IELTS GT Writing Task 1 is a crucial part of the IELTS General Training Writing module. In this task, candidates are required to write a formal, semi-formal, or informal letter based on a given situation. Success in this task depends on understanding letter types, tone, structure, and assessment criteria.
This guide explains everything you need to know about IELTS GT Writing Task 1, including task requirements, letter formats, scoring criteria, common mistakes, and preparation strategies.
What Is IELTS GT Writing Task 1?
In IELTS General Training Writing Task 1, you are asked to write a letter of at least 150 words. The letter responds to a specific situation and usually includes three bullet points that must be covered.
You should spend about 20 minutes on this task, as it contributes 33% of the total Writing score.
Key Features of the Task
- Letter-based writing task
- Real-life situations
- Minimum 150 words
- Three bullet points to address
- Tone depends on the relationship with the recipient
Types of Letters in IELTS GT Writing Task 1
Understanding letter types is essential for choosing the correct tone and vocabulary.
Formal Letters
Formal letters are written to people you do not know personally, such as companies, managers, or institutions.
Common situations:
- Complaints
- Job applications
- Requests for information
- Official explanations
Tone: Polite, respectful, professional
Semi-Formal Letters
Semi-formal letters are written to someone you know, but not closely, such as a landlord, colleague, or neighbor.
Common situations:
- Asking for help
- Giving feedback
- Explaining a situation
Tone: Polite but slightly relaxed
Informal Letters
Informal letters are written to friends or family members.
Common situations:
- Inviting someone
- Giving advice
- Sharing personal news
Tone: Friendly and casual
Structure of IELTS GT Writing Task 1
A clear structure helps examiners understand your ideas easily.
1. Opening Paragraph
Start by explaining why you are writing the letter. This is usually one or two sentences.
Examples:
- I am writing to inquire about…
- I am writing to complain about…
- I hope you are doing well. I am writing to tell you about…
2. Body Paragraphs
Use 2–3 paragraphs to cover the bullet points in the question. Each bullet point should be addressed clearly and separately.
3. Closing Paragraph
End the letter politely by:
- Offering further contact
- Expressing hope for a response
- Thanking the reader
4. Sign-Off
The closing phrase depends on the letter type.
- Formal: Yours sincerely / Yours faithfully
- Semi-formal: Best regards / Kind regards
- Informal: Best wishes / Take care
IELTS GT Writing Task 1 Assessment Criteria
Examiners evaluate your letter using four criteria, each worth 25%.
Task Achievement
- All bullet points fully covered
- The purpose of the letter is clear
- Appropriate tone maintained
Coherence and Cohesion
- Logical paragraphing
- Clear progression of ideas
- Proper use of linking words
Lexical Resource
- Accurate and varied vocabulary
- Appropriate word choice for tone
- Correct spelling
Grammatical Range and Accuracy
- Correct sentence structures
- Variety of sentence types
- Minimal grammatical errors
Common Mistakes in IELTS GT Writing Task 1
Avoiding these mistakes can significantly improve your band score.
Using the Wrong Tone
A mismatch between tone and letter type is one of the most common errors.
Ignoring Bullet Points
Missing even one bullet point can reduce your Task Achievement score.
Memorized Templates
Overused or memorized phrases may sound unnatural and lower your score.
Poor Paragraphing
Writing everything in one block makes your letter hard to read.
Word Count Issues
Writing fewer than 150 words results in a penalty.
Band Score Tips for IELTS GT Writing Task 1
Plan Before Writing
Spend 2–3 minutes understanding:
- Who is writing to
- Purpose of the letter
- Required tone
Use Clear Paragraphs
Each paragraph should focus on one main idea.
Be Specific
Avoid vague sentences. Provide relevant details to support your points.
Check Your Work
Reserve the last 2 minutes to check grammar, spelling, and punctuation.
Sample Situations in IELTS GT Writing Task 1
Here are common themes that frequently appear in the exam:
- Requesting time off work
- Complaining about services
- Apologizing for a problem
- Giving advice
- Thanking someone
- Making arrangements
Practicing these scenarios helps you feel confident on test day.
Time Management Strategy
- Planning: 3 minutes
- Writing: 15 minutes
- Reviewing: 2 minutes
Good time management ensures accuracy and completeness.
How to Practice IELTS GT Writing Task 1 Effectively
Practice Regularly
Write at least 3–4 letters per week using real exam-style prompts.
Analyze Model Answers
Study high-band sample letters to understand tone, vocabulary, and structure.
Focus on Feedback
Identify recurring mistakes and correct them systematically.
Improve Vocabulary by Letter Type
Maintain separate vocabulary lists for formal, semi-formal, and informal letters.
Why Choose Banglay IELTS
Banglay IELTS is a dedicated IELTS preparation platform designed to help candidates master all four IELTS skills with structured guidance. It focuses on exam-oriented strategies, clear explanations, and practical writing techniques tailored specifically for IELTS tasks.
With expert-designed lessons and focused writing practice, Banglay IELTS helps learners build confidence and accuracy for tasks like IELTS GT Writing Task 1 through clear frameworks and skill-based preparation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the minimum word count for IELTS GT Writing Task 1?
The minimum word count is 150 words. Writing fewer words leads to a lower score.
How many bullet points are there in IELTS GT Writing Task 1?
Most questions include three bullet points, and all must be addressed clearly.
Can I use informal language in the IELTS GT Writing Task 1?
Only if the letter is informal, using informal language in formal letters can reduce your score.
Is spelling important in IELTS GT Writing Task 1?
Yes. Spelling mistakes affect the Lexical Resource score.
Should I write addresses in the letter?
No. Addresses and dates are not required in IELTS GT Writing Task 1.
How much time should I spend on this task?
You should spend about 20 minutes on the IELTS GT Writing Task 1.
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