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
A local college is having an International day. You want to speak about your country to students from different cultures. Write a letter to your college head. Talk about the topic you are going to talk about. Explain why would they be of interest to students Ask about any arrangements you need to work to give the talk.

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 had an appointment to meet you friend but you were not able to make it and you couldn't inform him. Write a letter - Apologize for not coming - Explain the reasons why you couldn't be there. - Tell him/her how you tried contacting him/her. Request another meeting.

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

semi-formal
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 do not go to a company from where you got an offer write a letter to the HR supervisor to Explain the readon why you declined the offer express your gratitude Explain that you like your current job very much

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
You have decided to resign from your work in order try a new field. Write a letter to your boss In your letter • Tell your boss of your decision and explain why you are leaving • Explain what you have learnt from your current job and how you feel about leaving • Ask for a letter of reference

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 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
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
WRITING TASK 1 You should spend about 20 minutes on this task. 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.

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

semi-formal
Although you are meant to present your thesis project in one month, your sister is getting married in Spain at the same time. You would like to change dates for your presentation. Write a letter to your professor. In your letter: · Explain the situation · Remind the professor of your academic achievements to date · Ask for a different date to present your thesis

semi-formal
You successfully passed a job interview. You are expected to start on next month, but you will not be available on that date. Write a letter to your new boss, explaining your situation suggest a solution tell them when you can start

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

semi-formal
You want to learn a language. A teacher who teaches this language lives near the area where you live. Write a letter to the teacher. In your letter, say how you came to know about him/her explain why you want to learn this language ask what help he/she can offer

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 are attending part-time classes at a school but will be absent for a few days. Write a letter to your teacher. In your letter, you should: •explain why you are taking part-time classes. •describe the reason for your absence. •explain how you plan to keep up with the missed lessons.

semi-formal
An international student magazine has invited its readers to submit a letter arguing for immediate action on a key environmental issue. You decide to write a letter, briefly describing an environmental problem that concerns you, explaining why you are arguing for immediate action and recommending appropriate measures to rectify the situation.

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 when you think you can move in.

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

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

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

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

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

semi-formal
Although you have never formally studied computing, you have always been interested in computers. You have just read about a computer course that really interests you, but it is only for people who have completed an elementary course. Write a letter to the college 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 enrol in the course You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear

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 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
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 wish to get enrolled in a course at an Australian college. You have already written a letter to the college asking for information, but you haven’t received a reply yet. Write a letter to the college explaining your concern because the course will start in less than two months. You need to know if you can still get enrolled, you also request more information about the course, including the cost.

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
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
Your landlord is asking to increase the rent. Write a letter to him. In your letter, you should tell: why you think the rent shouldn’t be increased what you will do if it is increased

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
You recently go to a concert and thought one of the singer 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 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 performance •give details of your musical activities •explain how you would like him to help with your musical activities You should write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear........................,

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

semi-formal
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
You want to learn a language. There is a teacher neat to you where you live. Write a letter to the teacher. In the letter: say how you came to know about him/her explain why you want to learn ask what help they can offer

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
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 bought a ticket for a live concert (music program) but cannot attend it. so you decided to offer the ticket a friend. write a letter to him/her and say -give details about a concert explain -why you would not be able to attend the concert -suggest how your friend will receive the ticket.

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
You have recently moved to a new flat. Unfortunately, you lost some money the other day, and cannot afford to pay next month's rent which is due. Write a letter to the landlord: explaining the situation that you will pay as soon as your parents send the money Also, mention that there are some problems with the flat.

semi-formal
You are studying overseas. You need to return to your country before the end of the semester for a family event. Write a letter to your supervisor. In your letter: Request time off Explain why you need to leave early Reassure him / her that your studies will not suffer Begin your letter as follows: Dear Mr / M

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
1. You successfully passed a job interview. You are expected to start on November 15, but you will not be available on that date. Write a letter to your new boss. In your letter  explain your situation  express your concern  suggest a solution Write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear ………………….. ,

semi-formal
You were invited to your friend’s birthday party. You missed it and didn’t tell him about that beforehand. Write a letter to him: • Apologize; • Explain the reasons why you missed the party; • Suggest a way to compensate this misunderstanding. You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear ....,

