friend last week. However, he/she found it difficult to walk around the museum. Write a letter to the manager and say: * Whom did you visit the museum with? * What problems/inconveniences did he/she face? * also, suggest solutions to enhance the museum visit experience for an elderly person.

formal
You and some friends ate a meal at a reataurant to celebrate a special occasion, and you were very pleased with the food and services. 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 services.

formal
You are doing a three-months' course at a training institute. You have recently been offered a full-time job at a company and you can not continue the course. Write a letter to the course instructor. In the letter: •explain why you cannot continue the course •describe the job you have been offered •and ask if they have an evening course that you can continue

formal
you and your family have just come back from a holiday staying in a rented apartment overlooking the sea. The apartment was very unsatisfactory. Write a letter of complaint to the manager of the agency from which you rented the apartment. In your letter, – give details of the things that were unsatisfactory – explain the reactions of the members of your family – ask the manager what he/she is going to do about the situation

formal
You recently discovered plans to build a new airport in your area and are unhappy with it. Write a letter to the local authority. In your letter •say how you found out about the plans •explain what problems your neighborhood will face •suggest some possible solutions to those problems.

formal
Some construction work is being done on the street where you live for the last couple of days. The noise from the work is loud and it disturbs you. Write a letter to your local council complaining about the noise. In your letter, introduce yourself explain how the noise is causing problems to you suggest solutions to the problem

formal
You recently bought a piece of equipment for your kitchen, but it did not work. You phoned the shop, but no action was taken. Write a letter to the manager of the shop. In your letter: • Explain how you feel about their lack of response • Say what you think of their employees • Give your opinion on their quality of service Write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any address. Begin your letter as follows: Dear Sir or Madam,

formal
You use the local swimming pool often and during one of your visits you encountered a problem. Write a letter to the manager and say

formal
You recently noticed a local restaurant that was offering a part-time job. Write a letter to the restaurant's manager. In your letter, explain that you would like to apply for the job give some details of any relevant experience that you have specify the days and times that would suit you

formal
You and your friends ate a meal at a restaurant to celebrate a special occasion, and you were extremely dissatisfied with the experience. Write a letter to the restaurant manager. In your letter: Explain the reason for the celebration Give details of your visit to the restaurant Say what you would like the restaurant to do

formal
You recently did a short cookery course. The cookery school has asked for your feedback on this course. Write a letter to the course director at the cookery school. In your letter - Describe what you enjoyed about the course - Say how much cooking you have done since the course - Suggest another cookerycourse you'd like the school to offer.

formal
You child is going on a school trip overseas for week. The Headmaster is looking for parents to join the trip. Write a letter to state that you would like to join it. In your letter: Mention why you would like to join the trip. Ask some general questions about the trip. Mention how you can be helpful

formal
You have seen an advertisement for a temporary job that involves looking after a house while the owner is travelling abroad. Write a letter to the homeowner. In your letter: – explain why you are interested in the position – describe any relevant experience you have – say when you would be available to take on this role.

formal
you are supposed to go on an interview in a few weeks, byt you have since found out you can not go on the date arranged. write a letter to the potential employer. in your letter tell them why you need to move the interview time ask the change the interview date explain that you are still intersted in being interviewed for the job

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 the accommodation office at the college. In your letter: Describe the situation Explain your problems and why it is difficult to work Say what kind of accommodation you would prefer.

formal
Write a letter to the police sub inspector complaining about the lack of discipline in your locality with respect to the behavior of certain youth mishaps. 1. Discuss the complaint in detail clarifying the erroneous troublemaking behavior of the young people in your locale. 2. Suggest what could be done to find appropriate solution. 3. Suggest what you expect from the police.

formal
Your child’s school is planning a field trip outside the country for 3 days and is asking for parents to come along. Write a letter Asking about the trip Explaining why you want to join Explain how you can help out

formal
You have seen an advertisement for the post of Quality Assurance Manager at a factory. You want to apply for this job. Write a letter to the employer. In your letter: - talk about your educational background - describe your work experience and explain why you would be suitable for the job - explain why you want to work for that company.

formal
TASK-1 Every year your company organizes a sports event for a local community, but this year they can’t do it. Write a letter to your local newspaper about this. In your letter – Express your feelings about missing the sports event – Tell them about your plans for next year – Explain how this sports event is useful.

formal
You are due to start new job next week but you will not be able to because you have some problems. Write a letter to your new employeer. In your letter: • Explain your situation • Describe your problems • Tell him or her when you think you can start.

