General Writing Task 1
In IELTS General Training Writing Task 1, you are always asked to write a letter (at least 150 words). The key is to use the right type of letter and adjust your tone (formal, semi-formal, informal). There are three main types you need to know:
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Formal = professional/official
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Semi-formal = polite but personal
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Informal = friendly/relaxed
1. Formal Letters
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Purpose: Writing to someone you don’t know personally, or to an authority/organization.
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Tone: Polite, professional, respectful.
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Examples:
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A complaint to a company.
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An application for a job.
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A request for information from a school, business, or government office.
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Greetings/Closings:
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Dear Sir/Madam, → Yours faithfully,
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2. Semi-formal Letters
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Purpose: Writing to someone you know, but in a professional or respectful situation.
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Tone: Polite but friendly.
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Examples:
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A letter to your manager about taking leave.
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A thank-you letter to a neighbor who helped you.
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An invitation to a colleague.
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Greetings/Closings:
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Dear Mr. Smith, → Yours sincerely,
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3. Informal Letters
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Purpose: Writing to friends or family.
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Tone: Relaxed, friendly, personal.
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Examples:
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Writing to a friend about your holiday.
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Inviting a close friend to stay with you.
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Apologizing to a friend for missing an event.
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Greetings/Closings:
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Dear John, → Best wishes/See you soon/Take care,
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