IELTS General Writing Task 1 Letters: Templates and Band 8 Samples
✉️ IELTS Formal Apology Letter Template
Dear [Sir/ Madam, or Mr. Surname],
I am writing to express my sincere apologies for [state what you’re apologizing for briefly – missed appointment, delay, mistake, etc.]. I deeply regret any inconvenience or disruption this may have caused.
The reason behind this situation was [briefly explain the cause – e.g., an emergency, miscommunication, scheduling error, etc.]. Although this was unintentional, I fully understand the impact it may have had on [mention the person, event, or situation affected].
To make up for this, I would be happy to [offer a solution or corrective action – reschedule, provide assistance, cover the issue, etc.]. Please let me know a convenient time or any further steps you would prefer me to take.
Once again, I truly apologise for the inconvenience and appreciate your understanding and patience in this matter.
Yours sincerely,
[Your Full Name]
---
📝 IELTS GT Task 1 Question:
You borrowed a book from the library but returned it late. Write a letter to the librarian. In your letter:
Apologize for the late return
Explain why you couldn’t return it on time
Say what you will do to avoid it happening again
Begin your letter as follows:
Dear Ms. Patel,
---
✅ Band 8+ Sample Answer (Using Exact Template)
Dear Ms. Patel,
I am writing to express my sincere apologies for returning the borrowed book “Modern World History” several days past the due date. I deeply regret any inconvenience this delay may have caused to the library system or other readers.
The reason behind this situation was an unexpected travel emergency, which required me to leave town abruptly for a family matter. Although this was unintentional, I fully understand the importance of returning books on time to ensure fair access for all members.
To make up for this, I would be happy to pay any applicable late fees immediately and will also set calendar reminders in future to ensure timely returns. Please let me know if there are any formalities I should complete.
Once again, I truly apologise for the inconvenience and appreciate your understanding and patience in this matter.
Yours sincerely,
Sam Curren
✉️ Semi-Formal Apology Letter Template
Dear [First name or Title + Surname],
I hope you're doing well. I'm writing to sincerely apologise for [state what you’re apologising for – missing something, causing a problem, etc.]. I truly didn’t mean for this to cause any trouble.
The reason for this was [brief explanation – an unexpected situation, personal issue, mistake, etc.]. I realise it may have caused [mention inconvenience or effect on them], and I feel genuinely sorry for that.
To fix the situation, I’d be happy to [offer solution or action – reschedule, repair, explain, repay, etc.]. Please let me know if there's anything else I can do.
Thanks so much for your understanding, and again, I really apologise for the inconvenience.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
---
📌 IELTS GT Task 1 Question (Semi-Formal)
You were invited to a dinner at your colleague’s home but couldn’t attend. Write a letter to your colleague. In your letter:
Apologise for not attending the dinner
Explain why you missed it
Suggest another time to meet
✅ Band 8+ Sample Answer (Using the Exact Template)
Dear Priya,
I hope you're doing well. I'm writing to sincerely apologise for not being able to attend the dinner at your place last Saturday. I truly didn’t mean for this to cause any inconvenience, especially after you were kind enough to invite me.
The reason for this was that my younger sister fell ill that evening, and I had to rush her to the emergency clinic. I know I should’ve informed you earlier, but things happened so suddenly that I didn’t get a chance.
To fix the situation, I’d be happy to take you out for coffee or lunch sometime this week, if you’re free. Please let me know when it suits you best — I’d really love to catch up properly and hear all about the evening.
Thanks so much for your understanding, and again, I really apologise for the inconvenience.
Best regards,
Sam
✉️ Informal Apology Letter Template
Dear [First Name],
I hope everything’s great on your end! I’m really sorry about [what you’re apologising for – missing a party, being late, etc.]. I feel terrible for letting you down like that.
Honestly, what happened was [brief explanation – last-minute issue, forgot, emergency, etc.]. I didn’t mean to cause any hassle, and I wish I’d handled things better.
Let me make it up to you! How about [suggest a plan, time to meet, or a gesture to make things right]? Hopefully, that’ll help make up for it.
Once again, super sorry — I truly didn’t want to disappoint you. Hope we’re still good!
Take care,
[Your Name]
---
📌 IELTS GT Task 1 Question (Informal)
You promised to meet your friend for a movie, but you didn’t turn up. Write a letter to your friend. In your letter:
Apologise for missing the movie
Explain why you couldn’t make it
Suggest a new plan to meet
✅ Band 8+ Sample Answer (Using Exact Template)
Dear Riya,
I hope everything’s great on your end! I’m really sorry about not showing up for the movie yesterday. I feel terrible for letting you down like that.
