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

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This section presents a list of common IELTS General Writing Task 1 semi-formal topics. All these topics were added in 2026 by students who took the IELTS recently. Pick a random topic and start practicing and improving your writing skills.

semi-formal
You 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
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 rent an apartment. you want to tell your landlord that you are happy with the apartment in general, but there are some small repairs that need to be carried out. write a letter to your landlord. In your letter say what you like about the apartment , describe the repairs that need to be made and explain how the repairs will improve your quality of life.
semi-formal
You are having a graduation party next Saturday night. You have invited 50 people to celebrate at an outdoor barbecue evening, which may continue into late into the night. Write a letter to your elderly neighbour. In your letter: explain what will be happening offer your apologies in advance invite her to join the celebration Begin your letter as follows: Dear Mr / Ms _________ You should write at least 150 words. You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.
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 next-door neighbour likes to listen to music late at night. Because of the loud music, you often lose sleep. Write a letter to the neighboor. In your letter describe the situation explain the problems it is causing you offer at least one solution
semi-formal
You are planning a week-long vacation and you need someone to take care of your house while you are away.Write a letter to your neighbour and tell them that you are going away. In your letter,you should: Why you will be away Ask them to take care of your house Explain what tasks you would like your neighbour to do
semi-formal
A neighbour recently invited you to a special party. You intended to go, but at the last minute were unable to attend. Write a letter to your neighbour. In your letter apologise for not going to the party explain why you didn’t go suggest a way to make up for missing the party
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
You have received a letter from your university of Albion demanding a reason for your absence from an exam. You were ill that day, but failed to submit the evidence. Write a letter to the Examinations Committee explaining your situation. You should include: • Apologies for the situation • Identification for yourself (Name, Student Number, Case Number) • An explanation of what had happened and any possible evidence you may have Possible resolutions to consider
semi-formal
A young person will start work at your office next month to gain work experience. Write a letter to him/her. In your letter ▪️Inform him/her about the work that needs to be done at the office; ▪️Explain what he/she is supposed to do on the first day; ▪️Suggest what he/she should bring to work
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 need to take leave from your work of over one month of a period 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 should spend about 20 minutes on this task. 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 Write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows:
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
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 play a team sports with some friends. Last week a member of the team had an accident and wasn’t able to play with you at that 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
In your apartment building there is an entrance hall which you share with your neighbours. Recently there have been some problems with this shared area. Write a letter to your neighbours. In your letter introduce yourself and describe the problem or problems suggest what could be done to improve the situation suggest a meeting to talk about it
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 and explain how you feel propose a solution and ask the landlord to take action.
semi-formal
You have just moved into a new home and are planning to hold a party. You are worried that the noise may disturb your neighbour. Write a letter to your neighbour. In your letter introduce yourself describe your plans for the party invite your neighbor to come
semi-formal
A colleague gave you a book which you used for your presentation. Write a letter to your colleague. In your letter, you should say: what the presentation was about, why the presentation was important how the book helped you.
semi-formal
You 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
You are studying overseas. You need to return to your country before the end of the semester for a family event. Write a letter to your supervisor. In your letter - request time off - explain why you need to leave early - reassure him/her that your studies will not suffer
semi-formal
during a recent palne journey, you sat next to a businessman who owns a chain of restaurent .You talked to him and he suggested that you should contact him about a possible job in one of his restaurents. Write a letter to this businessman . In your letter Remind him when and where you met tell him what kind of job you are intrested in say why you think you would be suitable for the job
semi-formal
ou recently booked a part-time course at a college. You now need to cancel your booking. Write a letter to the college administrator. In your letter: say which part-time course you booked explain why you need to cancel your booking ask about booking a different course You should write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear Sir or Madam..........,
semi-formal
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
You are experiencing financial problems and want to ask your landlord if you can pay your rent late. Write a letter to your landlord. In your letter explain: Why you are writing to him Why you cannot pay the rent When you will pay the rent.
semi-formal
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 college administration department complaining about the college facility. In your letter, include: • what the problem is • how this problem has affected you • what the college should do to fix this problem Write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear/ Madam
semi-formal
You exercise regularly and have been a member of many different gyms. Recently, you moved into a new neighborhood and joined a new gym. You have noticed that people at this gym do not bother to wipe down the machines after use and often leave dirty towels on the benches in the change rooms. Write to Mr Koto, the manager. In your letter: •explain who you are •describe the problem exactly •make suggestions to improve the gym
semi-formal
You have just moved into a new home and are planning to hold a party. You are worried that the noise may disturb your neighbor. Write a letter to your neighbor. In your letter •Introduce yourself • Describe your plans for the party • Invite your neighbor to come
semi-formal
Your neighbour has animals and they cause noise. Write a letter - Describe the situation - Suggestion to solve the problem - Tell him what will you do if he will not solve the problem
semi-formal
A young person will start work at your office next month to gain work experience. Write a letter to him/her. In your letter inform him/her about the work that needs to be done at the office; explain what he/she is supposed to do on the first day; suggest what he/she should bring to work.
