IELTS General Writing Task 1 formal Topics/Questions 2026

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

formal
You want to book a hotel that one of your friends recommended to you for a family holiday at the seaside. Write a letter to the hotel manager to make arrangements. In your letter, explain what accommodation you require and when you want to stay ask what will be included in the price enquire about activities and places of interest near the hotel

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
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 -suggest what action the train company should take Begin your letter as follows: Dear Sir or Madam,

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

formal
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 You do NOT need to write any addresses.

formal
You have moved to another city but your bank has your old address and continues to send all the communication there. Write a letter to your bank branch. In this letter: - Where have you moved to? - What problem are you facing regarding the bank's communication? What you want them to do regarding the old communication already sent to the wrong address?

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

formal
You are coming home late night and detained by police Department for a routine check(patrol). The officer on duty behaved with you rudely. Escalte the complaint to police Commissioner about this incident. In your letter Introduce yourself describe what happened say what you want police Commissinoer to do for you.

formal
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
Last week you were on a flight to London. Unfortunately, when you got off the plane, you left a bag there. You did not remember about the bag until you got to your hotel. Write a letter to the airline. In your letter •explain what has happened • describe the bag and its contents • say what you would like them to do about this problem

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 study/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 study/work say what kind of accommodation you would prefer You should write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear Sir or Madam,

formal
you have received a bill from a mobile phone company for international call charges relating to a time when you did not use your phone for international calls. write a letter to the company, complaining about this giving your reasons asking for the bill to be changed

formal
You work for the Angus Hotel Group. There is a new position opening in your department. Write to your manager and apply for the job. In the letter, -Describe who you are and current role -Explain why you would like to apply for the new position -Suggest how the manager can assist with your application

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 Request conformation that this is agreed

formal
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 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
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 write at least 150 words You don’t write any address

formal
1. You are leaving your current job for some reasons and you would like to recommend one of your friends to your manager. Write a letter to your manager. In your letter - say why you resign - what are the duties of your current job - why your friend is suitable for this job

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 saw a column in the newspaper about you childhood friend. You would like to contact him or her. Write a letter to the editor of this newspaper asking for details about your friend. Inculde, Why do you want to contact him or her How the editor can contact you

formal
You want to join a local club or organization. Write a letter to the club secretary. In your letter: - Introduce yourself and explain why you are interested. - Ask about membership requirements. - Enquire about the next meeting or event.

formal
You recently stayed at a hotel during your vacation. However, you were not satisfied with some of the services provided. Write a letter to the hotel manager. In your letter: •explain why you chose to stay at the hotel – I was in town with my family •describe the problems you faced during your stay – the equipments were not working and shower water was cold •say what you would like the manager to do about it change or repair heater

formal
You have recently ordered an item from 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
You have just enrolled in a 12 week English class, but have found that you have a family problem and you will have to return home. Write to the school. In your letter 􀁸 Explain what has happened 􀁸 Request a refund 􀁸 Ask whether you will be able to return at a later date

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
You recently discovered that there are plans to construct an airport in your locality. Write a letter to the local authority. In your letter, you should tell: explain how you knew about the plans describe the negative effect of the construction on your neighborhood suggest a possible solution to the problem.

formal
You are studying at a college which has very limited sports and leisure facilities for students. Write a letter to the principal. In your letter, •outline the situation •propose ways to improve this situation •request a meeting to discuss this Begin your letter ‘Dear --------’ Do not write any addresses Write at least 150 words

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

formal
You are disturbed by the noise coming from a restaurant opened nearby recently. write a letter to the restaurant manager and say 1. what problem do you experience 2. what should the management do about it 3. what you will do if the problem is not resolved

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
Scenario: You need to take a few days off from work for a family emergency. Write a letter to your employer formally requesting time off and explaining the situation.

