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 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 want to join a part-time online course. Write a letter to the course administrator. In your letter: explain your education background ask for details about the course request information about fees and schedule
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 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 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
formal
An Australian company offers money to foreign students to study in Australia. Write a letter to company.
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 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
formal
Recently you issued a cheque to someone, but when that person presented the cheque to the bank, it was returned with these words ‘Returned for lack of sufficient funds”. You are sure that there is sufficient balance in your account. -Write a letter to the bank manager. In your letter, -give him particulars about your cheque -tell him that the cheque has bounced for no valid reason -request him to look into the matter
formal
Write a letter to the school to apply to be a volunteer. In the letter: – Introduce yourself and give details of your children who attend the school – Explain why you are interested in the position – Talk about any relevant experience that you have with children
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
Your local library wants to improve its services and facilities. Write a letter to the library. In your letter you should: explain who you are make your suggestions and explain how this would make the library better.
formal
You are looking for a part-time job. Write a letter to an employer agency. In your letter: Introduce Yourself Explain what sort of job you would like Say what experiance and skills you have
formal
You have just read read in an international travel magazine which contained some information about your town that is incorrect. Write a letter to the editor of the magazine. In your letter * Correct the information in the article * Example why it is important for the magazine to give correct information * Suggest what the magazine should do about this situation
formal
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 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 ttE food in future
formal
You and your family are planning to spend a weekend at a seaside hotel. Write a letter to the hotel for making the arrangement. In your letter say, - when you will be arriving and leaving - what type of rooms you would like and ask how much the weekend will cost - inquire about activities and places of interest near the hotel Write at least 150 words.
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 shoDuld do
formal
You need to take leave from your work of over one month for personal reasons. Write a letter to your manager. In your letter: explain the reason for the leave and the length of leave you need explain how you will keep up-to-date while you’re away suggest how your work could be covered while you are away Write at least 150 words You do NOT need to write any addresses Begin your letter as follows: Dear....,
formal
You should spend about 20 minutes on this task. You ordered a new cheque book from your bank two weeks ago but you have received nothing. Write a letter to the manager complaining about the bad service. Say when and how you ordered the cheque book. Ask how much longer you will have to wait and ask the manager what action he will take over this matter. You should write at least 150 words.
formal
You recently travelled by train on a long journey and you experienced various problems. Write a letter to the train company's head office. In your letter, - Give the details of your journey, including the date, time and where you sat - explain the problems that happened and express your dissatisfaction - ask about what action will be taken to improve the service
formal
You are going on a short training course at a college in New Zealand. You need somewhere to live while you are there. Write a letter to the accommodation officer at the college. In your letter, explain your situation describe the accommodation you require
formal
Your company has recently introduced a new uniform for the staff. But you have learned that the staff members are not happy about it. Write a letter to your manager about it. In your letter, •explain why you think the staffs are not happy with the new uniform • what you want the new uniform to be like • and give some suggestions to handle the situation
formal
You recently stayed in a hotel in a large city. The weather was very unusual for the time of year and the heating / cooling system in the hotel was quite inadequate. Write a letter to the manager of the hotel. In your letter: give details of what went wrong explain what you had to do to overcome the problem at the time say what action you would like the manager to take
formal
Write a letter to your insurance company. In your letter explain Why you are writing to them Why you think the insurance should not be increased What you want them to do Write at least 150 words
formal
You recently bought a jacket, but when you got home, you discovered it was damaged. When you took it back to the store, you were told that the merchandise cannot be returned. Write a letter to the store manager. In your letter: Describe the problem with the jacket Explain what happened and what happened when you tried to return it. Say what you would like the manager to do.