formal
You have recently returned from an afternoon at your public library, and noticed various negative aspects that could be improved upon. Write a letter to the manager of the public library. In your letter: Describe the poor experience you had Include ideas for what the library should change Explain why you feel the library needs alteration Write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any addresses.

formal
You work in a company and need to take a certain course. Write a letter to your manager and say - Explain why you need this training course. - Where and when will you take it? - How will the company benefit from it?

formal
There have been several complaints about the reception area where visitors to the company arrive. The manager has asked for suggestions on how the reception area could be improved Please write a letter to our manager. In the letter • Describe the complaints • Say why the reception area is important • Suggest how the reception area could be improved

formal
You are working for a company. You need to take some time off work and want to ask your manager about this. Write a letter to your manager. In your letter ● explain why you want to take time off work ● give details of the amount of time you need (2 weeks) ● suggest how your work could be covered while you are away. (2 other software dev are in context, i am available for emails or calls if needed) Begin your letter as follows: Dear

formal
Write a letter to the Information Officer at the TAPE Information Office asking for information about the Tertiary Preparation Certificate. Describe your educational background and your reasons for wanting to do the course. You should write at least 80 words. Allow yourself 15 minutes for this task.

formal
For the past year, you have been a member of a local club. Now you want to discontinue your membership. Write a letter to the manager. In your letter- * state what type of membership you have and how much you have paid for it? * explain how you have benefited from the club * give reasons on why you want to leave

formal
You and your friends ate a meal at a restaurant to celebrate a special occasion, and you were extremely dissatisfied with the experience. Write a letter to the restaurant manager. In your letter: · Explain the reason for the celebration · Give details of your visit to the restaurant · Say what you would like the restaurant to do Write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear Sir or Madam,

formal
You live in an English speaking country and you want to do some voluntary, unpaid work in a developing country. Write a letter to a company called Cultural Expeditions, which organizes such trips. In your letter: Explain why you want to do the voluntary work. State what your skills and experience are. Indicate where you would like to volunteer and for how long.

formal
You saw an advertisement for a tennis course in England but you have some problems and can’t stay for the whole course. Write a letter to the course director. In your letter, explain your interest in the course describe your problems find out whether a refund is possible if you leave early 

You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows:

Dear Sir or Madam,

formal
You have just started a course in a college which has no sports facilities of its own. Write a letter to the manager of nearest private sports club. In your letter • introduce yourself • say why you are interested in this sport club • ask some questions about the club e.g. facilities, members, costs

formal
You study at a college in the city centre. You use public transport to get to the college but the bus service you use has changed. Write a letter to the manager of the bus company. In the letter, -Say who you are and the details of service you use -Explain the problem with the bus service -Suggest what you think the manager should do

formal
While travelling by metro train, your credit card slipped out of your pocket. You realized this only after reaching home. Write a letter to the concerned authorities and explain what happened.

formal
There is a new ready-mixed concrete (RMC) plant installed nearby your home and it causes various types of pollutions. Write a letter to City Council for a removal request. In your letter • describe who you are • explain what troubles you by existence of this RMC plant • tell what you want the officer to do for you

formal
A magazine wants to include contributions 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 influenced 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
There is a problem in your street. Write a letter to the local town council explaining who you are, what the problem is and what you hope will be done about it.

formal
You recently bought a toy from a company online. When the toy was delivered, you found some problems with it. Write a letter to the company manager. In your letter: - Describe the toy - Explain the problems with it - Tell the manager what you would like her/him to do

formal
You recently organized a party for your company at a hotel. Write a letter to the hotel manager. In your letter. -describe the party and how it went -explain why you were pleased with the hotel service. -suggest some improvements that the hotel could make

formal
You work at home and have a problem with a piece of equipment that you use for yourjob. Write a letter to the shop or company which supplied the equipment. In your letter • describe the problem with the equipment • explain how this problem is affecting your work • say what you want the shop or company to do

formal
You have received uniforms in your company that have to be worn by all employees. You are not satisfied with the uniform because it has some problems. Write a letter to your manager and in your letter consider the following points; Mention to positive points of the uniform. Clarify the problem that you have with the uniform. Suggest a solution for above mentioned problem.

formal
You should spend about 20 minutes on this task. You have recently visited a city on vacation and stayed in a hotel. Write a letter to the manager about your stay. In your letter: -Give details of your stay -What were the high & low points of the hotel -What are your suggestions; recommendations and / or complaints about the hotel Write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear .....................,

formal
You recently organized 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.

