IELTS General Writing Task 1 semi-formal Topics/Questions 2026

Want to improve your IELTS score? Get instant feedback and learn from your mistakes!

This section presents a list of common IELTS General Writing Task 1 semi-formal topics. All these topics were added in 2026 by students who took the IELTS recently. Pick a random topic and start practicing and improving your writing skills.

semi-formal
You 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
Mrs Barrett, an English-speaking woman who lives in your town, has advertised for someone to help her in her home for a few hours a day next summer. Write a letter to Mrs Barrett. In your letter, •suggest how you could help her in her home •say why you would like to do this work •explain when you will and will not be available
semi-formal
Your friend is coming to your country from abroad, but you can't go to pick him up at the airport. Write a letter to him/her and say -why you can't pick him up -suggest alternative ideas -talk about what he can do in your country
semi-formal
A local college is having an International day. You want to speak about your country to students from different cultures. Write a letter to your college head. Talk about the topic you are going to talk about. Explain why would they be of interest to students Ask about any arrangements you need to work to give the talk.
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 takeYou should write at least 150 words.
semi-formal
You were invited to your friend’s birthday party. You missed it and didn’t tell him about that beforehand. Write a letter to him: • Apologize; • Explain the reasons why you missed the party; • Suggest a way to compensate this misunderstanding. 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. 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 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
A neighbour has caused damage to your car. Write a letter to him/her. In your letter - Describe the damage - How the damage influences your life - Suggest what actions he/she should take about it
semi-formal
You have received a job offer for a position you have wanted for a long time. Its expected to begin on July 1st. However, you can only start a week later due to personal reasons. Write a letter to your new boss. In your letter: - show enthusiasm for the job - explain the problem - suggest what you can do
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 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
A colleague gave you a book which you used for your presentation. Write a letter to your colleague. In your letter, you should say: what the presentation was about, why the presentation was important how the book helped you.
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
You want to arrange a conference for your company, and you need to ask one of your colleagues to give a presentation at this conference. Write a letter to your colleague. Detail about the conference. Why do you want your colleague to give the presentation? What arrangement you will make for this conference?
semi-formal
A new neighbour has moved in next door and has taken your main rubbish bin. Write a letter to your new neighbour requesting that they return the item. In the letter: – Explain that new bins must be sourced from the local council – Request that the person returns your bin immediately – Inform the person of what further actions you will take should they not return your bin
semi-formal
In your apartment building there is an entrance hall which you share with your neighbours. Recently there have been some problems with this shared area. Write a letter to your neighbours. In your letter introduce yourself and describe the problem or problems suggest what could be done to improve the situation suggest a meeting to talk about it
semi-formal
You recently booked a part-time course at a college. You now need to cancel your booking. Write a letter to the college adminisllator. In your letter • say which part-time course you booked • explain why you need to cancel your booking • ask about booking a different course You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear Sir or Madam,
semi-formal
A young person will start work at your office next month to gain work experience. Write a letter to him/her. In your letter •inform him/her about the work that needs to be done at the office; •explain what he/she is supposed to do on the first day; •suggest what he/she should bring to work.
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
You are having a graduation party next Sunday evening. You have invited over 25 people to celebrate in your garden, which may continue late in to the night. Write a letter to your elderly neighbour. In your letter: Explain what will be happening, offer him your apologies in advance, invite him to join the celebration
semi-formal
You have noticed a problem with the heating system in your rented apartment. Write a letter to your landlord. In your letter: Describe the problem Say how it is affecting your daily life Ask for it to be fixed as soon as possible
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
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
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
Mrs Barrette, 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
semi-formal
Your child is going on a three-day school trip to another country. The head teacher wants to find parents to go with the group and you would like to go. Write a letter to the head teacher. In your letter: • Say why you would like to go on the trip • Suggest what you could do to help during the trip • Ask other questions about the trip
semi-formal
You are 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 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 working for an international company and you would like to request time off for a family event. Write a letter to your boss Explaining what the celebration is Asking for the time off Explaining how you can get work done when you take time off
semi-formal
You should spend about 20 minutes on this task. You are a current student of Loren Brusque University, studying Business Administration. You want to apply for the post of Quality Assurance Manager you have recently seen on the university's notice board. Write a letter to Mr. Walker, and •Give your reason for writing • Tell about your education • Describe your work experience and explain why you would be suitable for the job. Write at least 150 words.
