What Do I Have to Notice in IELTS Writing Task 1

Notice the assessment priorities: format correctness, tone appropriateness, and content completeness. These notice points guide which organizational structure and templates you should use—formal, semi-formal, or informal.

This post provides the complete framework: how to organize each letter type with paragraph-by-paragraph templates and essential vocabulary for each tone level.

 

IELTS Task 1 General Training: Core Notice Points

Identifying Letter Types

Quick recognition technique:

The question will clearly tell you who the recipient is, which determines the tone you should use.

· Formal letters = written to strangers, institutions, companies (keywords: a company, the manager, the council, you do not know)

· Semi-formal letters = written to people you know but must maintain distance with (keywords: your landlord, your neighbor, your boss)

· Informal letters = written to friends or family (keywords: a friend, your family member)

Common question scenarios:

Formal letters typically involve complaining about products or services, job applications, applying for courses or memberships, and requesting official information. Semi-formal letters usually cover situations like requesting repairs from landlords, inviting neighbors to events, asking your boss for leave, or thanking colleagues for assistance. Informal letters are for inviting friends to visit, thanking family for gifts, recommending travel destinations, or sharing personal news.

Universal 4-Paragraph Structure (For All Letter Types)

Every letter follows this structure—memorize it:

1. Opening - Greeting plus stating your purpose

2. Body 1 - Address the first one or two bullet points

3. Body 2 - Address remaining bullet points

4. Closing - Polite ending plus express expectation for response

Planning strategy: Spend 2 minutes planning which bullet point goes where, 16 minutes writing, and 2 minutes checking. Never skip planning—this ensures you cover all requirements without missing anything important.

Format and Salutation Rules (Essential for All Letters)

Opening Salutation

Getting this right from the start sets the correct tone for your entire letter.

1. When a name is provided:

Formal/Semi-formal: Dear Mr. Smith, / Dear Ms. Johnson,

Informal: Dear Tom, / Hi Sarah,

2. When no name is given (formal letters only):

· Dear Sir or Madam,

Closing Sign-off

Must match your opening salutation:

1. Formal letters:

With name (Dear Mr. Smith) → Yours sincerely,

Without name (Dear Sir or Madam) → Yours faithfully,

2. Semi-formal letters:

Best regards, / Kind regards, / Warm regards,

3. Informal letters:

Best wishes, / Love, / Take care, / See you soon,

Paragraph Formatting

1. Leave one blank line between paragraphs (do not use indentation)

2. Align text to the left, never center

3. Keep salutation and sign-off on separate lines

These formatting rules make your letter easier to read and demonstrate that you understand standard letter-writing practices.

Formal Letter in IELTS Task 1

Tone and Vocabulary Requirements

The most common mistake in formal letters is mixing formal and informal language. Your tone must remain consistent throughout the entire letter.

Expressions you must avoid:

Contractions: I'm → I am, don't → do not, can't → cannot, won't → will not

Casual vocabulary:

· a lot of → numerous / a great deal of / a significant amount of

· really / very → considerably / extremely / substantially

· get → receive / obtain / acquire

· big → substantial / considerable / significant

· bad → unsatisfactory / inadequate / substandard

Exclamation marks and emotional punctuation: never use these in formal letters. They make your writing appear unprofessional and overly emotional.

Formal vocabulary bank:

Stating purpose:

· I am writing to complain about / apply for / inquire about …

· I am writing with regard to...

· I am writing in connection with...

Polite requests:

· I would be grateful if you could...

· I would appreciate it if you would...

· Could you please inform me about...

· I wonder if it would be possible to...

· Would you be kind enough to...

Expressing dissatisfaction:

· I am disappointed with...

· I find this situation unsatisfactory

· This has caused considerable inconvenience

· I am concerned about...

· I must express my dissatisfaction regarding...

Expressing expectations:

· I look forward to hearing from you

· I await your prompt response

· I trust this matter will be resolved promptly

· I would appreciate a prompt reply

· I expect to receive compensation for...

Linking words:

· Furthermore / Moreover / In addition

· However / Nevertheless / Nonetheless

· Therefore / Consequently / As a result

· Regarding / Concerning / With respect to

Opening Paragraph Templates

Your first paragraph should immediately state why you are writing. Don't waste time with unnecessary background information—get straight to the point.

Stating your purpose:

· I am writing to complain about [problem] that I experienced on [date].

· I am writing to apply for the position of [job title] advertised in [source].

· I am writing to inquire about [topic] as I am interested in [reason].

· I am writing with regard to [issue] that requires your immediate attention.

· I am writing to request information concerning [topic].

Provide background (if necessary):

Sometimes you need to give context before explaining your purpose. Keep this brief.

· I recently purchased [product] from your company on [date].

· I am currently a student at [institution] studying [subject].

· I attended [event] on [date] and would like to provide feedback.

Body Paragraph Templates

This is where you develop each bullet point from the question. Each point needs 2-3 sentences minimum.

