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
There have been some problems with public transport in your area recently. Write a letter to the manager of the transport company. In your letter -describe the problems -explain how these problems are affecting the public -suggest some changes that could be made.
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
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 television channel Manager about boring programs during the day time. Tell him about the programs, give suggestions.
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 l Explain why it is important for the magazine to give correct information l Suggest what the magazine should do about this situation
formal
You work for a small company. You need to arrange for some time off work. Write a letter to your employer. In your letter: explain why you want to take time off work give details of how long you will be away suggest how you will make up for the lost time ​ You do NOT need to write any addresses
formal
You live with a roommate at university but you have trouble studying because of a problem related to your roommate. Write a letter to an administrator at your university and include: •Who you are •The problem •What you suggest they do
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 requirementsv
formal
You have completed the course and received a certificate, but you lost it on the way back. Write a letter to the Principal of the college. In your letter, you should tell: how you lost the certificate why you need it what you expect the principal to d
formal
You have recently landed in a foreign country on work visa and interested in seeking information guide about the place in and around the city. Write a letter to the relocation assistance provider for seeing help and in your letter. Write why you are writing the letter. what kind of information you want. how and when you can get requested information.
formal
Essay topics: You work for an in the 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. .explainwhat the company could do to help you. . say how the course will be useful for your job.
formal
Recently, you went for shopping at a famous mall. When you returned, you realised that you had been charged for items you did not actually buy. Write a letter to the authority in-charge explaining what has happened. In your letter, ● describe the situation ● explain the items you have bought and their cost ● tell him how you feel about the error and ask him to do something about it
formal
You have read about a scholarship offered by a university and wish to apply. Write a letter to the university and include the following information: the scholarship you wish to apply for some details about yourself your academic suitability for the scholarship and any other relevant information.
formal
You have seen an advertisiment in an Australian magazine for someone to live with a family for six months and look for their six-year-old child. Write a letter to the parnets. In your letter -Explain why you would like the job -Give details of why you would be a suitable person to employ -Say how you would spend your free time while you are in Australia
formal
You are going on a month training program to the UK and know that the head of the course would like one of the participants to be the social events’ organizer. Write a letter to the Training Organiser • Express your interest in the role • Request more information about it • Explain what experience you have
formal
There is a problem with the changing rooms in the sports center that you visit. You have complained several times but with no success. Write a letter to the manager of the sports center. In your letter: • Describe what the problem with the changing rooms is • Say what happened the last times you complained • Explain what you want the manager to do
formal
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 • Suggest how the problem could be avoided in future.
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
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 expiain why it is important for the magazine to give correct information suggest what the magazine should do about this situation
formal
You recently sent a valuable parcel through a courier company, but it has not arrived at its destination. Write a letter to the courier company. In your letter:     •    Give details of the parcel and when you sent it.     •    Explain the importance of the parcel's contents.     •    Suggest what action you would like the company to take.
formal
You want to complain about the service you received in the hotel you stayed in while attending a recent meeting. Write a letter to the person who organised the meeting in you letter 1) Describe the meeting 2) Explain the prblems with the service 3) suggest what the meeting organiser should do
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
You recently stayed at a hotel for a conference with your company and there were several problems with your room. Write to the hotel management to complain. Include •Where you stayed •What the problems were •How they can fix your complaints
formal
There is a problem related with the changing room of your gym in your community. You reported it several times, but it was not solved. Write a letter to the manager. In your letter, you should: • describe the problem • what they said while reporting the problem • what you want the manager to do.
formal
You work at home and have a problem with a piece of equipment that you use for your job. Write a letter to the shop or company which supplied the equipment. In your letter describe the problem with the equipment explain how this problem is affecting your work say what you want the shop or company to do You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear Sir or Madam,
formal
ou would like to take a part-time course at the university, but don’t have the money to do it. Write a letter to an organization that supports students financially and asks for help. In your letter – Describe your qualification and degree. – Provide some details of the course. – Explain how this course will help you in the future.
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
Your company introduced a work uniform that you are mostly happy with, except for one thing. Write a letter to your manager and include the following: – What do you like about the uniform? – What don’t you like about the uniform? – Make suggestions how to improve the uniform.
