IELTS General Writing Task 1 semi-formal Topics/Questions 2026

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This section presents a list of common IELTS General Writing Task 1 semi-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.

semi-formal
You have been asked to write a letter of invitation to Professor W. Chan Kim asking him to give a talk on National Blue Ocean Strategy (NBOS). You should provide the following details in your letter:

semi-formal
There is an annual work party next month, which is held every year. Write a letter to your colleagues to co-arrange the party. In your letter: Say what would you do differently than last year Say what you think were some of the things not so good last year Suggest where to meet to plan for the party.

semi-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 couple. In your letter explain why you think you would be suitable for the job say what else you could do for the family give your reasons for wanting the job You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear .................. ,

semi-formal
You are applying for a job and need a letter of reference. Write a letter to your teacher. In your letter: -why you are writing to him/ her - explain the job - why you are competent for this job

semi-formal
Your neighbor is a musician who practices the piano during the day. Sometimes the sound of his playing causes problems for you, especially when you need to study at home. Write a letter to your neighbor. In your letter - Explain that the sound of his piano playing is very loud in your apartment - Describe how his practicing affects you - Suggest a solution that might work for both of you

semi-formal
You recently went to a concert and thought one of the singers was very good. You want to tell him how you feel. Write a letter ro the singer. In your letter . say how you feel about his performance . give details of your musical activities . explain how you would like him to help you with your musical activities

semi-formal
You play a team sport with some friends. Last week a member of the team had an accident and wasn't able to play with you at the weekend. You decide to write to him in hospital, telling him about the match. Write a letter to your friend. In your letter, tell him which team won describe the conditions on the day say how you felt about the match

semi-formal
Every weekend you and a few close friends meet to play a team sport. Last week one of your friends had an accident and was hospitalised. Since he was not able to make it you decide to write a letter to him, telling him about the match. Write a letter to your friend. In your letter, tell him which team won describe the conditions on the day say how you felt about the match

semi-formal
You should spend about 20 minutes on this task. "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 couple. In your letter, • explain why you think you would be suitable for the job • say what else you could do for the family • give your reasons for wanting the job Write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any addresses.

semi-formal
You borrowed an important textbook from a classmate last term. You now realize your classmate has returned home overseas and you still have a book. Write a letter to him/her. In your letter -apologise for the mistake -find out how important the book is to him/her -say what you will do

semi-formal
You should spend about 20 minutes on this task. You recently learnt that the best teacher you ever had will be retiring soon. Write a letter to your former teacher. In your letter Explain how you heard about his/her retirement Describe what made him/her such a great teacher Say how your teacher affected your life

semi-formal
You have been living in a rental apartment for the past year. Recently a new neighbor moved in and has been making a lot of noise, which disturbs you. Write a letter to the landlord. In your letter: explain the situation describe why it bothers you suggest a solution

semi-formal
You recently booked a part-time course at a college . you now need to cancel your booking. write a letter to the college adaministrator . In your letter say which part-time course you booked. explain why you need to cancel your booking. ask about booking a different course.

semi-formal
A colleague gave you a book which you used for your presentation. Write a letter to your colleague. In your letter, you should say: •What the presentation was about, •Why the presentation was important, •How did the book help you?

semi-formal
You have planned to stduy in australia. You have sent a letter to a college, but you have not received a reply from the college. Write a letter to the college principle. In your letter you should give details og the course that you wished to do say why do you choose yo study study at the college say why you need the reply soon.

semi-formal
ou recently booked a part-time course at a college. You now need to cancel your booking. Write a letter to the college administrator. In your letter: say which part-time course you booked explain why you need to cancel your booking ask about booking a different course You should write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear Sir or Madam..........,

semi-formal
There is an annual work party next month, which is held every year. Write a letter to your colleagues to co-arrange the party. In your letter: •Say what would you do differently than last year •Say what you think were some of the things not so good last year •Suggest where to meet to plan for the party.

semi-formal
Your English teacher has found a new penfriend for you. Write a letter to the penfriend and introduce yourself. Tell them what you like doing in your free time. Ask your penfriend to tell you about their hobbies and interests.

semi-formal
Mrs Jones, an English-speaking woman who lives in your town , has advertised for someone to help her in her home for a few hours a day next summer. Write a letter to Mrs. Barrett. In your letter Suggest how you could help her in her home say why you would like to do this work explain when you will and will not be available

semi-formal
One of your friends has asked you to be a partner in his new start-up business. Write a letter to him and say - What is your opinion on his new business idea - What have you decided on this matter - What are the reasons for your decision

semi-formal
Your new neighbours have recently invited you to a party they are holding next Saturday. However, you have other plans on Saturday evening and cannot attend the party. Write a letter to your neighbours. In your letter: • Thank them for the invitation • Mention what plans you already have • Suggest when you can meet them

semi-formal
You have invited to your friend’s wedding, which will take place in another country next month. Write a letter to the couple and say that you cannot attend. Explain why you are unable to come. Invite them to visit you after the wedding. Describe some activities you can do together when they visit.

