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 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.

semi-formal
You eat at your college cafeteria at lunch time every day.. However, you think it needs some improvements. Write a letter to the college magazine. In your letter: explain what you like about the cafeteria say what is wrong with it suggest how it could be improved Write at least 150 words. Begin your letter as follows: Dear __________

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 cannot pay the rent When you will pay the rent. How you will ensure you can pay your rent in the future Write at least 150 words You do NOT need to write any addresses Begin your letter as follows: Dear……..,

semi-formal
Essay topics: Your next-door neighbor likes to listen to music late at night. Because of the loud music, you often lose sleep. Write a letter to your neighbor. In your letter Describe the situation Explain the problem it is causing you Offer at least one solution

semi-formal
Your colleague recently got a new job at another company. Write a letter to her, in your letter: Express how you feel about her departure Say what you enjoyed the most while you were working together Ask about her future plans

semi-formal
Your son is learning a second language at school, but he needs some extra lessons. Write a letter to a teacher asking for her help. In your letter Explain why your son needs help Ask the teacher about her teaching experience and methods And suggest a possible schedule for the lessons.

semi-formal
Write a letter to your colleague asking for help in setting up equipment for your presentation. In your letter, you should- -tell when and where presentation will take place -describe your arrangements -tell him/her what equipment you need

semi-formal
You have had a problem with your next-door neighbour. You have not been able to speak to your neighbour about this. Write a letter to this neighbour. In your letter *Explain the problem *Suggest a solution *Say what action you will take if the situation does not improve

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 have rented an apaprtment for 5 years. You have decided to move out. Write a letter to your landlord. . Describe who you are and where you live. . Explain why you have decided to move out. . Suggest what you want the landlord to do.

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
Your next door neighbour owns a small dog that barks throughout the day and the night. Write a letter to your neighbour requesting that something be done about the dog. Include in your letter: – Your reason for writing – What you would like to happen – A nice, respectful style

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 who 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 question about life in the city.

semi-formal
you eat at your college cafeteria at lunch time every day.. However, you think it needs some improvements. Write a letter to the college magazine. In your letter: explain what you like about the cafeteria say what is wrong with it suggest how it could be improved

semi-formal
You 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 recently heard that your manager will be leaving the company next month. You and your colleague are planning to buy a farewell gift for her. Write a letter to your colleague. In your letter: say how you feel about your manager leaving describe a present you think would be suitable discuss arrangements for buying the gift or planning a farewell celebration

semi-formal
You want to improve your English and a friend has given you contact details for a private teacher. Write a letter to the teacher and say: why you want to improve your English how the teacher can help you when you would like to start having lessons? You should write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear ………………. You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

semi-formal
You have seen and advertisement for a couple, who lives in Australia, for someone to teach their two children your language for a year Write a letter to the couple. In your letter Explain why you think you would be suitable for this job Say what else you could do for the family Give your reason for wanting the job

semi-formal
You are going on vacation and would like a colleague to look after your work while you are away. Write a letter to your colleague. In your letter: •Explain why you will be away •Describe what you need them to do •Offer to help when they are on holiday

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. say how you tell about his performance give details of your musical activity explain how you would like him to help you with your musical activites

semi-formal
You are going to study at a college in another country. You need to find a place you will live. Write a letter to the college's accommodation officer. In your letter, give details of your course and your arrival date, describe the kind of accommodation you need and say what you like the accommodation officer to do

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

semi-formal
You had a birthday party and you were playing loud music.your neighbour. write a letter of appology explaining the ocasion and it wont happen again

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

semi-formal
You have recently moved into new home. You are planning for a party. However, you are worried about the noise which may disturb your neighbour. Write a letter to your neighbour. In your letter - Introduce yourself - invite your neighbour - describe the planning of the party and express your concern

semi-formal
You 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
One of your colleagues Recently got a new job at another Company. Write a letter to him and say you feel about him What you enjoy the most while working together Ask what is future plans are