Describing problems or situations:

· The issue I encountered was that [specific problem].

· Upon [action], I discovered that [problem].

· Unfortunately, [negative situation] occurred.

· To my disappointment, [issue] transpired.

Providing specific details:

· Specifically, [detail 1], [detail 2], and [detail 3].

· This resulted in [consequence].

· As a consequence, I was unable to [action].

· Furthermore, [additional problem] also occurred.

Making requests or suggestions:

· I would appreciate it if you could [action].

· I request that you [specific action] at your earliest convenience.

· I suggest that [solution] be implemented.

· I expect [desired outcome] to be provided.

Explaining reasons:

· This is essential because [reason].

· The reason for this request is that [explanation].

· This would be beneficial as [justification].

Closing Paragraph Templates

Your final paragraph should politely wrap up the letter and indicate what response you expect.

Polite endings:

· I look forward to hearing from you soon.

· I await your prompt response regarding this matter.

· I trust you will handle this issue appropriately.

· I would appreciate your immediate attention to this matter.

· Thank you for your time and consideration.

Stating expected actions:

· I expect a full refund within [timeframe].

· Please confirm receipt of this letter.

· I would appreciate a written response.

· I hope this matter can be resolved quickly.

Common Formal Letter Mistakes

1. Inconsistent tone: Starting formally but suddenly using "I'm really upset" or "You guys" in the middle. Once you choose formal tone, maintain it throughout.

2. Missing greetings or closings: Forgetting to write Dear Sir or Madam or Yours faithfully. These aren't optional—they're required elements.

3. Using contractions: Writing I'm, don't, or can't in formal letters. Always write the full form in formal contexts.

4. Insufficient development: Addressing each bullet point with only one sentence. Examiners want to see that you can develop ideas fully.

5. Format confusion: No blank lines between paragraphs, use colons after salutations. These formatting errors make your letter look unprofessional.

Semi-formal Letter in IELTS Task 1

Tone Balance Techniques

Semi-formal letters are the trickiest to get right because you're balancing professionalism with a degree of familiarity. Think of it as the tone you'd use with a colleague you know fairly well or a neighbor you're friendly with.

1. Acceptable contractions: I'm, don't, can't, it's, there's (basic contractions are acceptable but should not be overused)

2. Contractions to avoid: gonna, wanna, 'cause, kinda, sorta—these are too casual even for semi-formal letters

3. Vocabulary selection principles: More relaxed than formal letters, but more professional than informal letters. You're aiming for approachable professionalism.

Can be used moderately:

· a lot of (occasionally acceptable but not frequently)

· really, very (acceptable but not in every sentence)

· get (acceptable but can alternate with receive)

Still avoid:

· Overly casual expressions ("How's it going?")

· Slang ("That's cool")

· Too casual words ("stuff", "things" used repeatedly)

Opening Paragraph Templates

Unlike formal letters that get straight to business, semi-formal letters can start with a brief friendly greeting before stating your purpose.

Greeting plus purpose:

· I hope you are doing well. I am writing to ask if you could help me with [request].

· I hope this letter finds you well. I wanted to discuss [topic] with you.

· It was nice seeing you last week. I am writing regarding [issue].

· I trust you are well. I am writing to let you know about [situation].

Providing background:

When writing to someone you know, it helps to reference your shared context or history.

· As you may know, [background information].

· Since we have been [relationship] for [time], I feel comfortable asking...

· You might remember that [shared experience].

Body Paragraph Templates

Making requests (diplomatically):

Semi-formal letters require careful phrasing when making requests. You want to be polite without sounding overly stiff.

· I was wondering if you could [request].

· Would it be possible for you to [action]?

· I hope you do not mind me asking, but could you [request]?

· I would really appreciate it if you could [action].

Explaining situations:

· The reason I am asking is that [explanation].

· This is because [reason].

· Unfortunately, [problem] has occurred.

· As you can imagine, [situation].

Expressing gratitude or apology:

· I really appreciate your help with this.

· Thank you so much for understanding.

· I am sorry for any inconvenience this may cause.

· I hope this will not be too much trouble.

Offering suggestions:

· Perhaps we could [suggestion]?

· What if we [alternative solution]?

· Another option would be to [suggestion].

· I think it might be helpful if [idea].

Closing Paragraph Templates

Polite endings:

· Thanks again for your help with this.

· I really appreciate you taking the time to consider this.

· I hope to hear from you soon.

· Looking forward to your response.

Maintaining connection:

· Please let me know if you need any more information.

· Feel free to contact me if you have any questions.

· Do not hesitate to reach out if you need anything.

Informal Letter in IELTS Task 1

Casual Tone Boundaries

Writing to a friend doesn't mean you can write carelessly. You still need to demonstrate your English ability while maintaining a natural, friendly tone.

· Can be used freely:

Contractions (I'm, don't, can't, I'll), casual vocabulary (a lot of, really, very, stuff, things, great, awesome), exclamation marks (I cannot wait to see you!), and everyday expressions (How are you? / Guess what? / By the way).

