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
Write a letter to your colleague from another department asking him/her to give presentation at a conference. In your letter say : 1. What is the conference about 2. Why do you want him/her to give the presentation 3. What arrangements will you have to make

semi-formal
Your child is going on a three day school trip to another country. The head teacher wants to find parents to go with the group and you would like to go. Write a letter to the head teacher. In your letter:  Say why you would like to go on the trip  Suggest what you could do to help during the trip  Ask other questions about the trip

semi-formal
You should spend about 20 minutes on this task. You have just moved into a new home and are planning to hold a party. You are worried that the noise may disturb your neighbour. Write a letter to your neighbour. In your letter introduce yourself describe your plans for the party invite your neighbour to come

semi-formal
You recently gave a successful presentation at work. You borrowed a book from a colleague, which helped prepare for the presentation. Write a letter to your colleague. In your letter ● say what the presentation was about ● explain why the presentation was important ● describe how the book helped you prepare for the presentation

semi-formal
You are organizing a conference for your company. Write a letter to a colleague asking him/her to give a presentation during the conference.  Describe what this conference is about  Why you want him/her to give a presentation  Give details about the conference

semi-formal
You are due to move into a rented apartment next month but you will not be able to because you have some problems. Write a letter to the landlord. In your letter: – explain your situation – describe your problems – tell him/her when you think you can move in

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 are applying for a job and you need a letter of reference. Write a letter to a former boss. In your letter: *Describe the job you are applying for *Say what you want included in the reference letter *Request that you former boss send you the letter be the end of the week

semi-formal
Your neighbour has recently written to you to complain about the noise from your house flat Write a letter to your neighbour. In your letter Explain the reason for the noise Apologise Describe what action you will take Write at least 150 words You do not need to write any addresses Begin your letter as follows Dear ………………………,

semi-formal
You eat in your college cafeteria everyday 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
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
Mrs Barrett, 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 Write at least 150 words. You do not need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear Mrs Barrett,

semi-formal
You are a student at a university in the UK. You have recently lost your university ID card. Write to the local police station, giving details of who you are, what happened and ask to record your details so that you can apply for a new ID card.

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

semi-formal
Mrs Barrett, 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
Write a letter to Professor Hristo Pimpirev, Head of the Bulgarian Antarctic expedition who has just returned to Bulgaria from the South Pole. Invite him to talk to your class about the latest Antarctic Expedition

semi-formal
You work for an international company. You are celebrating for a special family even and you would like to have a time off for it. Write a letter to your boss

semi-formal
You are a foreign student. You want to join the club or society so that you can enjoy your time when you study there. Write to the student union manager. in your letter Introduce yourself Write about your hobbies and interests Ask for information about clubs and societies

semi-formal
you are applying for a job and need a letter of reference Write a letter to a formal teacher. In your letter -give details of the job -explain why it is important to you -suggest what information your teacher could put in the reference

semi-formal
Your English teacher has found a new penfriend. Write a letter to your penfriend and introduce yourself. Tell them what you do in your free time.

semi-formal
You have been living in a rental apartment for the past year. Recently, a new neighbour Mr.Jackson moved in who has loud parties several times a week. You have spoken to Mr.Jackson but are not very close friends Write a letter to Mr.Jackson. In your letter: · Explain the situation · Describe why it bothers you · Suggest a solution

semi-formal
You have rented a condominium (apartment). Under tenancy agreement, you are required to give a three-month notice period before vacating the condo. For some reasons, you have to give up the condo all of a sudden as you have to migrate to other city as soon as possible. Write a letter to your landlord, • explain the reason for a sudden decision of vacating the condo • ask fora special consideration • how you would feel if your special consideration is granted

semi-formal
Write a letter to your neighbor (who is also your friend) about the damage that occurs to your car while he parks his car in the space allotted to you. In the letter, you should: Describe the damage Say how you feel about this problem. Suggest on actions he should take.

semi-formal
Q. There is the 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 borrowed a book from your professor and returned it late write a letter to him why you delayed in returning the book and how useful the book was.

semi-formal
During a recent plane journey, you sat next to a businessman who owns a chain of restaurants. He suggested you should contact him for a possible job opportunity. 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 this job

semi-formal
You have a test in your English class next week, but you cannot attend. Write to your teacher. In your letter: . Explain your situation. . Apologies for not being able to take the test. . Ask whether it is possible for you to take the test at another time. Write at least 150 words. You do not need to write any address. Begin your letter with: Dear...

semi-formal
Mrs Barrett, an English-speaking woman who lives in yourtown, 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 availabl

semi-formal
You have had a problem with your next-door neighbour. You have not been able to speak to your neighbour about this. Write a letter to this neighbour. In your letter • Explain the problem • Suggest a solution • Say what action you will take if the situation does not improve

