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
During a recent plane journey, you sat next to a bussinessman 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 bussinessman. 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 recently attended a party, where you saw one of the guests being rude to a neighbour in the next house. Write an email to the guest, •Complaining about their behaviour •Suggesting that the guest apologises to the neighbour • Asking them not to behave like this again Begin your letter ‘Dear --------’ Do not write any addresses Write at least 150 words

semi-formal
chain of restaurants. You talked to him and he suggested that you should contact him about a possibleJob 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 youaare inter,sted in • say why you think you would be suitable for theJob

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 _________

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
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
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 You do not need to write any addresses Begin your letter as follows Dear ………………………,

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

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. In your letter: ● say how you feel about his/her performance ● give details of your music-related activities ● explain how you would like him/her to help you with your music-related activities

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
B1.Write a letter to your uncle informing him about your improvement of performance in Annual Examination

semi-formal
You are applying for a job and need a letter of reference. write to a teacher about: Give details of the job Explain why it is important to you Suggest what information your teacher could put in the refernce

semi-formal
Write a letter to your landlord complaining about noise in the block of flats which he owns. You should include -where you live -explain the problem -what he should do

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 have a meeting with your manager next day.Write a letter him/her what you are going to discuss in the meeting. In your letter what you have done for the company in the year you worked there what changes you would like to recommend what training you require

semi-formal
You are not happy with the course you are doing at college and would like to change a different course. Write a letter to the college director requesting to change your course. You should include details about – what course you are doing now – why you are not satisfied with that course – what course would you like to change to.

semi-formal
You applied to a job, 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 Express your gratitude Write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear Ms. Barry,

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. • Apologise for not being able to take the test. • Ask whether it is possible for you to take the test at another time.

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 Begin your letter as follows: Dear………..

semi-formal
You are concerned about a playground in your local college. Write a letter to the college principal. In your letter: - express your concern on things in the playground that are not safe; - explain why it is important to fix them; - suggest any improvements that make playground safe for everyone.

semi-formal
You have just come back from San Francisco. When you were there, your friend Mr Jackson gave you a great deal of help. Write a letter to Mr. Jackson to thank him for his hospitality and help. In your letter: -Thank him for his help -Explain what you are impressed the most. -Invite him to visit you in your country.

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 l remind him when and where you met l tell him what kind of job you are interested in l say why you think you would be suitable for the job

semi-formal
You live in an apartment for rent. Your neighbor makes a lot of noise which has caused problems for you. Write a letter to your house owner.

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 countr

semi-formal
You are studying abroad. You must return home before the end of the semester for a family event. Write a letter to your supervisor. In your letter: explain why you need to leave early request time off reassure your professor that this will not affect your studies Write at least 150 words. You should spend no more than 20 minutes on this task.

semi-formal
You are taking a holiday in a place recommended by your local travel agent, you have had a wonderful time. You have promised to write to him and let him know what you think of his suggestion. \ Write a letter to your travel agent as promised, and let him know what you have been doing and what you are going to do before the end of the journey.

semi-formal
You should spend about 20 minutes on this task. Write at least 150 words. One of your pen pals will shortly be visiting your city. For some reasons, you can not manage to meet him at the airport on time. Write a letter asking him to wait for you at the airport and tell him how to identify you.

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

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
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 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

semi-formal
You are going to miss some class in the next few weeks Write a letter to your class teacher state the reason for your absence, time you will be coming back, suggest what can be done to the class work you will miss in during those few weeks

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 Write at least 150 words.