semi-formal
After being involved in an accident, you were looked after by a person you did not know before. Write a special thank you letter to express your gratitude. In your letter: •introduce yourself and let him/her know why you are writing •express your appreciation •and offer him/ her to visit your home with his/her family 

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

Dear ……………….,

semi-formal
1.Your next-door neighbor owns a small dog that barks throughout the day and the night. Write a letter to your neighbor requesting that something be done about the dog. Include in your letter: oYour reason for writing oWhat you would like to happen oA nice, respectful style.

semi-formal
You are having a graduation party next Saturday night. You have invited 50 people to celebrate at an outdoor barbecue evening, which may continue till late night. Write a letter to your elderly neighbour. In your letter: explain what will be happening offer your apologies in advance invite him/her to visit your house someday

semi-formal
You recently went to a concert and thought one of the singers was very good. You want to tell him how you feel. Write a letter to the singer. In your lettersay how you feel about his performance give details of your musical activities explain how you would like him to help you with your musical activities

semi-formal
Your neighbours have recently written to you to complain about the noise from your house/ flat. Write a letter to your neighbours. In your letter explain the reasons for the noise apologise describe what action you will take

semi-formal
You play a team sport with some friends. Last week a member of the team had an accident and wasn’t able to play with you at the weekend. You decide to write to him in hospital, telling him about the match Write a letter to your friend. In your letter, tell him which team won describe the conditions on the day say how you felt about the match

semi-formal
You have had a problem with your neighbor for the past few months. You have not been able to meet with your neighbor to discuss the problem. Write a letter to your neighbor. In your letter: Explain the problem Suggest a solution Say what action you will take if the situation does not improve

semi-formal
You have been living in a rental apartment for the past year. Recently a new neighbour moved in and has been making a lot of noise, which disturbs you. Write a letter to the landlord. In your letter: explain the situation describe why it bothers you suggest a solution.

semi-formal
You are having a graduation party next Sunday evening. You have invited over 25 people to celebrate in your garden, which may continue late in to the night. Write a letter to your elderly neighbour. In your letter: Explain what will be happening, offer him your apologies in advance, invite him to join the celebration

semi-formal
A friend has written a letter to you informing you about his or her plan to visit your country/city. Write a letter to him/her. In your letter, write: what he or she can do in your country/city advise him/her about the place he could stay at suggest to him/her what to pack and bring while coming to travel to your country/city Write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear …………………,

semi-formal
You are studying overseas. You need to return to your country before the end of the semester for a family event. Write a letter to your supervisor. In your letter - request time off - explain why you need to leave early - reassure him/her that your studies will not suffer

semi-formal
Your next door neighbour owns a small dog that barks throughout the day and the night. Write a letter to your neighbour requesting that something be done about the dog. Include in your letter: – Your reason for writing – What you would like to happen

semi-formal
A colleague gave you a book which you used for your presentation. Write a letter to your colleague. In your letter, you should say: what the presentation was about, why the presentation was important how the book helped you.

semi-formal
You are going to study in a college in the UK next year. You would like to stay in a college Hall of Residence. Write a letter to the college. In your letter explain your accommodation requirements explain what your food needs are ask what alternatives are available if they cannot provide what you want You should You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear Sir or Madam,

semi-formal
You have been  assigned to give a networking presentation with your colleague from a different office, who you met last year. Write a letter to your colleague. In your letter: ·       Inform your colleague that you will be working together ·       Provide your initial ideas on the networking presentation ·       Ask for a time to meet and practice the presentation Write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear Ms. Petitto,

semi-formal
You are experiencing financial problems and want to ask your landlord if you can pay your rent late. Write a letter to your landlord. In your letter explain: Why you cannot pay the rent When you will pay the rent. How you will ensure you can pay your rent in the future

semi-formal
You are planning a week-long vocation and you need someone to talk take care of your house while you are away. Write a letter to your neighbor and tell them that you are going away. In this letter you should: Explain why you will be away Ask them to take care of your house Explain what tasks you would like your neighbor to do

