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
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
write a letter to your neighbour You are going away from home for one week and you need to ask your neighbour to look after you house. Why you want to go away What you want your neighbour to look after If there are any problems then give instructions
semi-formal
You 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.
semi-formal
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
You carried out an emergency maintenance on a key system and this resulted in an issue with the system Write a letter to the head of your data team. In your letter: - Provide an update on what happened - Explain what you're going to do about it - Say what you would like to him to do
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
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 a student at a university in the UK. You have recently lost your university ID card. Write to the local police station, giving details of who you are, what happened and ask to record your details so that you can apply for a new ID card. 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 should spend about 20 minutes on this task. You paid a refundable deposit when you rented an apartment a year ago. You left the apartment last month in good condition but the landlord won't return your deposit. Write a letter to the landlord. In your letter, introduce yourself and say why you are writing ask for the return of your deposit inform the landlord of possible action if he/she does not agree to refund the amount Write at least 150 words.
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 attend a sports class at your local sports center. Unfortunately, you cannot ontinue to attend this class Write a letter to your sports teacher. In your letter - Say which class you are attending - Explain why you cannot continue to attend this class - Tell him/her what you have enjoyed about this class
semi-formal
You have received a job offer for an exciting, new position. Although you are expected to start on September 7th, you are only available to start a week later due to personal reasons. Write a letter to your new boss. In your letter: Express your enthusiasm for the job offer. Explain the problem Suggest what you can do
semi-formal
You are 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 have just moved into a new home and are planning to hold a party. You are worried that noise may disturb your neighbour Write a letter to your neighbour Introduce your self Describe your plans for the party Invitee your neighbour to come
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
Your friend bought tickets to the theatre for both of you. Write a letter to him to tell him that you cannot go to the theatre. In your letter:  Apologize  Explain the situation  Tell him what he can do with the extra ticket
semi-formal
You would like to participate in a work-related seminar in another country. Write a letter to the person incharge of the seminar and ask for detailed information regardng the dates, program, accomodation and cost.
semi-formal
 You are moving home. Write a letter to your neighbours to say goodbye and to thanks them for their help during your stay.
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
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 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
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
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 the date of 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 Write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear Professor Simons,
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 arrangements that you need to make to give the talk
semi-formal
Write a letter to the college director requesting to change your course. You should include details about: - what course are you doing now - why you are not satisfied with that course -what course you would like to change to.
semi-formal
You live in a block of flats, your neighbour makes a lot of noise which has caused problems for you. Write a letter to your landlord.
semi-formal
Your childhood friend has established his own business. He needs a partner whom he can completely trust and asks you to become his partner. Write a letter to him. In your letter: • Give the details about your knowledge in this particular field and your opinion; • Tell your decision and its reasons; • Thank him for trust and offer. Write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear ....,
semi-formal
Mrs Barrett, an English-speaking woman who lives in your town, has advertised 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
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
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
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 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 applying for a new job. Write a letter to a former supervisor asking for a reference. In your letter: Describe the job you are applying for Say why you are qualified for the job Explain why you want a reference from this person
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 about the cafeteria •say what is wrong with it •suggest how it could be improved
semi-formal
You are applying for a job and need a letter of reference. write to a teacher about: Give details of the job Explain why it is important to you Suggest what information your teacher could put in the refernce
semi-formal
Write a letter to your neighbour requesting that something be done about your dog. Include in your letter: - Your reason for writing - What would you like to happen
semi-formal
You 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 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
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 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
During a recent plane journey, you sat next to a bussinessman who owns a chain of restaurants. You talked to him and he suggested that you should contact him about a possible job in one of his restaurants. Write a letter to this bussinessman. In your letter • remind him when and where you met • tell him what kind of job you are interested in • say why you think you would be suitable for the job
semi-formal
You want to learn a language. There is a teacher near to 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 whatbhelp the can offer
semi-formal
You work for an entertainment company which plans to open a new theatre soon. You want to invite a famous actor to open the new theatre. Write a letter to this famous actor. In your letter • give some information about the new theatre • invite her/him to open the new theatre • explain why she/he would be a good person to open the theatre
semi-formal
ou 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
semi-formal
Write a letter to your former teacher. In your letter Explain how you heard about his/her retirement Describe what made him/her such a great teacher Say how your teacher affected your life
semi-formal
Your colleague found another job and invited you to his/her farewell party. Unfortunately, you are unable to attend it. Write a letter to him/her and say – Why can’t you attend the party? – Why did you enjoy working with him/her? – Offer him/her to meet some other time.
