Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 30 October 2026
The rule
From ielts.org: 'You do not need to write any addresses at the top of your letter.' The letter must still be at least 150 words, in about 20 minutes, and depending on the task it may be personal, semi-formal or formal in style.
What Task Achievement checks in a letter
The Writing key assessment criteria list five things for the General Training letter.
| Task Achievement asks you to | Band descriptor link |
|---|---|
| Clearly explain the purpose of the letter | Band 7: it presents a clear purpose |
| Fully address the three bullet-pointed requirements | Band 4: not all bullet points are presented (rating-limiting) |
| Extend these three functions appropriately and relevantly | Band 7: covered but could be more fully illustrated or extended |
| Use an appropriate format for the letter | Band 4: the format may be inappropriate (rating-limiting) |
| Consistently use a tone appropriate to the task | Band 6: there may be minor inconsistencies in tone |
Know your target? Check where you stand
Take a free AI-scored IELTS mock and see your score per skill before you book the real test. Free account, no card.
Take a free mock →Practise before you book: free IELTS mock test, IELTS reading practice, IELTS listening practice and IELTS speaking predictions.
Choosing the tone
ielts.org says the style depends on who you are writing to and how well you are supposed to know them: writing to a friend is personal; writing to a manager is semi-formal or formal (ielts.org). IDP India gives the same advice and reminds you to answer all three bullet points (IDP India).
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a date at the top of the letter?+
ielts.org mentions only that addresses are not needed. Its format pages do not ask for a date.
How should I start the letter?+
With a greeting that suits the reader. The descriptors judge whether the format and tone are appropriate to the task.
What if I miss one bullet point?+
Band 4 Task Achievement describes a letter where not all bullet points are presented, which limits the rating.
Does the Academic test have a letter?+
No. Academic Task 1 describes visual information; the letter is only in General Training.
Keep reading
Related
- IELTS General Task 1 band descriptors
- IELTS letter samples
- General Training letter question type
- All 3112 guides
Guide updated on 30 October 2026. Individual prices and policies may have earlier observation dates. Confirm current details on the linked official pages before you book or apply.
© 2026 BandLadder. Written and checked by the BandLadder team. You may quote or cite this page with credit to BandLadder and a link to it; republishing it in full needs our written permission. Content use policy