IELTS General Writing Task 1 semi-formal Topics/Questions 2025

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 2025 by students who took the IELTS recently. Pick a random topic and start practicing and improving your writing skills.

semi-formal
Your neighbour has recently written to you to complain about the noise from your house flat Write a letter to your neighbour. In your letter Explain the reason for the noise Apologise Describe what action you will take Write at least 150 words You do not need to write any addresses Begin your letter as follows Dear ………………………,

semi-formal
Write a letter to a teacher asking for a reference letter for a job and explain: Why you have chosen him to write the reference letter What kind of job you are applying for Why you think you are suitable for this job You should write at least 150 words.

semi-formal
You are planning to study English at a college in an English-speaking country. You would like some information about their courses. Write a letter to the college. In your letter, ask about the course they offer ask about the cost of the course say what kind of accommodation you want in the college hostel Write at least 150 words.

semi-formal
You have arranged a meeting with a business partner. Unfortunately, you have to change the arrangement. Write a letter to your business partner. In your letter, apologize for the changes explain the reason why the changes were needed explain the new arrangement

semi-formal
You are going on holiday for one week and your neighbour has agreed to take care of your house while you are away. Write a letter to your neighbour. In your letter explain what you would like your neighbour to do while you are away tell him / her how to contact you if there is an emergency offer to buy your neighbour a gift to say thank you

semi-formal
You rent an apartment. you want to tell your landlord that you are happy with the apartment in general, but there are some small repairs that need to be carried out. write a letter to your landlord. In your letter say what you like about the apartment , describe the repairs that need to be made and explain how the repairs will improve your quality of life.

semi-formal
Write a letter to a teacher asking for a reference letter for a job and explain: – Why you have chosen him to write the reference letter – What kind of job you are applying for – Why you think you are suitable for this job

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
You have rented an apartment recently, but you are facing some problems. Write a letter to the landlord: •Describe the details of the problems •How are these affecting your family •Ask for possible solutions

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 Begin your letter as follows: Dear Sir or Madam,

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

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
As part of a student social survey project, you are organising a group to visit a historical exhibition in a small town, Write a letter asking for information regarding such things as the contents of the exhibition, and the dates of its opening and closing, and if there are any discounts available.

semi-formal
You applied to a job and were offered the position, but have decided not to accept the offer. Write a letter to the HR supervisor with whom you interviewed. In your letter: explain the reason why you are declining the offer describe your reasons for staying with your current position express your gratitude.

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

semi-formal
Write a letter to a colleague who gave you a book that helped you for presentation at work. Describe the presentation Why was it important? How did it help you?

semi-formal
You should spend about 20 minutes on this task. After being involved in an accident, you were looked after by a person you did not know before. Write a special thank you letter to express your gratitude. In your letter: +Introduce yourself and let him/her know why you are writing +Express your appreciation +And offer him/ her to visit your home with this family.

semi-formal
Your find that your study load is too heavy. Write a letter to your college teacher explaining why you need to withdraw from two courses. Ask if it is possible to obtain a refund. decided to do all 08 subjects at once. study load is too heavy to withdraw from two courses Possible refund.

semi-formal
Your child is going away on a school trip for three days to another country. The head teacher wants some parents to join the trip and you would like to go. Write a letter to the head teacher. In your letter: Say why you would like to go Suggest what you could do to help during the trip Ask some more questions about the trip

semi-formal
Your neighbour keeps his/her animal in the garden. Write to him/her about it and the inconvenience it causes you and your family. In your letter tell what the problem is explain why it causes inconvenience suggest a possible solution to it Say what actions you might take if the need arises.

semi-formal
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 ointroduce yourself oexplain why you haven't handed in the project yet orequest more time to do it.

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
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 perfomace - give details of your musical activities - explain hoy you would like him to help you with your musicial activities.

semi-formal
You are going to study in a college in the UK next year. You would like to stay in a college Hall of Residence. Write a letter to the college. In your letter •explain your accommodation requirements • explain what your food needs are • ask what alternatives are available if they cannot provide what you want

semi-formal
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

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

semi-formal
You saw a stray dog being mistreated by your neighbour. You went to Police Station to lodge a police complaint but it was denied. Write a letter to Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) for the same. In your letter • describe what happened • ask the reason why your request was turned down • tell What you want DCP to 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 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
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 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
Your mentor recommended you to learn a new language and gave you contact details of a teacher. Following his advice, you need to write a letter to the teacher and say: •What is your motivation to learn a new language •How can the teacher help you •When you will be ready to start

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
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 applying for a job and need a letter of reference Write a letter to a formal teacher. In your letter -give details of the job -explain why it is important to you -suggest what information your teacher could put in the Write at least 150 words

semi-formal
You made a mistake in classroom. Write a letter to your teacher. In the letter: State your apology Describe the situation Write about your promise to change. Write at least 150 words.

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 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 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 yur neighbour. In your letter introduce yourself describe your plans for the party invite your neigbhour to come

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. Write a letter to your new boss, explaining your situation, expressing your concern and suggesting a solution

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 borrowed an important textbook from a classmate last term. You now realize your classmate had returned home overseas and you still have the book. Write a letter to to him / her. In your letter: apologize for the mistake find out how important the book is to him / her say what you will do

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. In your letter explain the occasion to him , invite him to the party, tell him why you wnat him to perform.

