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 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 found a piece of lost luggage with someone's belongings labeled with their name and address. Write a letter to the owner. In your letter •describe the luggage you found; •explain where you found it; •suggest how the owner could get it back.

semi-formal
You are a foreign student. You want to join the club or society so that you can enjoy your time when you study there. Write to the student union manager. in your letter Introduce yourself Write about your hobbies and interests Ask for information about clubs and societies

semi-formal
You have just moved into a new home and are plannig 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 . discribe your plans for the party . invite your neibourhour to come

semi-formal
You have seen an advertisement for a community college that needs teachers for night classes. Write a letter to the community college.

semi-formal
Write a letter to your partner to cancel an appointment

semi-formal
You are taking a holiday in a place recommended by your local travel agent, you have had a wonderful time. You have promised to write to him and let him know what you think of his suggestion. \ Write a letter to your travel agent as promised, and let him know what you have been doing and what you are going to do before the end of the journey.

semi-formal
You have received a letter from your neighbour complaining about noise from your house/flat. Write a letter to your neighbour. In your letter explain the cause of the noise apologise for the noise describe what action you will take to solve the problem 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 would like to reduce your working hours in order to study part time. Write a letter to your boss. In your letter: explain why you want to reduce your working hours say which hours you would like to work describe how your part-time studies would benefit your employer

semi-formal
You are applying for a job and need a letter of reference. Write a letter to formal teacher. In your letter: -Give detail of the job -Explain why it is important to you -Suggest what information your teacher could out in the reference.

semi-formal
There is an annual work party next month, which is held every year. Write a letter to your colleagues to co-arrange the party. In your letter: •Say what would you do differently than last year •Say what you think were some of the things not so good last year •Suggest where to meet to plan for the party.

semi-formal
You have 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've been asked to do a presentation and will need help setting up the equipment for it. Write a letter to your colleague. In your letter let him/her know when and where the presentation will take place tell him/her what equipment you will need explain how he/she can help you.

semi-formal
Your neighbours have recently written to you to complain about the noise from your houselflat. Write a letter to your neighbours. In your letter explain the reasons for the noise apologise describe what action you will take

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

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

semi-formal
You should spend about 20 minutes on this task. Write at least 150 words. One of your pen pals will shortly be visiting your city. For some reasons, you can not manage to meet him at the airport on time. Write a letter asking him to wait for you at the airport and tell him how to identify you.

semi-formal
1.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

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
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
Write a letter to landlord about the problem you have in house of renting.

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 recently went to concert and thought one of the singers was very good. You want to tell him how you feel. Write a letter to the singer Say how you feel about his performance Give detail of your musical activities Explain how you would like him to help you with your musical activities.

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

semi-formal
You are going to miss some class in the next few weeks Write a letter to your class teacher state the reason for your absence, time you will be coming back, suggest what can be done to the class work you will miss in during those few weeks

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
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 1. suggest how you could help her in her home 2. say why you would like to do this work 3. explain when you will and will not be available Write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any addresses Begin your letter as follows Dear Mrs Barrett,

semi-formal
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
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
You have recently moved to a new house. There has been damage after you have moved into the house. write a letter to your landlord explaining what has happened and ask him what you can do.

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
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. Begin your letter as follows: Dear .....................,

semi-formal
You have rented a condominium (apartment). Under tenancy agreement, you are required to give a three-month notice period before vacating the condo. For some reasons, you have to give up the condo all of a sudden as you have to migrate to other city as soon as possible. Write a letter to your landlord, • explain the reason for a sudden decision of vacating the condo • ask fora special consideration • how you would feel if your special consideration is granted

semi-formal
you and your family are living in a acommodation in English - speaking country. You ae satisfied with the condition of the furniture. Write a letter to landlord.

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
After working in your department for over 3 years, you feel the need to switch your department.Write a letter to your boss requesting a change in the department. In the letter mention: Why do you want to switch departments? Which department would you prefer? Why do you think you are a good fit in that department?

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
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

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
There is an annual work party next month, which is held every year. Write a letter to your colleagues to co-arrange the party. In your letter: Say what would you do differently than last year Say what you think were some of the things not so good last year Suggest where to meet to plan for the party.

semi-formal
You have been asked to write a letter of invitation to Professor W. Chan Kim asking him to give a talk on National Blue Ocean Strategy (NBOS). You should provide the following details in your letter:

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
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 this woman. In your letter, suggest how you could help her in her home say why you would like to do this work explain when you will and will not be available Write at least 150 words.

semi-formal
You and your family are living in rented accommodation in an English speaking country. You are not satisfied with the condition of some of the furniture. Write a letter to the landlord. In you letter: Introduce yourself Explain what is wrong tin the furniture Say what action you would like the landlord to take

semi-formal
You 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
You were studying in an English-speaking country and suddenly had to go back to your home country your course is incomplete. Write a letter to your teacher - Thank you - Explain the reason why you did not finish the course - tell me what you liked most about this course while studying the course

semi-formal
You are planning a week-long vocation and you need someone to talk take care of your house while you are away. Write a letter to your neighbor and tell them that you are going away. In this letter you should: Explain why you will be away Ask them to take care of your house Explain what tasks you would like your neighbor to do

semi-formal
You have seen an advertisement for a community college that needs teachers for night classes. Write a letter to the community college. In your letter: Say which advertisement you are answering Describe which courses you want to teach, and what they would be about Explain why you would be a suitable character.

semi-formal
Recently you visited a foreign country with a friend. Write a letter to someone. You should tell why you enjoyed the trip what you are doing now invite her to visit you