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

formal
You recently attended a meeting at a hotel. When you returned home , you found you had left some important paper 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 did a short cookery course. The cookery school asked for your feedback on this course.
Write a letter to the course director at the cookery school.
 • describe what you enjoyed about the course
 : well known instructors, interactive practical assignments, • say how much cooking you’ve done since the course : started to help my mother for cooking, during holidays started small tiffin services for students 
• suggest another cookery course you’d like the school to offer

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
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
[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 visited a store and did not like the customer service there. Write a letter to the store manager and say: 1) What was the issue there? 2) Why wasn't the staff helpful? 3)Suggest what can be done about it?

formal
Write a letter to the manager of your insurance company. -Describe the item you lost -How you lost it -What you would like the insurance company to do for you.

formal
You have just read an article in an international travel magazine which contained some information about your town that is incorrect. Write a letter to the editor of the magazine. In your letter correct the information in the article explain why it is important for the magazine to give correct information suggest what the magazine should do about this situation15:56/-strong/-heart:>:o:-((:-hĐã nhậnXem trước khi gửiThả Files vào đây để xem lại trước khi gửi

formal
You are going to have a family party in a private room in a hotel. Write a letter to the hotel manager and say : Why you need to use this private room What you need them to provide for the party inquire about the price of the food you are ordering.

formal
You recently started commuting to work by bicycle and discovered that there is a problem with bicycle parking near the building where you work. Write a letter to the building manager. In your letter, •explain the reason for using a bicycle to commute •mention what problems you have encountered with parking • what you recommend to solve the problems

formal
You are working for a company. You need to take some time off work and want to ask your boss about this. Write a letter to your manager. In your letter: explain why you want to take time off work and how long you need explain how you will keep up-to-date while you are away suggest how your work could be covered while you are away

formal
You should spend about 20 minutes on this task. 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

formal
You and your neighbours have noticed that the rubbish collection services where you live have recently been quite bad. Write a letter to your local council. In your letter, – explain what you have recently experienced – explain what the neighbours have recently experienced – ask what action will be taken to improve the service

formal
You recently organised an all-day meeting for your company, which took place ina 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 the future.

formal
A recent newspaper article discussed the threat of technology taking over our homes and lives. You think that the views expressed in the article were one-sided and have decided to write a letter to the editor. You want to highlight the benefits of technology in our daily lives

formal
You have written an article for a magazine about the job that you do. Write a letter to your manager and ask for his/her comments regarding the article, which will be published in a famous magazine next month. In this letter, you should say Explain why you have written this article. Give a short description of what you have written. Specify what particular things you want him/her to comment on.

formal
Your local newspaper published an advertisement asking people to help with environment projects in your area. Write a letter to the project manager to offer your help. In your letter -describe a local environmental issue that affects you. -explain what you would like to do to help. -and suggest how the problem could be avoided in future.

formal
You saw an advertisement for a short course in computer programming located in another city. Write a letter to the course administrator and ask for more information. In your letter: introduce yourself and explain why you are interested in the course ask for details about the course schedule and accommodation options ask about the total cost and any entry requirements

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

formal
You recently attended a workshop, but you were disappointed with some aspects of it. Write a letter to the organizer. In your letter: •Explain which workshop you attended and when •Describe what disappointed you about it •Say what you would like the organizer to do

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 Offered to give a guided tour of your town to the writer of the article

formal
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 employees about the new employee’s conduct Say how you expect the HR manager to address the 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 for launch. 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 the future Write at least 150 words.

formal
You should spend about 20 minutes on this task. You are applying for a job and need a letter of reference from someone who knew you when you were at school. Write a letter to one of your old teachers asking for a reference. In your letter: say what job you have applied for explain why you want this job suggest what information the teacher should include Write at least 150 words. Begin your letter as follows:

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

formal
You live in a room in college which you share with another student. However, there are many problems with this arrangement and you find it very difficult to work. Write a letter to the accommodation officer at the college. In the letter, • describe the situation • explain your problems and why it is difficult to work • say what kind of accommodation you would prefer Write at least 150 words. Yồu do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear Sir or Madam,

formal
You recently went to see a good play at a theatre, but you did not enjoy it because of some problems in the theatre. Write a letter to the manager of the theatre. In your letter: •say which play you saw and when •describe the problems you experienced in the theatre •suggest what the manager should do

formal
General Training Task 1 You should spend about 20 minutes on this task. You recently hired a restaurant to host an office party at work, but there were several problems with the food and service. Write a letter to the restaurant manager. In your letter: Give details of the food and services you ordered Describe the problems that occurred Explain what you want 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 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
There have been several comp,laints about the reception area where visitors to your company arrive. Your manager 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 #comp #laints #reception #area #visitors #company #manager #complaints

formal
A restaurant has placed an advertisement for waiters and waitresses in locals newspaper. Write a letter to the restaurant, applying for the job. In your letter Explain what you are currently sowing Describe your suitability for this area of work Say when you can attend an interview

formal
Your are living in a university residence, and you have a problem with the high levels  of Boise a letter campus restaurant Wich is open until midnight Write a letter to the governor of The University.In your letter