Honestly, what happened was that my phone battery died just as I was about to text you, and then I got caught up in a sudden family issue that I had to handle. I didn’t mean to cause any hassle, and I wish I’d handled things better.
Let me make it up to you! How about we go see that comedy you mentioned this weekend instead? I’ll book the tickets this time — my treat!
Once again, super sorry — I truly didn’t want to disappoint you. Hope we’re still good!
Take care,
Sam
✉️ Formal Complaint Letter Template
Dear [Sir/ Madam, or Title + Surname],
I am writing to express my dissatisfaction with [state clearly what you are complaining about – a product, service, experience, situation, etc.]. I expected a higher standard and was quite disappointed with the outcome.
The main issues were [briefly list 1–2 specific problems]. Despite my expectations, [mention what went wrong or failed to meet standards]. This caused [explain the inconvenience or negative impact].
I would appreciate it if you could [state what action you want them to take – refund, repair, apology, investigation, etc.]. I believe this would be a fair way to resolve the matter professionally.
I hope you will treat this matter seriously and take prompt action. I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Yours sincerely,
[Your Full Name]
---
📌 IELTS GT Task 1 Question (Formal Complaint Letter)
You recently visited a restaurant and were unhappy with the food and service.
Write a letter to the restaurant manager. In your letter:
Explain why you were disappointed
Describe the problems you faced
Suggest what you would like the manager to do
✅ Band 8+ Sample Answer (Using Exact Template)
Dear Sir/ Madam,
I am writing to express my dissatisfaction with the experience I had at your restaurant last Saturday evening. I expected a higher standard and was quite disappointed with the outcome.
The main issues were the delayed service and the poor quality of the food. Despite my reservation for 8:00 p.m., we were seated 20 minutes late, and the food arrived nearly an hour after ordering. To make matters worse, the pasta was undercooked and the soup served cold. This caused great inconvenience as we had guests visiting from out of town.
I would appreciate it if you could investigate the matter and consider offering a refund or discount on a future visit. I believe this would be a fair way to resolve the matter professionally.
I hope you will treat this matter seriously and take prompt action. I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Yours sincerely,
Sam Curren
✉️ Semi-Formal Complaint Letter Template
Dear [Title + Surname or First Name],
I hope you’re doing well. I’m writing to express some concerns regarding [what the issue is – a service, condition, ongoing problem, etc.]. I was hoping it would resolve, but unfortunately, the issue has continued.
The main problems are [mention 1–2 specific issues], which have been affecting [explain how it has impacted you – daily routine, comfort, work, etc.]. I’ve tried to manage it on my own, but it’s now becoming quite difficult.
I’d really appreciate it if you could look into this matter or suggest a suitable solution. I’m sure it can be sorted out with a bit of attention.
Thanks for understanding, and I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Best regards,
[Your Full Name]
---
📌 IELTS GT Task 1 Question (Semi-Formal Complaint)
You live in a rented apartment and the heating system hasn’t been working properly.
Write a letter to your landlord. In your letter:
Describe the problem with the heating system
Explain how it has affected you
Ask the landlord to fix the issue
✅ Band 8+ Sample Answer (Using the Exact Template)
Dear Mr. Singh,
I hope you’re doing well. I’m writing to express some concerns regarding the central heating system in the flat I’m currently renting. I was hoping it would resolve, but unfortunately, the issue has continued for the past two weeks.
The main problems are that the radiators in both the living room and bedroom are not functioning properly, and the thermostat seems to be faulty. This has been affecting my comfort quite a bit, especially during the evenings when temperatures drop significantly. I’ve tried resetting the system, but nothing has worked so far.
I’d really appreciate it if you could look into this matter or arrange for a technician to come and inspect it. I’m sure it can be sorted out with a bit of attention.
Thanks for understanding, and I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Best regards,
Sam Curren
✉️ Formal Request Letter Template
Dear [Sir / Madam, or Title + Surname],
I am writing to formally request [state clearly what you're asking for – time off, information, permission, documents, etc.]. I hope you will consider my situation and assist me accordingly.
The reason I am making this request is because [briefly explain your reason – personal, academic, health, etc.]. I believe this will help me [mention benefit, improvement, or necessity related to your request].
If possible, I would appreciate it if you could [mention what action or support you are requesting]. Please let me know if any additional documents or procedures are required from my side.
Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to your positive response.