semi-formal
Dear Sir, I am writting this letter to inform you regarding project related course. i am Aiden. i am taking diploma in your college in heath care aide. i need to finish my course last to full fill my requirement. Moreover, i am not able to finish my course at time because of right hand injury. So this the reason i was unable to inform you at time. Also, i have physician reference letter regarding this mishappening and taking bed rest. Please give me 2-4 days more to complete my course. Because now am able to write and complete my work as early as possible. i am almost at the end of project, so i just need a time for final completion and wrting a bibliography. Hope you understad this circumstance and give me some extra time. Thank you Your sincerely, Aiden

semi-formal
Although you have never formally studied computing, you have always been interested in computers. You have just read about a computer course that really interests you, but it is only for people who have completed an elementary course. Write a letter to the college enrollment officer. In your letter • explain why you are writing • describe your circumstances • ask if a special exception can be made for you so you can enroll in the course

semi-formal
Apologizing to a friend You borrowed an important textbook from a classmate last term. You now realize your classmate had returned home overseas and you still have the book. Write a letter to him / her. In your letter: apologize for the mistake find out how important the book is to him / her say what you will do Begin your letter as follows: Dear _____________ You should write at least 150 words. You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

semi-formal
You are going to study at a college in another country. You need to find a place you will live. Write a letter to the college's accommodation officer. In your letter, give details of your course and your arrival date, describe the kind of accommodation you need and say what you like the accommodation officer to do

semi-formal
Mrs Barrett, an English-speaking woman who lives in your town, has advertised that someone will help her in her home for a few hours a day next summer. Write a letter to Mrs Barett. In your letter suggest how you could help her in her home say why you would like to do this work explain when you will and will not be available.

semi-formal
You should spend about 20 minutes on this task. You are a current student of Loren Brusque University, studying Business Administration. You want to apply for the post of Quality Assurance Manager you have recently seen on the university's notice board. Write a letter to Mr. Walker, and •Give your reason for writing • Tell about your education • Describe your work experience and explain why you would be suitable for the job. Write at least 150 words.

semi-formal
Write a letter to your boss apologising for the recent meeting you missed at work. 1. Apologise for missing the meeting 2. Explain what happened 3. Say what you will do to compensate

semi-formal
You eat at your college cafeteria every lunchtime. However, you think it needs some improvements. Write a letter to the college magazine. In your letter: explain what you like bout the cafeteria say what is wrong suggest how it could be improved

semi-formal
You and your family are living in rented accommodation in an English speaking country. You are not satisfied with the condition of some of the furniture. Write a letter to your landlord. In your letter introduce yourself explain what is wrong with the furniture say what action you would like the landlord to take You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear .................,

semi-formal
Your neighbours have a dog that is noisy at night. You can’t sleep. Write a letter to your neighbours. In your letter: – describe the problem with the dog – explain why it is important for you to sleep – outline what your neighbours could do about the situation

semi-formal
Your colleague is traveling from another country by plane for a meeting. You have arranged the airport pickup, hotel accommodation and planned his/her meetings. Write a letter to your colleague. In your letter, – Say when and where you will meet him/her – Explain where he/she will stay – Tell him/her about the other arrangements you made.

semi-formal
restaurant has advertised in a newspaper that a waiter/waitress is required for evening work. It has also been mentioned that the prospective candidate should have some experience. Write a letter to Mr Moore describing your previous experience and explaining why you would be suitable for the job.

semi-formal
You have received a letter from your neighbour complaining about noise from your house/flat. Write a letter to your neighbour. In your letter explain the cause of the noise apologise for the noise describe what action you will take to solve the problem Write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear ………………. You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

semi-formal
you have seen an advertisement of Australian magazines for someone to live with family in six-months and look after their six-years old child write a letter 1- Explain why you would like this 2- Give detail of why you are suitable person to employ 3- Say how would you spend your free time while you are in Australia

semi-formal
Your neighbour has written to you to complain about the noise from your flat. Write a letter to your neighbour. In your letter: explain the reason for the noise offer your neighbour an apology tell them what action you will take. Ask electrician to be as quiet as possible. Pay for additional electrician so job finished sooner.

semi-formal
You paid a refundable deposit when you rented an appartment.You left the appartment in good condition but the landlord won't return your deposits. Write a letter to landlord.In your letter Explain why you are writing Ask for teh return of your deposits Inform the landlord of possible legal action

semi-formal
A neighbor has damaged your car while parking his/her vehicle in the lane in front of your house. Write a letter to your neighbor. In your letter -explain why you are writing -describe the damage to your car and express your feelings about it -recommend what steps he/she should take to resolve the situation.

