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IELTS General Writing Task 1: Types of Letters | Writing for General Training IELTS PDF Download

What type of letter should I write?

In IELTS General Writing Task 1, there are three types of letters:

  • formal letter
  • semi-formal letter
  • informal letter (also known as a personal letter)

Here you will learn how to identify the type of letter you need to write and what beginnings-endings and tone of letter you should use. You'll also see relevant sample letters under each type.

Before you start writing, it is essential that you fully understand which type of letter you have to write.

Main differences

To outline the main differences between formal, semi-formal and informal letters and also help you decide which letter style you should use, see the following table:

IELTS General Writing Task 1: Types of Letters | Writing for General Training IELTS

Formal Letter & Sample

  • A formal letter is when you need to write to a company or organisation where you don't know the person to who you are writing. For example, a bank or a foreign university.
  • Common formal letters are complaints, applications, resignations, making arrangements.

Semi-formal Letter & Sample

  • A semi-formal letter is when you write to someone you know by name and with whom you have a business or professional relationship. So someone you know, but they are not a close friend with you. For example, a teacher, trainer, neighbour, landlord, manager, work colleague etc.
  • The surname should be used when addressing them. The topic of the letter will be more on the formal side as it is usually focused on a problem to solve.
  • Common semi-formal letters are invitations, explanations, informative letters (all the letters can also be personal).

Informal/Personal Letter & Sample

  • An informal letter is when you write to a friend, family member or someone you know personally, and you write about a personal situation.
  • Common personal letters are invitations, explanations, informative letters, apology (all these letters can be semi-formal as well).
The document IELTS General Writing Task 1: Types of Letters | Writing for General Training IELTS is a part of the IELTS Course Writing for General Training IELTS.
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FAQs on IELTS General Writing Task 1: Types of Letters - Writing for General Training IELTS

1. What are the different types of letters in the IELTS General Writing Task 1?
Ans. In the IELTS General Writing Task 1, there are three main types of letters that candidates may be asked to write. These include formal letters, semi-formal letters, and informal letters. Each type of letter has its own specific format and language style.
2. What is the purpose of writing a formal letter in the IELTS General Writing Task 1?
Ans. The purpose of writing a formal letter in the IELTS General Writing Task 1 is to communicate with someone in a professional or official capacity. Formal letters are typically used to address organizations, institutions, or individuals in positions of authority. They require a formal tone, proper salutations, and a clear structure.
3. How is a semi-formal letter different from a formal letter in the IELTS General Writing Task 1?
Ans. A semi-formal letter in the IELTS General Writing Task 1 is less formal than a formal letter but still maintains a level of professionalism. It is usually written to someone the candidate knows, such as a colleague, supervisor, or neighbor. While a semi-formal letter still follows certain conventions, it allows for a more personal tone and may include some informal language.
4. What is the purpose of writing an informal letter in the IELTS General Writing Task 1?
Ans. The purpose of writing an informal letter in the IELTS General Writing Task 1 is to communicate with someone in a casual or personal manner. Informal letters are usually written to friends, family members, or acquaintances. They allow for a relaxed tone, conversational language, and may include personal anecdotes or informal greetings.
5. How important is it to follow the specific format and language style for each type of letter in the IELTS General Writing Task 1?
Ans. It is crucial to follow the specific format and language style for each type of letter in the IELTS General Writing Task 1. The examiner assesses the candidate's ability to effectively communicate in different contexts and with different levels of formality. Deviating from the expected format or tone may result in a lower score. Therefore, it is important to familiarize oneself with the conventions of each letter type and practice using appropriate language.
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