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
Your friend wants to send her/his 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 you are planning to do.

semi-formal
You recently gave a successful presentation at work. You borrowed a book from a colleague, which helped prepare for the presentation. Write a letter to your colleague. In your letter ● say what the presentation was about ● explain why the presentation was important ● describe how the book helped you prepare for the presentation

semi-formal
You have left college but you didn't say goodbye to your friend who lived in th room with you because he had a course that time. Write a leeter to him. In your letter Apologize and tell him how you spent the day when you left. Tell him how you got home. Invite him to visit you.

semi-formal
Your neighbours have recently written to you to complain about the noise from your house/flat. Write a letter to your neighbours. In your letter : 1. Explain the reason for the noise 2. Apologise 3. Describe what action you will take Start with Dear, Mr. Zaveri and Mr. Dalal

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, – 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
Your neighbor 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

semi-formal
Your neighbours have recently written to you to complain about the noise from your house/ flat. Write a letter to your neighbours

semi-formal
New neighbours have recently moved in, but they are making a lot of noise at night while you are preparing for your exams. Write a letter to your neighbours. In your letter: explain that they are preventing you from studying well suggest what they can do to improve the situation tell them when you will have completed your studies

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 in the property, but the landlord has not been maintaining it well. Write a reply to Mr Matthews. In your letter: •indicate your intentions to stay • give information about the maintenance issues • explain what you would like the landlord to do now

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 recently went to a concert and thought one of the singers was very good. You want to tell how you feel. Write a letter to the singer. In your letter: say how you feel about his/her performance give details of your music-related activities explain how you would like him/her to help you with your music-related activities Write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear .................., you have 20 minutes to complete the task

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

semi-formal
You applied to a job, 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 Write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear Ms. Barry,

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 neighbor. In your letter: Describe the situation Explain why it is a problem for you Suggest a solution.

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

semi-formal
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

semi-formal
You are a current student of Loren Brusque University, studying Business Administration. You want to apply for the post of Quality Assurance Manager you have recently seen on the university's notice board. Write a letter to Mr. Walker, and •Give your reason for writing •Tell about your education • Describe your work experience and explain why you would be suitable for the job.

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 have been offeed a job that will require you to move to a city that you have never visitedbefore. You have an acquaintance who lives there. Write a letter to the acquaintance . In your letter exlplain your situation, say why you feel unsure about living in the city, ask some questions about life in the city.

semi-formal
Write a letter to your neighbour about the damage that occurred to your car while he was parking his car in the lane outside your home. In the letter, you should: describe the damage say how you feel about this problem suggest to him what actions he should take.

semi-formal
During a recent plane journey, you sat next to a businessman who owns a chain of restaurants. You talk 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’re interested in • say why you think you would be suitable for the job

semi-formal
You recently broke your leg and your colleagues from work sent you get well cards and presents. Write a letter to them and say • Thanks them for supporting you. • Describe how you spend your time. • Explain about your recovery process.

semi-formal
You have a test in your English class next week, but you cannot attend. Write to your teacher. In your letter: . Explain your situation. . Apologies for not being able to take the test. . Ask whether it is possible for you to take the test at another time. Write at least 150 words. You do not need to write any address. Begin your letter with: Dear...

semi-formal
Write a letter to your boss apologizing for the delay in submitting your report at work last week

semi-formal
You need to take leave from your work of over one month of a period for personal reasons. Write a letter to your boss. In your letter · Explain the reason for the leave and the length of leave you need · Explain how you will keep up-to-date while you’re away · Suggest how your work could be covered while you are away

semi-formal
Your colleague recently gave you a book. You had a presentation, and this book helped you in the presentation. Write a letter to your colleague. In your letter, • tell the topic of your presentation • why the presentation was important for you • how the book helped you in presentation

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
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
You have received a job offer for an exciting, new position. Although you are expected to start on September 7th, you are only available to start a week later due to personal reasons. Write a letter to your new boss. In your letter: Express your enthusiasm for the job offer. Explain the problem Suggest what you can do

semi-formal
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
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 are organizing a conference for your company. Write a letter to a colleague asking him/her to give a presentation during the conference. -Describe what this conference is about -Why you want him/her to give a presentation -Give details about the conference

semi-formal
You are studying mathematics at university and have an assignment next week. You have been sick. Write a letter to your teacher asking for an extension on your assignment. In the letter, explain that you are a student in the mathematics class explain that you have been sick ask for an extension Write at least 150 words.  You do NOT need to write any addresses