formal
You have lost an item of value on a train. Write a letter to the railway company. In your letter, -Describe the item -Explain where and when you left it -Say what action you would like the company to take

formal
Recently you saw an article in a newspaper/journal about a city/town you know and some of the information in the article was incorrect. Write a letter to the editor regarding this. In your letter, you should tell: - how you know about this city/town; - what information was incorrect; - what the editor should do about this.

formal
You have had a back account for a few years. Recently you received a letter from the bank stating that your account is $240 overdrawn and that you will be charged $70 which will be taken directly from your account. You know that this information is incorrect. Write a letter to the bank. Explain what has happened and say what you would like them to do about it.

formal
You have just started a course in a college which has no sports facilities of its own. Write a letter to the manager of the nearest private sports club. In your letter introduce yourself say why you are interested in this sports club ask some questions about the club e.g. facilities, members, costs

formal
You have recently ordered a book online, but the book was delayed and has not arrived yet. Write a letter to the company manager. In the letter, you should: – give the details of your order. – explain why you need the book urgently. – suggest a solution for the situation.

formal
There is a problem with the changing rooms in the sports center that you visit. You have complained several times but with no success. Write a letter to the manager of the sports center. In your letter: • Describe what the problem with the changing rooms is • Say what happened the last times you complained • Explain what you want the manager to do

formal
A restaurant has placed an advertisement for a manager in the local newspaper. Write a letter to the restaurant, applying for the job. In your letter: explain what you are currently doing describe your suitability for this job Tell them when you are free to attend an interview

formal
You’ve just returned from a disastrous holiday! It was not as described by the agent and you experienced serious problems. Write a letter of complaint to the agent. In your letter - remind the agent about the holiday - explain to them what happened - ask for compensation

formal
A magazine wants to include contributions from its readers for an article called 'The book that influenced the most' Write a letter to te editor of the magazine about the book that influenced 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
You have seen an adverstisement for weekend work in a hotel in the town where you are staying. You have worked in a hotel before and think that the job would be suitable for you. You must apply in writing. Write a letter to the hotel manager expressing your interest. In your letter . Introduce yourself . Explain why you think you would be suitable for the job . ask what work you would be expected to do

formal
You have just read an article in a national newspaper which claims that town centres in your country all look very similiar to each other. You dont fully agree with this opinion. Write a letter to the editor of the newspaper. In your letter say which point 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

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 Write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any addresses.

formal
A museum near your home is looking for people to do unpaid work. You would like to do some voluntery work at the museum. Write a letter to the museum director to apply for the volunteer work in your letter - explain why you want to do voluntary 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 should spend about 20 minutes on this task. You are part of a group of musicians who meet on Tuesday and Friday evenings to practise in the community hall. You have been told, however, that it is no longer possible for the group to use the hall. Write a letter to the manager. In the letter: * describe what the group does * explain why the group is good for the community * suggest alternative days and times for practice You should write at least 150 words.

formal
You have recently moved to a new neighbourhood and would like to join a sports centre there. You have found a private sports club. Write a letter to the manager of the sports club. In your letter, •introduce yourself •say why are you interested in this sports club • ask some questions about the club e.g facilities, membership, costs etc.

formal
You have been invited to a networking conference for your field of work. Write a letter to your immediate manager. In your letter: · Describe the invitation you received and why it is important to you · Explain why the conference would be beneficial for you and the company · Ask for the company for time off to attend and to cover some of the travel costs

formal
You should spend about 20 minutes on this task. You have just received a credit card statement from your bank. The statement lists a number of expensive purchases that you are sure you did not make. Write a letter to the bank manager. In the letter: • Introduce yourself. • Explain that you did not buy the items listed. – I am on vacation • Say what you would like the bank to do to fix the problem.- investigate the case/send revised credit card stateme

formal
You stayed at a hotel last week. After you got home, you realized that you had left your watch behind. Write a letter to the hotel manager. In your letter - Explain what happened to your watch - Describe your watch - Ask the manager to help you find it

formal
You have seen an advertisement in the local newspaper for a swimming lessons at your community sports center. You want to find out more about these lessons. write a letter to the manager of the sports center. In the letter mention. Describe how well you can swim at the moment Explain, explain why you want to learn to swim better Inquire about the time and the cost of swimming lessons

formal
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 ​ You do NOT need to write any addresses

formal
You have been invited to attend an interview for a place studying a course in a college. Unfortunately, because of a previous appointment, you cannot come at the time they wish. Write a letter to the admissions tutor: • explain your position • apologies and offer to come on another day or later the same day. • ask how long the interview will be and whether there will be any tests during it. You do NOT need to write your own address. You should write at least 150 words.