semi-formal
You are having a graduation party next Saturday night. You have invited 50 people to celebrate at an outdoor barbecue evening, which may continue into late into the night. Write a letter to your elderly neighbour. In your letter:  explain what will be happening  offer your apologies in advance  invite her to join the celebration

semi-formal
You have recently moved into a new house and have noticed that the garden is in need of some maintenance. Write a letter to your landlord requesting permission to make the necessary improvements.

semi-formal
You are a student at an English language school and are living in private accommodation with other students from the school. You have not had hot water or heating for some time. The landlord’s workmen have tried to fix the problem but without success. Write a letter to the landlord. In your letter: state your reason for writing describe the problems propose a solution

semi-formal
You recently booked a part-time course at a college. You now need to cancel your booking. Write a letter to the college adminisllator. In your letter • say which part-time course you booked • explain why you need to cancel your booking • ask about booking a different course You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear Sir or Madam,

semi-formal
You would like to participate in a work-related seminar in another country. Write a letter to the person in charge of the seminar and ask for detailed information regarding the dates, program, accommodation and cost. You do NOT need to write any address.

semi-formal
You recently went to a concert and thought one of the singers was very good you want to tell how you feel. Write a letter to the singer.

semi-formal
You rent an apartment and recently a new neighbor has moved in who lives above you. They are making a lot of noise and this is disturbing you. Write a letter to your landlord. In your letter: Explain what the problem is Explain why it is disturbing you so much Tell your landlord what you would like him/her to do about it

semi-formal
Write a letter to your neighbour about the damage that occurred to your car while he was parking his car in the lane outside your home. In the letter, you should: describe the damage say how you feel about this problem suggest to him what actions he should take.

semi-formal
You've been asked to do a presentation and will need help setting up the equipment for it. Write a letter to your colleague. In your letter let him/her know when and where the presentation will take place tell him/her what equipment you will need explain how he/she can help you.

semi-formal
You have been invited to a networking conference for your field of work. Write a letter to your boss. In your letter: ·       Describe the invitation you received and why it is important to you ·       Explain why the conference would be beneficial for you and the company ·       Ask for the company for time off to attend and to cover some of the travel costs Write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear Mr. Powell,

semi-formal
After working in your department for over 3 years, you feel the need to switch your department.Write a letter to your boss requesting a change in the department. In the letter mention: Why do you want to switch departments? Which department would you prefer? Why do you think you are a good fit in that department?

semi-formal
You applied for a job and were offered the position but have decided not to accept the offer. Write a letter to the HR supervisor with whom you interviewed. In your letter: - explain the reason why you are declining the offer - describe your reasons for staying with your current position.

semi-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 couple. In your letter •explain why you think you would be suitable for the job •say what else you could do for the family •give your reasons for wanting the job Write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any addresses.

semi-formal
ou and your family are living in rented accommodation in an English speaking country. You are not satisfied with the condition of some of the furniture. Write a letter to the landlord. In your letter • introduce yourself • explain what is wrong with the furniture • say what action you would like the landlord to take

semi-formal
You have seen an advertisement from a couple, who live in Austalia, for someone to teach their two children your language for a year. Write a letter to the couple. In your letter * explain why think you would be suitable for the job * say what else you could do for the family * give your reasons for wanting the job

semi-formal
Your neighbours have recently written to you to complain about the noise from your houseflat. Write a letter to your neighbours. In your letter explain the reasons for the noise apologise describe what action you will take Write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write your own addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear ..................,

semi-formal
During a recent plane journey,you sat next to a businessman who owns a chain of restaurants.You talked to him and he suggested that you should contact him about a possible job in one of his restaurants. Write a letter to this businessman.In your letter •remind him when and where you met •tell him what kind of job you are interested in •say why you think you would be suitable for the job

semi-formal
You are applying for a job and need a letter of reference from one of your teachers. Write a letter to your teacher. In your letter: Give details of the job & position you are applying for Explain why the reference is important Suggest what information your teacher could put in the reference Write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear .....................

semi-formal
You live in a block of flats, your neighbor makes a lot of noise which has caused problems for you. Write a letter to your landlord. In your letter, you should: explain the situation tell him/her how you are affected by this suggest what you want the landlord to do.

semi-formal
You currently live in a rental appointment and the noise from your neighbours disturbs you. Write a letter to your landloard. In your letter, - Describe how this situation affects you - Explain what steps you have taken to address the problem - Ask the landloard to take action to resolve the issue

semi-formal
One of your penfriends wants to improve his/her english in advance of moving to sydney Write a letter to your penfriend. Advise him/her about the following: listening skills, speaking skills and vocabulary.

semi-formal
There is an annual work party next month, which is held every year. Write a letter to your colleagues to co- arrange the party. In your letter: • Say what would you do differently than last year • Say what you think were some of the things not so good last year • Suggest where to meet to plan for the party.

