IELTS General Writing Task 1 formal Topics/Questions 2026

Want to improve your IELTS score? Get instant feedback and learn from your mistakes!

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
The course director of your previous college has invited you to attend a party for new students, and he has also asked you to give a talk about studying overseas. You have an important examination on the same day so you cannot attend the party. Write a letter to the director to apologize and to explain why you cannot attend the event. Suggest another date when you could give Your talk.

formal
On a recent holiday you lost avaluable 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: -describe the item you lost -explain how you lost it -tell the insurance company what you would like them to do.

formal
You have lost something on a bus and called customer service to get help. You weren't happy with their response. Write a letter to the bus company manager. In your letter, you should: • describe the item you lost explain why you weren't happy with the customer service • say what action you would like the company to take. Write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any addresses.

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 Sir/Madam, I'm writing to you regarding my lost identification card

formal
You saw a brochure for a one-week walking tour in the mountains. You're very interested in taking part, but you're not very fit and are worried you wouldn't be able to keep up. Write to the tour operator. In your letter:

formal
You missed an international 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 your flight Explain how missing your flight impacted you Clearly state what you would like the airline to do

formal
You recently stayed at a hotel and you had a great time. 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 You should You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear Sir or Madam,

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
You have recently visited a sports centre and discovered some problems including the poor condition of a changing room there. You had complained about it earlier, but still no action has been taken. Write a letter to the facility manager about it. In your letter, ● describe the problems ● include details of your complaint ● say what actions you would like them to take

formal
A Museum Near your home 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 museum – describe some skills and qualities you have that would be useful – give details of when you would be available for work

formal
ou 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
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

formal
You bought a TV a week ago but when you got home you discovered it did not work properly. You called customer service to report the problem but you have not yet received any help. Write a letter to the company. - introduce yourself - explain the problem - and state what action you would like from tge company

formal
You recently discovered that there are plans to construct a new block of flats in your local area. Write a letter to the local authority. In your letter: ·  explain how you know about the plans ·  describe the negative effects this will have on your neighbourhood ·  suggest a possible solution to the problem

formal
You have just returned from holiday and were not satisfied with your trip. Write to the travel agency. In your letter •Say where / when you went on holiday • Explain why you are not satisfied with your holiday • Tell them what you would like them to do

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
You have been asked to organise a special dinner to celebrate your company’s achievements this year. Write a letter to the restaurant you have chosen. In your letter say why you want to come to the restaurant and when how many people will attend the dinner what special requirements you have You should write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

formal
You have begun a new course at University and the professor gave you the first assignment of the course . You are not sure how to write the assignment. Write an email to your professor . In your letter: -state your purpose; -explain the problem; -ask for an appointment to discuss it

formal
You would like a job working in the summer camp which runs sports and outdoor activities for children and young people. Write a letter to the organisers of the summer camp. In your letter, explain what sort of work you would like to do describe your personality say what relevant experience and skills you have Write at least 150 words.

formal
You have seen an advertisement for a weekend job as a local tour guide showing visitors around your city Write a letter of application to the tourism office In the letter give your reasons for wanting the job explain why

formal
Your company recently used a hotel for an important meeting. There was a problem with the facilities in the meeting room. Write a letter to the hotel manager. In your letter- -give details about this meeting, -describe the problem with the meeting room facilities, -say what you want the manager to do?

formal
You have just read an article in our national newspaper which claims that town centers 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 See which point in the article you agree with. Explain ways in which your town center is different from most other town centers. Offer to give a guy to her of your town to the writer of the article.

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
The system used for rubbish/garbage collection in your local area is not working properly. This is causing problems for you and your neighbours. 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
Practice 1: You should spend about 20 minutes on this task. You have a full-time job and are also doing a part-time evening course. You now find that you cannot continue the course. Write a letter to the course tutor. In your letter, •describe the situation •explain why you cannot continue at this time •say what action you would like to take You should write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any ad

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 statemen

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 you letter - introduce yourself - say why you are interested in this sports club - ask some questions about the club eg. facilities, members, costs.

formal
A museum near your home is looking for people to do part-time voluntaryl 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 museum • describe some skills and qualities you have that would be useful • give details of when you would be available for work

formal
You have noticed that the street where you live has become dirty and that garbage is not being cleaned regularly. Write a letter to your local council. In your letter, you should: - Explain the problem and how it is affecting your area - Describe your concerns about the impact of the issue - Suggest what the council should do to improve the situation

formal
You have bought some clothing online and are not satisfied with your purchase. Write a letter to the company that you have bought the clothing from. In your letter: Give details of the purchase Describe the problem Explain why you need a replacement urgently

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 are going to another country to study. You would like to do a part-time job while your are studying, so you want to ask a friend who lives there for some help. Write a letter to this fiend. In your letter:-give details of your study plans-explain why you want to get a part-time job-suggest how your friend could help you find a job

formal
You should spend about 20 minutes on this task. 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 You do NOT need to write your own address. Begin your letter as follows: Dear ..., You should write at least 150 words.