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 have a problem with a neighbour. Write a letter to your neighbour. In your letter •describe the problem • say how long it has been a problem • explain what action you want the neighbour to take
semi-formal
You had to cancel a meeting with a friend. Write a letter to him/her, in your letter - Apologise for cancelling the meeting - Explain why you couldn't be there - Suggest an alternative day when you could meet
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
You are currently doing a diploma course at a college, but you need to take a week off during this course. Write a letter to the college Principal. In your letter give details of your course explain why you need a week off say what you want the Principal to do
semi-formal
You have left your job and are now looking for a new job. You need a letter of reference from your previous employer. Write a letter to him. In your letter: • Give details of what you need; • Explain why it is important to you; • Suggest what information your employer could put in the reference. You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear ....,
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 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
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 would like to do this work explain when you will and will not be available
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
You have been offered a job that will require you to move to a city that you have never visited before. You have an acquaintance that lives there. Write a letter to the acquaintance. In your letter • explain your situation • say why you feel unsure about living in the city • ask some questions about life in the city
semi-formal
Your neighbour keeps his/her pet outside in the garden and this is causing some inconvenience for you and your family. Write a letter to your neighbour. In your letter: say what the problem is explain how it is affecting you and your family suggest a possible 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 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 should spend about 20 minutes on this task. You have just moved into a new home and are planning to hold a party. You are worried that the noise may disturb your neighbour. Write a letter to your neighbour. In your letter introduce yourself describe your plans for the party invite your neighbour to come
semi-formal
You play a team sport with some friends. Last week a member of the team had an accident and wasn't able to play with you at the weekend. You decide to write to him in hospital, telling him about the match. Write a letter to your friend. In your letter, tell him which team won describe the conditions on the day say how you felt about the match
semi-formal
You have a problem with a neighbour. Write a letter to your neighbour. In your letter -describe the problem -say how long it has been a problem -explain what action you want the neighbour to take
semi-formal
Your friend wants to send her/his children to your house for the weekend, Write a letter to him/her and say
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 have been living in a rental apartment for the past year. Recently a new neighbour moved in and has been making a lot of noise, which disturbs you. Write a letter to the landlord. In your letter: *Explain the situation *Describe why it bothers you *Suggest a solution
semi-formal
You 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
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
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 had recently ordered a book, online from a bookseller. The book sent by him was not the latest edition, even though you had paid the money according to the latest edition version. Write an email to bookseller in about 150-200 words. Your email should do the following things. 1.Complain about the service of the online site. 2.State about the urgency for the latest edition.
semi-formal
You should spend about 20 minutes on this task. You have just moved into a new home and are planning to hold a party. You are worried that the noise may disturb your neighbour. Write a letter to your neighbour. In your letter ● introduce yourself ● describe your plans for the party ● invite your neighbour to come You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear ................. , You should write at least 150 words.
semi-formal
you are a student at an english language school in brighton and are living in private accomodation 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
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 recently assigned a contract of your home painting. The 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
Write a letter to your boss for a recent meeting you missed 1. Apologies for the missing 2. Explain what happened 3. Day what you will do to compensate
semi-formal
You were doing a short course at another country. All of a sudden, you had to leave the course and fly back to your home country. Write a letter to your teacher, and in your letter – express your gratitude – explain why you had to leave – explain what part of the course you enjoyed the most
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 planning a two-week vacation, and need someone to take care of your house while you are away. Write a letter to your neighbour. In your letter: tell your neighbour that you are going away ask your neighbour to take care of your house for you explain what task you would like your neighbour to do
semi-formal
A builder has recently completed some renovation at your house, but you are not satisfied with his work. Write a letter to him. In your letter:  Tell him what work has not been completed properly  Tell him what you want him to do  Suggest some time when you will be available at home
semi-formal
You have seen an advertisement from a couple, who live in Australia, for someone to teach their two children your language for a year. Write a letter to the couple. In your letter •explain why you think you would be suitable for the job • say what else you could do for the family • give your reasons for wanting the job Write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any addresses.