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
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 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
You have arranged a meeting with a business partner. Unfortunately, you have to change the arrangement. Write a letter to your business partner. In your letter, apologise for the changes explain the reason why the changes were needed explain the new arrangement

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 reason for the noise apologise for the noise describe what action you will take

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
You just moved to a new home and planning to hold a party. You are worried that the noise may disturb the neighbour. Write a letter to your naeighbour. In your letter introduce yourself describe your plans for the party invite your neighbour to come.

semi-formal
While you were studying in the UK, you made friends with John Blaire who was one of your course tutors. He is coming to your country an international conference. You want to invite him to stay at your place and spend some time together. Write a letter to him. In your letter, • Ask him about the conference • Invite him to stay at your place • Suggest some things you can do together

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 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 Begin your letter as follows: Dear Sir or Madam,

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
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 will move to a new city for work. You know some people who live there. Write a letter to someone you know who live there. In your letter ask them for help finding accommodation tell them where you would like to live tell them the type of place you are looking for

semi-formal
Mrs Barret, 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 Barret. In your letter Suggest hou could help her in her home. Say why you would like to do this Explain when you will and will not be available.

semi-formal
Write a letter to your penfriend. Advise him/her about the following: listening skills, speaking skills and vocabulary.

semi-formal
You have an interview next week for a job you really want, but unfortunately you will now be unable to attend. Write a letter to the person due to interview you. In your letter, 1.inform him and apologise 2.explain the reason why you cannot come to the interview 3.offer a new day and time and express your continued desire for the job You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear Mr. Compton,

semi-formal
You should spend about 20 minutes on this task. You eat at your college cafeteria at lunch time every day.. 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 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.

semi-formal
Mrs BARETT, 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
You rent a flat with your friend who is moving out. It is too expensive for you to pay the rent alone. Write a letter to your landlord. In your letter: 1. Explain the situation. 2. Describe why you would like to stay in this flat. 3. Ask the landlord if you can find another flatmate. Write at least 150 words. You do not need to write any addresses. Begin you letter as follows: Dear_______,

semi-formal
You recently received a letter from your freind asking for an advice to go to a college or to find a job. You think he/she should get a job. Write a letter to your freind, In your letter include why he would not enjoy goin to college. why getting a job is good. suggest few good jobs for him

semi-formal
You are organising a conference and you want to request an expert in your field to be the keynote speaker. You have not met this person before. Write a letter to the expert. In your letter - explain the purpose of the conference -describe what you would like her/him to talk about - provide details about the venue, and the date and time of the conference

semi-formal
You have seen an advertisement for a community college that needs teachers for night classes. Write a letter to the community college. In your letter: Say which advertisement you are answering Describe which courses you want to teach, and what they would be about Explain why you would be a suitable character.

semi-formal
your neighbours have recently written to you to you about the noise from your houseflat. Write a ltter to your neighbours, in your letter: explain a reason for the noise apologise describe what actions will you take

semi-formal
Write a letter to a colleague asking for assistance setting up equipment for an upcoming presentation of yours. Include What the presentation is about The equipment needed Suggestions to set it up

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
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? You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear …………….. , You get 20 minutes to complete this task.

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
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

semi-formal
A business partner and his team have recently visited your organization, and one of the team members left a coat behind. Write a letter to your business partner. In your letter Say what you liked about their visit Explain why you think the coat belongs to one of their team members Tell them how you plan to return it

semi-formal
As part of a student social survey project, you are organising a group to visit a historical exhibition in a small town, Write a letter asking for information regarding such things as the contents of the exhibition, and the dates of its opening and closing, and if there are any discounts available.

semi-formal
Write a letter to your colleagues. In your letter • remind your colleagues what the special occasion you were celebrating was • thank them for the card and gift • explain why you like the gift and how you will use it

semi-formal
You bought a ticket for a music concert. You’re unable to attend the concert. You want to offer the ticket to your friend. Write a letter to give him the ticket. In your letter, Give detailed information about the concert Explain why you’re unable to attend the concert Tell him how to get the ticket

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
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 recently went to concert and thought one of the singers was very good. You want to tell him how you feel. Write a letter to the singer Say how you feel about his performance Give detail of your musical activities Explain how you would like him to help you with your musical activities.

semi-formal
Your friend will be staying at your home, but you can’t be there. Write a letter in which you explain: - How the keys will get to him/her - How to use the electrical appliances - Recommend some interesting places to visit

