Letter-Writing in IELTS | Some Useful Suggestions

Michael Zimmer Published:
April 27, 2023

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IELTS (International English Language Testing System) is one of the most prominent English Language tests in the world and is intended for non-native English speakers as proof of their English language abilities. The test is accepted worldwide and plays a pivotal role in the immigration process. The IELTS results can make a huge difference in your Express Entry Comprehensive Ranking Score (CRS). The test has 4 modules- Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. This article will guide you to effectively handle the letter writing task in the writing section of IELTS.

The Letter-writing task in brief

In the letter writing task, you will be presented a situation or a problem and will be asked to write a letter in response. The letter needs to be completed in 20 minutes with a minimum wordcount of 150 words. The letter can be formal, semi-formal, or informal. The question also contains primary ideas which helps the test taker to build the content in a logical manner and complete the task successfully. Look at the example given below:

The above example illustrates the situation, the type of letter to be written (i.e., informal), and the primary ideas that need to be incorporated into the letter.

You can successfully navigate IELTS Letter-writing

Since letter writing demands creative writing and practice, here are 4 guidelines to keep in mind while attempting Task 1 of IELTS’ writing section.

The purpose of writing the letter needs to be vivid. This can be presented directly in the introduction of the letter itself. For example, “the purpose of this letter is ….”
Ensure to use the correct tone when writing the letter. Use vocabulary that is appropriate for the type of letter being written, especially the greetings and the closing salutations. For example: in case of formal letter, “Dear sir or madam (Greeting), Yours faithfully (Closing salutation)”.
Incorporate the primary ideas given in the question. This assesses your ability to comprehend the given information in the question. Do not miss out on any bulletin points.
Format your letter The letter should be structured with an introduction, a body, and a conclusion. However, the question in Task 1 specifies that you do not need to worry about writing the to and from address since the task comes with word minimum limit of 150 words.

Here are some of our tested and proved practice suggestions

Time management plays a vital role in IELTS. Therefore, practice completing task 1 within 20 minutes.
Take time to review your written work. Check for spelling errors, use of punctuation marks, and proper sentence structure.
Avoid using spoken language in the written paper. Do not use contractions like don’t, won’t, etc., in the letter. Rather, expand the words to make them sound more formal.
Do not overlook work limit instructions. The minimum word count needs to be adhered to. Try not to go under the word limits as you will lose scores.
Practice, prepare, and strategize your writing. Get it checked by a trainer and take feedback to improve your writing skills.

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