semi-formal
You are going to arrange a special party at your home next week. You want to invite a local artist who is a playback singer. Write a letter to him. Explain the occasion to him. Invite him to the party. Tell him why you want him to perform.
semi-formal
You recently went to a concert and thought one of the singers was very good You want to tell him how you feel. Write a letter to the singer. In your letter say how you feel about his petformance give details of your musical activities explain how you would like him to help you with your musical activities
semi-formal
You 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
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
A close relative of yours is having a birthday lunch next Friday, but you know you will be working. Write a letter to your 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. You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear Mr. Jones / Dear Mrs. Jones,...
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 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 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
Write a letter to your neighbour. In your letter explain the problem explain how it is causing you provide an appropriate solution Write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any address. Begin your letter as follows: Dear Mr .........,
semi-formal
GENERAL TRAINING ONLY You should spend about 20 minutes on this task. Each year, your company gives an Employee of the Year award to a worker who has performed exceptionally well. You believe that someone with whom you work should receive the award this year. Write a letter to your supervisor. In the letter - Describe your colleague’s job at the company - Describe a time you worked with this person - Explain why you believe this person deserves the award Write at least 150 words You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear Ms. Jackson,
semi-formal
You are a student at an English language school in Brighton and are living in private accommodation with other flatmates. 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 risk the landlord to take action
semi-formal
Write a letter to your landlord to inform them about a maintenance problem in your apartment. In your letter, you should: •Clearly explain the problem and how it is affecting your daily life. •Ask the landlord to deal with the issue as soon as possible and propose a suitable time for the repair work. •Show your gratitude for the landlord’s help and cooperation.
semi-formal
Your landlord has increased the amount of rent you pay every month and you don’t find it appropriate. Write a letter to the landlord and in your letter, Explain why you are writing Describe why you find the increase inappropriate What you want to do now--
semi-formal
Mrs Barret, an English-speaking woman who lives in your hometown, has advertised for someone to help her in her home for a few hours a day next summer. Write a letter to Mrs Barret. In your letter -Suggest how you could help her in her home -Say why you would like to do this work -Explain when you will and will not be available
semi-formal
you recently had your sanitary ware and taps replaced. You are unhappy with the job of contractor. Write a letter to the contractor for the same. In your letter • say what you are not satisfied with • say what you want the contractor to do • discuss time coordination of both parties for the repairing work
semi-formal
You live in a small apartment building with a parking lot in back, and you often cannot find an empty parking space when you get home from work. Write a letter to your landlord. In your letter • describe the situation. • explain why it bothers you. • suggest something the landlord could do to solve the problem. You do NOT need to write any addresses.
semi-formal
Every weekend you and a few close friends meet to play a team sport. Last week one of your friends had an accident and was hospitalised. Since he was not able to make it you decide to write a letter to him, telling him about the match. Write a letter to your friend. In your letter, tell him which team won describe the conditions on the day say how you felt about the match
semi-formal
You live in a block of flats, your neighbor makes a lot of noise which has caused problems for you. Write a letter to your landlord. In your letter, you should: • explain the situation • tell him/her how you are affected by this • suggest what you want the landlord to do.
semi-formal
You have 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
You are not happy with the course you are doing at college and would like to change a different course. Write a letter to the college director requesting to change your course. You should include details about – what course you are doing now – why you are not satisfied with that course – what course would you like to change to.
semi-formal
You recently completed a course and you 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 was the book? Explain why you couldn't return it in time.
