Sample IELTS Speaking Topics

Part 1 of the IELTS Speaking Moduleconsists of personal questions about you, your family, your
work, your education or other familiar topics. A categorized list of such topics and questions is given
below. You can use these sample questions to rehearse for this part of the oral interview. Make sure
you can speak correctly, clearly, and with ease and confidence in response to each question. Remember
to make your answer interesting by providing more than the most basic information. Some of these
sample questions are highly likely to appear on your exam, so review them well.

YOU
Describe yourself.
FAMILY
 Describe your family?
 Do you have a large or small family?
 How much time do you spend with your family?
 What do you like to do together as a family?
 Do you get along well with your family?
 Are people in your country generally close to their families?
WORK
 What do you do?
 What are your responsibilities?
 How many hours do you work each day?
 Do you enjoy your work?
 Is there some other kind of work you would rather do?
 If you could change your job or profession, what would you do?
 Describe the process of getting a job in your country.
 Describe the company or organization you work for.
 What is your position?
 What do you like about your job?
 What do you dislike about your job?
EDUCATION
 Describe your education.
 What kind of school did you go to as a child?
 Did you go to a co-educational school?
 What was your favourite subject as a child?
 Who was your favourite teacher?
 What is the education system like in your country?
 Do you think your country has an effective education system?
STUDIES
 What are you studying now?
 What is your area of specialization?
HOMETOWN
 Describe your hometown.
 What’s special about it?
 Where is your hometown located?
 Is it easy to travel around your hometown?
 What is it known for?
 What do people in your town do?
 What are the main industries in your hometown?
 What problems face your hometown?
 What languages are spoken in your hometown?
 What are the advantages of living in your hometown?
 What are some problems faced by your hometown?
 Compare your hometown with another city.
 What are some environmental problems faced by your hometown?
WEATHER
 What’s the weather like in your country?
 Does the weather affect your mood?
 How do rainy days make you feel?
 What’s your favourite season of the year?
 What do you like to do when it’s hot?
 What do you usually do in the winter?
 How many seasons does your country have?
HOME
 Describe your home.
 What kind of building do you live in?
 How long have you lived there?
WEDDING
 Have you ever been to a wedding?
 Whose wedding was it?
 Where was it held?
 What clothes do people wear?
 Describe the wedding ceremony.
 What sort of gifts do people buy for the bridal couple?
 What kind of clothes did the bride and groom wear?
TRAVEL
 Do you like to travel?
 What kind of places have you visited in your life?
 Which place would you really like to visit? Why?
  What’s the best place you’ve ever visited?
COMPUTERS
 Do you think computers help society?
 Do you think computers are bad for health?
 How do you think computers have changed the world?
INTERNET
 Do you use the Internet much during the day?
 What do you usually do on the Internet?
 What are some advantages of the Internet?
 What are some disadvantages?
 Do people in your country use the Internet a lot?
 Do you do any shopping on the Internet?
EMAIL
 Do you send and receive email regularly?
 Who do you usually communicate with?
 How often do you check your email?
 Do you think writing email has strengthened or weakened people’s writing skills?
 What are some disadvantages of email?
FRIEND
 Describe a friend.
 How long have you known each other?
 What do usually do together?
 What do you like the most about him / her?
 How often do you see each other?
PLACE
 Describe a place you like to go.
 Why is this place special to you?
 When did you first visit this place?
 Where is this place located?
 What language is spoken here? Do you speak this language?
SMOKING
 What do you feel about smoking in public places?
 Do you think smoking should be banned in people’s homes?
MARRIAGE
 What is the attitude toward marriage in your country?
 Do most young people plan on getting married in your country?
 What are some of the advantages of marriage?
 What are some of the disadvantages?
 Is the divorce rate high in your country?
  Do you think people should be allowed to get divorced?
HOBBIES
 Do you have any hobbies?
 What are some of your hobbies?
 When did you first develop this hobby?
 What are some of the advantages of having a hobby?
 How much time do you spend on your hobby?
FILMS
 Do you enjoy watching movies?
 What’s your favourite film?
 Who are your favourite actors?
 How often do you watch films?
SHOPPING
 Do you enjoy shopping?
 How do you feel about shopping?
 Do you like shopping on the Internet?
 Do you have any favourite stores?
 What don’t you like about shopping?
 Which is the most popular place to shop in your hometown?
SPORTS
 Do you like sports?
 Do you enjoy watching sports?
 Do you enjoy participating in any sports?
 Which sports are most popular in your country?
 What’s your favourite sport/
 When did you first become interested in sports?
 How often do you participate in sports?
 What equipment do you need for your favourite sport?
FOOD
 What are some of your favourite foods?
 What foods are popular in your country?
 What are some of the famous dishes of your country?
 Do you enjoy cooking?
FESTIVAL
 What’s the most important festival in your country?
 How do people celebrate this festival?
 What special food is associated with this festival?
 What special activities are associated with this festival?
 What do you enjoy most about this festival?
  Do you think festivals are important for a society?
TELEVISION
 Do you watch television a lot?
 What do you usually watch on television?
 How many hours of television do you usually watch?
 What are the most popular shows in your country?
 What kind of shows do you like to watch?
 What are some advantages of television?
 What are someof the disadvantages of television?
 What did you last watch on television?
 Why do you think certain TV shows are so popular?
TOURISM
 Which places would you recommend to a visitor to your country?
 Do a lot of tourists visit your country?
 What do they usually do there?
 How has tourism changed your country?
 Is your country expensive for most tourists?
 What are some famous landmarks in your country?
DAILY ROUTINE
 Describe your daily routine.
 What do you usually do?
 What do you do on the weekend?
 What is you typical weekday like?
 Does your life change much from week to week?
 Do you have any free time during the week?
YOUR COUNTRY
 Which country are you from?
 Where is this country located?
 Which part of the country do most people live in?
 What are the main industries in your country?
 Is it easy to travel around your country?
CLOTHES
 What type of clothes do you like to wear?
 What kind of clothes do people in your country usually wear?
 How important is fashion to you?
 What kind of clothes do you dislike?
 Do you think people behave differently in different kinds of clothes?
 What kind of clothes do people wear to work in your country?
 Are clothes expensive in your country?
GOING OUT
 Do you like going out or staying at home?
 What do you like to do when you go out?
 How often do you go out?
 Do people in your country go out a lot?
 How and where do people in your country usually socialize?
 What kind of entertainment is popular in your country?
GAMES
 Do you enjoy playing any games?
 What kind of games do you play?
 Do you think adults should play games?
 What do children learn from games?
 What kind of games did you play when you were a child?
 What games are popular in your country today?
 What kind of games were popular when you were young?
 Do you think mental games like chess are good for you?
 COLOURS
 Do you have a favourite colour?
 What are your country’s colours?
 Do you think colours affect our moods?
 Can you learn anything about a person from the colours he / she likes?
 Do you like the same colours now as you did when you were a child?
MUSIC
 Do you like music?
 What kind of music do you like?
 When do you usually listen to music?
 What kind of music did you like when you were younger?
 What kind of music is popular in your country?
 Do you play any musical instruments?
 Do you wish you could play any musical instruments?
 Which is your favourite instrument?
IELTS Speaking Module - Part 2 - Sample Topics
In Part 2 of the IELTS Speaking Module, you need to give a short talk, of about 1-2 minutes, on a
simple topic. The questions do not require any specific knowledge, but are based on personal
experience. You are handed a card with the topic and you have one minute to prepare your talk. You
can make notes and use these notes during your monologue. The examiner will not ask you any
questions during this part of the test, so you must know how to answer all parts of the question you are
given and speak fluently for a few minutes by yourself. Sample IELTS Speaking Module topics (for
Part 2) are given below. It is quite likely that you will be given one of these topics or something very
similar, so make sure you can speak confidently and clearly on each one.