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.

semi-formal
You are planning a two-week vacation and need someone to take care of your pet while you are away. Write a letter to your cousin. In your letter -Tell your cousin that you are going on a vacation -Ask your cousin to take care of your pet for you -Explain what tasks you would like your cousin to do

semi-formal
. You want to buy some computers. Therefore, write to a vendor seeking information and price quotation for the same. In your letter • introduce yourself • give details on what types of computers you are looking for • request the quotation

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 were doing a short course at another country. All of a sudden, you had to leave the course and fly back to your home country. Write a letter to your teacher, and in your letter – express your gratitude – explain why you had to leave – explain what part of the course you enjoyed the most

semi-formal
You 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
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
You have moved into new home and are planning to hold a party. You are worried that the noise may disturbed you neighbour. Write a letter to you neighbour. In your letter Introduce yourself Describe your plan for party Invite your neighbour to come.

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 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

semi-formal
There Is a public event coming up in your town. Write a letter to your Mend who you think would be interested to take part in it. In your letter Describe the event. Say why you think he / she would be interested. Suggest an arrangement to meet there with him / her.

semi-formal
You paid a refundable deposit when you rented an apartment. You left the apartment in good condition but the Landlord won't return your deposit. Write a letter to the landlord. In your letter explain why you are writing ask for the return of your deposit inform the landlord of possible legal action

semi-formal
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 the work Explain when you will and will not be available

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
Write a letter to the landlord about the unavailability of hotwater. State your reason for writing. Describe the problems and explain how you feel. Propose a solution and ask the landlord to take actions.

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

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

semi-formal
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 in her home •say why you would like to do this work •explain when you will and will not be available

semi-formal
Write a letter to your college administration department complaining about the college facility. In your letter, include: • what the problem is • how this problem has affected you • what the college should do to fix this problem Write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear/ Madam

semi-formal
You 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 e explain how you would like him to help you with your musical activities

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

semi-formal
You 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 happen and ask to record your detail so that you can apply for a new ID card.

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
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;

semi-formal
A neighbour 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
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 are due to start a new job next week but you will not be able to beacuse you have some problems. Write a letter to your new empolyer. In your letter explain your position siutation describe your problem tell him/her when you think you can startess.

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
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
You would like to participate in a work-related seminar in another country. Write a letter to the person in charge of the seminar. In your letter: Ask for detailed information regarding the program contents. Cost of the program and any discounts for company-sponsored professionals. Provision of accommodation during the program.

semi-formal
Your colleague is traveling from another country by plane for a meeting. You have arranged the airport pickup, hotel accommodation and planned his/her meetings. Write a letter to your colleague. In your letter, you should: •say when and where you will meet him/her •explain where he/she will stay •tell him/her about the other arrangements you made.

semi-formal
You have recently moved into a new flat. Unfortunately , you lost some money the other day and cannot afford to pay next month’s rent when it is due. Write a letter to the landlord explaining the situation and that you will pay as soon as your parents send you the money. Also, mention that there are some problem with the flat.

semi-formal
You are moving home. Write a letter to your neighbours to say goodbye to them and to thank them for their help during your stay. In your letter explain how they helped you say what you will miss the most about the area where you lived invite them to visit you at your new home.

semi-formal
Write a letter to your landlord. In your letter, give details of the last repair work what the problems are now how you would like the landlord to solve these problems

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 hind that your study load is too heavy and you would like to withdraw from two courses. Write a letter to your college teacher explaining why you need to withdraw from two courses. Ask if it is possible to obtain a refund. You should write at least 150 words.

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 offered a job that will require you to move to a city that you have never visited before. You have an acquaintance that lives there. Write a letter to the acquaintance. In your letter • explain your situation • say why you feel unsure about living in the city • ask some questions about life in the city

semi-formal
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 fw good jobs for him

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

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.

semi-formal
You are currently taking a course at a college but you will need to have a week off during this course. Write a letter to the college Principal. In the letter • Give details of your course • Explain why you need a week off • Say what you want the Principal to do

semi-formal
You have 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

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
Your neighbours have recently written you a complaint about the noise from your flat. Write a letter to your neighbours. In your letter, explain the reasons for the noise and apologise. Describe what actions you will take in future to reduce the noise.

semi-formal
You and your family are living in rented accommodation in an English speaking country. You are not satisfied with the condition of some of the furniture. Write a letter to your landlord. In your letter introduce yourself explain what is wrong with the furniture say what action you would like the landlord to take You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear ................., You should write at least 150 words. Writing task 1Show more

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 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
You eat in your college cafeteria everyday 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 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, explaining your situation, expressing your concern and suggesting a solution Write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear ....,

semi-formal
You are having a graduation party next Saturday night. You have invited 50 people to celebrate at an outdoor barbecue evening, which may continue into late into the night. Write a letter to your elderly neighbour. In your letter:  explain what will be happening  offer your apologies in advance  invite her to join the celebration

semi-formal
You are studying overseas. You need to return to your country before the end of the semester for a family event. Write a letter to your supervisor. In your letter - request time off - explain why you need to leave early - reassure him/her that your studies will not suffer

semi-formal
During a recent journey , you sat next to a businessman who owns 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 • why you say you would be suitable for the job

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 coursev

semi-formal
You recently learnt that the best teacher you ever had will be retiring soon. 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

🚀 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.