semi-formal
you have just moved into a new home and are planning to hold a party. You are worried that the noise may disturb your neghboorur. Write a letter to your neighbor. In your letter: Introduce yourself Describe your plans for the party Invite your neighbor to come
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
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
Your next-door neighbour likes to listen to music late at night. Because of the loud music, you often lose sleep. Write a letter to the neighboor. In your letter describe the situation explain the problems it is causing you offer at least one solution
semi-formal
You rent an apartment and recently a new neighbor has moved in who lives above you. They are making a lot of noise and this is disturbing you. Write a letter to your landlord. In your letter: Explain what the problem is Explain why it is disturbing you so much Tell your landlord what you would like him/her to do about it
semi-formal
You recently moved to a new neighborhood and want to introduce yourself to your neighbor. Write a letter to your neighbor. In your letter: Explain who you are and why you are writing. Describe your family and interests. Offer to meet them in person to get acquainted.
semi-formal
Write a letter to your landlord to ask about repair work that was not completed successfully. Write What the problem was What the repairs did What you expect
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 -ay 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
Write a letter to your neighbor 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
​​ Write a letter to your landlord complaining about noise in the block of flats which he owns. Include: where you live what the problem is what he should do
semi-formal
You had a birthday party and you were playing loud music. Your neighbor Mr. Smith complained. Write a formal letter of apology explaining that it was a special occasion and that it won't happen again.
semi-formal
You 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
Your landlord has increased the amount of rent you pay every month and you don’t find it appropriate. Write a letter to the landlord and in your letter, Explain why you are writing Describe why you find the increase inappropriate What you want to do now
semi-formal
Mrs. Barrett, an English-speaking woman who lives in your town, has advertised for someone to help her in her home for a few hours a day next summer. write a letter to Mrs. barrette. In your letter: suggest how you could help her in her home Say why you would like to do this work Explain when you will and will not be available
semi-formal
You should spend about 20 minutes on this task. 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.
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
A business partner and his team have recently visited your organization, and one of the team members left a coat behind. Write a letter to your business partner. In your letter Say what you liked about their visit Explain why you think the coat belongs to one of their team members Tell them how you plan to return it
semi-formal
A close relative of yours is having a birthday lunch next week, but you know you will be working Write a letter to you boss or supervisor to ask for some time off . In your letter, -explain the situation and why you particularly want to attend the lunch -specify the dates , times and amount of time off you will need -offer to work late or come in early another time to make up for the time
semi-formal
You have just moved into a new home and are planning to hold a party. You are worried that the noise may disturb your neighbour. Write a letter to your neighbour. In your letter introduce yourself describe your plans for the party invite your neighbour to come You do NOT need to write any address
semi-formal
You caused some damage to the kitchen area of your flat. Write a letter to your landlord explaining the following. •How the damage occurred •The extent of damage •What you would like to landlord to do.
semi-formal
You would like to take some time off of work to attend a training course. Write a letter to your supervisor asking for permission to attend the course. In this letter, Describe the training course Say how it will help improve your job performance. Explain how much time you need off and ask for permission.
semi-formal
The air-conditioner in your flat broke three weeks aago anf it is the middle of summer. You asked the landlord to repair it and he promised to send someone but no-one has contacted you yet. Write a letter to the landlord complaining about the situation. In your letter: explain the problem, remind the landlord about his promise, say what you want him 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
One of your friends has asked you to be a partner in his new start- up business. Write a letter to him and say - What is your opinion on his new business idea - What have you decided on this matter - What are the reasons for your decision
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 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
You paid a refundable deposit when you rented an appartment. You left the department in good condition but the landlord won’t return the 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
You have been  assigned to give a networking presentation with your colleague from a different office, who you met last year. Write a letter to your colleague. In your letter: ·       Inform your colleague that you will be working together ·       Provide your initial ideas on the networking presentation ·       Ask for a time to meet and practice the presentation Write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear Ms. Petitto,
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
Write a letter to your boss apologizing for the delay in submitting your report at work last week
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
You are planning to attend a course in another country. Write a letter to the college administration. In your letter: •Ask about the course details. •Inquire about the accommodation options. •Request information on the local area
semi-formal
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 the hospital, telling him about the match
semi-formal
You are a student at an English language school and are living in private accommodation with other students from the school. 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 propose a solution
semi-formal
You live in a small apartment building with a parking lot in back, and you often cannot find an empty parking space when you get home from work. Write a letter to your landlord. In your letter • describe the situation. • explain why it bothers you. • suggest something the landlord could do to solve the problem. You do NOT need to write any addresses.
semi-formal
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 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
WRITING TASK 1 You should spend about 20 minutes on this task. You are applying for a job and need a letter of reference from one of your teachers. Write a letter to your teacher. In your letter: Give details of the job & position you are applying for Explain why the reference is important Suggest what information your teacher could put in the reference Write at least 150 words.
semi-formal
You are interested in studying on a short course at a college in an English speaking country. Write a letter to the college. In your letter you should say: which course you are interested in and why describe your educational background and work experience and say why you would like to study at that college.
