How to Write a Formal Letter?

The IELTS Writing Task 1 requires you to write a letter which could either be formal, semi-formal, or informal for which you will be assessed based on the clarity, cohesion, and grammatical accuracy. In the formal letter, you need to plan your ideas for which you must learn how to write a formal letter. However, it is necessary to practice all different types of letters even though you will only encounter any one letter on the test day.

In the IELTS General Writing Task 1, you are given a situation or problem, and based on the issue or situation, you are asked to write a letter in at least 150 words. By practising on a regular basis, you will be able to formulate your answer in a cohesive way. Remember to effectively communicate your message to acquire a band 8+ in the IELTS exam. 

Let’s dive into the strategies and learn the way how you would be attempting a formal letter!

Types of letters in the IELTS General Writing Task 1

Before diving into the format which you need to follow in the formal letter, let’s dive into the IELTS General Writing Letter Types. As there are different types of letters, each would have its own specific purpose and tone which has to be followed. It is crucial to identify the letter type given in the question before you start writing it.

The table below shows the types of letters in the IELTS General Writing Task 1.

Understanding When to Write a Formal Letter

A formal letter is a letter written to someone you do not know, such as professional people, officials, firms, stores, hotels etc. In short, they are written to people whom you do not know personally or professionally and you are just aware of the designation. It is written in a polite and courteous manner. 

Below are some of the various situations when you need to write a formal letter.

• Job applications
• Business requests or inquiries
• Complaints
• Grievances
• Legal or Professional requirements
• Official Requests

Strategies to Write an Effective IELTS General Formal Letter to Achieve a Band 8+

In order to give a higher band score of 8+ in the IELTS exam, you must incorporate a few strategies in your writing. Remember that since the purpose for all the writing tasks would be different, you must identify the letter and utilize the appropriate strategies. Below are some of the tips which can help you to write an effective formal letter in IELTS General Writing Task 1.

• Do not write very long, lengthy, and unnecessary details which might become repetitive. Therefore, try to make the ideas concise and write within the word limit between 150-180 words.
• Your letter must sound respectful and you must use polite words in formal letters even if you are writing a complaint letter. Remember to keep it professional.
• State your purpose clearly in the first paragraph of the letter and be direct about it.
• Use the IELTS General Writing Task 1 Linking Structures to connect your ideas but avoid using them too many times. 
• Do not use contractions such as I’ll, she’ve and try using I will and she will since it is a formal letter. You need to write in full form and therefore are not allowed to use such contractions since they are quite informal.
• IELTS Grammar and spelling check are very important as you might lose your score if you make any mistake. Therefore, proofread the entire letter to eliminate any such mistakes. Also, use Active Voice as you write since it makes the elaborated points simple, clear, and more engaging.
• Use the appropriate formal IELTS vocabulary since words can also change the tone of the letter. For example, instead of using the word ‘sorry’, you can choose to write ‘apologies’.
• As you are only given 20 minutes, divide your time to brainstorm, write, and proofread your letter response.

Format of the IELTS General Writing Task 1 - Formal Letter

As you attempt the formal letter, you have to follow a format which is accepted in the IELTS General Writing Task 1. Remember that the structure and the format of the letter play a vital role in helping you achieve a higher IELTS Band Score. Let’s check it out now : 

1. Salutation

The letter’s opening salutation should begin with ‘dear’ and never use the receiving person’s name in formal letters. Instead, use sir or ma’am along with the greeting. 

For example:

Dear Sir/Ma’am

2. Body Paragraph 1 - Purpose + Bullet Point No. 1

This is also known as the opening paragraph. It includes the purpose of the letter, as to what you are going to discuss in the letter. You can paraphrase the question and write it in such a manner that it appears to be part of the letter. You can also mention bullet point 1 if the paragraph is not long.

3. Body Paragraph 2 - Bullet Point No. 2 

This paragraph includes the supporting details covering all the second bullet point mentioned below the question. Close the paragraph with 1 or 2 concluding lines. 

4. Body Paragraph 2 - Bullet Point No. 3

This paragraph is optional because if you have covered the third bullet point in the body paragraph 2, you do not need to write this. If not, you can elaborate the third bullet point which should have a logical arrangement of the ideas with the supporting details.

5. The complimentary closure

This closure is not mandatory, but you can include a few words or a single line. It will help you enhance your test scores. 

For example:

Looking forward to hearing from you

Or 

I look forward to a positive response from your end. 

6. Closing Salutation

The closing salutation of the formal letter includes your best regards and your full name along with it. 

For example:

Yours Faithfully,

Apoorva Dua

Structure Layout of the Formal Letter to Achieve a Band 8+

Now that you are aware of the format which is to be followed, let’s look at the structure layout of the formal letter. You can use this layout and attempt a few questions to make yourself become familiarized with the same.

Sample Letter : IELTS General Writing Task 1 - Formal Letter

You recently bought a children’s toy online and you noticed that it was not working properly. Write a letter to the manager of the toy company to complain about it.

In your letter, you should:

• give the details about your order
• describe what the problem was
• suggest what you want the company to do for you

Sample Answer

Now that you have gone through the formal letter example, check out the samples of formal letter questions which are being asked in the IELTS General exam. You can attempt them by yourself before moving on to the sample answers.

Let’s write one and keep the flow going. Remember to follow the structure and use formal language in this letter. This will not only help you build confidence but also make you exam-ready for the test day. With consistent practice, you will be able to acquire a band 8+ in the IELTS exam.

Practice is the only possible way to ascertain that you have written a letter over 150 words. Practising the IELTS General Writing Task 1 Practice Tests every day can help you learn time management skills and enhance your actual test performance. Remember to keep the momentum rolling and track your progress to achieve a band score of 8+.

Also Check : 

• IELTS Suggestion Letter: Structure, Useful Phrases & Samples
• Essential Letter Writing Tips: IELTS General Writing Task 1
• IELTS General Letter Writing Questions Topics
• Formal Letter to Principal Topics: The Essential Guide with Sample Answers