formal
Write a letter to the local council. The system used for rubbish/garbage collection in your local area is not working properly. This is causing problems for you and your neighbours. In your letter • describe how the rubbish collection system is not working properly • explain how this is affecting you and your neighbours • suggest what should be done about the problem
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 importa nt "' tell the manager what you want him/her to do
formal
Your local council is considering closing a sports and leisure centre 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 centre •Explain why the sports and leisure centre is important for the local community •Describe the possible effects on local people if the centre closes
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 offe
formal
You experienced an incident on public transport that caused you distress. Write a letter to the manager of the public transport company. In your letter ▪ describe the incident ▪ explain how this incident affected you ▪ suggest what could be done about it
formal
You work for an international company. You have seen an advertisement for a training course which will be useful for your job. Write a letter to your manager. In your letter -Describe the training course you want to do -Explain what the company could do to help you -Say how the course will be useful for your job
formal
There are plans to build a new factory in parkland near where you live. Write a letter to the local council. In your letter give reasons why you are against the plans explain why the parkland should stay suggest what action the council should take 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 council is considering closing a sports and leisure centre 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 centre explain why the centre ts important for the local community describe the possible effects on local people if the centre closes
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 paper •explain why they are so important •tell the manager what you want him/her to do
formal
You have just rented an unfurnished flat and a friend has told you that the opportunity to shop in the shopping center has cheap second-hand furniture. Write to the shop owner describing what you need and asking whether they have these items and what they cost
formal
You and your friend ate a meal at a restaurant to celebrate a special ocassion and you were very pleased with the food and service. Write a letter to the manager of the restaurant. In you 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.
formal
You have lost your student identification card. This has created some problems for you. Write a letter to the director of student services. In your letter advise them of your situation explain how this is affecting you request a new card You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear You should spend about 20 minutes on this task. You should write at least 150 words.
formal
On a recent holiday, you lost a valuable item. Fortunately, you have insurance to cover the cost of anything lost. write a letter to the manager of your insurance company. In this letter Describe the item you lost. explain how you lost it. tell the insurance company what you would like them 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: 1) Say why children are not using the playground. 2) Explain how important the playground is for the local community. 3)Suggest how the playground could be improved.
formal
Write a letter to the transport officer about a problem with the system in your area please say Describe the situation you are facing why do you consider considerate a problem? What changes would you like to recommend?
formal
you have an account with a bank. you recently notices that the bank has taken extra money out of your account and you are not sure why. Write a letter to the manager of the bank. in the letter: 1. describe the details of your account 2. explain the problem with your account 3. suggest, what you think the manager should do
formal
You have recently moved to a different location where you experience frequent electricity breakdown. Write a letter to the electricity board. In your letter, -describe the situation, -tell what problems you are facing due to this, -explain what you want the board to do
formal
The office you work in does not have any cafeteria for staff. Write a letter to your manager to request setting up a cafeteria for the staff. [F]  In your letter, you should mention  what you heard about the inconvenience from the staff  how you feel about it  what suggestions you have about setting up a cafeteria
formal
You recently notice a local restaurant offering a part time job Write a letter to the restaurant’s manager. In your letter •Explain that you would like to apply for this job •Give some details of relevant experience that you have •specify the date and time that would suit for you You should You don’t write any address
formal
You are Dimitar Borisov/Elena Borisova. Write a formal letter to your school director in which you suggest starting an Ancient Civilisations Club.
formal
A restaurant has placed an advertisement for waiters and waitresses in your local newspaper. Write a letter to the restaurant, applying for the job. In your letter: explain what you are currently doing
formal
Write a letter to the local council. In your letter Describe how the rubbish collection system is not working properly Explain how this is affecting you and your neighbours Suggest what should be done about the problem.
formal
You recently went on a business trip to another country and you faced an issue at the airport. Write a letter to the airport management and include ● what the details of your flight were. ● what the problem at the airport was. ● some suggestions for improvement.
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
Your local council is planning to hold an election to choose members from the society but there are no young people on the council and you think that the council needs young people's views. You are thinking of standing for election. Write a letter to the head of the council. In your letter, state why you want to be elected mention why you think you would be a good candidate describe your qualities, skills, experience, interests, if any
formal
You ordered a mobile phone online. When it arrived, it was the wrong model. Write a letter to the company. In your letter: Describe the order you placed Explain what was wrong with the product State what you would like the company to do
formal
You ware 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 manger. In your letter * explain why you want to take time off work * give details of the amount of time you need * suggest how your work could be covered while you are away You should write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear ..................,
formal
You have recently been on a business trip to see some equipment that your company needs. Write a letter to the company that owns this equipment and say: • Describe the equipment • Ask for features and specifications of this equipment • Explain why your company needs this equipment
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 • suggest how your work could be covered while you are away Write at least 150 words. You DO NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear ____________________,
formal
You have just read in an article in a national newspaper which claim that town centers in your country all over look very similar to each other.ypu 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 center is different from most other town centers Offer to give a guided tour of your town to the writer of the article
formal
Your local council has advertised for volunteers to teach on a basic English programme for refugees. You would like to do some work for this programme in your free time. Write a letter to the programme coordinator. In your letter • explain why you would like to do unpaid work on this programme • describe why you are a suitable candidate • say when you are available to teach.