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
Your neighbor has been making a lot of noise recently. This has been causing you problems, and you want to ask them to stop. Write a letter to your neighbor in your letter: Ask for an explanation for the noise Explain the problem this has cause to you Say what will happen if the problem is not solved.

semi-formal
You live in a rental flat.A few problems emerged since the last repair. Wrote a letter to your landlord. In your letter --what are the problems --give details of the last repair. --how you would like the landlord to solve current problems

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/her when you think you can move in

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

semi-formal
You live in a student apartment and your neighbor, a student from another country, is moving out. You have enjoyed living next to them and have learned a lot about their culture. Write a letter to your neighbor. In your letter: Express your sadness that they are leaving. Mention a specific positive memory or experience you shared. Suggest a way to keep in touch and wish them well for the future. You should You do not need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear [Name of Neighbor],

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
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 been living in a rental apartment for the past year. Recently a new neighbour moved in who has loud parties several times a week. Write a letter complaining about this to the landlord. In your letter: explain the situation describe why it bothers you suggest a solution Begin your letter as follows: Dear Mr / Ms _____________,

semi-formal
There is an annual work party next month, which is held every year. Write a letter to your colleagues to co- arrange the party. In your letter: • Say what would you do differently than last year • Say what you think were some of the things not so good last year • Suggest where to meet to plan for the party.

semi-formal
You exercise regularly and have been a member of many different gyms. Recently you moved into a new neighbourhood and joined a new gym. You have noticed people at this gym do not bother to wipe down the machines after use and often leave dirty towels on the benches in the changing 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
Mrs BARETT, 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
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 recently moved to a new flat. Unfortunately, you lost some money the other day, and cannot afford to pay next month's rent which is due. Write a letter to the landlord: explaining the situation that you will pay as soon as your parents send the money Also, mention that there are some problems with the flat.

semi-formal
Write a letter to your neighbours. In your letter • explain the reasons for the noise • apologise • describe what action you will take

semi-formal
You 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
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
A neighbor has damaged your car while parking his/her vehicle in the lane in front of your house. Write a letter to your neighbor. In your letter -explain why you are writing -describe the damage to your car and express your feelings about it -recommend what steps he/she should take to resolve the situation.

semi-formal
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 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 landord. In your letter introduce yourself explain what is wrong with the furniture say what action you would like to the landlord to take

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
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 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 have an interview next week for a job you really want, but unfortunately you will now be unable to attend. Write a letter to the person due to interview you. In your letter, 1.inform him and apologise 2.explain the reason why you cannot come to the interview 3.offer a new day and time and express your continued desire for the job You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear Mr. Compton,

semi-formal
Your new neighbours have recently invited you to a party they are holding next Saturday. However, you have other plans on Saturday evening and cannot attend the party. Write a letter to your neighbours. In your letter: • Thank them for the invitation • Mention what plans you already have • Suggest when you can meet them

semi-formal
You recently booked a part-time courses at a college. You now need to a 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
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 1. Your reason for writing 2. What you would like to happen 3. A nice, respectful style.

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
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
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 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 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
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
You are currently running a course and have a part-time job. Your boss suggested that you leave your course and work full time. Write a letter to your boss. in your letter, you should: -tell him/her your decision -explain the reason of your decision.

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

semi-formal
During a recent plane journey, you sat next to a businessman who owns a chain of restaurants. You talked to him and he suggested that you should contact him about a possible job in one of his restaurants. Write a letter to this businessman. In your letter •Remained him when and where you met •Tell him what kind of job you are interested in •Say why you think you would be suitable for the job

semi-formal
You should spend about 20 minutes on this task. You are taking a course at a local college. The deadline for your project was last week but you haven't finished it. Write a letter to your lecturer. In your letter introduce yourself explain why you haven't handed in the project yet request more time to do it. Write at least 150 words.

semi-formal
You are going to arrange a special party at your home next week. You want to invite a local artist who is a playback singer. Write a letter to him.

semi-formal
You should spend about 20 minutes on this task. 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.

semi-formal
You have recently moved into a new house and have noticed that the garden is in need of some maintenance. Write a letter to your landlord requesting permission to make the necessary improvements.

semi-formal
You should spend about 20 minutes on this task. You and your family are living in rented accommodation in an English speaking country. You are not satisfied with the condition of some of the furniture. Write a letter to your landlord. In your letter introduce yourself explain what is wrong with the furniture say what action you would like the landlord to take You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear ................., You should write at least 150 words.

semi-formal
Write a letter to your neighbor in response to complaint received regarding noise coming out of your home

semi-formal
You recently booked a part-time course at a college. You now need to cancel your booking. Write a letter to the college administrator. In your letter •Say which part-time course you booked • Explain why you need to cancel your booking • Ask about booking a different course Write at least 150 words. You do not need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear sir or madam

semi-formal
IELTS general writing task 1 sample: 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
Although you have never formally studied computing, you have always been interested in computers. You have just read about a computer course that really interests you, but it is only for people who have completed an elementary course. Write a letter to the college enrolment officer. In your letter explain why you are writing describe your circumstances ask if a special exception can be made for you so you can enroll in the course

semi-formal
You have seen an advertisment from a couple, who live in Australia, for someone to teach their two children your language for a year. Write a letter to the couple, In you letter - Explain why you think you would be suitable for the job - say what else you could do for the family - give your reasons for wanting the job

semi-formal
Write a letter requesting a teacher to conduct exams.

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...

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