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 often visit a local music studio to practice singing and record audio. Recently, you received an email from the studio manager. Write a short letter to the manager In your letter: Say how you feel about the closure Suggest what the studio should do during the closure
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 situation Write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear Sir or Madam,
formal
Every year your company organize a sports event for a local community but this year they can’t do it. Write a letter to your local newspaper about this. In your letter : Express your feelings about missing the sports event. : Tell them about your plan for next year. : Explain how this sports event is useful.
formal
You are living in an English-speaking country and the restaurant near you is making a lot of noise. Write a letter to the restaurant owner. - tell restaurant owner to reduce the noise levels. - suggest a solution to fix the problem. - warn that if this problem remains not solved then further action will be taken.
formal
7. You're working overseas in an international company. You are leaving the country in emergency. Write a letter to your friends explaining the situation. In the letter, you should - apologise for leaving like this - explain what happened - tell them what you're going to miss about working with them
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. Your letter should include When you hope to be staying at the resort Ask for suggestions on activities to do Ask for advice on places to eat in both vegetarian and family-friendly places
formal
You and your family are planning to spend a weekend at a seaside hotel. Write a letter to the hotel, making the arrangements. In your letter tell them when you will be arriving and leaving explain what type of rooms you would like, and ask how much the weekend will cost ask about activities and places of interest near the hotel You should You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear Sir or Madam,
formal
You have seen an advertisement in the local newspaper for swimming lessons at your community sports centre. You want to find out more about the lessons. Write a letter to the manger of the sports centre. .Describe how well you can swim at the moment . Explain why you want to learn to swim better . Enquire about the time and cost of the swimming lessons
formal
The hotel where you and your family spent the weekend did not offer the service they had promised. Write a letter to the manager. In your letter: • Introduce yourself. • Explain the problem. • State what action you would like from the hotel. You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear Sir or Madam,
formal
You recently took part in a training course. The organiser of the course has asked you for some feedback. Write a letter to the organiser of the course. In your letter: • give details of the course you took part in • say what you found useful on the course • suggest ways the course could be improved You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear......
formal
You should spend about 20 minutes on this task. Write at least 150 words. 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 …,
formal
You are applying for a job and need a letter of reference from someone who knew you when you were at college. 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
formal
Write a letter to local authorities by requesting additional sports facilities for your age in your area. Mention about the current sports facilities available. What kind of additional sports facilities should be introduced? How the new sports facilities would be a help for the people in your age group.
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
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 tak
formal
Your car insurance company has told you that they are going to increase the amount you have to pay in insurance for your car each month. You are not happy about this. 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
formal
You should spend about 20 minutes on this task. Two weeks ago you bought a radio from a local branch of a well-known chain of shops. It did not work properly. The shop took it back and said they would repair it. You have waited a week and it is still not ready. Write a letter to the shop. In your letter say what has happened and how you feel ask them to explain why there has been a delay ask them to repair the radio very quickly or to supply you with a new radio 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
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 Write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any addresses.

Begin your letter as follows: Dear Sir or Madam,
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 saw an advert for the post of finance manager at the vacancy board. You want to apply for the same job. But, you have been late for applying for the same. Write a letter along with your resume to your prospective employer. In your letter • introduce yourself • talkaboutyourskills • reasonsforyourdelay
formal
Letter number 110 Write a complaint letter to a moving company, let them know that they have damaged some of your furniture, tell them you’re not happy about the service and suggest a solution.
formal
You were absent from an important event held by the company you work for. 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. Begin your letter as follows: Dear Mr. Brannagan
formal
Write a letter to your manager to nominate a person for the best employee of the year award. Explain in your letter:  Who this person is  Why you choose him/her  What the characteristics of the good employee are
formal
Your local council has been doing roadworks to install new internet cables along the road outside your house. This has caused a lot of noise and inconvenience. Write a letter to your local councillor to complain. In your letter: Describe what has happened, say why you are complaining, explain what you would like your councillor to do.
