IELTS General Writing

Writing Tasks

Introduction to IELTS General Writing

The IELTS General Writing test is designed to assess your writing skills in a practical, everyday context. It consists of two tasks that must be completed within 60 minutes.

Task 1: Letter Writing

Sample Task 1: Writing a Letter

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

You recently stayed at a hotel and had a very good experience. Write a letter to the hotel manager. In your letter:

• Describe the stay
• Explain why you enjoyed your stay
• Suggest any improvements

Write at least 150 words.

Sample Answer:

Dear Mr. Smith,

I am writing to express my appreciation for the wonderful experience I had during my recent stay at your hotel. I stayed in room 305 from July 10th to July 15th.

From the moment I arrived, I was impressed by the warm welcome from your staff. The check-in process was smooth, and the room was impeccably clean and well-appointed. The view from my window was stunning, offering a peaceful retreat after my busy days.

One of the highlights of my stay was the exceptional service provided by your team. Everyone, from the front desk to the housekeeping staff, was courteous and attentive. I also thoroughly enjoyed the breakfast buffet each morning, which offered a wide variety of delicious options.

While my stay was nearly perfect, I have a small suggestion for improvement. It would be helpful to have more information about local attractions and events available at the front desk or in the rooms.

Thank you for providing such a memorable experience. I look forward to returning to your hotel in the future.

Sincerely, Roward Skips

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Sample Task 2: Writing an Essay

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Some people believe that modern technology is making people more sociable, while others think it is making them less sociable. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

Write at least 250 words.

Sample Answer:

In today’s digital age, the impact of modern technology on social behavior is a topic of considerable debate. While some argue that technology fosters sociability, others believe it leads to social isolation. Both perspectives have valid points.

On one hand, technology has undoubtedly made it easier for people to connect. Social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter allow individuals to communicate with friends and family regardless of geographical distances. Video calling services such as Skype and Zoom enable face-to-face interactions, making it possible to maintain relationships even when separated by miles. Furthermore, online communities and forums provide a space for people with shared interests to connect and support each other, fostering a sense of belonging.

However, there are arguments that technology can also lead to decreased face-to-face interactions. The convenience of digital communication may reduce the frequency of in-person meetings, leading to weaker social bonds. Additionally, the prevalence of social media can contribute to superficial connections, where interactions are more about maintaining an online persona than genuine engagement. Excessive use of technology can also result in addiction, where individuals prioritize screen time over real-life relationships, leading to loneliness and isolation.

In my opinion, while technology has the potential to enhance sociability, it is crucial to use it mindfully. Balancing online and offline interactions is key to maintaining strong, meaningful relationships. Technology should be seen as a tool to supplement, not replace, face-to-face communication. By using technology to stay connected while also making an effort to engage in real-world social activities, we can enjoy the benefits of both worlds.

In conclusion, modern technology can make people more sociable if used appropriately, but there is a risk of social isolation if it becomes a substitute for genuine human interaction.

Sample Letter Questions for Practice

1. You are going to visit a friend in another city. Write a letter to your friend. In your letter:
   • Explain why you will be visiting.
   • Tell them what time you will arrive.
   • Describe what you would like to do during the visit.
2. You recently bought an item of clothing from an online store. When it arrived, it was damaged. Write a letter to the store. In your letter:
   • Describe the item.
   • Explain what was wrong with it.
   • Say what you want the store to do about it.
3. You have just moved to a new house and are planning a party. Write a letter to your friend. In your letter:
   • Describe your new house.
   • Explain why you are having the party.
   • Invite your friend to the party.
4. You are unhappy about a service you received in a restaurant. Write a letter to the restaurant manager. In your letter:
   • Describe the service you received.
   • Explain why you are unhappy.
   • Suggest what the manager should do to improve the service.
5. You recently visited a museum and had a great time. Write a letter to the museum director. In your letter:
   • Describe the museum you visited.
   • Explain what you liked about it.
   • Make some suggestions for improvement.
6. You are planning to take a course at a local college. Write a letter to the college administration. In your letter:
   • Ask for information about the course.
   • Describe your educational background.
   • Explain why you are interested in taking the course.
7. You stayed at a friend’s house over the weekend and left a piece of clothing there. Write a letter to your friend. In your letter:
   • Describe the clothing item.
   • Explain where you think you left it.
   • Suggest how your friend can send it back to you.
8. You are planning a vacation and would like to invite a friend to join you. Write a letter to your friend. In your letter:
   • Describe the vacation you are planning.
   • Explain why you are inviting your friend.
   • Tell your friend what they need to bring.
9. You recently attended a concert and enjoyed it very much. Write a letter to the organizers. In your letter:
   • Describe the concert you attended.
   • Explain what you liked about it.
   • Suggest some improvements for future concerts.
10. You have just started a new job and would like to introduce yourself to your colleagues. Write a letter to your colleagues. In your letter:
    • Tell them about your previous job.
    • Describe your new role.
    • Explain what you hope to achieve in your new job.

These sample questions cover a variety of scenarios and contexts, allowing you to practice writing letters in different tones and styles.

Essay Questions:

1. Education and Learning
   1. Some people believe that academic subjects such as mathematics and philosophy should be compulsory in schools, while others argue that students should have the freedom to choose the subjects they are interested in. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
   2. Many parents encourage their children to study hard in school so they can succeed in the future. However, some believe that children should also be allowed to enjoy their childhood without too much academic pressure. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
2. Technology and Society
   1. In the modern world, technology has changed the way we interact with each other. Do you think this is a positive or negative development? Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
   2. Some people think that the internet has brought people closer together, while others believe that it has driven people apart. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
3. Work and Employment
   1. In many countries, people over the age of 60 are still actively working in their chosen professions. Do you think this is a positive or negative development? Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
   2. Some people believe that job satisfaction is more important than job security, while others think that one should prioritize job security over job satisfaction. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
4. Health and Lifestyle
   1. Obesity is a growing problem in many countries, especially among children. What are the causes of this problem, and how can it be addressed? Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
   2. Some people believe that the best way to improve public health is by increasing the number of sports facilities. Others argue that this would have little effect on public health and that other measures are required. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
5. Environment
   1. Many people believe that environmental problems are too big for individuals to solve and that only governments and large organizations can make a difference. Do you agree or disagree with this opinion? Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
   2. Some people think that it is important to use taxes to fund public parks and recreation facilities, while others believe that this money should be used for more essential public services. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
6. Travel and Tourism
   1. Tourism has become one of the fastest-growing industries in the world. While tourism brings many benefits to countries, it also has negative impacts. Discuss both the positive and negative impacts of tourism on local communities.
   2. Some people believe that travel and tourism should be encouraged in their own country rather than internationally. Do you agree or disagree? Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
7. Family and Relationships
   1. Some people think that the best way to strengthen family relationships is to spend more time together. Others believe that it is more important to have good communication within the family. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
   2. In many societies, there is a growing trend of people living alone. What are the causes of this trend, and how does it affect society? Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
8. Culture and Society
   1. Some people believe that cultural traditions will be lost when they are used as money-making attractions aimed at tourists. Others argue that this is the only way to keep these traditions alive. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
   2. Many countries aim to improve their standard of living through economic development, but this may bring a loss of social values as a result. Do you think the advantages of economic development outweigh the disadvantages?

These questions are designed to test your ability to present a well-structured argument and support it with relevant examples. Good luck with your preparation!