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
The apartment that you have rented was repaired recently. Later, you discovered some defects in repairs. Write a letter to your landlord. In your letter explain what the problem is suggest how it can be fixed say what you would like the landlord to do about it.
semi-formal
You have been going to a piano teacher for the past month. However, it no longer fits into your budget or busy schedule Write a letter to your piano teacher. In your letter: • Thank him for his efforts and time • Explain the changes in your circumstances • Explain that you may be able to pick it up again
semi-formal
It is ten years since you left college. You’d like to organise an event to celebrate this anniversary with all your friends and classmates from college. Write a letter to one of your college friends. In your letter Say what kind of celebration event you’d like to organize Explain why you think it would be good to celebrate in this way Describe what help you need to organise this event
semi-formal
You recently had your car repaired and now it is not working properly. Write a letter to your mechanic and in your letter: • Introduce yourself • Explain the problem • And say what you need him to do
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
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 share a parking area with several neighbours and have recently started having problems. Write a letter to be copied to all neighbours that share the parking area. In that letter • explaining the problems • suggesting ways to help the situation • proposing a possible meeting You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear Neighbour
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 play a team sport with some friends. Last week a member of the team had an accident and wasn't able to play with you at the weekend. You decide to write to him in hospital, telling him about the match. Write a letter to your friend. In your letter, tell him which team won describe the conditions on the day say how you felt about the match
semi-formal
You 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
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
You should spend about 20 minutes on this task. You are a current student of Loren Brusque University, studying Business Administration. You want to apply for the post of Quality Assurance Manager you have recently seen on the university's notice board. Write a letter to Mr. Walker, and Give your reason for writing Tell about your education Describe your work experience and explain why you would be suitable for the job. Write at least 150 words.
semi-formal
you have seen an advertisement of Australian magazines for someone to live with family in six-months and look after their six-years old child write a letter 1- Explain why you would like this 2- Give detail of why you are suitable person to employ 3- Say how would you spend your free time while you are in Australia
semi-formal
Write a letter to your colleague from another department asking him/her to give presentation at a conference. In your letter say : 1. What is the conference about 2. Why do you want him/her to give the presentation 3. What arrangements will you have to make
semi-formal
Your child's teacher has requested a meeting with you this Friday to discuss your child's low test scores. Unfortunately, you cannot attend. Write a letter to your child's teacher. In your letter Describe why you cannot attend the meeting Explain how you have been helping your child study Propose another time to meet You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear Mr. Smith,
semi-formal
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. . intrduce yourself . explain why you haven't handed in the project yet. .request more about it.
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 your colleagues. In your letter • remind your colleagues what the special occasion you were celebrating was • thank them for the card and gift • explain why you like the gift and how you will use it
semi-formal
You have asked for a meeting with your manager the next day. Write a letter telling him/her what you would like to discuss in the meeting.
semi-formal
You 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 a student at an English language school in Brighton and are living in private accommodation with other flatmates. You have not had hot water or heating for some time. The landlord’s workmen have tried to fix the problem but without success. Write a letter to the landlord. In your letter, state your reason for writing describe the problems and explain how you feel propose a solution and risk the landlord to take action
semi-formal
You play a team sports with some friends. Last week a member of the team had an accident and wasn’t able to play with you at that weekend. You decide to write to him in hospital, telling him about the match. Write a letter to your friend. In your letter, tell him which team won. describe the conditions on the day. say how you felt about the match
semi-formal
Your friend has a problem at work. He has written to you a letter and asked for advice about the ways to solve it. Write to him. In your letter: • Tell him that you understand the problem; • Tell about similar case that you experienced in the past; • Suggest possible ways to solve the problem. 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
semi-formal
One of your friends ask you to be a partner in his new business. write a letter to reply him: - give your opinion about your friend's business idea - tell him weather or not you have decided to accept his offer - and explain your reason for this decision
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 in her home -say why you would like to do this work -explain when you will and will not be available Begin your letter as follows: Dear Mrs. Barrett,
semi-formal
You and your family are living in rented accommodation in an English-speaking country. You are not satisfied with the condition of some of the furniture. Write a letter to the landlord. In your letter introduce yourself explain what is wrong with the furniture say what action you would like the landlord to take You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows:
semi-formal
You 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
🚀 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.