Describe an artist or entertainer you admire.

You should say:
 Who they are and what they do
 How they became successful
 How you found out about them
 And explain why you admire them

Describe a subject you enjoyed studying at school.

You should say:
 When and where you started studying it
 What lessons were like
 What made the subject different from other subjects
 And explain why you enjoyed the subject
Describe an important choice you had to make in your life.
You should say:
 When you had this choice
 What you had to choose between
 Whether you made a good choice
 And explain how you felt when you were making this choice
Describe a job you have done.
You should say:
 How you got the job
 What the job involved
 How long the job lasted
 Describe how well you did the job
Describe an area of countryside you know and like.
You should say:
 Where it is
 What its special features are
 What you and other people do in this area
 And explain why you like it
Describe an object you particularly like.
You should say:
 What it is and what it looks like
 What it is made of
 What it is for
 And explain why it is special for you
Describe a newspaper or magazine you enjoy reading.
You should say:
 What kind of newspaper / magazine it is
 Which parts of it you read regularly
 When and where you read it
 Explain why you enjoy reading it
Describe something healthy you enjoy doing.
You should say:
 What you do
 Where you do it
 Who you do it with
 And explain why you think doing this is healthy
Describe a game or sport you enjoy playing.
You should say:
 What kind of sport it is
 Who you play it with
 Where you play it
 And explain why you enjoy playing it
Describe someone in your family who you like.
You should say:
 How this person is related to you
 What this person looks like
 What kind of person he/she is
 And explain why you like this person
Describe a museum or art gallery that you have visited.
You should say:
 Where it is
 Why you went there
 What you particularly remember about the place.
Describe an enjoyable event that you experienced when you were at school.
You should say:
 When it happened
 What was good about it
 Why you particularly remember this event.
Describe a song or piece of music you like.
You should say:
 What the song or music is
 What kind of song or music it is
 Where you first heard it
 And explain why you like it
Describe a festival that is important in your country.
You should say:
 When the festival occurs
 What you did during it
 What you like or dislike about it
 And explain why this festival is important

IELTS Speaking Samples

The following IELTS speaking samples will give you an idea of how to get a high score on Part 2 of your
IELTS speaking test. This part of the test is also known as the long turn. This is where you need to
speak by yourself for 1-2 minutes on a given topic. Make sure you cover all the points mentioned on
the card you are given. In addition, you should develop the topic into a well-structured answer. Please
look over our list of free IELTS speaking topics for parts 1 and 2. Then, familiarize yourself with the
type of topics, and practice as many of them as you can. This way you will be more comfortable,
relaxed and confident on the day of the exam.

Sample IELTS Speaking Topic 1:

Describe a game or sport you enjoy playing.
You should say:
 What kind of sport it is
 Who you play it with
 Where you play it
 and explain why you enjoy playing it
Sample IELTS Speaking Response:
I enjoy playing various kinds of brain games online. There are a number of different websites I visit on
a regular basis in order to play these games by myself. The objective of the games is to exercise
different areas of your brain so that you preserve and enhance your memory and also expand and
develop your brain capacity.
The games are of various kinds. Some enable you to practice your verbal skills. Others test logical
reasoning, spatial skills and visual memory. I can keep track of my scores, so that each time I play, my
goal is to do better than in the past – to outdo myself, so to speak. In addition, if I want, I can
compare my scores to others who play online. This aspect is intriguing, but frankly it doesn't interest
me much. I don&'t regard this as a competition with anyone else. It is something I do simply to
sharpen my mental abilities and improve myself.
In fact, one of my favorite games is supposed to be the best for brain fitness. It involves solving a
number of simple math problems using addition, subtraction, multiplication and division as quickly as
possible. I really hope these games will enable me to preserve my intellect and my memory into old
age.
Sample IELTS Speaking Topic 2:
Describe someone in your family who you like.
You should say:
 How this person is related to you
 What this person looks like
 What kind of person he/she is
 and explain why you like this person
Sample IELTS Speaking Response:
The person in my family I really like and also love is my mother. She is a very special person and I
cannot imagine what I would be without her.
Physically, my mother is petite. She is only about 5 feet tall, and weighs about 110 pounds. She has
fine, black hair and a fair complexion. One thing people often notice is that my mother always takes
pride in her appearance. Even now, at the age of 80, my mother is a well dressed, well-groomed and
elegant woman, with her fine choice of clothes and matching accessories, jewelry and shoes.
Intellectually, my mother always loves learning. Even after her busy day, she won't go to bed without
reading the newspaper. She was one of the few members of her family that completed university. She
also has many creative and cultural interests such as literature, music and dance. Through her own
enjoyment, she passed on this love of culture to all her children, including me.
Emotionally, my mother has a heart of gold. All her life, she has been ready, willing and able to help
anyone who needs anything, with a smile on her face. She is of the old school - she remembers to
wish friends and relatives on their birthdays and anniversaries, she attends their weddings, dinners and
parties, and she visits them when they're hurt, unwell or in mourning. In fact, my mother has always
been a kind soul and people of all ages love her as soon as they meet her. I think this is because she is
good-hearted from her core, and her authenticity is what everyone relates to. She has taught me the
meaning of being compassionate, loving, kind, helpful, supportive and so much more. In fact, thanks to
the unconditional love of both my wonderful parents, I feel I've been truly blessed in this lifetime.
IELTS Letter Topics -
Formal
1. Asking for Information
You live in an English speaking country and you want to do some voluntary, unpaid work in a
developing country. Write a letter to a company called Cultural Expeditions, which organizes such trips.
In your letter:
 Explain why you want to do the voluntary work.
 State what your skills and experience are.
 Indicate where you would like to volunteer and for how long.
Begin your letter as follows: Dear Sir / Madam
You should write at least 150 words. You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.
2. Applying for a Job
You have decided to apply for a job as a Spanish instructor that was advertised in the April edition of
the magazine Teaching Professional. This ad was posted by Mr John Sullivan, director of the Spanish
department at The Language Institute of Great Britain in London, England. In your letter to Mr Sullivan:
 explain why you are writing
 describe your qualifications and experience
 explain how they can contact you
Write at least 150 words. You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.
(Question taken from Kaplan IELTS 2009-2010 )
3. Making Suggestions
You eat at your college cafeteria every lunchtime. However, you think it needs some improvements.
Write a letter to the college magazine. In your letter:
 explain what you like bout the cafeteria
 say what is wrong
 suggest how it could be improved
Begin your letter as follows: Dear Sir / Madam
You should write at least 150 words. You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.
(Question taken from Instant IELTS by Guy Brook-Hart)
4. Applying for a Job
You are looking for a part-time job. Write a letter to an employment agency. In your letter:
 introduce yourself
 explain what sort of job you would like
 say what experience and skills you have
Begin your letter as follows: Dear Sir / Madam
You should write at least 150 words. You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.
(Question taken from Instant IELTS by Guy Brook-Hart)
5. Complaining to a Bank
You have received a letter from your bank, asking you to acknowledge receipt of a new bank card.
However, the card was missing from the envelope. Write a letter to the bank's head office. In your
letter:
 explain why you are writing
 express concern about the missing card
 ask them what they intend to do
Begin your letter as follows: Dear ________,
You should write at least 150 words. You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.
(Question taken from Action Plan for IELTSby Vanessa Jakeman and Clare McDowell)
6. Informing an Airline
Last Tuesday you flew from New York to Paris. When you arrived home, you discovered that you had
left your cabin bag on the plane. Write a letter to the airline. In your letter, you should explain:
 where and when you lost your bag
 what your bag looks like
 what its contents were
Begin your letter as follows: Dear Sir / Madam
You should write at least 150 words. You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.
(Question taken from Kaplan IELTS 2009-2010 )
7. Applying for a Job
You have seen an advertisement for part-time work in a hotel for three months over the summer. Write
a letter to the manager. In your letter:
 say what experience you have
 ask what the work involves
 enquire about conditions
Begin your letter as follows: Dear Sir / Madam
You should write at least 150 words. You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.
(Question taken from Action Plan for IELTSby Vanessa Jakeman and Clare McDowell)
8. Making Recommendations
You normally go shopping in the area where you live. However, you think some of the facilities for
shoppers could be improved. Write a letter to your local newspaper. In your letter:
 say in general what you like about shopping in your area
 say what is wrong with the facilities
 suggest how they can be improved
Begin your letter as follows: Dear Sir / Madam
You should write at least 150 words. You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.
(Question taken from Instant IELTS by Guy Brook-Hart)
9. Applying for a Job
You would like a temporary job working in the summer camp which runs sports and outdoor activities
for children and young people next summer. Write a letter to the organizers of the summer camp. In
your letter:
 explain what sort of job you would like to do
 describe your personality
 say what experience and skills you have
Begin your letter as follows: Dear Sir / Madam
You should write at least 150 words. You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.
(Question taken from Instant IELTS by Guy Brook-Hart)
10. Complaining about a Product
You live in a small university town. Last week, you drove to a big city about two hours away to buy a
new laptop at a good price. You worked on the laptop all week and finished writing a long assignment
that is due shortly. However, this week, the laptop doesn't even switch on. Write to the store. In your
letter:
 tell the store where you live & what happened
 explain the problem with the laptop
 state what action you would like the store to take
Begin your letter as follows: Dear ________
You should write at least 150 words. You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

