MASTERING IELTS GENERAL WRITING TASK 1: FORMAL LETTER TIPS FOR A HIGH BAND SCORE
The IELTS General Training Writing Task 1 requires candidates to write a letter in response to a given situation. When the prompt specifies a formal situation—such as writing to a company, a government official, or someone you don’t know personally—you need to adopt a formal tone and structure. This task assesses your ability to communicate effectively in written English, so it’s essential to understand what makes a formal letter successful. Here are key tips to help you craft an effective formal letter and boost your score.
1. Understand the Purpose of the Letter
Before you begin writing, identify the purpose of the letter from the prompt. Is it to complain, request information, apply for something, or provide a formal explanation? Your content, tone, and structure will depend on this purpose. Misunderstanding the task can lead to off-topic responses and a lower score.
MASTERING IELTS GENERAL WRITING TASK 1
2. Use the Correct Structure
A formal letter in IELTS General Task 1 should follow a clear and professional structure:
– Your Address and Date (Optional in IELTS)
– Greeting/Salutation: Use “Dear Sir or Madam” if the recipient is unknown. If a name is given, use “Dear Mr. Smith” or “Dear Ms. Johnson.”
– Introduction: State the purpose of the letter in the first paragraph.
– Body Paragraphs: Usually 2-3 paragraphs detailing the situation, request, or concern. Stick to the three bullet points in the task prompt.
– Closing Paragraph: Briefly summarize your intent and request any further action.
– Sign-off: Use a formal closing like “Yours faithfully” (if you don’t know the name) or “Yours sincerely” (if you do), followed by your full name.
MASTERING IELTS GENERAL WRITING TASK 1
3. Stick to a Formal Tone and Language
Using informal or casual language can lower your score. Avoid contractions like “I’m” or “don’t”; instead, write “I am” and “do not.” Choose polite and formal vocabulary such as:
– “I am writing to inquire about…”
– “I would like to express my concern…”
– “I would appreciate it if…”
– “Could you please provide…”
Keep your sentences clear and grammatically accurate. Avoid slang, idioms, and overly personal details unless they are directly relevant to the letter’s purpose.
MASTERING IELTS GENERAL WRITING TASK 1
4. Address All Bullet Points Thoroughly
The task will include three bullet points that you must address in your letter. Ignoring or only briefly mentioning any of them will negatively affect your Task Achievement score. Aim to write one paragraph for each bullet point and expand on each with appropriate details.
For example, if you are writing to complain about a product:
– Describe the product and where you bought it.
– Explain the problem.
– Say what you want the company to do about it.
Make sure all information is relevant and logically connected.
MASTERING IELTS GENERAL WRITING TASK 1
5. Mind Your Word Count and Time Management
You are required to write at least 150 words, but ideally, you should aim for 160–180 words. Writing too much may lead to off-topic content, while writing too little may result in incomplete responses. You have only 20 minutes for this task, so practice timing yourself. Spend the first few minutes planning, about 12–15 minutes writing, and the final few minutes reviewing your letter for mistakes.
6. Use a Range of Sentence Structures and Vocabulary
Examiners are looking for a variety of grammatical structures and vocabulary. Try to use a mix of simple, compound, and complex sentences. Incorporate formal linking words and phrases like:
– Furthermore
– In addition
– However
– Therefore
– As a result
But don’t force complexity—clarity and accuracy are more important than using complicated structures incorrectly.
MASTERING IELTS GENERAL WRITING TASK 1
7. Proofread Your Work
Take the last 2-3 minutes to read your letter. Check for grammar, punctuation, and spelling errors. Ensure subject-verb agreement and proper use of tenses. Even small mistakes can lower your score in the Grammar and Accuracy criterion.
Final Tip
Scoring well on IELTS General Writing Task 1 requires not only a strong grasp of formal English but also the ability to understand the task, structure your letter properly, and write with clarity and purpose. With consistent practice, review of sample band 8 and 9 letters, and application of the above tips, you can significantly improve your performance. Always tailor your letter to the situation, be concise yet thorough, and maintain a professional tone throughout.
MASTERING IELTS GENERAL WRITING TASK 1
MASTERING IELTS GENERAL WRITING TASK 1