formal
Write a letter to 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 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. Begin your letter as follows: Dear……………………,

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 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 recently booked a table at a popular restaurant to celebrate a special occasion, but the experience did not meet your expectations. Write a letter to the restaurant manager. In your letter: •Describe the problems you faced with the service or food •Explain how the situation affected your celebration •Suggest how the restaurant could make it up to you Dear Manager,

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

formal
you have just read an article in a national newspaper which claims that town centers in your country all 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 -offer to give a guided tour of your town to the writer of the article

formal
In your school, one of your friends has been feeling down and demotivated. You take it as your responsibility to cheer him/her up and do this via a Birthday party invitation. Write to your classmates and talk about organizing the party. Please include • the reason behind the party • the location of the party • discuss any other arrangements You should write between 150-200 words.

formal
A building campany is planning to build new house on some land near you live and has asked the people to give their comments. write a letter to the manger of the building company and say how you heard about the plan of the building company - give ypur opinion of the plan -say what you hope the building company will do

formal
You recently bought an expensive electronic product from a store and found that the product does not work properly. Write a letter to store manager. In your letter, Complain about the problem Propose action for the store to take.

formal
You recently bought some new furniture for your living room online. You were told that the furniture would arrive within 5 working days, but it has been 2 weeks, and it has still not arrived. You phoned the shop but no action was taken. Write a letter to the shop manager. In the letter, • explain that the furniture has not arrived • describe what happened when you phoned the shop • say what you would like the manager to do

formal
You are planning a business trip to another city. Write a letter to the manager of a local hotel to make arrangements for your stay. In your letter: Introduce yourself and your company Provide the details of your stay (dates, type of room, etc.) Explain any special requests you have Write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any addresses.

formal
Train service in your area is reduced. Write a letter to your train company - explain how it affects you - describe the situation - tell the train company what you would like them to do

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 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
General Training Writing Task 1 Your loval hospital has advertised for people to do unpaid work for 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 lettr: - 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 detais of when you would be availble for this work Write at least 150 words

formal
You are planning a holiday and want to find out about the kinds of holiday packages that can be arranged by a local company. Write a letter to the company to as for information about the holiday packages they offer. In your letter: say where and when you would like to go include details about the kind of holiday you would like to take say what kind of information you would like to receive.

formal
Your local council is considering closing a sport 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 friends or family use the centre .explain why sport and leisure centre is important for the local community .describe the possible effects on local people if the centre closes.

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 normally go shopping in the area where you live. However, you think some of the facilites for shoppers could be improved. Write a letter to your local newspaper. In your letter:say in general what you like about shopping in your area , say what is wrong with the facilities, suggest how they can be improved

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 and some friends had dinner in a restaurant a few nights ago. The service at the restaurant was terrible and the food was bad. You and two of your friends had severe stomachaches the following day. The food was also overpriced. Write to the manager of the restaurant. In your letter, -explain these problems -give details that you think are relevant -ask the manager to do something about the situation

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– Provide the details of your purchase – Describe the problem that you have with it – Suggest what can be done about it.

formal
You have recently bought a Telephone with answer machine from an online shop. The web page said that the answer machine shows you a list of who left a message so you can choose which to play first. But after taking it home you find out that only the most recent call is kept in the calls list. Write an e-mail letter to the store manager. In your e-mail: •say who you are •explain the problem •say what action you would like the store to take You should write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write your own address.

formal
You have just read an article in a national newspaper which claims that town centers 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 center is different from most other town centers .Offer to give guided tour of your twon to the writer of the articleI have recently

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
You have missed some important papers accidently in a taxi. Write a letter to the manager of the Taxi company. In your letter: ⦁ Give the details of your journey ⦁ Explain why those papers are important for you ⦁ Suggest what can the manager do

formal
You would like to apply for a full-time position at an international airport. Write to the human resource department and say. -What job you are interested in -Explain what you are currently doing - Why do you think you are best candidate for the job

formal
You use the local swimming pool often and during one of your visit you have encountered a problem. Write a letter to the manager and say – What the problem was and when it happened – What the swimming pool staff have done about it – Suggest your own solution to the problem.

formal
You lost your wallet on a train. Write a letter to railway company. In your letter. describe the wallet and wat was inside. explain where and when you lost it. say what you want the company to do.

formal
A magazine wants to include conntributions from its readers for an article called 'The book that influenced me the 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
You recently moved to a new city and want to join a local gym. Write a letter to the gym manager. In your letter: Introduce yourself and explain why you are interested in joining the gym. Ask about the facilities and membership options. Inquire about any classes or personal training sessions available.