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
One of your friends wants to apply for a job that involves working with foreign teenagers. Write a letter of recommendation for him/her. In your letter, express: how well you know your friend what qualifications he/she has why you think she would be suitable for the job

semi-formal
Your 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 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
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 been working with your company for two years and are interested in a promotion. Write a letter to your direct boss. In your letter: · Explain your varied achievements over the past two years · Express your interest in growing with the company · Ask for a meeting to discuss a potential promotion

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 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
Your neighbours have recently written to you to you about the noise from your houseflat. Write a letter to your neighbours, in your letter: - explain a reason for the noise - apologise - describe what actions will you take

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 Write at least 150 words.

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 are not happy with the course you are doing at college and would like to change to a different course. Write a letter to the college director requesting to change your course. You should include details about: - what course are you doing now - why you are not satisfied with that course - what course you would like to change to.

semi-formal
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 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 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 course(s) you want to teach, and what it/they would be about explain why you would be a suitable teacher

semi-formal
You paid a refundable deposit when you rented an appartment.You left the appartment in good condition but the landlord won't return your deposits. Write a letter to landlord.In your letter Explain why you are writing Ask for teh return of your deposits Inform the landlord of possible legal action

semi-formal
A neighbour has damaged your car while parking his/her car in the lane in front of your house. Write a letter to your neighbour. In your letter: Explain why you are writing Describe the damage to your car and express your feeling about it. Recommend what steps he/she should take to resolve the situation.

semi-formal
Although you have never formally studied computing, you have always been interested in computers. You have just read about a computer course that really interests you, but it is only for people who have completed an elementary course. Write a letter to the college enrolment officer. In your letter explain why you are writing describe your circumstances ask if a special exception can be made for you so you can enrol in the course You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear

semi-formal
You and your family have just rented an apartment and one or two problems occurred. Write a letter to the landlord. In your letter • introduce yourself • describe the problems • what you would like him/her to do.

semi-formal
You are going to teach English to your friend’s child. Write a letter to your past English teacher to ask if you can borrow some books from him/her. In your letter tell your teacher about the child. say when and where you will teach the child. explain what books you would like to borrow.

semi-formal
Write a minimum of 150 words. You should spend about 20 minutes on this task. Write about the following topic: You want to arrange a conference for your company, and you need to ask one of your colleagues to give a presentation in this conference. Write a letter to your colleague. In your letter include: • Details about the conference • Why do you want your colleague to give a presentation? • What arrangement will you do for this conference?

semi-formal
You attend a sports class at your local sports center. Unfortunately, you cannot ontinue to attend this class Write a letter to your sports teacher. In your letter - Say which class you are attending - Explain why you cannot continue to attend this class - Tell him/her what you have enjoyed about this class

semi-formal
You play a team sport with some friends. Last week a member of the team had an accident and wasn't able to play with you at the weekend. You decide to write to him in hospital, telling him about the match. Write a letter to your friend. In your letter, • tell him which team won • describe the conditions on the day • say how you felt about the match Write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear .........,

semi-formal
You are applying for a job and need a letter of reference from someone who knows you well. Write a letter to your former teacher. In your letter: Explain why you are writing. Describe the job you are applying for. Suggest what information the teacher should include.