IELTS Letter Topics -

Semi-Formal
1. Arranging Accommodation
You are being sent on a one month work assignment in San Francisco, California. You need a place to
stay while you are there. Write a letter to the Maury Samson Real Estate Agency. In your letter:
 explain the situation
 describe the kind of accommodation you would like
 provide the dates you will need it
Begin your letter as follows: Dear Mr Samson,
You should write at least 150 words. You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.
2. Asking for Permission
You are studying overseas. You need to return to your country before the end of the semester for a
family event. Write a letter to your supervisor. In your letter:
 Request time off
 Explain why you need to leave early
 Reassure him / her that your studies will not suffer
Begin your letter as follows: Dear Mr / Ms _______
(Question taken from Action Plan for IELTS)
3. Complaining to a Landlord
You have been living in a rental apartment for the past year. Recently a new neighbour moved in who
has loud parties several times a week. Write a letter complaining about this to the landlord. In your
letter:
 explain the situation
 describe why it bothers you
 suggest a solution
Begin your letter as follows: Dear Mr / Ms _____________,
You should write at least 150 words. You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.
4. Making a Suggestion
You exercise regularly and have been a member of many different gyms. Recently, you moved into a
new neighborhood and joined a new gym. You have noticed that people at this gym do not bother to
wipe down the machines after use and often leave dirty towels on the benches in the change rooms.
Write to Mr Koto, the manager. In your letter:
 explain who you are
 describe the problem exactly
 make suggestions to improve the gym
Begin your letter as follows: Dear Mr Koto,
You should write at least 150 words. You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.
5. Booking Accommodation
You are going to take a short holiday in Singapore and you want to rent a holiday apartment while you
are there. Write to the tourist information office. In your letter:
 explain what you need
 say when you plan to be there
 ask for information about prices
Begin your letter as follows: Dear Mr / Ms __________
You should write at least 150 words. You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.
6. Explaining to a Neighbour
You are having a graduation party next Saturday night. You have invited 50 people to celebrate at an
outdoor barbecue evening, which may continue into late into the night. Write a letter to your elderly
neighbour. In your letter:
 explain what will be happening
 offer your apologies in advance
 invite her to join the celebration
Begin your letter as follows: Dear Mr / Ms _________
You should write at least 150 words. You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.
7. Asking for permission
You are supposed to hand in a mid-term project for your psychology class by November 1st. However,
your brother is getting married in Hawaii at the same time and the entire family is traveling there for
the occasion. You would like an extension on the due date for submitting the project. Write to your
professor. In your letter:
 explain the situation
 remind the professor of your fine academic record to date
 ask for an extension of the due date
Begin your letter as follows: Dear ________
You should write at least 150 words. You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.
8. Making a Suggestion
You live in a high-rise building, which has a communal laundry room. There are many washers and
dryers there, but even more residents. Sometimes people don't come in time to empty the machines
and other residents have to wait for a washer or dryer. You think the building management should
purchase 10 extra laundry baskets and make them available for such times, so the machines can be
freed up. Write to the Property Manager, Mrs Williams. In your letter:
 explain how long you have been a resident
 describe the problem
 propose your solution
Begin your letter as follows: Dear Mrs Williams
You should write at least 150 words. You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.
9. Asking for Permission
You have received a job offer for a position you have wanted for a long time. You are expected to start
on July 1st. However, you can only start a week later due to personal reasons. Write a letter to Mr
Jackson, your new boss. In your letter:
 show your enthusiasm for the job offer
 explain the problem
 suggest what you can do
Begin your letter as follows: Dear Mr Jackson,
You should write at least 150 words. You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.
IELTS Letter Topics -
Informal
1. Inviting a friend
You are studying English at a private language school attended by many international students. You are
planning a surprise birthday party for a friend who has been feeling particularly sad and homesick.
Write to another classmate and invite him / her to the party. In your letter:
 explain the reason for the party
 give the date and time of the party
 suggest what the classmate could bring to the party
Begin your letter as follows: Dear ________
You should write at least 150 words. You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.
2. Advising a friend about a holiday
An English-speaking friend wants to spend a two-week holiday in your region and has written asking for
information and advice. Write a letter to your friend. In your letter:
 offer to find somewhere to stay
 give advice about what to do
 give information about what clothes to bring
Begin your letter as follows: Dear _______
You should write at least 150 words. You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.
(Question taken from Instant IELTS by Guy Brook-Hart)
3. Apologizing to a friend
You borrowed an important textbook from a classmate last term. You now realize your classmate had
returned home overseas and you still have the book. Write a letter to to him / her. In your letter:
 apologize for the mistake
 find out how important the book is to him / her
 say what you will do
Begin your letter as follows: Dear _____________
You should write at least 150 words. You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.
(Question taken from Action Plan for IELTSby Vanessa Jakeman and Clare McDowell)
4. Thanking a friend for a holiday
You have recently been to stay with an old friend for a few days. You hadn't seen each other for a long
time. Write a letter to the friend. In your letter:
 say how you felt about the visit
 refer to something enjoyable that you did while staying with him / her
 invite your friend to visit you
Begin your letter as follows: Dear ________
You should write at least 150 words. You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.
(Question taken from Action Plan for IELTSby Vanessa Jakeman and Clare McDowell)
5. Advising a friend about work
An English-speaking friend is coming to study in your town next year and has written asking for
information and advice. Write a letter to your friend. In your letter:
 Offer to find a place for him / her to live
 Give advice about how to find a part-time job
 Give information on where he / she can learn your language
Begin your letter as follows: Dear __________
You should write at least 150 words. You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.
(Question taken from Instant IELTS by Guy Brook-Hart)
6. Forgetting something at a friend's
You stayed at your friend's house when you participated in a conference in Australia. You left a
briefcase with important documents in your room. Write a letter to your friend. In the letter:
 thank your friend for the stay
 describe the briefcase
 ask him/her to return it to you by post
Begin your letter as follows: Dear _________
You should write at least 150 words. You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.
7. Reminding a Friend
A year ago, you lent your favorite book to a friend who you thought would enjoy it. Unfortunately, your
friend has forgotten to return it. The book has sentimental value to you as it had been presented by
your grandmother. Write a letter to your friend. In the letter:
 ask how he or she is doing
 remind him / her about the book
 explain why you need it back
Begin your letter as follows: Dear ________
You should write at least 150 words. You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.
8. Congratulating a Friend
Your best friend just had her first baby. You are currently overseas but will be returning to your
hometown in a week. Write to your friend. In your letter:
 congratulate your friend
 tell her when you will be returning home
 ask when you could drop in to meet her and the baby
Begin your letter as follows: Dear _________
You should write at least 150 words. You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.
9. Requesting Help
Your parents will be celebrating their 40th anniversary next month. You are planning a big celebration,
but you are not sure how to make the occasion really memorable. Write to your best friend, Joan, who
is a professional event planner. In your letter:
 explain why the occasion is special
 ask for her assistance
 set up a time to meet at your friend's convenience to discuss your plans
Begin your letter as follows: Dear Joan,
You should write at least 150 words. You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.
10. Admitting a Mistake
You attended an old friend's wedding in another city, about 3 hours away, a week ago. It was an
outdoor wedding held on a rainy day and you had taken along a rather expensive, elegant umbrella.
When you returned, you were tired and went straight to bed. You had a very busy week.This weekend,
when it started to rain, you realized you had the wrong umbrella. You must have taken someone else's
umbrella, which was very similar to your own, when leaving the wedding reception. Write to your friend
who got married. In your letter:
 congratulate him / her on the beautiful wedding
 explain the situation
 ask how you can return this umbrella and locate your own
Begin your letter as follows: Dear Joan __________
You should write at least 150 words. You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