formal
You live in a room in a college where you share with another student. You find it very difficult to 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. Explain your reasons.
formal
You have just spend a weekend staying at The Taj hotel in Mumbai. When you get home you find out that you have left a bag at the hotel. Write a letter to the manager. Explain in the letter: *When did you visit the hotel. *the details of your room and the bag * how can one identify the bag
formal
You found a lost item at the park and want to return it. Write a letter to the park manager. Bullet points: Describe the item Say where and when you found it Ask how to return it to the owner
formal
You have visited a store and bought set of china tea cups which later you found broken but store denied to replace it. Write a letter to the manager of the store describing situation. In your letter add following points: •State what problem you had with the purchased item. •Complain about the inability of the sales staff to address the problem. • Describe how you want the store to solve the problem to your satisfaction.
formal
Your local council is considering closing the sports and leisure centre 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 centre. •Explain why the sports and leisure centre is important for the local community. •Describe the possible effects on local people if the centre close.
formal
You recently stayed in a hotel and left an item in the room. Write a letter to the manager of the hotel. In your letter: ● describe the item that you left in the room ● explain where you think the item might be ● suggest how the manager can return the item to you
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
Your local library is hiring a new staff member, and you are interested in applying for the position. Write a letter to the library manager to apply for the job. In your letter: • explain why you are interested in working at the library • describe your relevant qualifications and experience • ask about the next steps in the hiring process
formal
You have seen an advertisement in an English newspaper for a job working in the City Museum shop during the holidays. You decide to apply for the job. Write a letter to the Director of the Museum. In your letter, • Introduce yourself • Explain what experience and special skills you have • Explain why you are interested in the job Write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows – Dear Sir/Madam,
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 recently stayed at a hotel and had a very pleasant experience. Write a letter to the hotel manager to thank them for the excellent service.
formal
You recently went to a restaurant but think you could have left your credit card behind. Write to the restaurant. In your letter Tell them when you went there Describe where you think you may have left the credit card Explain what you would like the restaurant to do
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
you recently bought an item of clothing from a shop. you discovered that it had a fault and returned it to the shop for replacement or refund. however, the assistant told you that this was against the store policy. write a letter to the store manager explain the problems you have had ask for a refund or exchange on the item
formal
Your university lecturer gave you an assignment. You won’t be able to submit your assignment on time. Write to your lecturer asking for an extension. In the letter describe the situation explain why your assignment will be late say when you will be able to hand in your assignment You should write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any addresses
formal
You are a commuter. One morning on your way to work you suddenly fell ill and lost your consciousness. One gentlmen on the same bus sent you to a hospital. Write a letter to the company where the gentlmen works to extend your greatfulnes.
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. • Say what you would like the bank to do to fix the problem. You do not need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear Sir or Madam, You should write at least 150 words.
formal
There have been some problems with public transport in your area recently. Write a letter to the manager of the public transport company. In your letter: - describe the problems - explain how these broblems are affecting the public - suggest what changes could be made
formal
You should spend about 20 minutes on this task. You are currently attending a course which is not the same as per the description in the admission brochure. Write a letter to the headmaster. In your letter, state which course you are enrolled in provide details about the noted differences suggest what actions would you like him to take
formal
You have seen a job advertised in the newspaper. You want to apply for the job. Write a letter to the manager of the company. In your letter • provide information about yourself • give details of your previous work experience • Say why the company should consider you for the job You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear Sir,
formal
There have been several complaints about the receiption area where visitors to your company arrive. Your manager has asked you to suggest how the receiption 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 receiption area could be improved
formal
A large company in your area has decided to spend certain amount of money, either to sponsor a local children's sport team for two years, or pay for two open-air concerts. It has asked for feedback from the general public. Write a letter to the company. in your letter 1. describe the benefits of sponsoring the sport team. 2. summarize the benefits of paying for the concerts. 3. say how you think company should spend the money.