Yours sincerely,
[Your Full Name]
---
📌 IELTS GT Task 1 Question (Formal Request Letter)
You are a student at a college and need to request time off to attend a family event.
Write a letter to the college administrator. In your letter:
Explain why you need the time off
State how much time you require
Assure that your studies will not suffer
✅ Band 8+ Sample Answer (Using the Exact Template)
Dear Ms. Kapoor,
I am writing to formally request a short leave of absence from college next week to attend a close family event. I hope you will consider my situation and assist me accordingly.
The reason I am making this request is because my sister is getting married, and I am expected to be present for both the ceremony and pre-wedding preparations. I believe this will allow me to fulfil my family responsibilities while ensuring that I return promptly to resume my academic schedule.
If possible, I would appreciate it if you could grant me leave from the 12th to the 16th of this month. Please let me know if any formal application form or documentation is required from my side.
Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to your positive response.
Yours sincerely,
Rahul Banerjee
✉️ Semi-Formal Request Letter Template
Dear [Title + Surname or First Name],
I hope you're doing well. I’m writing to ask if it would be possible to [state clearly what you are seeking – time off, permission, help, information, etc.]. I’d really appreciate your support regarding this matter.
The reason I’m making this request is because [brief explanation – personal commitment, family event, travel, etc.]. I believe your understanding would mean a lot and help me manage things more smoothly.
If you could kindly [mention what you’re asking them to do], I’d be extremely grateful. Of course, I’ll make sure to [mention how you'll handle any responsibility or follow-up].
Thanks in advance for your help, and I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Best regards,
[Your Full Name]
---
📌 IELTS GT Task 1 Question (Semi-Formal Request)
You are a member of a sports club and want to use its facilities to host a small birthday celebration for a friend.
Write a letter to the club manager. In your letter:
Explain the reason for your request
Describe the event
Say which facilities you would like to use
✅ Band 8+ Sample Answer
Dear Mr. D’Souza,
I hope you're doing well. I’m writing to ask if it would be possible to use the club's lounge and garden area for a small birthday celebration next Friday evening. I’d really appreciate your support regarding this matter.
The reason I’m making this request is because my close friend is turning 30, and I’d love to host a quiet, informal gathering for a few of our mutual friends who are also club members. Your permission would mean a lot and help us celebrate the occasion in a familiar and comfortable environment.
If you could kindly allow us to use the garden space for a few hours and grant access to the club’s kitchen for light refreshments, I’d be extremely grateful. Of course, we’ll ensure that everything is left clean and undisturbed, and we’ll follow all club guidelines.
Thanks in advance for your help, and I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Best regards,
Sam Curren
✉️ Informal Request Letter Template
Dear [First Name],
Hey! Hope everything’s great with you. I’m writing because I was wondering if you could help me with something. I’d really appreciate it if you could [mention what you're asking for – a favour, help, item, information, etc.].
The thing is, [explain your situation briefly – why you need it, what happened]. It’s a bit last-minute, but I thought you wouldn’t mind me asking.
If it works for you, could you please [explain the favour or support again]? Let me know what suits you best — no pressure at all!
Thanks a ton in advance! You’re a lifesaver, as always.
Take care,
[Your Name]
---
📌 IELTS GT Task 1 Question (Informal Request)
You are going away on holiday for a few weeks and need someone to take care of your pet.
Write a letter to your friend. In your letter:
Ask your friend to take care of your pet
Explain why you will be away
Give instructions about taking care of the pet
✅ Band 8+ Sample Answer (Using Exact Template)
Dear Ritu,
Hey! Hope everything’s great with you. I’m writing because I was wondering if you could help me with something. I’d really appreciate it if you could take care of my cat, Momo, while I’m away for a couple of weeks.
The thing is, I’ve planned a short holiday with my cousins to Manali, and it’s been ages since I took a break. It’s a bit last-minute, but I thought you wouldn’t mind me asking — you and Momo get along so well!
If it works for you, could you please feed her twice a day and just clean her litter tray every other day? I’ll leave her food and litter supplies at your place. Let me know what suits you best — no pressure at all!
Thanks a ton in advance! You’re a lifesaver, as always.
Take care,
Sam
✅ Formal Suggestion Letter (When Someone Asked for Your Opinion)
Template:
Dear [Title + Surname],
Thank you for reaching out regarding [subject]. I appreciate the opportunity to share my thoughts, and I’m pleased to offer some suggestions that may help improve [service/system/event].