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
You have recently landed in a foreign country on a work visa and are interested in seeking information and guidance about the various places in and around the city. Write a letter to the relocation assistance provider seeing help. In your letter: • explain why you are writing the letter. • what kind of information you want. • how and when you can get requested information.

formal
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

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
You were hurt in a minor accident in a supermarket and you wish to make a complaint. Write a letter to the manager of the supermarket. In your letter: give details about who you are give details about the accident suggest how the supermarket could prevent similar accidents.

formal
You are about to start social meetings in a particular area where people from different nationalities can take part. Write a letter to the editor of a local newspaper requesting him to publish information about this:- - What activities you have planned - When the first meeting takes place and where

formal
You are being sent on a one month work assignment in San Francisco, California. You need a place to stay while you are there. Write a letter to the Maury Samson Real Estate Agency. In your letter: explain the situation describe the kind of accommodation you would like provide the dates you will need it

formal
You are working in a company and you have decided to leave your current employment. Write a letter to your employer. In your letter: Explain why you are leaving. Explain why you have decided to leave your company. Tell your employer what you plan to do after leaving your present employment.

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 at lease 150 words

formal
A company has asked for permission from the local Council to built a factory in your area. Write a letter to the local Council stating that you and your neighbours think this is a bad idea. State what problem this might cause Explain where the factory should be constructed Explain what you want the Council to Do

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

formal
Your local council is considering closing the kindergarten which is located in your district. Write a letter to the local council. In your letter: • Give details how you and your neighbors use the kindergarten; • Explain what consequences will be for the all people nearby; • Ask to change their decision. Write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear ....,

formal
You have recently landed in a foreign country on a work visa and are interested in seeking information and guidance about the various places in and around the city. Write a letter to the relocation assistance provider seeing help. In your letter: •explain why you are writing the letter. •what kind of information you want. •how and when you can get requested information.

formal
1.Your company has sent you on a three-month course in another country. The course is coming to an end but you would like to prolong your stay. Write a letter to your manager, in your letter: oDescribe how the course has benefited you oExplain why you would like to delay your return oSuggest a date when you would like to come back

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 Write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear Sir or Madam,

formal
You want to rent out a small apartment to a family, and you have decided to advertise it. Write a letter to the editor of a local newspaper asking to advertise your ad on the front page of the newspaper. In your letter, •give details of the ad that you want to publish •mention that you want the ad to be published on the front page •say how you would like to pay for the advertisement

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.

formal
ou 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 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
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 took your family to a nearby restaurant. You were disappointed with the meal and wish to complain to the manager. Write a letter to the manager of the restaurant. In your letter, » explain why you were at the restaurant » describe the problems » write about the action you want the manager to take Write atleast 150words

formal
You have seen an advertisement from a couple who live in Australia, for someone to teach their two children your language for a year Write a letter to the cop in your letter explain why you think you would be suitable for the job. Say what else you could do for the family give me a reason for wanting to job.

formal
An organization has given an advertisement for a part-time job for local children. Write a letter to the administrator of the organization. In your letter Introduce yourself Why you think you are suitable for the job State when you will be able to join that job

formal
Write a letter to the transport officer about a problem with transport system in your area. Explain in letter . -describe the situation you are facing -why you consider it a problem -what changes you like to recommend

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
You live close to a restaurant and have recently been disturbed by the noise coming from the restaurant in the evenings. Write a letter to the owner of the restaurant. In your letter ● explain why you find the noise disturbing ● suggest a way to solve the problem ● explain what you will do if the problem is not solved

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 recently made reservations for dinner at a very famous and expensive restaurant in town. However, the meal and the service were terrible. The restaurant manager was not available to solve the problem, so you left without a resolution. State what problems you had with the food you ordered. Complain about the service. Describe how you want the restaurant to resolve the problem to your satisfaction.

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 are going to take a short holiday in Singapore and you want to rent a holiday apartment while you are there. Write to the tourist information office. In your letter: -Explain what you need. -Say when you plan to be there. -Ask for information about prices.

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 -describe the item you lost -Explain how you lost it - tell the insurance company what would you like them to do

formal
(SOFIA) 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 been working for a company for more than a few years and have decided to leave the company. Write a letter to your company manager saying that you want to leave the company. In your letter explain: what you have learned while working for the company whether you have enjoyed working for the company what are your reasons for leaving the company 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 just read an article in a national newspaper which claims that town centers 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 center is different from most other town centers .Offer to give guided tour of your twon to the writer of the article

formal
Your company has sent you on a three-month course in another country. The course is coming to an end but you would like to prolong your stay. Write a letter to your manager, in your letter: Describe how the course has benefited you Explain why you would like to delay your return Suggest a date when you would like to come back

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 the money

🚀 Prepare for IELTS writing section today!
  • Unlimited Task 1 & Task 2 checks
    Practice with essays, charts, and letters.
  • Personalized suggestions & mistake analysis
    Spot every mistake and boost your score.
  • Topic ideas & vocabulary helpers
    Expand your ideas and use the right words.
  • Progress tracking
    Watch your writing improve with every practice.