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
formal
You attended a training course, but the quality of the course was not satisfactory. Write a letter to the training center manager. Explain the problems you faced during the course Describe how these problems impacted your learning experience Suggest ways the training center could improve the course
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 and your friends had dinner at a restaurant to celebrate something special, and you really liked the food and service. Write a letter to the manager of the restaurant. In your letter • give details of your visit to the restaurant • explain what the celebration was for • say what you liked about the food and the service You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear Sir or Madam,
formal
Dear Mr. Garg, I am writing this letter to seek some information about rental accommodation properties in Ahmedabad. I plan to move there with my family by the end of this month. Currently, I am living in Surat. Recently, I got promoted to higher-level position in my company. As a plan of expansion, the organization has decided to start a new office there and I will be responsible for looking after that. So I have to shift there. Furthermore, our new planned office is located by S.G.Highway. As I am not very familiar with the city, I would like to rent property in the nearby area. Someone has suggested Satellite and Thaltej, I want to consider that too. I am moving there with my husband and two kids, the house needs to have at least 2 bedrooms. Additionally, it needs to be semi-furnished especially in the kitchen with a gas connection. My kids are still young so it needs to be safer for them. It would be great for me if you could send me some details prior to our moving with concerns terms. I am looking forward to your positive reply. Yours faithfully, Jaimini PatelYou are moving to a new city with your family. Write a letter to a real estate agent to enquire about accommodations. Include in your letter Why you are moving Where you want to live The type of accommodation required
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 finished your master’s degree and need to leave your current part-time job to search for full-time employment. Write a letter to your current employer. In your letter o● explain why you will not pursue a full-time job in his/her company o ● say why you’ve enjoyed working for him/her o ● tell him/her how much longer you will continue to work for him/her.
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, Write a letter to your neighbours. In your letter explain the reasons for the noise apologise describe what action you will take
formal
You have been doing some voluntary work to help your local community. However, now you are unable to continue doing this work. Write a letter to the manager of the organization where you have been working. In your letter: •describe the work you have been doing •explain why you can no longer do this work •recommend another person who is interested in the work
formal
You bought a game DVD and it is defective. Write a letter to the store for returning this DVD. In your letter • introduce yourself • describe what went wrong • say what you want from the store manager
formal
Your next-door neighbour likes to listen to music late at night. Because of the loud music, you often lose sleep. Write a letter (at least 150 words) to the building manager. In your letter: •Describe the situation •Explain the problems it is causing you •Offer at least one solution
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
formal
You want to organize a party in your office to celebrate something. Write a letter to your manager about the party at the office. In your letter, say what the party is about mention why it is necessary explain what you expect from him/her to do
formal
Write a letter to a company manager about a problem with an item that you purchased online. Describe the item Tell the manager what the problem is Explain what you want them to do
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
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
You have been experiencing problems with your internet service, such as slow speed or frequent disconnections. Write a letter to the internet service provider to complain about the issue. In your letter: - describe the problems you are facing with the internet service, - explain how these problems are affecting your daily activities, - request immediate action to fix the issue or offer compensation.
formal
You have a complaint about the hotel you stayed at while attending a meeting that was booked by the organizer of a company meeting. Write a letter to the organizer of the meeting and include: -Details about the meeting - The problem you face - What should be done
formal
You are living in an English speaking country and the restaurant near you is making a lot of noise. Write a letter to the restaurant owner. Cover the following: - tell restaurant owner to reduce the noise levels. - suggest a solution to fix the problem. - warn that if this problem remains not solved then further action will be taken
formal
You and your family have just come back from a holiday staying in a rented accommodation 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. You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follow
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
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 have learned about a position in Australia that is available within the company you currently work for and you want to apply. Write a letter to the head of human resources in your office. In your letter:- - say why you are applying for this position. - explain what you currently do for the company. - explain why you would be suitable for this position
formal
You recently bought a piece of electronic equipment from a local store, but it stopped working after just a few days. You tried calling the store, but no one helped you.Write a letter to the store manager. In your letter:State what you bought and when you bought it.Explain what the problem is with the equipment.Tell the manager what action you want them to take.
formal
You were recently disrespected by one of the employees at your local supermarket. Write a letter to the supermarket manager. In your letter • tell why you were speaking with the employee • describe the employee's rude behavior • explain what you'd like the manager to do
formal
You borrowed some books from your school or college library. Unfortunately you have to go away to visit a sick relative and cannot return the books in time. Write a letter to the library. Explain what has happened and tell them what you want to do about it. You should You do NOT need to write your own address.