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
Your child is going on a three day school trip to another country. The head teacher wants to find parents to go with the group and you would like to go. Write a letter to the head teacher. In your letter: ●Say why you would like to go on the trip ●Suggest what you could do to help during the trip Ask other questions about the trip

semi-formal
You are a parent and you need information about a school trip your child is going on. Write a letter to the class teacher. In your letter introduce yourself explain what information you are looking for inform the teacher about any specific needs your child has 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
Your neighbour has written to you to complain about the noise from your flat. Write a letter to your neighbour. In your letter explain the reason for the noise offer your neighbour an apology tell them what action you will take

semi-formal
Your next-door neighbour owns a small dog that barks throughout the day and the night. Write a letter to your neighbour requesting that something be done about the dog. Include in your letter: Your reason for writing – What you would like to happen – 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. Explain the occasion to him. Invite him to the party. Tell him why you want him to perform.

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
A colleague gave you a book which you used for your presentation. Write a letter to your colleague. In your letter, you should say: •What the presentation was about, •Why the presentation was important, •How did the book help you? You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear …………….. , You get 20 minutes to complete this task.

semi-formal
You recently went to a concert and thought one of the singers was very good. You want to tell him how you feel. Write a letter ro 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 broke your leg and your colleagues from work sent you get well cards and presents. Write a letter to them and say • Thanks them for supporting you. • Describe how you spend your time. • Explain about your recovery process.

semi-formal
Your child is going on a three-day school trip to another country. The head teacher wants to find parents to go with the group and you would like to go. Write a letter to the head teacher. In your letter: • Say why you would like to go on the trip • Suggest what you could do to help during the trip • Ask other questions about the trip

semi-formal
Mrs Jones, an English-speaking woman who lives in your town , has advertised for someone to help her in her home for a few hours a day next summer. Write a letter to Mrs. Barrett. In your letter Suggest how you could help her in her home say why you would like to do this work explain when you will and will not be available

semi-formal
You have 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 are planning a vacation and you need someone to look after your cat while you are away. Write a letter to your neighbour. In your letter, explain why you are going away for a week describe the cat ask the neighbour if they can perform specific duties to care for the cat

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

semi-formal
You have received a letter from your landlord, Mr Matthews, asking you to renew your contract and pay more rent. You are happy with property but landlord has not been maintaining it well. Write a reply to Mr. Matthews. In your letter: Indicate your intention to stay give information about maintenance issues explain what you would like the landlord to do now

semi-formal
You would like to participate in a work-related seminar in another country. Write a letter to the person in charge of the seminar and ask for detailed information regarding the dates, program, accommodation and cost. Write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows:

semi-formal
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
After being involved in an accident, you were looked after by another person. Write a letter to him/her. In your letter Thank him/her for the timely assistance Describe how emergent the situation is Think highly of his/her selfless behavior

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

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 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 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
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 giving your accommodation requirements. You should outline what your room and food needs are and also ask what alternatives are available if they cannot provide what you want. You should write at least 150 words. You should spend about 20 minutes on this task. You do NOT need to write your own address.

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 had a problem with your neighbor for the past few months. You have not been able to meet with your neighbor to discuss the problem. Write a letter to your neighbor. In your letter: Explain the problem Suggest a solution Say what action you will take if the situation does not improve Write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any addresses.

semi-formal
You want to study a short course at a college abroad. Write a letter to the college administration. In your letter Explain which course you are inerested in ask about entry requirements request information about acommodation options.

semi-formal
You live in a small apartment building. You are frequently bothered by noise from your upstairs neighbor’s apartment. Write a letter to your neighbour. In your letter • Describe the situation • Explain why it is a problem for you • Suggest a solution Begin your letter as follows: Dear…….

semi-formal
You have won a holiday to Hawaii with one extra ticket. Write a letter to someone to invite them along with you. In the letter: – Explain what has happened and that you would like them to come – Give details of when the trip will take place – Inform the person of the things they will need for the trip

semi-formal
You recently booked a part-time course at a college. You now need to cancel your booking. Write a letter to the college adminisllator. 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
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 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: 1. Details about the conference- 2. Why you want your colleague to give the presentation – 3. What arrangements you will do for this conference

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
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 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
You have had a problem with your neighbor for the past few months. You have not been able to meet with your neighbor to discuss the problem. Write a letter to your neighbor. In your letter: Explain the problem Suggest a solution Say what action you will take if the situation does not improve

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 November 15, but you will not be available on that date. Task: Write a letter to your new boss, explaining your situation, expressing your concern and suggesting a solution.

