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

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

semi-formal
You 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
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 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 happened and ask to record your details so that you can apply for a new ID card. Write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear Sir or Madam,
semi-formal
You need to take leave from your IELTS Institute of over two weeks for personal reasons. Write a letter to your teacher. In your letter. > Explain the reason. >The length of the leave you needed. >Explain how will you keep uptodate while are you away.
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 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
You have been living in a rental apartment for the past three years and had lived peacefully. Recently a new neighbor moved in and he loves to have loud parties every weekend. Write a letter complaining to the landlord. In your letter you should: · explain the situation · describe why it bothers you · suggest a solution
semi-formal
You would like to participate in a work-related seminar in another country. Write a letter to the person in charge of the seminar and ask for detailed information regarding the dates, program, accommodation and cost. You do NOT need to write any address.
semi-formal
Head teacher, Marti Dyers, believes that safe outdoor space is important for keeping students in good health, mentally and physically. They need somewhere they can exercise and be sociable he says. At the moment many schools have dangerous areas where students might trip or have an accident. Write a letter explaining your view.
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
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 successfully passed a job interview. You are expected to start on November 15, but you will not be available on that date. Task: Write a letter to your new boss, explaining your situation, expressing your concern and suggesting a solution.
semi-formal
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 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
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
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 l remind him when and where you met l tell him what kind of job you are interested in l say why you think you would be suitable for the job
semi-formal
Write a letter requesting a teacher to conduct exams.
semi-formal
You are going to move out of your apartment in a English-speaking country. Your landlord is a very good person, who has assisted you a lot during your stay. Meanwhile, your friend would like to rent the flat after you. Write a letter to your landlord. In your letter, •Let your landlord know that you will be leaving •Thank you landlord for his/her help •Tel him/her about your friend
semi-formal
Write a letter to your neighbour. In your letter explain the problem explain how it is causing you provide an appropriate solution Write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any address. Begin your letter as follows: Dear Mr .........,
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
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
Your neighbours have recently written to you to complain about the noise from your houselflat. Write a letter to your neighbours. In your letter explain the reasons for the noise apologise describe what action you will take
semi-formal
A friend has written a letter to you informing you about his or her plan to visit your country/city. Write a letter to him/her. In your letter, write: what he or she can do in your country/city advise him/her about the place he could stay at suggest to him/her what to pack and bring while coming to travel to your country/city Write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear …………………,
semi-formal
You are experiencing financial problems and want to ask your landlord if you can pay your rent late. Write a letter to your landlord. In your letter explain: Why you cannot pay the rent When you will pay the rent. How you will ensure you can pay your rent in the future
semi-formal
ou recently booked a part-time course at a college. You now need to cancel your booking. Write a letter to the college administrator. In your letter: say which part-time course you booked explain why you need to cancel your booking ask about booking a different course You should write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear Sir or Madam..........,
semi-formal
You are having a graduation party next Saturday night. You have invited 50 people to celebrate at an outdoor barbecue evening, which may continue till late night. Write a letter to your elderly neighbour. In your letter: explain what will be happening offer your apologies in advance invite him/her to visit your house someday
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
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 had a birthday party and you were playing loud music. Your neighbour complained. Write a letter of apology explaining that it was a special occasion and that it won't happen again.
semi-formal
Write a letter about a distubrance from your fellow student
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 live there. In your letter ask them for help finding accommodation tell them where you would like to live tell them the type of place you are looking for
semi-formal
You are taking a holiday in a place recommended by your local travel agent, and you are having a wonderful time.you promised to write to himand 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 your holiday. Explain why you think he made the right choice for you.
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 have seen an advertisement for a community college that needs teachers for night classes. Write a letter to the community college.
semi-formal
Write a letter to your colleague asking for help in setting up the equipment for your presentation. In your letter, you should: tell when and where the presentation will take place describe your arrangements tell him/her what equipment you need.
semi-formal
You recently booked a part-time course at a college. You now need to cancel your booking. Write a letter to the college administrator. In your letter •Say which part-time course you booked • Explain why you need to cancel your booking • Ask about booking a different course Write at least 150 words. You do not need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear sir or madam
semi-formal
Your neighbours have recently written to you to complain about the noise from you house / flat. Wirte a letter to your neighbours. In your letter explain the reasons for the noise apologise describe what action you will take
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 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 have had a problem with your neighbor for the past few months. You have not been able to meet with your neighbor to discuss the problem. Write a letter to your neighbor. In your letter: Explain the problem Suggest a solution Say what action you will take if the situation does not improve
semi-formal
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 Write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear Mr. Powell,
semi-formal
your neighbours have recently written to you to you about the noise from your houseflat. Write a ltter to your neighbours, in your letter: explain a reason for the noise apologise describe what actions will you take
semi-formal
you live in a small apartment building.You are frequently bothered by noise from your upstair neighbor. write your letter to your neighbor,in your letter Describe the situation. explain why it is a problem for you. suggest a solution
semi-formal
You would like to participate in a work-related seminar in another country. Write a letter to the person incharge of the seminar and ask for detailed information regardng the dates, program, accomodation and cost.
semi-formal
An international student magazine has invited its readers to submit a letter arguing for immediate action on a key environmental issue. You decide to write a letter, briefly describing an environmental problem that concerns you, explaining why you are arguing for immediate action and recommending appropriate measures to rectify the situation.
