Structure for IELTS General Writing Task 1

As you attempt the Writing Task 1, it is important to be aware of the structure for IELTS General Writing Task 1. This Part will prompt you to write a letter and requires you to write at least 150 words. It is advisable to spend 20 minutes writing task 1, as this task accounts for 30% of your total writing scores. Remember to follow the appropriate structure in order to achieve a band score of 8+.

Since the Structure for IELTS General Writing Task 1 will significantly affect your band score, you need to practice writing but under timed conditions. It is vital to respond to the questions with appropriate vocabulary based on the situation and the type of the letter. With consistent practice, you will be able to attempt this task with ease and ace the IELTS exam with a higher band score.

So, let's start your journey!

Understanding the Type of Letters in IELTS General Writing Task 1

In General writing task 1, you will be asked to write any one letter from the following types:

• IELTS General Writing Task 1: Sample Formal Letters
• IELTS General Writing Task 1 Sample Semi Formal Letters
• IELTS Informal Letter

Before diving into the practice, first get familiarized with the types first and the purpose of the letter. Since you will only attempt one letter in the exam, you need to first identify the type before writing. All the three letters have its respective Structure for IELTS General Writing Task 1. The table below shows the overview of the three letter types in the IELTS General Writing Task 1.

Structure for IELTS General Writing Task 1 Based on Letter Type

In the IELTS Writing task 1, the examiner will expect you to include the 3 bullet points given in the question. You should address all the bullet points. Be it formal, informal, or semi-formal, you must follow the structure, including the purpose of the letter. The structure will help you to ensure that all the information or essential points are covered in the letter. Moreover, it helps to convey a clear and meaningful message.

The table below suggests the structure for each letter types in terms of the Structure for IELTS General Writing Task 1.

Example to Understand the Structure for IELTS General Writing Task 1

Even though you will only write one letter in the IELTS Writing, you need to practice all three of them since you do not know which one will be asked. Letter writing generally has its conventions better understood according to the question type, but you can also refer to some of the commonly used phrases and words. Let's check the example below.

• Introduction

Identify the type of the letter first by checking whom you are addressing it to. In this example, this is a formal letter because you are writing it to someone based on their designation which is the college head. Therefore, introduce yourself first along with the purpose of the letter. Also, include bullet point 1 (Tell him/her about the topics that you are going to talk about) in the introduction.

For Example: “I am writing to express my…”

“I am (name), form …”

“I would like to inform you that…”

• Body paragraph 1

Describe the situation or the problem and elaborate on the problem/situation with detailed facts and information relevant to the topic. Moreover, address the bullet point 2 asked in the question. It will help you provide the required information in the appropriate format. In other words, include bullet point 2 (Explain why would they be of interest to the students) in body paragraph 1.

• Body paragraph 2

Explain the bullet point 3 [Ask about any arrangements that you need to make to give the talk]. Provide specific details but not too many as that might affect the coherence of the letter. Remember that the flow must be logical and not abrupt. Provide a suggestion/solution to the situation or problem which could be possible solutions/actions that someone can take. 

• Closing Line

Conclude your Letter by providing a standard phrase.

“Looking forward to hearing from you.” 

• Sign-off

Since this is a formal letter, you need to use the appropriate salutation with your full name.

Yours Faithfully, (Use this closing salutation for formal letters)

Tips to Use the Structure for IELTS General Writing Task 1 for a Band 8+

With IELTS General Writing task 1, you will have to write almost 150 words. While it could be easy for some, it could be difficult for others. Therefore, you must use IELTS Writing task 1 tips to achieve a band score of 8+ in the IELTS exam. The following are some of the strategies which can help an individual to use the appropriate structure depending on the letter and ace the exam with a higher IELTS Band Score.

• Firstly, it is crucial to identify the letter type before you start writing them. As each letter type follows its respective pattern, you need to understand which one you are attempting.
• Use a clear structure which has been discussed above. Remember that the structure plays an important role to help you score a higher band.
• Use commonly used words with correct grammatical structures and always pay attention to IELTS Vocabulary and correct spellings of words like ‘apologize,’ ‘in regards to,’ ‘faithfully,’ etc. 
• Write everything on the left-hand side and leave some space before you begin a new paragraph so that the examiner can identify that it is a different paragraph.
• As you need to write 150 words, focus on elaborating your ideas based on the bullet points. However, do not write more than 180 words.
• Showcase your ability to use a variety of sentence structures to improve your scores in the Grammatical Range and Accuracy. Therefore, practice with the IELTS Grammar and make appropriate sentences.

Remember that a clear and consistent format is necessary for success in IELTS General Writing Task 1. Once you have understood the format based on letter type and practice diligently, you will be abe to respond to the given question with confidence and clarity. Focus on answering the prompt thoroughly, using the right tone, and clearly organizing your letter. With preparation and the correct approach, you can maximize your score and get one step closer to achieving your IELTS band.

Also Check : 

• 21+ Tips On How to Improve Your IELTS Writing Band Score
• IELTS Writing Task 1 Connectors
• Best IELTS Writing Task 2 Tips for Achieving Band 9
• IELTS General Writing Task 1 Tips
• IELTS Writing Practice Tests 2025: A Complete Checklist to Improve Your Score