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 next door neighbour owns a small dog that barks throughout the day and the night. Write a letter to your neighbour requesting that something be done about the dog. Include in your letter: – Your reason for writing – What you would like to happen

semi-formal
You 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/her. In your letter you should: thank him/her and tell the dates of your holiday explain how he/she enters the house describe what you expect him/her to do

semi-formal
You are having problems with a neighbour’s animals because the fence between your properties is old and In poor repair. You want the neighbour to pay half the cost of building a new fence. Write a letter to your neighbour. In your letter • say what the problems are • explain how a new fence will solve the problems • suggest that the neighbour pays half of the cost You do NOT need to write any addresses.

semi-formal
Your landlord is asking to increase the rent write a letter to him In your you shoul tell: Why do you think the rent shouldn't be increased. What you will do if it is increased

semi-formal
You currently live in a rental appointment and the noise from your neighbours disturbs you. Write a letter to your landloard. In your letter, - Describe how this situation affects you - Explain what steps you have taken to address the problem - Ask the landloard to take action to resolve the issue

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 have seen an advertisement from a couple who live in Australia, for someone to trach 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 writing the job

semi-formal
You are planning to attend a course in another country. Write a letter to the college administration. In your letter: •Ask about the course details. •Inquire about the accommodation options. •Request information on the local area

semi-formal
A student you know is coming to visit the town or city where you live next weekend. Write a letter to the student. In the letter, • tell the student about some places in your town or city that he/she should visit. • give instructions about transportation in your city. • give contact details for the student so he/she can get in touch with you. Write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear...

semi-formal
Mrs. Barette, an English-speaking woman who lives in your town, has advertised for someone to help her in her home for few hours a day next summer. Write a letter to Mrs. Barette. 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 available

semi-formal
You have won a holiday to Hawaii with one extra ticket. Write a letter to someone to invite them along with you. In the letter: – Explain what has happened and that you would like them to come – Give details of when the trip will take place – Inform the person of the things they will need for the trip

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
You should spend about 20 minutes on this task. You eat at your college cafeteria at lunch time every day.. However, you think it needs some improvements. Write a letter to the college magazine. In your letter: explain what you like about the cafeteria say what is wrong with it suggest how it could be improved

semi-formal
You 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
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 next door 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

semi-formal
You recently booked a part-time course at a college. You now need to cancel your booking. Write a letter to the college admministrator. In your letter. say which part-time course you booked explain why you need to cacel your booking ask about booking a different course

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

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 risk the landlord to take action

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 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 recently went to a concert and thought one of the singers was very good. You want to tell how you feel. Write a letter to the singer. In your letter: ● say how you feel about his/her performance ● give details of your music-related activities ● explain how you would like him/her to help you with your music-related activities

semi-formal
Although you have never formally studied computing, you have always been interested in computers. You have just read about computer courses that really interests you, but it is only for people who completed elementary course. write a letter to the college enrollment officer. In your letter, - explain why you are writing - describe your circumstances - ask if a special exception can be made for you so you can enroll in the course

semi-formal
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 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
Mrs Barret, an English -speaking woman who lives in your town ,has advertised for someone to help her in her home for a few hours a day next summer. Write a letter to Mrs Barret. in your letter Suggest how you could help her in her home Say why you would like to do this Job Explain when you will and will not be available

semi-formal
You have trouble paying rent for the house where you live. Write a letter to your landlord explaining your current financial situation and ask for a house change.

semi-formal
You recently booked a part-time course at a college. You now need to cancel your booking. Write a letter to the college administrator. In your letter: say which part-time course you booked explain why you need to cancel your booking ask about booking a different course You should write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear Sir or Madam..........,

semi-formal
Your 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

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