Free IELTS Writing Sample Letters

In Task 1 of the IELTS General Writingsection, you must write a letter about a given situation. This
letter will be one of the following types:

Style Characteristics Opening Ending

To someone you have not met, Dear Sir / Yours

Formal
whose name you don't know Madam faithfully

Dear Mr
Semi- To someone you may or may not have met, whose last Yours
Brown,
formal name you know & use sincerely
Dear Ms Stone

Best regards
To someone you know well, whose first Dear John
Informal Warm
name you know and use Dear Anita
wishes

Each kind of letter requires a different style of writing, a specific beginning and ending salutation,
formal or informal expressions and varying types of grammatical forms. As you read through
the sample IELTS letters below, take note of how they vary depending on the level of familiarity with
the person being written to. Practice writing your own letters from sample letter topics, until you can
produce all three kinds of letters easily and quickly. Then, you will be able to complete this task
effectively and easily on the day of your IELTS exam.
Also, every General IELTS Writing Task 1 includes three bulleted points which you need to mention in
your letter. Make sure you include these three points or else you will not get high marks, no matter
how well you write.
GENERAL IELTS WRITING TASK 1 SAMPLE LETTERS

Sample Formal Letters

Free Sample IELTS Letter -

001 - Complaining to a Hotel
Below is a sample letter response to Task 1 of the General IELTS Writing Section. It is
a formal letter, which can be identified in several ways:
 the tone, which is official, business-like and serious
 the use of Dear Sir / Madam
 the absence of contractions
 the use of formal expressions (I am writing in connection with...)
 the closing salutation ( "Yours faithfully" instead of the more informal "Yours sincerely" or "Best
regards")

GENERAL WRITING TASK 1

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.
You recently stayed in a hotel in a large city. The weather was very unusual for the time of year and
the heating / cooling system in the hotel was quite inadequate.
Write a letter to the manager of the hotel. In your letter:
 give details of what went wrong
 explain what you had to do to overcome the problem at the time
 say what action you would like the manager to take
You should write at least 150 words.
You do NOT need to write your own address.
Begin your letter as follows:
Dear __________
Dear Sir / Madam
I am writing in connection with my recent stay at the Four Seasons in London, England. Unfortunately,
due to a malfunctioning heater in my room, I spent three miserable nights at your hotel from April 26
� 29, 2010.
When I arrived in London, there was an unexpected snowstorm. I understand it does not usually snow
inApril; however, when I got to my room, there was no heat. After complaining, a technician was sent
up, who informed me they had to install a new heating unit. When I asked to be moved to another
room, I was told the hotel was completely booked. Unfortunately, each night after work I returned to
discover the problem had not been rectified. Eventually, I spent three horribly uncomfortable nights,
wearing my coat to bed, wearing socks around the room and ending up with a bad cold from the
unheated room. I had no time to complain as I had to catch a flight home right after my conference.
I am shocked by this terrible service. This is not what anyone expects for $400 a night! To compensate
me for this tremendous inconvenience, I ask that you refund my money right away and offer me a free,
more comfortable stay in one of your finer suites in the future. If not, I am prepared to take my
complaint to a higher authority.
I look forward to hearing from you at the earliest,
Yours faithfully,
Mr John McFee
(236 words)

Free Sample IELTS Letter -

002 - Explaining to a Bank
Below is a sample letter response to Task 1 of the General IELTS Writing Section. It is
a formal letter, which can be identified in several ways:
 the tone, which is formal and business-like and serious
 the use of Dear Sir / Madam
 the absence of contractions
 the use of formal expressions ("Thank you kindly in advance.")
 the closing salutation ( "Yours faithfully", etc.)

GENERAL WRITING TASK 1

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.
You have received a letter from your bank, asking you to acknowledge receipt of a new bank card.
However, the card was missing from the envelope.
Write a letter to the bank's head office. In your letter:
 explain why you are writing
 express concern about the missing card
 ask them what they intend to do
Write at least 150 words.
You do NOT need to write any address.
Begin your letter as follows:
Dear __________
Dear Sir / Madam
I am writing in connection with a missing or stolen debit card from your bank. This is an urgent matter
as the bank card could prove dangerous in the hands of the wrong person.
Just yesterday, I received a letter from your bank's head office. It stated that my new bank card was
enclosed and asked me to acknowledge receipt. However, when the envelope arrived in my mailbox, it
was in a tattered state. More importantly, the debit card which was supposed to be included, was
missing. I checked and rechecked around the mailbox, but found nothing. I am concerned that
someone has gone through my mail and possibly stolen the card.
For this reason I request that you cancel the existing debit card immediately. The debit card in question
is related to my account number 64729401 at your Bay and Bloor branch. After it has been cancelled,
please arrange to send me a new one, as I need to travel overseas next week and will need to carry the
new bank card with me.
Thank you kindly in advance,
Yours faithfully,
Ms Brenda Holster
(172 words)

Free Sample IELTS Letter -

003 - Making Recommendations to a Magazine
Below is a sample letter response for Task 1 of the General IELTS Writing Section. It is
a formal letter, which can be identified in several ways:
 the tone, which is straightforward and direct
 the use of Dear Sir / Madam
 the absence of contractions
 the use of formal expressions ("I am writing in connection with...")
 the closing salutation ( "Yours faithfully", etc.)

