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

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

semi-formal
You should spend about 20 minutes on this task. 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 addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear ................. , You should write at least 150 words.

semi-formal
You recently booked a part time course at a college, You now need to cancel your booking. Write a letter to your college administrator. In your letter Say which part time course you’ve booked. explain why you need to cancel your booking ask about booking a different course. Begin as : Dear Sir or Madam

semi-formal
You are going to attend a training course at a college in another country. You need somewhere to live while you are there. Write a letter to the College Accommodation Officer. In your letter: • Explain your situation • Describe the accommodation you require • Say when and how long you will need the accommodation

semi-formal
You are due to move into a rented apartment next month but you will not be able to because you have some problems. Write a letter to the landlord. In your letter: – explain your situation – describe your problems – tell him/her when you think you can move in

semi-formal
You 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 have been living in a rental apartment for the past year. Recently a new neighbour moved in and has been making a lot of noise, which disturbs you. Write a letter to the landlord. In your letter:  Explain the situation  Describe why it bothers you  Suggest a solution

semi-formal
Although you have never formally studied computing, you have always been interested in computers. You have just read about computer courses that really interests you, but it is only for people who completed elementary course. write a letter to the college enrollment 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
Your friend got a new job. Write a letter to him/her and say - Why haven’t you contacted him/her recently? - Ask him/her some details about the new job. - Suggest when and where you’d like to meet him/her.

semi-formal
Task 1 Write a letter to your landlord complaining about noise in the block of flats which he owns. Include: -Where you live -The problem -What he should do

semi-formal
You wish to get enrolled in a course at an Australian college. You have already written a letter to the college asking for information, but you haven’t received a reply yet. Write a letter to the college explaining your concern because the course will start in less than two months. You need to know if you can still get enrolled, you also request more information about the course, including the cost.

semi-formal
You have been living in an apartment for the last three years. A few problems have emerged in your apartment since the last repair. Write a letter to your landlord. In your letter, give details of the last repair work what the problems are now how you would like the landlord to solve these problems

semi-formal
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. Begin your letter as follows: Dear Ms. Granger,

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 the college head. In your letter: Tell him/her about the topics that you are going to talk about Explain why would they be of interest to the students Ask about any arrangements that you need to make to give the talk

semi-formal
You recently booked a part-time course at a college. You now need to cancel your booking. Write a letter to the college administrator. In your letter -say which part-time course you booked -explain why you need to cancel your booking -ask about booking a different course Begin your letter as follows: Dear Sir or Madam,

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

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

semi-formal
Your neighbour has written to you to complain about the noise from your flat. Write a letter to your neighbour. In your letter explain the reason for the noise offer your neighbour an apology tell them what action you will take

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 applying for a job and you need a letter of reference. Write a letter to a former boss. In your letter: *Describe the job you are applying for *Say what you want included in the reference letter *Request that you former boss send you the letter be the end of the week

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
Mrs Barrett, An English-speaking woman who lives in your town, has advertised for some 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 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 letter to your professor outlining why you are not satisfied with their course. In your letter: – write the reasons why you are not satisfied with the course – request to change your course – indicate what course you want to take instead

semi-formal
You have had a problem with your next-door neighbour. You have not been able to speak to your neighbour about this. Write a letter to this neighbour. In your letter Explain the problem Suggest a solution Say what action you will take if the situation does not improve Begin as follows: Dear ... ,

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
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
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 enrollment 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
Because of your job, you have to move to a new city. Write a letter to someone you know who lives there. In your letter ask them to help you find somewhere to live tell them the kind of accommodation you want to find tell them which area of the city you want to live in You should write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear …………….

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
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
One of your pen pals will shortly be visiting your city. For some reasons, you can not manage to meet him at the airport on time. Write a letter asking him to wait for you at the airport and tell him how to identify you.

semi-formal
You have just moved into a new home and are planning to hold a party. You are worried that the noise may disturb your neighbor. Write a letter to your neighbor. In your letter • Introduce yourself • Describe your plans for the party • Invite your neighbor to come

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 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
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 explaining the problems suggesting ways to help the situation proposing a possible meetin

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 adaministrator . 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 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 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
Your rental accommodation was recently damaged due to bad weather. Write a letter to the landlord and say • Explain what caused the damage • Why do you need them to fix the problem right away • What needs to be done to fix it

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
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 applying for a job and need a letter of reference. Write a letter to a former teacher. In your letter •give details of the job • explain why it is important for you • suggest what information your teacher could put in the reference

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
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

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

semi-formal
You have a full-time job and also doing a part-time evening course. You have find out that you can not continue the course. Write a letter to your teacher. In your letter, 1) describe your situation 2) explain why you can not continue at this time 3) say what action you would like to take.

