IELTS General Writing Task 1: Sample Formal Letters

Understanding IELTS General Writing Task 1

• Clearly and concisely convey information in a formal tone.
• Organize your ideas logically.
• Use appropriate language and expressions for formal correspondence.

Types of Letters in IELTS General Writing Task 1

1. Formal Letters
2. Semi-Formal Letters
3. Informal Letters

Structure of a Formal Letter

• Salutation: “Dear Sir/Madam” or “To Whom It May Concern.”
• Introduction: Briefly state the purpose of your letter.
• Main Body: Provide detailed explanations or requests.
• Conclusion: Summarize key points and add final remarks.
• Complimentary Close: “Yours faithfully” or “Yours sincerely.”
• Signature: Your full name (no signature required in the exam).

Detailed Breakdown of an IELTS Formal Letter

1. Salutation

Begin the letter with a formal salutation. Avoid using the recipient’s name in this context. Instead, opt for a polite greeting like:

Dear Sir/Madam

2. Opening Paragraph

The first paragraph serves as an introduction. Clearly state the purpose of your letter in a concise and formal tone. Paraphrase the task question to make it fit seamlessly into your letter’s context.

3. Main Body Paragraph

This section forms the core of your letter. Address the bullet points provided in the task instructions, ensuring all required details are included. Conclude the paragraph with one or two summarizing lines.

4. Complimentary Closing

Although optional, adding a closing statement enhances the overall tone of your letter. This could be a polite expression of anticipation or a request for further communication.

I look forward to hearing from you.

I anticipate a positive response.

5. Closing Salutation

Conclude the letter with a formal closing, followed by your full name.

Yours Sincerely,
[Your Full Name]

Tone and Language

Maintain a respectful and formal tone throughout the letter. Avoid informal language, abbreviations, or acronyms, as these can diminish the professionalism of your writing.

IELTS Formal Letter Samples

Example of formal letters that demonstrate how to handle various scenarios in the IELTS General Writing Task 1. These samples showcase effective strategies to achieve a high band score.

Sample Formal Letter 1

Writing a Formal Complaint

Scenario: You recently bought a product that turned out to be defective. Write to the store manager, explaining the issue and requesting a replacement or refund.

Tips for Success

• Practice regularly to improve writing skills.
• Plan your response before writing.
• Expand your vocabulary to express ideas effectively.
• Check grammar and spelling for errors.
• Manage your time effectively during the exam.