semi-formal
You are travelling and need someone to do you a favour while you are gone. Write a letter asking a neighbour or friend for help. In your letter include:

semi-formal
You recently booked a part-time course at a college. You need to cancel your booking. Write a letter to the college administer. In your letter. Say which part-time course you booked Explain why you need to cancel your book Ask about booking a different course

semi-formal
New neighbours have recently moved in, but they are making a lot of noise at night while you are preparing for your exams. Write a letter to your neighbours. In your letter: explain that they are preventing you from studying well suggest what they can do to improve the situation tell them when you will have completed your studies

semi-formal
You are interested in applying for a new position at your company but have some questions. Write a letter to you boss. In your letter include: Which position you are considering What questions you have about it How your boss can help you decide whether or not to apply. sample ielts answer

semi-formal
You are having a graduation party next Saturday night. You have invited 50 people to celebrate at an outdoor barbecue evening, which may continue into late into the night. Write a letter to your elderly neighbour. In your letter:  explain what will be happening  offer your apologies in advance  invite her to join the celebration

semi-formal
Your friend got a new job. Write a letter to him/her and say - Why haven’t you contacted him/her recently? - Ask him/her some details about the new job. - Suggest when and where you’d like to meet him/her.

semi-formal
Write a letter to your college administration department complaining about the college facility. In your letter, include: • what the problem is • how this problem has affected you • what the college should do to fix this problem Write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear/ Madam

semi-formal
You have asked for a meeting with your manager the next day. Write a letter telling him/her what you would like to discuss in the meeting.

semi-formal
You have just moved into a new home and are planning to hold a party. You are worried that the noise may disturb your neighbor. Write a letter to your neighbor. In your letter •Introduce yourself • Describe your plans for the party • Invite your neighbor to come

semi-formal
A neighbour has damaged your automobile while parking his/her car in the lane in front of your house. Write a letter to your neighbour. In your letter: explain why you’re writing describe the damage to your car and express your feelings about it recommend what steps he/she should take to resolve the situation.

semi-formal
Write a letter to your colleague asking for help in setting up the equipment for your presentation. In your letter, you should: tell when and where the presentation will take place describe your arrangements tell him/her what equipment you need.

semi-formal
You should spend about 20 minutes on this task. Your neighbours have recently written to you to complain about the noise from your house/ flat. Write a letter to your neighbours. In your letter explain the reasons for the noise apologise describe what action you will take You should write at least 150 words.

semi-formal
You are due to start a new job next week but you will not be able to beacuse you have some problems. Write a letter to your new empolyer. In your letter explain your position siutation describe your problem tell him/her when you think you can startess.

semi-formal
You are experiencing financial problems and want to ask your landlord if you can pay your rent late. Write a letter to your landlord. In your letter explain: Why you are writing to him Why you cannot pay the rent When you will pay the rent.

semi-formal
During a recent plane journey, you sat next to a businessman who owns a chain of restaurants. You talked to him and he suggested that you should contact him about a possible job in one of his restaurants. Write a letter to this businessman. In your letter, remind him when and where you met tell him what kind of job you are interested in say why you think you would be suitable for the job

semi-formal
yourneighbour keeps his animal in his gardenand they create problem for you.you and your family have problems with them.write a letter to your neighbour.

semi-formal
Your friend bought tickets to the theatre for both of you. Write a letter to him to tell him that you cannot go to the theatre. In your letter:  Apologize  Explain the situation  Tell him what he can do with the extra ticket

semi-formal
You eat at your college cafeteria every lunchtime. However, you think it needs some improvements. Write a letter to the college magazine. In your letter, •explain what you like about the cafeteria •say what is wrong with it •suggest how it could be improved

semi-formal
Write a letter to your boss. In your letter: · Describe the invitation you received and why it is important to you · Explain why the conference would be beneficial for you and the company · Ask for the company for time off to attend and to cover some of the travel costs Write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear Mr. Powell,

semi-formal
Write a letter to this famous actor. In your letter • give some information about the new theatre • invite her/him to open the new theatre • explain why she/he would be a good person to open the theatre

semi-formal
You need to take leave from your work of over one month for personal reasons. Write a letter to your boss. In your letter: explain the reason for the leave and the length of leave you need explain how you will keep up-to-date while you’re away suggest how your work could be covered while you are away

semi-formal
Your neighbor has written to you to complain about the noise from your flat. Write a letter to your neighbor. In your letter • Explain the reason for the noise • Offer your neighbor an apology • Tell them what action you will take

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