WRITING TASK 1
You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.
You eat at your college cafeteria at lunch time every day.. However, you think it needs some
improvements. Write a letter to the college magazine. In your letter:
 explain what you like about the cafeteria
 say what is wrong with it
 suggest how it could be improved
Write at least 150 words.
Begin your letter as follows:
Dear __________
Dear Sir / Madam
I am writing in connection with our college cafeteria. Since almost every student spends some time
here every day, I believe it is in everyone's best interest to find ways to improve the quality of this
central eatery.
The cafeteria itself is modern, spacious and attractive. The newly painted murals of the seaside give the
seating area an open, airy, outdoor feeling which makes it very pleasant to eat meals there. This is
further enhanced by the large green plants and flowing water fountains.
The main problem with the cafeteria is in the food served! First of all, there is a very limited selection
available. Each day offers up only standard North American fare of hamburgers, hot dogs, chicken
nuggets and french fries. Not only is this selection unhealthy, but also uninteresting day in and day out.
We have so many international students on campus, it would be wonderful to have some curries,
burritos and falafel added to the menu. Secondly, since this is a student cafeteria, prices need to stay
low. We have unfortunately seen two price hikes in the last two years.
I am sure if we offer a wider range of foods, at better prices, the cafeteria will continue to run profitably
as more students choose to eat there.
Yours faithfully,
Daniel Bernard

Sample Semi-formal Letters

Free Sample IELTS Letter -

004 - Requesting a Letter of Reference
Below is a sample letter for Task 1 of the General IELTS Writing Section. It is a semi-
formal letter, which can be identified in several ways:
 the tone, which is a mix of politeness and warmth
 the use of the last names (Dear Mrs Sweeney)
 the absence of contractions
 the use of formal expressions (I would appreciate it if...)
 the closing salutation (Yours sincerely)

WRITING TASK 1
You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.
You are applying for a job and need a letter of reference from someone who knew you when you were
at school.
Write a letter to one of your old teachers asking for a reference. In your letter:
 say what job you have applied for
 explain why you want this job
 suggest what information the teacher should include
Write at least 150 words.
Begin your letter as follows:
Dear __________
Dear Mrs Sweeney
How are you? I hope everything is fine at the school and that you have been well. I still remember the
dynamic way in which you taught grammar to me and all of the teacher trainees in your English class.
Thanks again for those important lessons.
I am writing in connection with a letter of reference that I need for a job that I have applied for
recently. As I am due to graduate next month, I have applied for a position as an ESL teacher at a
private language school in Tokyo, Japan. You might remember my telling you how very much I looked
forward to teaching and traveling around the world. Now I have the chance. I am confident that I can
make a difference in the lives of students who need to learn English.
In the letter of reference, I would appreciate it if you could include information related to my
trustworthiness, my enthusiasm and my cross-cultural awareness while in teacher training college. As
the job is in Japan, they do not have the chance to interview me and will base their decision largely on
my letters of reference. I would need to have the letter in two weeks, by July 1st.
Thank you kindly in advance,
Yours sincerely,
Grace Smith

Free Sample IELTS Letter -

005 - Requesting Accommodation
Below is a sample letter for Task 1 of the General IELTS Writing Section. It is a semi-
formal letter, which can be identified in several ways:
 the tone, which is a mix of formality plus warmth
 the use of the last names (Dear Ms Walker)
 the absence of contractions
 the use of formal expressions (I would appreciate it if...)
 the closing salutation (Yours sincerely)

WRITING TASK 1
You are going on a short training course at a college in Sydney, Australia. You need somewhere to live
while you are there.
Write a letter to the accommodation officer at the college. In your letter:
Write a letter to the accommodation officer at the college. In your letter:
 explain your situation
 describe the accommodation you require
 say when you will need it
Write at least 150 words.
You do NOT need to write any address.
Begin your letter as follows:
Dear __________
Dear Mrs Walker
I am writing in connection with my upcoming training course at your college in Sydney, Australia. I will
be there to attend the Brain- Based Learning program at Victoria College for a period of three weeks
from July 2st to July 22st, 2010. I am hoping that you will be able to assist me with my accommodation
arrangements.
As I am slightly older than most of the other participants, I would appreciate it if you could find a
private studio apartment for me, close to the college. It would be ideal if I could walk to school each
day, but if not, I would need access to public transportation. I understand some of the events on
campus finish quite late so I would prefer not to walk in an unfamiliar neighbourhood after dark. In
terms of the apartment, all I require is a bed, a desk, a TV, an Internet connection, a kitchen and a
bathroom. My budget is around US $1000 for 3 weeks.
As I will be arriving on July 1st, I would need the apartment to be available from that night until the
day of my departure, which is July 23rd. My last night in the apartment would be July 22nd.
Please let me know if you are able to find such an apartment and if not, please suggest other suitable
arrangements. I look forward to hearing from you,
Yours sincerely,
Jane Goodwin
(236 words)