In my view, the current [mention issue or topic] could be enhanced by [suggestion 1]. This would help [brief benefit]. Additionally, I would recommend [suggestion 2], which could [another benefit or improvement].
I trust these ideas might prove useful, and I’d be happy to elaborate further if needed. Thank you once again for inviting my input.
Yours sincerely,
[Your Name]
---
Question:
Your local community center has asked residents for suggestions on how to improve their facilities.
Write a letter to the manager. In your letter:
Say what you like about the current center
Suggest one or two improvements
Explain how these changes would benefit others
---
Sample Answer:
Dear Ms. Khanna,
Thank you for reaching out regarding improvements to the community center. I appreciate the opportunity to share my thoughts, and I’m pleased to offer some suggestions that may help improve the experience for local residents.
In my view, the center already offers great value through its open reading room and yoga sessions. However, the current gym facility is quite outdated and could be enhanced by adding more modern equipment. This would help attract more young people and fitness enthusiasts. Additionally, I would recommend creating a small indoor play area for children, which could make the center more family-friendly.
I trust these ideas might prove useful, and I’d be happy to elaborate further if needed. Thank you once again for inviting my input.
Yours sincerely,
Sam Curren
---
✅ Semi-Formal Suggestion Letter (When Asked for Your Opinion)
Template:
Dear [First Name or Title + Surname],
Thanks for getting in touch and asking for my opinion on [topic]. I’m happy to share a few ideas that might help.
From what I’ve seen, [describe current situation briefly], but I think it could be improved by [suggestion]. Another thing that might be helpful is [second suggestion], especially if [explain benefit].
Hope these suggestions are useful! Let me know if you’d like me to expand on anything.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
---
Question:
Your sports club is planning to upgrade its equipment and has asked for suggestions from members.
Write a letter to the club manager. In your letter:
Share your opinion on current facilities
Suggest one or two changes
Say how these would benefit members
Sample Answer:
Dear Mr. Reddy,
Thanks for getting in touch and asking for my opinion on the upcoming equipment upgrades. I’m happy to share a few ideas that might help.
From what I’ve seen, the cardio equipment is well-maintained, but the weightlifting section could use an update. I think it could be improved by replacing the old dumbbells and adding a squat rack. Another thing that might be helpful is installing mirrors near the free weight area, especially since proper form is key to safety.
Hope these suggestions are useful! Let me know if you’d like me to expand on anything.
Best regards,
Sam
---
✅ Informal Suggestion Letter (When Asked by a Friend)
Template:
Dear [Friend’s First Name],
Hey! Thanks for asking — I’ve got a few ideas that might help with [topic].
Honestly, I think [suggestion 1] would work really well, especially because [reason]. Also, you might want to consider [suggestion 2], since it’ll make things easier/faster/more fun.
Hope that helps! Let me know what you go with — I’d love to hear how it turns out.
Take care,
[Your Name]
---
Question:
Your friend is planning to organise a weekend trip and has asked for your suggestions.
Write a letter to your friend. In your letter:
Suggest a destination
Recommend things to do there
Give advice about preparation
-Dear Tanya,
Hey! Thanks for asking — I’ve got a few ideas that might help with planning your weekend getaway.
Honestly, I think going to Rishikesh would work really well, especially because it has a mix of adventure and relaxation. You could try river rafting during the day and join the Ganga Aarti in the evening — it’s magical! Also, you might want to consider booking your stay early, since weekends get pretty packed.
Hope that helps! Let me know what you go with — I’d love to hear how it turns out.
Take care,
Sam
✅ Formal Job Application Letter Template
Dear [Sir/ Madam],
I am writing to apply for the position of [job title], which was advertised in [source or platform]. I believe my skills and experience make me a strong candidate for this role.
I have [mention your qualifications or background briefly], and I am currently working as [current position]. Over the years, I have developed [mention 1–2 relevant skills], which I believe align well with the requirements of the job.
I am particularly interested in this opportunity because [give a reason – career growth, passion for the field, contribution to company]. I am confident that my dedication and [mention another strength – communication, problem-solving, etc.] would be an asset to your team.
I would be grateful for the opportunity to attend an interview at your convenience and Thank you for considering my application.
Yours sincerely,
[Your Full Name]
---
📌 IELTS GT Task 1 Job Application Question
You saw a job advertisement for a part-time position at a local bookstore. Write a letter to the manager. In your letter:
Describe your relevant experience and skills
Say why you want the job
Suggest how you can contribute to the store
📝 Band 8+ Sample Answer (Using Exact Template)
Dear Sir / Madam,
I am writing to apply for the position of part-time sales assistant at your bookstore, which was recently advertised on the community board. I believe my skills and experience make me a strong candidate for this role.
