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

Want to improve your IELTS score? Get instant feedback and learn from your mistakes!

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
A neighbour has damaged your car 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 are writing Describe the damage to your car and express your feeling about it. Recommend what steps he/she should take to resolve the situation.

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
Write a minimum of 150 words. You should spend about 20 minutes on this task. Write about the following topic: You want to arrange a conference for your company, and you need to ask one of your colleagues to give a presentation in this conference. Write a letter to your colleague. In your letter include: • Details about the conference • Why do you want your colleague to give a presentation? • What arrangement will you do for this conference?

semi-formal
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
The air-conditioner in your flat broke three weeks aago anf it is the middle of summer. You asked the landlord to repair it and he promised to send someone but no-one has contacted you yet. Write a letter to the landlord complaining about the situation. In your letter: explain the problem, remind the landlord about his promise, say what you want him to do.

semi-formal
A neighbour 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 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 ................., You should write at least 150 words. Writing task 1Show more

semi-formal
Task 1 Write a letter to your landlord complaining about noise in the block of flats which he owns. Include: -Where you live -The problem -What he should do

semi-formal
You are having problems with a neighbour’s animals because the fence between your properties is old and In poor repair. You want the neighbour to pay half the cost of building a new fence. Write a letter to your neighbour. In your letter: say what the problems are explain how a new fence will solve the problems suggest that the neighbour pays half of the cost

semi-formal
A local college is having an international day. You want to speak about your country to students from different cultures.Write a letter to the college head. In your letter: Tell him/her about the topics that you are going to talk about. Explain why would they be of interest to the students Ask about any arrangement that you need to make to give the talk.

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
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
Write a letter to your neighbour. In your letter: * say where and when you are going * explain what you would like your neighbour to do * offer to do something for your neighbour in return

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
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 this family.

semi-formal
You recently gave. 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 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 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 ................., You should write at least 150 words.

semi-formal
. You have been accepted by a university in Canada. Before moving to Canada, you want to gather some information from International Officer. Write to him about your needs. In your letter • introduce yourself • inquire about accommodation options • seek information on Student Discount Card

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. Write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows:

semi-formal
You would like to reduce your working hours in order to study part time. Write a letter to your boss. In your letter explain why you want to reduce your working hours say which hours you would like to work describe how your part-time studies would benefit your employer You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear ....................................,

semi-formal
Your friend would like to visit your hometown. Write a letter to him/her and say - What is the best time of the year to visit your hometown? - Suggest some places to visit in your town. - Invite your friend to meet your family.

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 •Remained 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 paid a refundable deposit when you rented an appartment. You left the department in good condition but the landlord won’t return the deposit. Write a letter to the landlord. In your letter: -Explain why you are writing -Ask for the return of your deposit -Inform the landlord of possible legal action.

semi-formal
You recently broke your leg and your colleagues visited with 'get well soon' cards and presents. Write a letter to: 1. Thank them 2. Describe how you have been spending your time while recovering 3. Tell some other information about your recovery

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 currently live in a rental apartment, and the noise from your neighbors 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 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
One of your penfriends wants to imporve his/her English in advance of moving to Sydney. Write a letter to your penfriend. Advice him/her about the following: listening skills, speaking skills and vocabulary.

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
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 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 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 studying mathematics at university and have an assignment next week. You have been sick. Write a letter to your teacher sking for an extension on your assignment. In the letter, · explain that you are a student of mathematics class · explain that you have been sick · ask for an extension Begin your letter with Dear …,

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 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
Your neighbour keeps his animal in his garden and they create problem for you.you have problem with animal.write a letter to your neighbour.describe the problem.suggest the solution.ehat action willyou take if its unsolved.

semi-formal
You and your family are livign in rented accommodations in an English speaking country. You are note satisfied with teh 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 would like to take part 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
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 -ay why you would like to do this work -explain when you will and will not be available

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 course(s) you want to teach, and what it/they would be about explain why you would be a suitable teacher

semi-formal
You are taking a course at a local college. The deadline for your project was last week but you haven’t finished it. Write a letter to your lecturer. In your letter • introduce yourself • explain why you haven’t handed in the project yet • request more time to do it.

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 perfomace - give details of your musical activities - explain hoy you would like him to help you with your musicial activities.

semi-formal
Write a letter of application to mrs hopkins the oganizer of the trip,telling her: -why would you like to go on the trip -what skills do you have -what previous experience

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
You recently went to a concert and thought one of te singers was very good. You want to tell him hoe 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 live in a small apartment building. You are frequently bothered by noise from your upstairs neighbor’s apartment. Write a letter to your neighbor. In your letter: Describe the situation Explain why it is a problem for you Suggest a solution.

semi-formal
Your friend was supposed to visit you soon, but due to some personal problems you can’t meet him / her on the specified date. Write a letter to him or her explaining the situation. In your letter, you have to: – Apologise to your friend. – Explain why it’s not possible to meet now. – Suggest an alternative date for the meeting.