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: o Your reason for writing o What you would like to happen o A nice, respectful style
semi-formal
You had a birthday party and you were playing loud music. Your neighbor Mr. Smith complained. Write a formal letter of apology explaining that it was a special occasion and that it won't happen again.
semi-formal
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 you want your colleague to give presentation What arrangement will you do for this conference
semi-formal
A colleague gave you a book which you used for your presentation. Write a letter to your colleague. In your letter, you should say: •What the presentation was about, •Why the presentation was important, •How did the book help you? You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear …………….. , You get 20 minutes to complete this task.
semi-formal
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. Berrett. 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 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 would like t reduce your working hours in order to study part time. write a letter to your boss. explain why you want to reduce your working hours. say which hows you would like to work, describe how your part-time studies world kenefit your employer.
semi-formal
You have a test in your English class next week, but you cannot attend. Write to your teacher. In your letter: • Explain your situation. • Apologise for not being able to take the test. • Ask whether it is possible for you to take the test at another time.
semi-formal
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 are not happy with the course you are doing at college and would like to change to a different course. Write a letter to the college director requesting to change your course. You should include details about: - what course are you doing now - why you are not satisfied with that course - what course you would like to change to.
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
Write a letter to your colleagues. In your letter • remind your colleagues what the special occasion you were celebrating was • thank them for the card and gift • explain why you like the gift and how you will use it
semi-formal
You recently attended a workshop on leadership skills and would like to recommend a similar workshop to a colleague. Write a letter to your colleague. In the letter • describe the workshop you attended • explain the benefits and relevance of the workshop to your work • recommend that your colleague attend an upcoming workshop
semi-formal
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.
semi-formal
You have asked for a meeting with your manager the next day. Write a letter telling him/her what you would like to discuss in the meeting.
semi-formal
You live in a small apartment building with a parking lot in back, and you often cannot find an empty parking space when you get home from work. Write a letter to your landlord. In your letter • describe the situation • explain why it bothers you • suggest something the landlord could do to solve the problem Begin your letter as follows: Dear………..
semi-formal
You 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 sen an advertisement from a couple, whi livees in australia, someone to teach their 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 child's teacher has requested a meeting with you this Friday to discuss your child's low test scores. Unfortunately, you cannot attend. Write a letter to your child's teacher. In your letter Describe why you cannot attend the meeting Explain how you have been helping your child study Propose another time to meet You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear Mr. Smith,
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 You should write at least 150 words.Mecky
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 friend wants to visit your town. Write a letter to him giving information about the town. In your letter include : 1. what is the good time for visit? 2. describe some interesting places to visit 3. what accomodation is better for his stay?
semi-formal
You have decided to resign from your work in order to try a new field. write a letter of resignation to your boss, in your letter. Tell your boss of your decision and explain why you are leaving. Explained what you have learned from your current job and how you feel about leaving. As for a letter of refference.
semi-formal
chain of restaurants. You talked to him and he suggested that you should contact him about a possibleJob in one of his restaurants. Write a letter to this businessman. In your letter • remind him when and where you met • tell him what kind of Job youaare inter,sted in • say why you think you would be suitable for theJob
semi-formal
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
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
"Write a letter to your neighbour to ask him/her to take care of your house while you are away for a week on holiday. Please say •Explain where you are going and why. • What do you need him/her to do? • What should he/she do in case of emergency?"
semi-formal
You have been living in a rental apartment for the past year. Recently, a new neighbour Mr.Jackson moved in who has loud parties several times a week. You have spoken to Mr.Jackson but are not very close friends Write a letter to Mr.Jackson. In your letter: · Explain the situation · Describe why it bothers you · Suggest a solution
semi-formal
You recently went to a concert and thought one of the singers was very good. You want to tell him/her 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/musical activities explain how you would like him/her to help you with your music-related/musical activities
semi-formal
You recently gave a successful presentation at work. You borrowed a book from a colleague, which helped prepare for the presentation. Write a letter to your colleague. In your letter ● say what the presentation was about ● explain why the presentation was important ● describe how the book helped you prepare for the presentation
semi-formal
You and your family are living in rented accommodation in an English-speaking country. You are not satisfied with the condition of some of the furniture. Write a letter to the landlord. In your letter introduce yourself explain what is wrong with the furniture say what action you would like the landlord to take You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows:
semi-formal
You 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 would you like to work •Describe how your part-time studies would benefit your employer
semi-formal
Mrs Barrett, an English speaking woman who lives in your town, has advertised for someone to help 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 and explain when you will and will be available
🚀 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.