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

semi-formal
You 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 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: 1. Details about the conference- 2. Why you want your colleague to give the presentation – 3. What arrangements you will do for this conference

semi-formal
You recently booked apart-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 do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear Sir or Madam,

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.

semi-formal
You want to improve your English and a friend has given you contact details for a private teacher. Write a letter to the teacher and say: why you want to improve your English how the teacher can help you when you would like to start having lessons? You should write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear ………………. You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

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

semi-formal
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
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 wish to apply for a new college course, but you are unsure about the details of cost, duration and subjects posted on the college website. Write an email to the relevant person in admissions at the college, asking them to clarify these points for you. In this email, Say what your interest is Explain why the website is unclear Request the information that you need Begin your letter ‘Dear --------’ Do not write any addresses Write at least 150 words

semi-formal
You would like to reduce your working hours in order to study part time. Write a letter to your boss. In your letter • explain why you want to reduce your working hours • say which hours you would like to work • describe how your part-time studies would benefit your employer

semi-formal
You rent an apartment and recently a new tenant moved in above you. This tenant's behaviour is causing you a lot of problems. Write a letter to your landlord. In your letter: Describe what the new tenant is doing 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 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

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
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 Apologize Describe what action you will take

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
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 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
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 hou could help her in her home. Say why you would like to do this Explain when you will and will not be available.

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 .................,

semi-formal
You have seen an advertisement in Australian magazines for someone to live with a family for six months and look after their six-year-old child write a letter # Explain why you would like this # Give detail of why you are a suitable person to employ # Say how would you spend your free time while you are in Australia

semi-formal
You have received a letter from your neighbour complaining about noise from your house/flat. Write a letter to your neighbour. In your letter explain the cause of the noise apologise for the noise describe what action you will take to solve the problem Write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear ………………. You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

semi-formal
You 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 have just moved into a new home and are planning to hold a party. You are worried that the noise may disturb your neighbour. Write a letter to your neighbour. You do NOT need to write any addresses. You should write at least 150 words. In your letter ointroduce yourself odescribe your plans for the party oinvite your neighbour to come

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 …………….. , You get 20 minutes to complete this task.

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

semi-formal
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 have left college but you didn’t say goodbye to your friend who lived in the room with you because he had a course that time. Write a letter 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
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 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 giving your accommodation requirements. You should outline what your room and food needs are and also ask what alternatives are available if they cannot provide what you want.

semi-formal
You should spend about 20 minutes on this task. Although you have never formally studied computing, you have always been interested in computers. You have just read about a computer course that really interests you, but it is only for people who have completed an elementary course. Write a letter to the college enrolment officer. In your letter explain why you are writing describe your circumstances ask if a special exception can be made for you so you can enrol in the course

semi-formal
You have been living in a rental apartment for the past year. Recently a new neighbour moved in and has been making a lot of noise, which disturbs you. Write a letter to the landlord. In your letter: explain the situation describe why it bothers you suggest a solution.

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

semi-formal
Write a letter to one of your colleagues has recently been appointed as the new manager of the company. Introduce yourself Congratulate him/her on the promotion And ask for an appintment to discuss the problems in your section.

semi-formal
You have seen a advertisement in an australian magazine for someone to live with a family for six months and after look after their six year old child. Write a eletterto the parents. In your letter Explain why you would like the Job

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 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 rent a flat with your friend who is moving out. It is too expensive for you to pay the rent alone.Write a letter to your landlord. In your letter: •explain the situation •describe why you would like to stay in this flat •ask the landlord if you can find another flatmate

semi-formal
You have received a letter from your landlord, Mr Matthews, asking you to renew your contract and pay more rent. You are happy with property but landlord has not been maintaining it well. Write a reply to Mr. Matthews. In your letter: Indicate your intention to stay give information about maintenance issues explain what you would like the landlord to do now

semi-formal
It is with great pleasure to write this recommendation letter on behalf of Mr. Mewcha. I have known Mr. Mewcha Since 2014/15, in Mekelle University- Mekelle Institute of Technology as under graduate student in the Department of Biological and Chemical Engineering. I instructed Mr. Mewcha two courses Chemical Process Simulation and Design and Process Industry and he has consistently performed well in his class.

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

semi-formal
You have had a problem with your next-door neighbor. You have not been able to speak to your neighbor about this. Write a letter to this neighbor. In your letter: • Explain the problem • Suggest a solution • Say what action you will take if the situation does not improve Begin as follows: Dear ... ,

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 wa the book? Explain why you couldn't return it in time.

semi-formal
You are applying for a new job. Write a letter to a former supervisor asking for a reference. In your letter: Describe the job you are applying for Say why you are qualified for the job Explain why you want a reference from this person

semi-formal
You are a student at an English language school in Brighton and are living in private accommodation with other flat mates. You have not had hot water or heating for some time. The landlord’s workmen have tried to fix the problem but without success. Write a letter to the landlord. In your letter: state your reason for writing describe the problems and explain how you feel propose a solution and ask the landlord to take action.

semi-formal
You have received a letter from your neighbour complaining about noise from your house/flat. Write a letter to your neighbour. In your letter explain the cause of the noise apologise for the noise describe what action you will take to solve the problem Write at least 150 words.

semi-formal
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 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
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. You should write at least 150 words.

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 recently assigned a contract of your home painting. The work is over but you are not satisfied with quality of work. Write a letter to the contractor for the same. Write a letter Describe what you are not satisfied with Say what you want the contractor to do and your action plan Say what was good about this service

semi-formal
You have just spent a week with a friend on holiday.When you got home,you realised you had left your wallet there.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

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