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
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

semi-formal
You share a parking area with several neighbours and have recently started having problems. Write a letter to be copied to all neighbours that share the parking area. In that letter • explaining the problems • suggesting ways to help the situation • proposing a possible meeting You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear Neighbour

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 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 you letter: Introduce yourself Explain what is wrong tin the furniture Say what action you would like the landlord to take

semi-formal
You are a parent and you need information about a school trip your child is going on. Write a letter to the class teacher. In your letter introduce yourself explain what information you are looking for inform the teacher about any specific needs your child has You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear…………….. ,

semi-formal
You have a problem with a neighbour. Write a letter to your neighbour. In your letter •describe the problem •say how long it has been a problem •explain what action you want the neighbour to take

semi-formal
You want to ask your boss for time off work. Write a letter requesting time off work. In your letter 1. why you are requesting time off work 2. give details of dates 3. explain how you will ensure to keep up with your work

semi-formal
You have seen and advertisement from a couple who live in australia for some one to teach their two children your language for a year write a letter t the couple . in your letter explain why you think you would be suitable for the job . What else you could do for the family and give your reason for wanting the job

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
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 about the place he could stay at suggest to him/her what to pack and bring while coming to travel to your country/city

semi-formal
You should spend about 20 minutes on this task. 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 the landlord. In your letter introduce yourself explain what is wrong with the furniture say what action you would like the landlord to take Write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows:

semi-formal
You have recently read a book about a city you know well and found some incorrect information. Write a letter to the author. In your letter tell him/her of the incorrect information give him/her the correct information explain why they should correct it.

semi-formal
You recently attended a workshop on leadership skills and would like to recommend a similar workshop to a colleague. Write a letter to your colleague. In the letter • describe the workshop you attended • explain the benefits and relevance of the workshop to your work • recommend that your colleague attend an upcoming workshop

semi-formal
Last semester a classmate let you borrow an important textbook. You realize that you still have the book after your friend has already gone back home overseas. Write a letter to him/her. In your letter: • Give an apology • Find out if/when they need the book back • Tell them what you will do to fix the problem Your letter should be between 150-200 words.

semi-formal
You have received a job offer for an exciting, new position. Although you are expected to start on September 7th, you are only available to start a week later due to personal reasons. Write a letter to your new boss. In your letter: Express your enthusiasm for the job offer. Explain the problem Suggest what you can do

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

semi-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 to your neighbour. In your letter -describe the situation -explain the problems it is causing you -offer at least one solution

semi-formal
One of your friends is planning to visit your country and asking you for some information. Write a letter to him/her and say: o when the best time to visit your country is o suggest a plan for the travel o recommend places to visit in your country

semi-formal
You are going to teach English to your friend’s child. Write a letter to your past English teacher to ask if you can borrow some books from him/her. In your letter tell your teacher about the child. say when and where you will teach the child. explain what books you would like to borrow.

semi-formal
One of your pen friends wants to visit your country. You have never seen him/her, and you will be late at the airport. Write a letter to him/her to inform. In your letter, • explain why you will be late • suggest him a place to wait for you • say how he/she can recognise 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 to the singer. In your letter say how you feel about his petformance give details of your musical activities explain how you would like him to help you with your musical activities

semi-formal
You recently booked a part time course at a college, You now need to cancel your booking. Write a letter to your college administrator. In your letter Say which part time course you’ve booked. explain why you need to cancel your booking ask about booking a different course. Begin as : Dear Sir or Madam

semi-formal
Recently Booked A Part-time Course At A College, You Now Need To Cancel - GT Letter Band 9 Sample You should spend about 20 minutes on this task. You 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
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 giving your accommodation requirements. You should outline what your room and food needs are and also ask what alternatives are available if they cannot provide what you want. You should write at least 150 words. You should spend about 20 minutes on this task. You do NOT need to write your own address.

semi-formal
You are interested in attending a short course at a college in an English speaking country. Write a letter to the college administration. In the letter: • mention what course you would like to attend • give details about your educational background and work experience • say why you choose this college

semi-formal
You have had a problem with your next-door neighbor. You have not been able to speak to your neighbor about this. Write a letter to this neighbor. In your letter: • Explain the problem • Suggest a solution • Say what action you will take if the situation does not improve Begin as follows: Dear ... ,

semi-formal
Mrs Barrett, 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 Begin your letter as follows: Dear …………….,

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.

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
Mrs Barret, an English-speaking woman who lives in your hometown, has advertised for someone to help her in her home for a few hours a day next summer. Write a letter to Mrs Barret. 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
Write a letter to your neighbor requesting that something be done about the dog. Include in your letter: – Your reason for writing – What you would like to happen – A nice, respectful style

semi-formal
You had a birthday party and you were playing loud music. Your neighbor Mr. Smith complained. Write a formal letter of apology explaining that it was a special occasion and that it won't happen again.