I have a bachelor’s degree in English Literature, and I am currently pursuing a part-time post-graduate diploma. I previously worked as a cashier at a local library and have developed excellent customer service and inventory management skills, which I believe align well with the requirements of this role.
I am particularly interested in this opportunity because I am passionate about books and enjoy interacting with readers. I am confident that my communication skills and attention to detail would be an asset to your store, especially during busy hours or book events.
I would be grateful for the opportunity to attend an interview at your convenience and Thank you for considering my application.
Yours sincerely,
Sam Curren
🔹 Formal Thank You/ Appreciation Letter
✅ Template:
Dear [Title + Surname],
I am writing to express my sincere appreciation for [state what you are thankful for]. Your [support/assistance/guidance] made a significant difference and did not go unnoticed.
I particularly valued [specific action they took or support offered], which helped me to [mention the outcome or benefit]. Your professionalism and dedication were truly commendable.
Thank you once again for your time and effort. Please let me know if I can assist in any way in the future.
Yours sincerely,
[Your Full Name]
📌 Question:
You recently attended a training course organised by your company.
Write a letter to your manager to thank them. In your letter:
- Thank them for the opportunity
- Explain how the training helped you
- Suggest how it might benefit others
📝 Sample Answer:
Dear Mr. Sharma,
I am writing to express my sincere appreciation for allowing me to attend the recent digital marketing training course. Your support made a significant difference and did not go unnoticed.
I particularly valued the hands-on sessions on SEO and content strategies, which helped me to understand modern marketing trends more effectively. These practical insights have already enhanced my approach to campaign planning, and I’ve begun applying them to our ongoing projects.
Thank you once again for your time and effort in organising such a beneficial opportunity. I believe this course could be equally valuable for our wider marketing team. If you agree, I’d be happy to host a short session to share key takeaways that could boost overall team performance.
Yours sincerely,
Sam Curren
🔹 Semi-Formal Thank You Letter
✅ Template:
Dear [Title + Surname or First Name],
I hope you’re doing well. I just wanted to say thank you for [state what they did]. I genuinely appreciated your [help/kindness/suggestion], and it really helped me a lot.
What I found most helpful was [specific point], which made it easier for me to [outcome/result]. Your support meant a lot to me.
Thanks again, and I hope I can return the favour sometime.
Best regards,
[Your Full Name]
📌 Question:
You recently borrowed some equipment from your neighbour and want to thank them.
Write a letter to express your appreciation. In your letter:
- Thank them for the equipment
- Explain how it helped you
- Offer to return the favour
📝 Sample Answer:
Dear Mr. Rakesh,
I hope you’re doing well. I just wanted to say thank you for lending me your electric drill last weekend. I genuinely appreciated your help, and it really saved me a lot of time.
What I found most helpful was how smoothly the drill worked. It made fixing the shelves in my study not only quicker but also much neater than I had expected. Your willingness to help on such short notice was really kind of you.
Thanks again, and please don’t hesitate to let me know if I can return the favour. Whether you need a hand with something around the house or just want to borrow a tool in return, I’d be more than happy to help.
Best regards,
Sam Curren
🔹 Informal Thank You Letter
✅ Template:
Dear [First Name],
Hey! Just wanted to say a big thanks for [what your friend did]. I honestly couldn’t have managed without your help.
The best part was [specific moment or help], and it really made everything easier for me. You’re seriously the best!
Let me know when we can catch up — my treat next time!
Take care,
[Your Name]
📌 Question:
Your friend helped you prepare for a job interview.
Write a letter to thank them. In your letter:
- Thank them for their help
- Explain how their advice helped
- Offer to treat them to something
📝 Sample Answer:
Dear Shruti,
Hey! Just wanted to say a massive thank you for being such a lifesaver while I was preparing for my interview. I honestly couldn’t have done it without your tips, pep talks, and mock sessions — you made everything feel so easy!
The best part was when you made me practise those tough, tricky questions that I was secretly dreading. Thanks to that, I felt way more confident walking into the room. And guess what — I actually got the job! Can you believe it? You’re a total rockstar!
I’d really love to catch up sometime soon and celebrate properly. Coffee, snacks, and my treat — non-negotiable! Just let me know when you’re free, and I’ll book us a cosy café nearby.
Thanks again for being there. You truly have a magic touch when it comes to calming nerves and boosting confidence.
Take care and speak soon,
Sam