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 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
You should spend about 20 minutes on this task. Write at least 150 words. You would like to rent a car for a holiday. Write to the car rental agency. In your letter •Explain what type of car you would like •Give details of when you would like the car • Request more information about the cost You do NOT need to write any addresses.

formal
You travelled by plane last week and your suitcase was lost. You have still heard nothing from the airline Company, write to the airline and explain what happened. Describe your bag and tell them what was in it and what they were going to do about it?

formal
Write a letter to your manager. In your letter: Apologize for your absence and explain the reasoning Explain why you had to be at the other event Explain what you will do to catch up Write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any addresses.

formal
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:

formal
You forgot a bag at the gym and the gym is close for renovations. Write a letter to the Gym officer and mention the below : Introduce yourself Description of the bag Tell them to who you want to give the bag to Dear Sir or Madam,

formal
You live in a house opposite a park. Every day a man brings large dogs to the park and lets them run free. Write a letter to your local council complaining about the danger. In your letter - say where the park is, - say how often this happens - give a description of the man and the dogs.

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
(Livia) Your manager has asked you to arrange a party for a colleague who is leaving the company. Write a letter to your manager. In your letter – Suggest a suitable date and time for the party – Recommend a venue – Propose the food and entertainment options that should be available.

formal
You rent a four-bedroom house which you share with two other students. However, there are several problems with this house that need fixing. You also find it expensive and would like to find another student to share the spare bedroom. Write a letter to the estate agency. In the letter: - Explain your situation -Describe the problem with the house -Say what would you like to happen

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,

formal
You recently sent some documents by post, but they did not arrive at the destination. Write a letter to the post office manager. In your letter, •give details of the situation • describe the documents • say what action you want the post office to take

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
Write a letter to the store manager about the recent accident occured explain -Who are you - explain what happened - provide suggestions so that it doesnt occur in future

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. How to Answe

formal
You work for a company and have recently decided to leave your current employment. Write a letter to your employer. In your letter explain why you are writing explain why you have decided to leave the company tell your employer what you plan to do after leaving your present employment

formal
On a recent holiday you lost a valueable item. Fortunately you have travel insurance to cover the cost of anything lost. Write a lettr to the manager of your insurance company. In your letter

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
You recently organised an all-day meeting for your company, which took place in local hotel. In their feeback, 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, 1. say what the participants liked about the hotel 2. explain why they were unhappy about the food 3. suggest what the manager should do to improve the food in future.

formal
You have some library books that you are unable to return as a member of your family in another city has fallen sick and you have hand to go and look after them. Write a letter to the library. In you letter, you should: explaining the situation apologize for the inconvenience called and say what you are going to do

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 the book is about  Explain how the book influenced you  Say whether this book would be likely to influence people.

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 are not satisfied with a product you purchased. Write a letter to the store manager. In your letter: - Describe the product and the problem. - Explain what you want the store to do. - Say what you will do if the issue is not resolved.

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

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

formal
You have seen an advertisement looking for volunteers to teach English overseas. Write to the recruitment office. In your letter •Tell them where you saw the advertisement •Explain why you would like to go •Describe the skills that you have that you think would help.

formal
You should spend about 20 minutes on this task. 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 ask 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 Write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear Sir or Madam,

formal
You recently 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
ou 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
You are planning a trip for you and a group of friends to a resort in a foreign country. Write a letter to the manager of the resort requesting more information. You letter should include: 1. When you hope to be staying at the resort 2. Ask for suggestions on activities to do 3. Ask for advice on places to eat for both vegetarian and family friendly places.

formal
You would like to join the local orchestra. Write a letter of application to the orchestra. In the letter: – Introduce yourself and your instrument of choice – Explain how your credentials make you a good candidate – Express your enthusiasm for music

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
Your local newspaper had an advertisement asking people to help with environment projects in your area. Write a letter to the project manager to offer your help. In your letter: describe a local environmental issue in your area explain how you can help suggest how the problem could be avoided in future.

formal
You recently stayed at a hotel and found the service unsatisfactory. Write a letter to the hotel manager. In your letter: Explain the problem with the service. Describe how this affected your stay. Suggest what you would like the hotel to do as compensation

formal
The system used for rubbish/garbage collection in your local are is not working properly. This is causing problems 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

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