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
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. In your letter, you should: explain the situation tell him/her how you are effected by this Suggest what you want the landlord to do.

semi-formal
GENERAL TRAINING ONLY You should spend about 20 minutes on this task. You and your classmate just received a poor grade on a major school project. One reason for your grade was that your classmate’s family member got very ill. Your classmate was distracted and didn’t contribute as much as was expected. Write a letter to your professor. In your letter - Explain why you had to do most of the work - Describe how the illness of your partner’s family member affected the project - Say what you hope your professor will do Write at least 150 words You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear Professor Miller,

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 are renting an apartment. Write a letter to your landlord regarding a noise problem from your neighbors. Include the following in your letter: – What is the problem? – What have you done about it? – What would you like the landlord to do?

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

semi-formal
You are going for a one-week vacation and your friend agreed to stay at your place while you are away. write a letter to him or her. In your letter you should thank him or her and the dates for your holiday. explain how he or she enters the home describe what you expect him or her to do

semi-formal
Your son is learning a second language at school he needs some extra lessons. Write a letter to a teacher ask for his help. In your letter explain Why yous son needs help Ask the teacher about the teaching experience and method Suggest a possible schedule for the lessons

semi-formal
One of your friends ask you to be a partner in his new business. write a letter to reply him: - give your opinion about your friend's business idea - tell him weather or not you have decided to accept his offer - and explain your reason for this decision

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 recently completed a course and youu borrowed a book from your teacher which you couldn't return in time. You would like to return the book now. Write a letter to your teacher and say: What book it was. How helpful wa the book? Explain why you couldn't return it in time.

semi-formal
You are shifting out of your accommodation. You think the place is suitable for your English speaking colleague who is arriving next month. Write a letter to your colleague- - explain why you are shifting out. - Describe your accommodation - Why is it suitable for your friend?

semi-formal
You relocated to a new country for work. Write to your previous co-worker. In your letter – Tell him/her where you live in the new country – Describe how you feel – Explain what you are doing at work – Invite him/her for a visit.

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 have seen an advertisement from 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 1)Explain why you think you would be suitable for the job 2)Say what else you could do for the family 3)Give your reasons for wanting the job Write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any addresses Begin your letter as follows Dear ………………….,

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

semi-formal
Your friend wants to send her/his children to your house for the weekend. Write a letter to him/her and say *Agree to this arrangement. *Say what time is suitable for you. *Describe what you are planning to do.

semi-formal
You need a recommendation letter from your former university teacher. Write a letter to your teacher: • Give him the reasons for asking for the recommendation letter. • Give him/her details about your personal and academic background that can be added to your letter. • Tell him/ her about your future plans

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

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

semi-formal
You play a team sport with some friends. Last week a member of the team had an accident and was not able to play with you at the weekend. You decide to write to him/her in the hospital, telling him/her about the match. Write a letter to your friend. In your letter,     •    tell him/her which team won     •    say how you felt about the match     •    ask how he/she is doing You should You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear ……………….,

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

semi-formal
You recently booked apart-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 do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear Sir or Madam,

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 …………….. ,

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
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
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 are taking a holiday in a place recommended by your local travel agent, and you are having a wonderful time.you promised to write to himand 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 your holiday. Explain why you think he made the right choice for you.

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
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
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 caused some damage to the kitchen area of your flat. Write a letter to your landlord explaining the following. •How the damage occurred •The extent of damage •What you would like to landlord to do.

semi-formal
Topic 2. Your neighbours have a dog that is noisy at night. You can't sleep. Write a letter to your neighbours. In your letter describe the problem with the dog explain why it is important for you to sleep  outline what your neighbours could do about the situation.

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

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

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 been a living in a rental apartment for the past year. Recently, a new neighbour moved in who has loud parties several times a week. Write a letter to your landlord. In your letter:  Explain the situation  Describe why it bothers you  Suggest a solution

semi-formal
You would like to take some time off of work to attend a training course. Write a letter to your supervisor asking for permission to attend the course. In your letter • describe the training course • say how it will help improve your job performance • explain how much time you need off and ask for permission Begin your letter as follows: Dear………..

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

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

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