formal
You want to book a hotel recommended to you for a family holiday at the seaside. Write a letter to the hotel manager to make arrangements. • 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
You recently ordered an expensive item from a mail order catalogue after you saw it being advertised at a discounted price in the press. The company withdrew the offer after you made the order and charged you at the full price. Write a letter to the company outlining your dissatisfaction with the way you have been treated and the action you want them to take.
formal
Your child is going on a school trip abroad for three days and the headmaster of the school has asked any parents if they would like to come along to assist. You would like to go. Write a letter to the headmaster. In your letter: Say why you would like to go Suggest what you could do to help during the trip Ask some further questions about the trip
formal
Your child is going on a trip to a nature reserve organized bye by a local youth club. The club leader is looking for parents to travel with Group and you would like to go. Write a letter to the leader of the youth club. In your letter- say why you want to go on the trip Describe what you could do to help during the trip Ask for more details about the trip Begin your letter as follows: Dear .... You should write at least 150 words. You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.
formal
You recently spent a night in a hotel and had to put up with a great deal of noise very early in the morning because of a faulty central heating system. The manager promised to contact you regarding compensation but you still haven't heard from him. Write a letter to the hotel. In the letter describe the problem at the hotel explain what the manager had said at the time say what you want the manager to do
formal
Your local newspaper published an advertisement asking people to offer time for local environmental initiatives in your area. Write a letter to the project manager to offer your help. In your letter: -Describe a local volunteer project that you are passionate about -Explain what you would like to do to help -Suggest how to gather more support for the cause Write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear Sir or Madam,
formal
You have decided to leave your current job even though you enjoy it. Write a letter to inform your manager of your decision. In your letter - tell the manager about your decision and the reason for it. - describe what you learnt in your current job - and ask the manager to write a reference letter to help you with future employment Dear Mr. Mathews,
formal
You experienced an incident on public transport that caused you distress. Write a letter to the managed 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 are studying in a large town where there are no leisure facilities for young people.wriyr a letter to the local council.in your letter Describe the problem Make some suggestion for leisure facilities Say why you think that these facilities will make the town a better place.
formal
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 decided to leave your current job even though you enjoy it. Write a letter to inform your manager of your decision. In your letter -tell the manager about your decision and the reason for it. -describe what you learned in your current job. -and ask the manager to write a reference letter to help you with future employment.
formal
you have lost a vsluable item. write a letter to insurance manager
formal
You recently moved to a new neighbourhood, and you are facing difficulties with the public transportation system. Write a letter to your local council to express your concerns. In your letter • explain the issues you are experiencing with public transportation • describe how these problems are affecting your daily life • suggest possible improvements to the transportation system You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear Sir or Madam,
formal
You are moving to a new city and need a place to live. Write a letter to a real estate agent in the city. In your letter: explain why you are moving to the city describe the type of accommodation you are looking for mention your budget and any specific requirements you have.
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 merchandize cannot be returned. Write a letter to the store manager. In your letter: Describe the problem with the jacket Explain what happened what happened when you tried to return it. Say what you would like the manager to do.
formal
You have bought furniture from a store. When you received, there were some damages. Write a letter to the concerned store manager. In your letter, you should: •Give information about the furniture. •Explain the damage •Ask the manager to solve your issue.
formal
SOFIA 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
There have been some problems with the bus service, especially its reliability, in your area over the last two weeks. Write a letter to the manager of the bus company. In your letter • describe what the problems are • explain how these problems are affecting you • suggest what you would like the company to do Write at least 150 words.
formal
You saw an advert in the newspaper asking for volunteers to help run a charity event. Write a letter of application to the organisers. In your letter:  Explain why you are interest in helping  Give details suitable past experience  Suggest ways you might help with the event
formal
For the past year, you have been a member of a local club. Now you want to discontinue your membership. Write a letter to the club secretary. In your letter ● state what type of membership you have and how you have paid for this( GYM AUTOMATIC PAYMENT ) ● give details of how you have benefited from the club( LOOSE WEIGHT AND MAKE FRIENDS ● explain why you want to leave( HECTIC SCHDEULE )
formal
You have just read an article in a national newspaper which claims that town centres in your country all look very similar to each other. You don’t fully agree with this opinion. Write a letter to the editor of the newspaper. In your letter, •say which points in the article you agree with •explain ways in which your town centre is different from most other town centres •offer to give a guided tour of your town to the writer of the article Write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear Sir or Madam,
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