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 into the night. Write a letter to the Chairman of the Housing Society. In your letter: Explain what will be happening Offer your apologies in advance Invite him to join the celebration

semi-formal
You live in a rental flat.A few problems emerged since the last repair. Wrote a letter to your landlord. In your letter --what are the problems --give details of the last repair. --how you would like the landlord to solve current problems

semi-formal
You should spend about 20 minutes on this task. 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 Write at least 150 words.

semi-formal
Write a letter to your neighbour requesting that something be done about your dog. Include in your letter: - Your reason for writing - What would you like to happen

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. In your letter explain the occasion to him , invite him to the party, tell him why you wnat him to perform.

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

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 have been working with your company for two years and are interested in a promotion. Write a letter to your direct boss. In your letter: · Explain your varied achievements over the past two years · Express your interest in growing with the company · Ask for a meeting to discuss a potential promotion

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

semi-formal
You have seen and advertisement for a couple, who lives 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 this job Say what else you could do for the family Give your reason for wanting the job

semi-formal
You should spend about 20 minutes on this task. You have received a letter from your landlord, Mr Matthews, asking you to renew your contract and pay more rent. You are happy in the property but the landlord has not been maintaining it well. Write a reply to Mr Matthews. In your letter: • indicate your intention to stay • give information about the maintenance issues • explain what you would like the landlord to do now. Write at least 150 words.

semi-formal
You are a student at an English language school in Brighton and are living in private accommodation with other flat mates. 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
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 – A nice, respectful style

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
you have been offeed a job that will require you to move to a city that you have never visitedbefore. You have an acquaintance who lives there. Write a letter to the acquaintance . In your letter exlplain your situation, say why you feel unsure about living in the city, ask some questions about life in the city.

semi-formal
You currently live in a rental apartment, and the noise from your neighbours disturbs you. Write a letter to your landlord. In your letter describe how this situation affects you; explain what steps you have taken to address the problem; ask the landlord to take action to resolve the issue.

semi-formal
You recently broke your leg and your colleagues from work sent you get well cards and presents. Write a letter to them and say • Thanks them for supporting you. • Describe how you spend your time. • Explain about your recovery process.

semi-formal
Your find that your study load is too heavy. Write a letter to your college teacher explaining why you need to withdraw from two courses. Ask if it is possible to obtain a refund. You should write at least 150 words. You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

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

semi-formal
You recently went to a concert and thought one of te 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 performance -give details of your musical activities -explain how you would like him to help you with your musical activities

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

semi-formal
Your colleague found another job and invited you to his/her farewell party. Unfortunately, you are unable to attend it. Write a letter to him/her and say – Why can’t you attend the party? – Why did you enjoy working with him/her? – Offer him/her to meet some other time.

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 neighbour makes a lot of noise which has caused problems for you. Write a letter to your landlord.

semi-formal
You have recently moved into a new flat. Unfortunately , you lost some money the other day and cannot afford to pay next month’s rent when it is due. Write a letter to the landlord explaining the situation and that you will pay as soon as your parents send you the money. Also, mention that there are some problem with the flat.

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 rent an apartment and recently a new tenant moved in above you. This tenant's behaviour is causing you a lot of problems. Write a letter to your landlord. In your letter: Describe what the new tenant is doing Explain why it is disturbing you so much Tell your landlord what you would like him/her to do about it

semi-formal
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.

semi-formal
You are applying for a job and need a letter of reference Write a letter to a former teacher. In yur letter Give details of the job Explain why it is impportant to you Suggest what infomrmation your teacher could put in the reference.

semi-formal
You should spend about 20 minutes on this task. 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 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 have bought a new home recently and you want to hire an interior decorator. Write a letter to the interior decorator seeking information about his services. In your letter • let him know how you came to know about his work/name • specify about your condominium {flat) • discuss your furnishing taste

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