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
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
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
Mrs Barret, an English-speaking woman who lives in your town, has advertised fro 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 liek to do this work - Explain when you will and will not be available

semi-formal
Your neighbor keeps his/her animal in the garden. Write to him/her about it and the inconvenience it causes you and your family. In your letter · tell what the problem is · explain why it causes inconvenience · suggest a possible solution to it

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 how you could help her in her home Say why you would like to do the work Explain when you will and will not be available

semi-formal
The painting work is over but you are not satisfied with quality of work. Write a letter to the contractor for the same. In your letter • describe what you are not satisfied with • say what you want the contractor to do and your action plan • say what was good a bout the service

semi-formal
Your friend has asked you to teach English to their child. However, you do not have any English books so would like to borrow some from your teacher. Write a letter to your teacher. In your letter say which course you are taking describe the type of books you need to borrow ask to borrow the books

semi-formal
You are moving home. Write a letter to your neighbours to say goodbye to them and to thank them for their help during your stay. In your letter explain how they helped you say what you will miss the most about the area where you lived invite them to visit you at your new home.

semi-formal
You have rented an apartment recently, but you are facing some problems. Write a letter to the landlord: •Describe the details of the problems •How are these affecting your family •Ask for possible solutions

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
One of your friends wants to apply for a job that involves working with foreign teenagers. Write a letter of recommendation for him/her. In your letter, express: how well you know your friend what qualifications he/she has why you think she would be suitable for the job

semi-formal
Head teacher, Marti Dyers, believes that safe outdoor space is important for keeping students in good health, mentally and physically. They need somewhere they can exercise and be sociable he says. At the moment many schools have dangerous areas where students might trip or have an accident. Write a letter explaining your view.

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 remind him about meeting and your interest in a job and why you think you are suitable

semi-formal
During a recent journey , you sat next to a businessman who owns 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 • why you say 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
You have recently moved into new home. You are planning for a party. However, you are worried about the noise which may disturb your neighbour. Write a letter to your neighbour. In your letter - Introduce yourself - invite your neighbour - describe the planning of the party and express your concern

semi-formal
You are planning a two-week vacation and need someone to take care of your pet while you are away. Write a letter to your cousin. In your letter -Tell your cousin that you are going on a vacation -Ask your cousin to take care of your pet for you -Explain what tasks you would like your cousin to do

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
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
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 Write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear Ms. Granger,

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
General Training 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: •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 ……………., You get 20 minutes to complete this task.

semi-formal
You have been going to a piano teacher for the past month. However, it no longer fits into your budget or busy schedule Write a letter to your piano teacher. In your letter: • Thank him for his efforts and time • Explain the changes in your circumstances • Explain that you may be able to pick it up again

semi-formal
You will have a speech about your country on the international college event. Write a letter to the event’s planners about the following: - Ask about the date of the event - What speech you prepared/why it should be interesting -What equipment you will need for your speech

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
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
You are experiencing financial problems and want to ask you landlord if you can pay your rent late. Write a letter to your landlord. In your letter explain. -why you can't pay the rent when you will pay the rent How you will ensure you can pay the rent in the future

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 recently had your car repaired and now it is not working properly. Write a letter to your mechanic and in your letter: • Introduce yourself • Explain the problem • And say what you need him to do

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
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:

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 enrolment 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
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 next summer. Write a letter to Mrs Barrett. In your letter Ÿ suggest how you could help her in her home Ÿ say why you would like to do this work Ÿ explain when you will and will not be available

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.

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
Your neighbours have recently written you a complaint about the noise from your flat. Write a letter to your neighbours. In your letter, explain the reasons for the noise and apologise. Describe what actions you will take in future to reduce the noise.

semi-formal
Write a letter to a teacher asking for a reference letter for a job and explain: – Why you have chosen him to write the reference letter – What kind of job you are applying for – Why you think you are suitable for this job

semi-formal
You should spend about 20 minutes on this task. 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 this family. You do NOT need to write any address. You should write at least 150 words.

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
You have recently moved into a new apartment. Your neighbour regularly plays loud music late at night, which disturbs your sleep. Write a letter to your neighbour. In your letter: •Introduce yourself. •Explain how the noise is affecting you. •Suggest what could be done to solve the problem.

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
Although you have never formally studied computing, you have always been interested in computers. You have just read about computer courses that really interests you, but it is only for people who completed 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
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 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 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
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. You should write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write your own address. Begin your letter as follows: Dear ...,

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 each day. Write a letter to Mrs, Barret. In your letter suggest how you could help her say why you would like to do this work explain when you would will and will not be available

semi-formal
There Is a public event coming up in your town. Write a letter to your Mend who you think would be interested to take part in it. In your letter Describe the event. Say why you think he / she would be interested. Suggest an arrangement to meet there with him / her.

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
It is ten years since you left college, You'd like to organise an event to celebrate this anniversary with all your friends and classmates from college. Write a letter to one of your college friends. In your letter • say what kind of celebration event you'd like to organise • explain why you think it would be good to celebrate in this way • describe what help you need to organise this event

semi-formal
You have left college but you didn’t say goodbye to your friend who lived in the room with you because he had a course that time. Write a letter to him. In your letter  Apologize and tell him how you spent the day when you left  Tell him how you got home  Invite him to visit you.

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 were studying in an English speaking country and suddenly needed to go back to your home country leaving your course incomplete. Write a letter to your teacher to - Thank him - Explain the reason you left without completing your course - say during your course study what did you like most about this course.

🚀 Prepare for IELTS writing section today!
  • Unlimited Task 1 & Task 2 checks
    Practice with essays, charts, and letters.
  • Personalized suggestions & mistake analysis
    Spot every mistake and boost your score.
  • Topic ideas & vocabulary helpers
    Expand your ideas and use the right words.
  • Progress tracking
    Watch your writing improve with every practice.