Free Sample IELTS Letter -

006 - Complaining to a Landlord
Below is a sample letter for Task 1 of the General IELTS Writing Section. It is a semi-
formal letter, which can be identified in several ways:
 the tone, which is a mix of formality plus warmth
 the use of the last names (Dear Mr Shah)
 the absence of contractions
 the use of formal expressions (I would appreciate it if...)
 the closing salutation (Yours sincerely)

WRITING TASK 1
You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.
You have been living in a rental apartment for the past year. Recently a new neighbour moved in and
has been making a lot of noise, which disturbs you.
Write a letter to the landlord. In your letter:
 explain the situation
 describe why it bothers you
 suggest a solution
Write at least 150 words.
You do NOT need to write any address.
Begin your letter as follows:
Dear __________
Dear Mr Shah
I hope you and your family are all well. I am writing in connection with a problem I have with the new
tenant, Jack, who has moved in downstairs. Unfortunately, his habits and needs appear to be quite
different from my own.
The issue is that Jack is a professional musician who plays his electric guitar late into the night. I
understand he is in a band and needs to practice; however, I think he cannot do so in a residential
building such as ours. As I mentioned to you when I signed the lease to the apartment, I am a full-time
writer who works from home. For me, it is essential to have silence so I can concentrate on my work.
With Jack playing at all hours, I have been unable to get any of my writing done, except when he is
out. In some cases, I have even been forced to leave the apartment and work at a nearby coffee shop
or library as the guitar playing was causing such a disturbance.
I would appreciate it if you could speak to Jack and ask him to turn down the volume on his guitar or
else to use headphones. I have spoken to him about it, but to no avail. I will let you know as soon as
the situation improves.
Thank you kindly in advance and please give my best regards to your family,
Yours sincerely,
Meg Snyder
(234 words)

Sample Informal Letters

Free Sample IELTS Letter -

007 - Thanking & Inviting a Friend
Below is a sample letter for Task 1 of the General IELTS Writing Section. It is an informal letter,
which can be identified in several ways:
 the tone, which is warm, easy-going and conversational
 the use of first names (Ajay, Sunita, Carol)
 the use of contractions (I've, don't, can't)
 the use of informal expressions ("Thanks", instead of "Thank you")
 the closing salutation ( "Warm wishes", instead of the more formal "Yours sincerely" or "Yours
faithfully")

WRITING TASK 1
You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.
Last month you had a holiday overseas where you stayed with some friends. They have just sent you
some photos of your holiday.
Write a letter to your friends. In your letter:
 thank them for the photos and for the holiday
 explain why you didn't write earlier
 invite them to come and stay with you
Write at least 150 words.
You do NOT need to write any address.
Begin your letter as follows:
Dear __________
Dear Ajay and Sunita,
Thanks so much for your kind letter and the lovely photos of my holiday in Mumbai. Sorry for the delay
in acknowledging your mail, but your package arrived just as I was about to leave town on a business
trip. I've just returned to Toronto today.
Looking at the photos brings back so many happy memories of the times we spent together and the
wonderful hospitality you extended to me. I felt completely pampered by both of you! You surrounded
me with warm friends, good food, amazing sights, great shopping, unforgettable cultural events and
laughter-filled evenings. I would have been lost without you. I can't thank you enough.
These good memories gave me an idea. I know you've always wanted to visit Canada. Why don't you
plan a holiday and stay with me this summer? The weather is great at that time of year, all tourist sites
are open and I could take two weeks off from work. Aside from seeing Toronto, we could drive to
Niagara Falls, Thousand Islands, Montreal, Ottawa and Quebec City. I would be thrilled if you could
make it.
Thank you both again for the beautiful holiday and the photos which are already up on my wall. Now,
I'm looking forward to hearing from you.
Warm wishes,
Carol
(216 words)

Free Sample IELTS Letter -

008 - Describing a New Job
Below is a sample letter for Task 1 of the General IELTS Writing Section. It is an informal letter,
which can be identified in several ways:
 the tone, which is warm, friendly and conversational
 the use of first names (Eva, Brenda)
 the use of contractions (you've, wasn't)
 the use of informal expressions ("Sorry, but...", "how about you?")
 the closing salutation ( "Warm wishes", instead of the more formal "Yours sincerely" or "Yours
faithfully")

WRITING TASK 1
You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.
You have recently started work in a new company.
Write a letter to an English-speaking friend. In your letter,
 explain why you changed jobs
 describe your new job
 tell him / her your other news
Write at least 150 words.
You do NOT need to write any address.
Begin your letter as follows:
Dear __________,
Dear Eva,
How are you? I hope you've been well. Sorry for having been out of touch for a short while. There have
been some changes in my life and I wanted to let you know the latest from my side.
The big news is that I have finally changed my job! Do you remember when you were here on holiday,
I always talked about how I hated my boring bank job? Well, it was clear I needed a change. So,
finally, I took a part-time TESL course and trained to be an ESL teacher. Now I'm working full-time in a
private language school. I teach General English, Business English and IELTS. Each day, I look forward
to going to work. My students come from all over the world and I love teaching them as well as
learning from them.
Aside from that, I also moved to a new apartment near the school where I work. It's small, but
downtown, so I am right in the heart of the city, instead of way out in the suburbs. Suddenly, there's
so many fun things to do, in the evenings too. I am a much happier person today because of these
recent changes.
So, how about you? I hope you'll have a chance to visit Canada again soon. In the meantime, please
write and let me know what's new with you.
Warm wishes
Kim
(226 words)
Free Sample IELTS Letter -
009 - Advising a Friend
Below is a sample letter for Task 1 of the General IELTS Writing Section. It is an informal letter,
which can be identified in several ways:
 the tone, which is very warm, personal and friendly
 the use of first names ( Julie, Irene)
 the use of contractions (I'm, you're, can't)
 the use of informal expressions (Thanks, Write soon)
 the closing salutation ( Warm wishes, instead of the more formal "Yours sincerely" or "Yours
faithfully")

