In this tutorial, we will answer 3 recent writing general task 1 questions as seen in the IELTS exam.
IELTS general writing task 1 takes the form of a letter. Candidates are asked to respond to a complaint, request information, express a concern, or explain a certain situation.
Depending on the context, you may be asked to write informal letters, semi-formal, or formal letters. In order to obtain marks in the task achievement, be sure to answer each bullet point. Read each point carefully and respond to them one at a time.
Next, keep in mind that the letter format should fit the standard style. For example, most letters begin with Dear (name). Also, starting a new paragraph for each point helps you deliver your message in an organized way that is easy for the reader to obtain all the information in your letter quickly.
Below are recent IELTS general writing task 1 questions and sample answers.
IELTS General Training Writing Task 1
- You should spend no more than 20 minutes on this test and you should write at least 150 words.
- Task 1 forms 33% of your total IELTS writing mark.
Example 1
Below are the recent questions and sample answers. 1. Write a letter to your manager about your work from last year. Include
- What you did
- What you think you could improve
- A training request
Sample Answer:
Dear Mr David Wallace,
I am writing in response to your request for the annual self appraisal report.
Over the last 12 months, I have reorganized the accounting department by promoting Mr. Kevin Malone to a leadership position. Miss Angela Martin has been transferred to become product leader for the new range we launched. Furthermore, to improve efficiency I let go Mr. Toby Flanders, because we could outsource his work abroad. Since his removal office morale has increased significantly.
I think there is room for improvement in sales; a few employees get distracted too easily. We can solve this by implementing a cubicle system so as to reduce contact between staff. I also think we could outsource reception and secretary tasks abroad to further cut costs.
Finally, though willing to implement all the above, I believe it could be executed flawlessly if I were to receive training. I believe that if the company allowed me a day off each week to complete my MBA evening classes, I could save money for the company, and bring in new higher caliber team members.
Best regards,
Ben W
In the example above, notice that in the first paragraph, the writer has announced the reason for the letter. In the following paragraphs, the writer then answers each of the bullet points.
How do you think examiners would score this response? Can you spot any errors in grammar?
Example 2
Write an informal letter to your friend about a job opportunity you came across that they might find interesting. In your letter, you should:
- give some details about the job
- mention how you came across the job opportunity
- explain why you feel the job would be suitable for your friend
Sample Answer:
Hello Gareth,
hope you are doing well; it’s been a while since we spoke, but I remember you wanted to start a new career as an engineer.
Well, just yesterday I was browsing the jobs section of the Guardian website and I saw a very enticing job advert. I’ve never heard of the company, but the job offer seemed amazing. The offer includes free training; then on the job mentoring with the senior executives: followed by a free course endorsed by the Leadership Bureau. Also the financial package was truly exceptional; especially considering all the training involved. With this job you work 30 weeks a year in the office, and 15 at home. You also get a new Macbook Pro (broadband internet paid for) and your expenses are reimbursed for setting up your new home office.
I immediately thought of you, because I know you love learning and training and have always wanted to be mentored. It also seemed to tick all the boxes for work/life balance, which I know is necessary right now because of your newborn.
Anyway, I have attached the link and a screenshot of the advert; I’d apply promptly though because it seems like they’ll get a lot of applications.
All the best,
Ben W
Example 3
3. Your friend is about to move into a new house. Write a letter to him/her, and:
- offer to help him/her to move
- explain how exactly you can help
- ask him/her some questions about the new house
Sample Answer:
Hi Donald,
Hope you’re doing well, and that your ankle has improved. I know it was giving you a few problems.
Anyway, I heard you have to move out soon; so I thought we could use my transit van to help get the whole project completed faster.
Let me know if that is what you need; I’d love to help out. It would have to be on a weekday before 11am though, because later I need to get to work. I think that, if we start early, we can get in a few runs back and forth; from your current house to your new home.
I can help lift and move the boxes, but ideally you’d need to pack up all your stuff beforehand. By the way, your new house is near Vernon’s, right? On Privet Drive; opposite the old petrol station in Shire town? If it isn’t, then let me know as soon as possible, because any further might mean a different plan.
Also, if I remember correctly, there is a very large drive and garage at the front? This is important, so we can load and unload quickly.
All the best mate,
Ben W
For expert feedback on your IELTS writing, have a look at our IELTS online course.
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