Introduction:
Writing formal letters is a common task in the IELTS Writing Task 1. A formal letter is typically written to someone you don’t know personally or to someone in authority, such as a manager, principal, or service provider.
Structure:
A formal letter should have the following structure:
(Note that items 1and 2 are optional.)
1. Address and Date:
– Start with your address in the top-right corner (optional in some cases).
– Below your address, write the date.
2. Recipient’s Address:
– Below the date, write the recipient’s address on the left-hand side.
3. Salutation:
– Use “Dear [Title] [Last Name],” if you know the recipient’s name.
– Use “Dear Sir/Madam,” if you don’t know the recipient’s name.
4. Introduction:
– State the purpose of your letter clearly in the opening paragraph.
5. Body:
– Provide detailed information in two paragraphs, the first paragraph providing necessary information regarding the request and in the second body paragraph provide your prospects of the issue).
– Use formal language and avoid contractions (I’m, they’re …).
6. Conclusion:
– Summarize your request or state what action you expect the recipient to take.
7. Closing:
– End with a formal closing phrase, such as “Yours sincerely,” if you know the recipient’s name, or “Yours faithfully,” if you don’t.
– Sign your name below the closing phrase.
Language and Tone:
– Use formal language.
– Avoid slang and contractions.
– Be polite and respectful.
– Use clear and concise sentences.
A sample writing Task 1 for an informal letter
Dear Sir/Madam,
Subject: Removal of Abandoned Car
I am writing to ask for your help with an old car that has been left on the street near my apartment block at 456 Maple Avenue. I called your office a few weeks ago to report it, but nothing has been done yet.
The car is a blue sedan with a lot of rust and flat tires. It does not have a license plate.
This car is causing problems for us. It is taking up parking space, making it harder for residents to park. It also looks very bad and makes our neighborhood look untidy. People have started to vandalize the car, which is not safe for the children who play nearby.
Please arrange to remove this car as soon as possible. This will help improve our neighborhood and make it safer.
Thank you for your attention to this issue.
Yours faithfully,
[Your Name]