formal
You recently noticed a local restaurant that was offering a part-time job. Write a letter to the restaurant’s manager. In your letter, – explain that you would like to apply for the job – give some details of any relevant experience that you have – specify the days and times that would suit you

formal
you have received a letter from your band, asking you to acknowledge receipt of a new bank card. however, the card was missing from the envelope. write a letter to the bank head office. in your letter explain why you are writing express concern about the missing card ask them what they intend to do.

formal
You recently purchased an internet service for your house but you are not satisfied with it. You have complained to the customer helpdesk on the phone but no action has been taken. Write a letter to the manager of the company. In your letter: Describe what is wrong with the service Explain why you are not happy with the company’s response Say what action you want the manager to take

formal
You have recently missed a project deadline which resulted in your company losing an important client. Write a letter to your manager. In your letter: oapologize for what happened o explain why you missed the deadline o tell him/her how you will avoid this situation in future.

formal
You recently did a short cookery course. The cookery school has asked for your feedback on this course. Write a letter to the course director at the cookery school. in your letter describe what you enjoyed about the course say how much cooking you've done since the course suggest another cookery course you'd like the school to offer You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear Sir or Madam,

formal
You are studying for a qualification, and you would like some off work to complete it. Write a letter to your manager. In your letter: - ask for some time off to complete a qualification. - Suggest what you will do later at work if you have time off. - Say how the qualification helps your job or company.

formal
You have lot an item of value on a train. Write a letter to the raiway company.

formal
Your company sent you to complete a course in another country. You have lost the certificate received at the end of the course. Write a letter to the principal of the college where you took the course. In your letter, you should tell: how you lost the certificate why you need it now what you want the principal to do.

formal
You recently attended a meeting at a hotel. When you returned home, you found you had left some important papers at the hotel. Write a letter to the manager of the hotel. In your letter ● say where you think you left the papers ● explain why they are so important ● tell the manager what you want him/her to do

formal
You recently bought a peice of equipment for your kitchen but it didn't work. You phoned the shop but no action was taken. Write a letter to the shop manager. You should say Describe problem with the equipment Explain what happened when you phoned the shop Say what you would like the manager to do

formal
You should spend about 20 minutes on this task. Write at least 150 words. You were supposed to go on an interview in a few weeks, but you have since found out you cannot go on the date arranged. Write a letter to the potential employer. In your letter •Tell them why you need to move the interview time •Ask to change the interview date •Explain that you are still interested in being interviewed for the job

formal
You should spend about 20 minutes on this task. You had a job during the summer vacation, but the payment you received was not right. Write to the manager to state the following: 1) describe what has happened, 2) the work you did and how much you should have earned, and 3) what you want to happen next. You should write at least 150 words.

formal
You live in a room in college which you share with another student. You find it very difficult to work there because he or she always has friends visiting. They have parties in the room and sometimes borrow 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. Explain your reasons.

formal
A magazine wants to include contributions 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 influenced 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 Write at least 150 words. You do not need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear Sir or Madam,

formal
There have been several complaints about the reception area where visitors to your company arrive. Your mannager has asked you to suggest how the reception area could be improved. Write a letter to your manager. In your letter - describe the complaints that have been made - say why the reception area is important - suggest how the reception area could be improved

formal
You have recently ordered an item through the Internet, but are not happy with the purchase. Write to the company. In your letter: – Describe what you purchased, – explain why you are not happy with the purchase, – tell them what you would like them to do about the situation.

formal
ou work at home and have a problem with a piece of quipment that you use for your job. Write a letter to the shop or company which supplied the equipment. In your letter -describe the problem with the equipment -explain how this problem is affecting your work -say what you want the shop or company to do

formal
Writing Task 1 you have bought some clothing online and are not satisfied with your purchase. Write a 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 Write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear Sir or Madam,

formal
On a recent holiday you lost a valuable item. Fortunately, you have travel insurance to cover the cost of anything lost. Write a letter to the manager of your insurance company. In your letter, explain What you lost How you lost it What you want the insurance company to do

formal
Write a letter to the accommodation officer at the college. In your letter describe the situation explain your problems and why it is difficult to work say what kind of accommodation you would prefer

formal
Your office building dosen't have parking available. Write a letter to the manager. In your letter: - Explain the problem - Sugget a soultion - Say why parking will benefit all employees

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