WRITING TASK 1
You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.
An English-speaking friend wants to spend a two-week holiday in your region and has written asking for
information and advice. Write a letter to your friend. In your letter,
 offer to find somewhere to stay
 give advice about what to do
 give information about what clothes to bring
Write at least 150 words.
You do NOT need to write any address.
Begin your letter as follows:
Dear __________,
Dear Julie
Thanks so much for your latest letter. I'm really excited to hear that you're planning to visit Toronto. It
will give me a chance to take you around, as you did so kindly for me when I was in Amsterdam last
year.
Regarding your visit, I would be happy to help in any way possible. First, unless you really like freezing
weather, I suggest you come in the summer months of July or August. Though most hotels are
expensive at that time, we have some wonderful guest suites available in our high-rise building, for
only about $50 per night. They are fully furnished studio apartments, with a kitchen, so you can have
the option of eating in. Just let me know your dates and I can make a reservation for you.
Summer is also the time when all the tourist sites are open. We can visit Centre Island, Canada's
Wonderland, Niagara Falls, the CN Tower, the Royal Ontario Museum, the Science Centre and Thousand
Islands. The weather should be warm and comfortable, around 25 � 30 degrees Celsius, so bring your
informal summer clothes, a swimsuit and an umbrella too. We do get summer showers quite often.
I can't wait for you to come! Write soon with more details,
Warm wishes
Irene
(207 words)
IELTS Letter Writing - Useful Words & Expressions
To complete your IELTS letter writing task within 20 minutes, it is helpful to know some common
phrases and set expressions. Being able to use these will allow you to express your ideas quickly and
effectively, without thinking about each and every word. While you're learning their meaning, also
make sure you can spell them perfectly. Finally, try the quiz at the bottom of the page to see how well
you know these important expression.
Apologizing
I'm sorry about...
I am sorry that...
I'm very sorry about...
I'm very sorry for...
Please forgive me for...
I'd like to apologize for...
Please accept my apologies.
Please accept my sincere apologies. (very formal)
Asking for Help
I'd be grateful if you could...
I would be grateful if you could...
I would appreciate it if you could...
Could you please...
I was wondering of you could help me.(informal)
I would like to know...
Asking for Information
I am writing to enquire about...
I am writing to find out about...
What I am looking for is...
I would like to know about/if...
Closing
I look forward to seeing you.
I look forward to hearing from you.
I look forward to meeting you.
Complaining / expressing dissatisfaction
I'm writing to express my dissatisfaction with...
I'm writing to express my annoyance with...
I am not happy about...
...was very disappointing.
Conveying regards
Please give my best regards to your family.
Please pass on my best wishes to your wife and children.
Please give my regards to your parents.
Expressing satisfaction
I was delighted to hear that...
I was very happy to learn that...
I was thrilled to find out that...
I was glad to hear that...
...was very enjoyable.
Expressing concern / sympathy
I was sorry to hear about... (your accident/ illness)
I am writing to express my concern about...
Giving bad news
I regret to inform you that...(semi-formal)
I am sorry to tell you that...(informal)
I regret to advise you that...(formal)
I am afraid I have some bad news.(informal)
Giving good news
I am pleased to inform you that...(semi-formal)
I am delighted to tell you that...(informal)
I am happy to advise you that...(formal)
I thought you might like to know that...
Giving reasons
This is because...
This is because of...
This is due to... (formal)
This is as a result of...(formal)
This is owing to...(formal)
Making suggestions
Would it be a good idea to...
Perhaps it would be a good idea to...
Thanking
Thanks.
Thank you.
Thank you very much.
Thank you kindly.
I can't thank you enough.
No words can express my gratitude.
I am extremely grateful for...
I very much appreciate your ______ing
IELTS Writing -
Key Words & Expressions
By learning to use common phrases and set expressions, you can add variety and interest to your
writing. You will also be able to write more quickly and effectively during exams, when time is limited.
Of course, you won't need to use all of the expressions on the IELTS. Ideally, you should be
comfortable using at least three or four expressions from each group below, so they come to mind
easily during the IELTS. It is also helpful to have someone call them out so you can test your
spelling. Unfortunately, students sometimes make spelling errors even in these commonly occurring
expressions. Practice sufficiently so you don't lose points unnecessarily on something that's within your
control.
KEY WORDS for IELTS WRITING

Stating Your Opinion

In my opinion, According to me,

In my view, To me,

From my point of view, I think

It seems to me that I believe

From my perspective To my way of thinking

It appears that I suppose

I realize I understand

I imagine I feel

Giving Examples

For example, For instance,

such as In other words,

as like

that is namely

To illustrate To paraphrase
Comparing

Similar to As...as

in common also

Either...or In the same way,

Neither...nor At the same time

Just as resemble

Contrasting

However, But

On the contrary, On the other hand,

Differ from Nevertheless

Although Though

Otherwise Instead

Alternatively, Even though

Generalizing

Generally, Generally speaking,

Overall, On the whole,

In general, By and large,

It seems to me that I believe

All in all, Basically,

Essentially, As a rule,

All things considered For the most part

Expressing Certainty

Certainly, Undoubtedly,

Doubtless, No doubt,

Definitely, Of course,

Expressing Partial Agreement

More or less, To some extent,

Up to a point, Almost,

In a way, So to speak,

Showing cause

Due to Because

Because of Owing to

Showing effect

Therefore, As a result,

Consequently, For this reason,

Thus, So,

thereby Eventually,

Hence, The reason why

Marking time

First, Last

Second, Lastly,

Third, Then,

Firstly, First of all,

Secondly, Before

Thirdly, After

During While

To begin with At the same time

Simultaneously After this / that

Since Meanwhile

Afterwards Following this

When As soon as

Adding Information

Furthermore In addition

Also And

Moreover Similarly

Likewise As well as

Besides Too

Even What’s more

Expressing condition

If Whether

In case Unless

Provided that So that

Concluding

To summarize In conclusion

Lastly, Finally,

To conclude with, In short,