semi-formal
You recently booked a part-time course at a college. You now need to cancel your booking. Write a letter to the college administrator. In your letter, •say which part-time course you booked • explain why you need to cancel your booking • ask about booking a different course
semi-formal
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
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’re 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 a full-time job and are also doing a part-time evening course. You naive find that you cannot continue the course. Write a letter to your neighbours. In your letter • describe the situation • explain why you cannot continue at this time • say what action you would like to take
semi-formal
You need to take leave from your work for over one month 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
You are going to study at a college in another country. You need to find a place you will live. Write a letter to the college's accommodation officer. In your letter, give details of your course and your arrival date, describe the kind of accommodation you need and say what you like the accommodation officer to do
semi-formal
You 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
Mrs Barrett an english speaking woman who lives in your town, has advertised for someone to help her in her home for a few hours a day next summer. Write a letter to Mrs Barrett. In your letter 1. suggest how you could help her in her home 2. say why you would like to do this work 3. explain when you will and will not be available Write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any addresses Begin your letter as follows Dear Mrs Barrett,
semi-formal
You are 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 carried out an emergency maintenance on a key system and this resulted in an issue with the system Write a letter to the head of your data team. In your letter: - Provide an update on what happened - Explain what you're going to do about it - Say what you would like to him to do
semi-formal
You successfully passed a job interview. You are expected to start on next month, but you will not be available on that date. Write a letter to your new boss, explaining your situation suggest a solution tell them when you can start
semi-formal
You wish to apply for a new college course, but you are unsure about the details of cost, duration and subjects posted on the college website. Write an email to the relevant person in admissions at the college, asking them to clarify these points for you. In this email, •Say what your interest is •Explain why the website is unclear •Request the information that you need Begin your letter ‘Dear --------’ Do not write any addresses
semi-formal
A close relative of yours is having a birthday lunch next Friday, but you know you will be working. Write a letter to your 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. You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear Mr. Jones / Dear Mrs. Jones,...
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 recently completed a course and youu borrowed a book from your teacher which you couldn't return in time. You would like to return the book now. Write a letter to your teacher and say: What book it was. How helpful was the book? Explain why you couldn't return it in time.
semi-formal
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 his/her family. You do NOT need to write any address.
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
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
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 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
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 neighbour keeps an animal in his / her garden and that is causing problem for you. Write a letter to your neighbour. In your letter: say what the problem is and how it is affecting you suggest how the problem could be solved tell your neighbour what action you might take if the problem is not solved
semi-formal
You live in a block of flats; your neighbour makes a lot of noise which has caused problems for you. Write a letter to your landlord. In your letter, you should: explain the situation tell him/her how you are effected by this Suggest what you want the landlord to do.
semi-formal
Write a letter to your neighbor in your letter . Describe the problem . Say how long it has been a problem . Explain what action you want the neighbor to takes Write atleast 150 words
semi-formal
During a recent plane journey, you sat next to a businessman who owns a chain of restaurants. You talked to him and he suggested that you should contact him about a possible job in one of his restaurants. Write a letter to this businessman. In your letter •Remained him when and where you met •Tell him what kind of job you are interested in •Say why you think you would be suitable for the job
semi-formal
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
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
ou 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 neighbor to come You do NOT need to write any addresses. You should write at least 150 words.
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
Although you have never formally studied computing, you have always been interested in computers. You have just read about a computer course that really interests you, but it is only for people who have completed an elementary course. Write a letter to the college enrolment officer. In your letter explain why you are writing describe your circumstances ask if a special exception can be made for you so you can enroll in the course
semi-formal
You 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
You have bought tickets for a tour with your friend for the period of your holiday, but you have just discovered that you have to change your plans. Write a letter to him: • Apologize; • Explain the reasons; • Suggest alternative arrangements. Write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear ....,
semi-formal
One of your pen friends wants to visit your country. You have never seen him/her, and you will be late at the airport. Write a letter to him/her to inform. In your letter, • explain why you will be late • suggest him a place to wait for you • say how he/she can recognise you
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
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 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
Mrs Barrett, an English-speaking woman who lives in your town, has advertised for someone to help her in her home for a few hours a day next summer. Write a letter to Mrs Barrett. In your letter suggest how you could help her in her home say why you would like to do this work explain when you will and will not be available
semi-formal
You 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 have been living in a rental apartment for the past year. Recently, a new neighbour Mr.Jackson moved in who has loud parties several times a week. You have spoken to Mr.Jackson but are not very close friends Write a letter to Mr.Jackson. In your letter: · Explain the situation · Describe why it bothers you · Suggest a solution
semi-formal
You are 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 work for an international company. You are celebrating for a special family even and you would like to have a time off for it. Write a letter to your boss
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 moving out of your rental apartment. Write a letter to your neighbour to say goodbye. In your letter say 1. when and where do you move? 2. why do you move out? 3. how do you feel about it?
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
write a letter to invite him/her to celebrate traditional festival in your country from overseas. explain your friend about the celebration
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 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
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 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 live in a block of flats, your neighbour makes a lot of noise which has caused problems for you. Write a letter to your landlord. In your letter, you should: • explain the situation • tell him/her how you are affected by this • Suggest what you want the landlord to do.
semi-formal
Mrs Barrett, an English-speaking woman who lives in your town, has advertised for someone to help her in her home for a few hours a day next summer. Write a letter to Mrs Barrett. In your letter -suggest how you could help her in her home -ay why you would like to do this work -explain when you will and will not be available
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.
semi-formal
A neighbour has damaged your automobile 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’re 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
ou and your family are living in rented accommodation in an English speaking country. You are not satisfied with the condition of some of the furniture. Write a letter to the landlord. In your letter • introduce yourself • explain what is wrong with the furniture • say what action you would like the landlord to take
semi-formal
restaurant has advertised in a newspaper that a waiter/waitress is required for evening work. It has also been mentioned that the prospective candidate should have some experience. Write a letter to Mr Moore describing your previous experience and explaining why you would be suitable for the job.
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