semi-formal
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 wish to apply for a new college course, but you are unsure about the details of cost, duration and subjects posted on the college website. Write an email to the relevant person in admissions at the college, asking them to clarify these points for you. In this email, Say what your interest is Explain why the website is unclear Request the information that you need Begin your letter ‘Dear --------’ Do not write any addresses Write at least 150 words
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 next door neighbor owns a small dog that barks throughout the day and the night. Write a letter to your neighbor requesting that something be done about the dog. Include in your letter: oYour reason for writing oWhat you would like to happen oA nice, respectful style.
semi-formal
You 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
You want to improve your knowledge of foreign languages which can help you at work. Write a letter to a foreign language teacher and say: Where did you hear about the teacher? + Why do you want to learn a foreign language? + Ask some questions about the course
semi-formal
During a recent plane journey, you sat next to a businessman who owns a chain of restaurants. You talked to him and he suggested that you should contact him about a possible job in one of his restaurants. Write a letter to this businessman. In your letter, remind him when and where you met tell him what kind of job you are interested in say why you think you would be suitable for the job
semi-formal
You are 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 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 Write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear .................., you have 20 minutes to complete the task
semi-formal
You are planning a week-long vacation and you need someone to take care of your house while you are away. Write a letter to your neighbor and tell them that you are going away. In your letter, you should: ask them to take care of your house explain why you will be away.
semi-formal
You recently went to a concert and thought one of the singers was very good You want to tell him how you feel. Write a letter to the singer. In your letter say how you feel about his petformance give details of your musical activities explain how you would like him to help you with your musical activities
semi-formal
Your rental accommodation was recently damaged due to bad weather. Write a letter to the landlord and say • Explain what caused the damage • Why do you need them to fix the problem right away • What needs to be done to fix it
semi-formal
Mrs Barrett, an English speaking woman who lives in your town, has advertised for somene 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
A new neighbour has moved in next door and has taken your main rubbish bin. Write a letter to your new neighbour requesting that they return the item. In the letter: – Explain that new bins must be sourced from the local council – Request that the person returns your bin immediately – Inform the person of what further actions you will take should they not return your bin
semi-formal
You have just moved into a new home and are planning to hold a party. You are worried that the noise may disturb your neighbour. Write a letter to your neighbour. You do NOT need to write any addresses. You should write at least 150 words. In your letter introduce yourself describe your plans for the party invite your neighbour to come
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 you letter: *explain what you like about the cafeteria *say what is wrong with it *suggest how it could be improved
semi-formal
You have been assigned to give a networking presentation with your colleague from a different office, who you met last year. Write a letter to your colleague. In your letter: · Inform your colleague that you will be working together · Provide your initial ideas on the networking presentation · Ask for a time to meet and practice the presentation
semi-formal
You and a couple of your colleagues would like to participate in a work-related seminar. Write a letter to your colleague who is the person in charge of the seminar and ask for: Detailed information regarding the dates Program schedule Enquire about cost and possible discounts for groups
semi-formal
you live in a small apartment building.You are frequently bothered by noise from your upstair neighbor. write your letter to your neighbor,in your letter Describe the situation. explain why it is a problem for you. suggest a solution
semi-formal
After being involved in an accident, you were looked after by a person you did not know before. Write a special thank you letter to express your gratitude. In your letter: •introduce yourself and let him/her know why you are writing •express your appreciation •and offer him/ her to visit your home with his/her family 

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

Dear ……………….,
semi-formal
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 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 planned to stduy in australia. You have sent a letter to a college, but you have not received a reply from the college. Write a letter to the college principle. In your letter you should give details og the course that you wished to do say why do you choose yo study study at the college say why you need the reply soon.
semi-formal
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
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
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 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
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
semi-formal
you are studying and doing a part time job . A full time position recently opened in the company and your manager is asking you to quite your studies and start working full time. write a letter to him and say what is your decision? why did you make the decision? suggest a solution that will suit both you and the company.
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 want to arrange a conference for your company, and you need to ask one of your colleagues to give a presentation at this conference. Write a letter to your colleague. Detail about the conference. Why do you want your colleague to give the presentation? What arrangement you will make for this conference?
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 in her home -say why you would like to do this work -explain when you will and will not be available Begin your letter as follows: Dear Mrs. Barrett,
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