IELTS Informal Letters (General Training Task 1)

An informal letter goes to a friend or family member, so the tone is friendly and relaxed. You can use contractions and warm, everyday language, but you still need to cover all three bullet points clearly.

How to structure it

  1. Greeting

    Use a first name, for example "Dear Anna" or "Hi Tom".

  2. Opening

    Start warmly, for example "It was great to hear from you.", then give your reason for writing.

  3. Body

    Cover the three bullet points in a natural, chatty way.

  4. Closing and sign-off

    End with a warm line, then sign off "Best wishes", "Take care", or "Love" for close family.

Common mistakes that cost marks

  • Being too formal, such as opening "Dear Sir or Madam" to a friend, which breaks the tone.
  • Forgetting the letter still needs a clear structure and all three bullet points.
  • Rambling without actually covering what the task asked.
  • Ending with a formal sign-off like "Yours faithfully".

Informal letter practice questions (6)

  • invitation You are celebrating an important occasion and would like a friend who lives in another city to attend. Write a letter to your friend. In your letter:
    • explain what you are celebrating and when
    • give details of the arrangements
    • encourage your friend to come and offer to help
  • request You are going away on holiday and need someone to look after your home and pet while you are gone. Write a letter to a friend. In your letter:
    • explain where you are going and for how long
    • describe what you need your friend to do
    • say how you will thank them for their help
  • apology You were unable to attend an event that a friend had invited you to, and you want to explain and apologise. Write a letter to your friend. In your letter:
    • apologise for not attending the event
    • explain why you could not be there
    • suggest a way to make it up to your friend
  • giving advice A friend is planning to visit your city for the first time and has asked you for some advice. Write a letter to your friend. In your letter:
    • say what your friend should see and do
    • advise them on the best time to visit
    • explain how they can get around the city
  • thank you A friend recently sent you a gift for a special occasion. Write a letter to thank them. In your letter:
    • thank your friend for the gift
    • explain why you like it so much
    • tell them your news since you last spoke
  • invitation You have recently moved to a new city and want to tell a friend about your new life and invite them to visit. Write a letter to your friend. In your letter:
    • describe your new city and home
    • explain what your life is like now
    • invite your friend to come and stay

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Common questions

Can I use contractions and casual language?

Yes. Informal letters go to friends and family, so contractions, friendly openers, and warm sign-offs are expected. Just keep it clear and cover all three bullets.

How should I start and end an informal letter?

Start with "Dear" or "Hi" and a first name, and end with a warm sign-off like "Best wishes", "Take care", or "Love" for close family.