· Still need to avoid:

Internet language (lol, btw, omg, thx, u), all capitals (appears to be shouting), excessive exclamation marks (maximum 3-4 per letter), profanity, and overly obscure slang the examiner may not understand.

Opening Paragraph Templates

Casual greetings:

Start your letter the way you'd actually greet a friend. Natural, warm, and genuine.

· Hi [name]! How are you doing?

· Hey [name]! I hope you are well.

· Dear [name], It has been ages since we last spoke!

· How is everything going? I hope all is well with you.

Stating your purpose:

Even in informal letters, you need to make your purpose clear early on.

· I am writing to tell you about [topic].

· I wanted to let you know that [news].

· Guess what? [exciting news]!

· I have got some great news to share with you.

· I need to ask you a favor.

Sharing feelings:

Informal letters allow you to express genuine emotion and excitement.

· I'm so excited to tell you about...

· I can't wait to share this with you!

· You will never believe what happened!

· I have been meaning to write to you about...

Body Paragraph Templates

Describing experiences:

Tell your story naturally, as if you were chatting face-to-face.

· Last week, I [experienced].

· You will not believe it, but [surprising event].

· The most amazing thing happened - [story].

· I recently [action] and it was [adjective]!

Making invitations:

· I would love it if you could come and visit me.

· Why don't you come to [place] on [date]?

· It would be great if you could join me for [event].

· Are you free to [activity] next month?

Expressing excitement or anticipation:

· I am so looking forward to [event]!

· I cannot wait to see you again!

· This is going to be so much fun!

· I am really excited about [plan]!

Seeking opinions:

· What do you think about [idea]?

· Let me know what you reckon.

· Do you have any suggestions for [topic]?

· I would love to hear your thoughts on this.

Sharing memories:

· Remember when we [shared experience]?

· That reminds me of the time we [memory].

· Just like that time when [past event].

Offering help or advice:

· If you need any help, just let me know!

· I would be happy to [offer].

· Here are some tips: [suggestions].

· You should definitely try [recommendation].

Closing Paragraph Templates

Warm farewells:

End on a friendly, upbeat note that sounds natural.

· Cannot wait to hear from you!

· Write back soon!

· Looking forward to catching up!

· Hope to see you soon!

Expressing care:

· Take care of yourself!

· Give my love to [family member].

· Say hi to [name] for me.

· Miss you lots!

Reiterating invitations or requests:

· Let me know if you can make it!

· Please say yes!

· Hope you can come!

· Do not forget to tell me!

IELTS Writing Task 1 Academic: Core Notice Points

Essential Difference Between Academic and General Training

Objective versus subjective:

Academic Task 1 requires objective description of visual data in the third person with no personal opinions. General Training involves subjective interpersonal communication in the first person, expressing personal requests or opinions. This fundamental difference affects everything from tone to vocabulary choice.

Different assessment priorities:

Academic focuses on your ability to identify main trends (Overview), select representative data points, and describe changes accurately. General Training focuses on your ability to control tone appropriately, cover all bullet points comprehensively, and follow the correct letter format.

Five Most Important Academic Task 1 Notice Points

1. Overview of the Band 7+ watershed

Your second paragraph must summarize overall trends in 2-3 sentences without specific numbers. This Overview paragraph separates Band 6 candidates from Band 7+ candidates more than any other single element. Many candidates lose marks here simply by forgetting to include it or by making it too vague.

2. Selectively report data rather than listing everything

Only describe the highest, lowest, most significant changes, and obvious trends—not every single number. Examiners want to see that you can identify what's important, not that you can read every number on a chart.

3. Trend descriptions must be accurate

Use correct verbs (increase/surge/soar) and adverbs (dramatically/gradually/slightly) to precisely describe the degree and speed of changes. The difference between "increased slightly" and "surged dramatically" is significant, and accuracy matters.

4. Comparison and contrast are essential

Use linking words like while, whereas, in contrast, and similarly to show relationships between different data sets. Academic Task 1 isn't just about describing individual data points—it's about showing how they relate to each other.

5. Tense usage must be appropriate

Choose tense based on the timeframe: past tense for historical data, future tense for predictions, present tense when no time is indicated. Consistent tense errors will lower your Grammatical Range and Accuracy score.

For an in-depth understanding of Academic Task 1 structures, format-specific templates, trend vocabulary banks, data comparison sentence patterns, and quick organization techniques, read:

How to Organize Ideas and Find Points Fast in IELTS Writing

Conclusion

The difference between Band 6 and Band 7+ is knowing what examiners look for: tone consistency, complete bullet point coverage, correct format for General Training, clear overview, strategic data selection, and precise descriptions for Academic.

Start with type-specific practice—focus on formal letters first, then semi-formal, then informal. Use the essay checker and IELTS Writing AI for immediate feedback on grammar, vocabulary, and structure.

Success isn't about talent—it's about noticing the right details and practicing until they become automatic. You have the framework. Now practice.