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 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 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 have bought a new home recently and you want to hire an interior decorator. Write a letter to the interior decorator seeking information about his services. In your letter • let him know how you came to know about his work/name • specify about your condominium {flat) • discuss your furnishing taste

semi-formal
You were studying in an English speaking country and suddenly needed to go back to your home country, leaving your course incomplete. Write a letter to your teacher to - thank him -explain the reason you left without completing your course -say during your course study what did you like most about this course.

semi-formal
You 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 -mehak 2nd year pursuing explain why you haven't handed in the project yet- health concer, i was allergic reaction due to my d=ffod coming in contact w mushrooms in the kitchen request more time to do it.- doc advised me to rest couple days and nor to put strain on eyes, next week will submi

semi-formal
You will move to a new city for work. You know some people who live there. Write a letter to someone you know who lives there. In your letter - ask them for help in finding accommodation - tell them where you would like to live - tell them the type of place you are looking for. You should write at least 150 words.

semi-formal
You have seen an advertisement from a couple who live in Australia looking 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 you a reason reasons for wanting the job.

semi-formal
Your colleague found another job and invited you to his/her farewell party. Unfortunately, you are unable to attend it. Write a letter to him/her and say – Why can’t you attend the party? – Why did you enjoy working with him/her? – Offer him/her to meet some other time.

semi-formal
You want to arrange a conference for your company, and you need to ask one of your colleagues to give a presentation in this conference. Write a letter to your colleague. In your letter include: Details about the conference Why you want your colleague to give presentation What arrangement will you do for this conference

semi-formal
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
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. In your letter, - tell your neighbour that you are going away - ask your neighbour to take care of your house for you - explain what tasks you would like your neighbour to do.

semi-formal
Write a letter to your neighbour. In your letter introduce yourself describe your plans for the party invite your neighbour to come

semi-formal
Mrs Barrett, an English-speaking woman who lives in yourtown, 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 availabl

semi-formal
Your neighbours have recently written to you to complain about the noise from your house/ flat. Write a letter to your neighbours. In your letter explain the reasons for the noise apologise describe what action you will take You should write at least 150 words.Mecky

semi-formal
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 have recently read a book about a city you know well and found some incorrect information. Write a letter to the author. In your letter tell him/her of the incorrect information give him/her the correct inf ormation explain why they should correct it.

semi-formal
You had a birthday party and you were playing loud music. Your neighbor Mr. Smith complained. Write a formal letter of apology explaining that it was a special occasion and that it won't happen again.

semi-formal
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 friend wants to send her/his children to your house for the weekend, Write a letter to him/her and say

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 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
A neighbour recently invited you to a special party. You intended to go, but at the last minute were unable to attend. Write a letter to your neighbour. In your letter apologise for not going to the party explain why you didn’t go suggest a way to make up for missing the party

semi-formal
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
You should spend about 20 minutes on this task. 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. You do NOT need to write any address. You should write at least 150 words.

semi-formal
Mrs Barrett, an English-speaking woman who lives in your town, has advertised for someone to help her in her home for a few hours a day next summer. Write a letter to Mrs Barrett. In your letter •Suggest how you could help 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
You are having a graduation party next Saturday night. You have invited 50 people to celebrate at an outdoor barbecue evening, which may continue into late into the night. Write a letter to your elderly neighbour. In your letter: explain what will be happening offer your apologies in advance invite her to join the celebration Begin your letter as follows: Dear Mr / Ms _________

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

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

semi-formal
You should spend about 20 minutes on this task. After being involved in an accident, you were looked after by a person you did not know before. Write a special thank you letter to express your gratitude. In your letter: Introduce yourself and let him/her know why you are writing Express your appreciation And offer him/ her to visit your home with this family. You do NOT need to write any address. You should write at least 150 words.

semi-formal
You and your family are living in rented accomodation 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 Write at least 150 words

semi-formal
You should spend about 20 minutes on this task. -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 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
our former boss has contacted you to offer you a position to help him start his new company. Write a letter to your former boss. In your letter: • Thank him for the job offering • Decline his job offer and explain why. • Show your appreciation and wish him well on his new project. Write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear …………….,

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 will have a speech about your country on the international college event. Write a letter to the event’s planners about the following: - Ask about the date of the event - What speech you prepared/why it should be interesting -What equipment you will need for your speech

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 are planning a two-week vacation, and need someone to take care of your house while you are away. Write a letter to your neigbour. 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
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
General Training 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: •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 ……………., You get 20 minutes to complete this task.

semi-formal
You play a team sport with some friends. Last week a member of the team had an accident and wasn't able to play with you at the weekend. You decide to write to him in hospital, telling him about the match. Write a letter to your friend. In your letter, tell him which team won describe the conditions on the day say how you felt about the match

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