This post is about IELTS Writing Task 1 for General training. In IELTS General Training writing task 1, there are mainly three categories of letters. They are personal, semi-official and official. Every type has its own different language. It will also have a unique introduction and a special way of announcing the end.

Here are three examples of the letters.

Personal letter: A personal letter aims at someone known personal explaining a personal or social situation.  

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

You would like to invite one of your friends from a different country on your sister’s marriage ceremony.

Now, write a letter inviting your friend. In your letter:

• tell your friend about the ceremony
• explain how much the visit would mean to you
• suggest that your house is welcoming him/her to stay for the visit

Semi-official letter: A semi-official letter aims at someone known but focuses a formal or serious situation such as a job.

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

One of your friends has a sightseeing company and would like to propose you a job.

Now, write a letter replying to your friend’s proposal. In your letter:

• explain what you know about the company
• choose whether you accept or refuse the proposal
• provide reasons for your choice

Official letter: A official letter aims at someone unknown explaining a serious or official situation.

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

You are planning to apply for a Post-grad course at a foreign university.   

Now, write a letter inquiring about the course. In your letter:

• explain the course you are interested in
• tell what you know about the institute
• provide reasons why the university should select you for the course