formal
You have been offered a scholarship for obtaining a distance Master's degree through distance learning at a prestigious university. One of the requirements is to take a test on site once a month. Write a letter to your current employer.In your letter: • Share the news. • Explain how this will be helpful. • Ask for permission to be absent. Write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear …………..,
formal
Write a letter to the transport company. In your letter: explain what happened during your journey describe how this problem affected you suggest what the company should do to improve its service
formal
Write a letter You recently read an article in newspaper about someone you know personally. You found some information is wrong. Write a letter to editor to inform him about it. Use the following points. What is the article about? WHat is the error? What you expect an editor to do?
formal
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 manage� should do to improve the food in future
formal
You are planning to spend a weekend at a hotel with your family. Write a letter to the hotel making the arrangements. Include the following: – when you want to arrive and leave – explain the type of rooms you would like and ask how much they will cost – ask about activities and places of interest near the hotel
formal
You recently attended a training course for your work. Your employer has asked you for your feedback on the training course. Write a letter to your employer. In your letter: Remind your employer what the course was about Explain why the course was useful to you in your work Suggest why the course may not be suitable for some of your other colleagues
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
Write a letter to the hotel. In your letter thank the manager and his staff give some particular examples of why you enjoyed your stay at the hotel so much explain that you have written a review of the hotel on a popular website for tourists
formal
You recently did a short cookery course. The cookery school has asked for your feedback on this course. Wtire a letter to the course director at the cookery school. In your letter - describe what you enjoyed about the course - say how much cookery you have done since the course - suggest another cookery course you would like the school to offer
formal
You have just rented an unfurnished flat and a friend has told you that the opportunity shop is the shopping centre has cheap secondhand furniture. Write to the shop, owner, describing what you need and asking whether they have this items and what they cost.
formal
You live near a public school. The school asked residents to help maintain the school building and playground. Write a letter to the principal. Explain why would you like to help. Tell them how you can help. Let them know when you are available.
formal
You recently purchased an item from a local store, but you are not satisfies with your purchase. Write a letter to the manager of the store. In your letter •Describe the item you bought and why you need it •explain why you are not happy with it •say what you would like the manager to do Begin your letter as follows: Dear Sir or Madam,
formal
You recently attended a meeting at a hotel. When you returned hime, 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 purchased an item from a local store, but you are not satisfies with your purchase. Write a letter to the manager of the store. In your letter •Describe the item you bought and why you need it •explain why you are not happy with it •say what you would like the manager to do
formal
You should spend about 20 minutes on this task. Your family is going to move to another town. Write a letter to the Principal of a local school asking if they will accept your son. Describe his academic achievements and scope of interests. You do NOT need to write any address. You should write at least 150 words.
formal
Write a letter to invite a famous person to give a speech at a meeting in your youth club. In your letter, you should: -introduce your club -explain why you want to invite him/her -tell him/her about the arrangement for the meeting
formal
[Adri]You have a problem with a recently hired employee in your workplace. Write a letter to the HR manager. In your letter – Describe the problem the new employee has caused – Explain how other colleagues feel about the new employee’s conduct – Say how you expect the manager to address the situation.
formal
You have seen an advert for a part-time job as a sales assistant in a clothes shop. Write a letter applying for the position
formal
Your local newspaper is offering an award for people who have helped the community. Write a letter to the newspaper editor. In your letter suggest someone you think should receive the award describe what the person does to help the community suggest an award that would be appropriate for this person You should write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear Sir or Madam, You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.
formal
[Dri] You ordered a new cheque book from your bank two weeks ago but you have received nothing. Write a letter to the manager complaining about the bad service. Say when and how you ordered the cheque book. Ask how much longer you will have to wait and ask the manager what action he will take over this matter.
formal
you recently organised an all- day meeting for your compagny, which took place in a local hotel. In their feedback, participant at the meeting said that they liked the hotel, but they were un happy 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
Your local college is organizing an event on International Student’s Day. Write a letter to the organizer and say: •What topics would you like them to cover? •Why would it be interesting for students? • Ask questions about the arrangement
formal
You live in a room in colege which you share with another student. However, there are many problems with this arrangement and you find I verydifficult to work. Write a letter to the accommodation officer at your college. In your letter Describe the situation Explain the problem an why is it difficult to work Say what knd of accommodation you would prefer
formal
You have a full-time job and you are also doing a part-time evening course. You now find that you cannot continue the course. Write a letter to your teachers. In your letter describe the situation explain why you cannot continue at this time say what action you would like to take
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