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 restrauants. 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 have seen a advertisement in an australian magazine for someone to live with a family for six months and after look after their six year old child. Write a eletterto the parents. In your letter Explain why you would like the Job

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
A neighbour has caused damage to your car. Write a letter to him/her. In your letter - Describe the damage - How the damage influences your life - Suggest what actions he/she should take about it

semi-formal
Your colleague recently gave you a book. You had a presentation, and this book helped you in the presentation. Write a letter to your colleague. In your letter, • tell the topic of your presentation • why the presentation was important for you • how the book helped you in presentation

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
General You would like to participate in a business seminar in another country. Write a letter to the person in charge of the seminar and ask for detailed information on the dates, the program, the accommodation and the cost. You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear Sir / Madam,...

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

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 yar. writte 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

semi-formal
Your colleague is traveling from another country for a meeting in your office. You have arranged the airport pickup, hotel accommodation and planned his/her meeting. Write a letter to your colleague. In the letter say when and where you will meet him/her explain where he/she will stay tell him/her about the arrangements you have made for the meeting

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 live in a small apartment building with a parking lot in back, and you often cannot find an empty parking space when you get home from work. Write a letter to your landlord. In your letter • describe the situation. • explain why it bothers you. • suggest something the landlord could do to solve the problem.

semi-formal
Write a letter to your neighbour. In your letter explain the problem explain how it is causing you provide an appropriate solution Write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any address. Begin your letter as follows: Dear Mr .........,

semi-formal
ou have just moved into a new home and are planning to hold a party. You are worried that the noise may disturb your neighbour. Write a letter to your neighbour. In your letter introduce yourself describe your plans for the party invite your neighbor to come You do NOT need to write any addresses. You should write at least 150 words.

semi-formal
A close relative of yours is having a birthday lunch next week, but you know you will be working Write a letter to you boss or supervisor to ask for some time off . In your letter, -explain the situation and why you particularly want to attend the lunch -specify the dates , times and amount of time off you will need -offer to work late or come in early another time to make up for the time

semi-formal
You are studying mathematics at university and have an assignment next week. You have been sick. Write a letter to your teacher asking for an extension on your assignment. In the letter, explain that you are a student in the mathematics class explain that you have been sick ask for an extension Write at least 150 words.  You do NOT need to write any addresses

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
You have seen an advertisement from a couple, who live in Australia, for someone to teach their 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

semi-formal
You missed one of the most important lessons of your teacher. Write a letter to your teacher. In your letter apologize for not attending explain why you did not attend say what you will do to make up for it

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
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.

semi-formal
Write a letter to your neighbor in your letter . Describe the problem . Say how long it has been a problem . Explain what action you want the neighbor to takes Write atleast 150 words

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 neghboorur. Write a letter to your neighbor. In your letter: Introduce yourself Describe your plans for the party Invite your neighbor to come

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

semi-formal
You are organizing a conference for your company. Write a letter to a colleague asking him/her to give a presentation during the conference. Describe what this conference is about. Why you want him/her to give a presentation. Give details about the conference

semi-formal
Write a letter to your neighbour requesting him to lend you his laptop. In you letter: - Describe why you need a laptop. - How long you will be requiring the laptop. - Ensure him about the safety of his device and its content.

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
Because of your job, you have to move to a new city. Write a letter to someone you know who lives there. In your letter ask them to help you find somewhere to live tell them the kind of accommodation you want to find tell them which area of the city you want to live in You should write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear …………….

semi-formal
You have just spent a week with a friend on holiday.When you got home,you realised you had left your wallet there.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
you have seen an advertisement from a couple who live in Australia, for someone to trach their 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 writing the job

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
Your neighbours have recently written to you to complain about the noisefrom your house/flat. write a letter to your neighbours. in your letter - Explain the reason for the noise - apologise - describe what action you will take

semi-formal
You are experiencing problems with a colleague at work and you want to ask your boss for some advice. Write a letter to your boss. In your letter: Explain you are writing to him. Why you are having problems . When you would like to have a meeting to discuss the issues.

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 going to arrange a special party at your home next week. You want to invite a local artist who is a playback singer. Write a letter to him. Explain the occasion to him. Invite him to the party. Tell him why you want him to perform.

semi-formal
write a letter to your neighbour You are going away from home for one week and you need to ask your neighbour to look after you house. Why you want to go away What you want your neighbour to look after If there are any problems then give instructions

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 Begin your letter as follows: Dear Mr / Ms _________ You should write at least 150 words. You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

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