In IELTS General Task 1, you have to write a letter that could be formal, semi-formal or informal.
One of the biggest mistakes test candidates make is answering a plural bullet point in the singular. In other words, if the question asks you to describe advantages – you must describe at least two!
The model letter below tackles this kind of question. Note how the writer mentions more than one advantage.
Also, note and learn any new vocabulary!
Before you read the question, the writer used the following template for the letter…
Salutation
1st Paragraph – answering the first bullet point
2nd Paragraph – answering the second bullet point
3rd Paragraph – answering the third bullet point
Sign off
The Question
You should spend about 20 minutes on this task. Write at least 150 words.
Your friend is considering learning how to drive and has asked you for advice.
Write a letter to this friend. In your letter…
– describe the advantages of learning to drive
– recommend a driving instructor
– give some extra advice
You do NOT need to write any addresses.
Begin your letter as follows:
Dear …………… ,
The Answer
Hi Vijay,
It’s great to hear from you, and I’m really pleased you’re thinking about learning to drive.
You’ll soon have so much mobility! Being able to drive opens up a world of opportunities; you’ll be able to take that trip to the Highlands you’ve been talking about. It’s probably a little safer to travel by car now too, since public transport can be a bit risky in the pandemic.
I can strongly recommend my old driving instructor, Chris Evans. He’s the ‘tough but fair’ type; if you don’t execute a manoeuvre flawlessly, he’ll make you do it again – and again, and again, until you’ve practised it so often you’re sure to pass your test with flying colours.
I’d recommend taking a course of lessons over a relatively short space of time – a month or two, perhaps – and then take your test as soon as possible. That way, you won’t forget anything in gaps between lessons, and it’s all in your head on test day.
Soon you’ll be out on the roads!
Take care,
Jim
If you would like to answer the same question and receive feedback, purchase one of our Writing Correction Packages.
If you would like to watch a video about how to write IELTS General Task 1 letters, visit this page.