Rules, comparisons and data

How do you read an IELTS General Training letter question?

Find three things before you write: the situation, who you are writing to and the three bullet points. IDP advises underlining key words and watching for 'and' and plurals, because one bullet can contain two tasks, such as when to visit and why. The greeting line tells you the tone. Plan briefly, so time is left for Task 2.
  • Guide updated · 30 October 2026
  • 3 sections
  • IELTS
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Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 30 October 2026

The parts of the task

IDP says every Task 1 question gives you a situation, who to write to and what to include as bullet points (IDP). IDP's band 5 guide uses this task: you share a college room with a student, there are problems and you find it hard to work; write to the accommodation officer (IDP).

Part of the taskWhat to take from itIn IDP's example
SituationWhy you are writingProblems sharing a college room
ReaderThe toneAccommodation officer, someone you do not know: formal
Bullet pointsThe three things to coverDescribe the situation; explain the problems and why work is hard; say what accommodation you would prefer
Greeting lineHow to beginDear Sir/Madam

Watch for 'and' and plurals

IDP says some bullet points contain more than one element. 'Recommend the best time of year to visit and why' needs both the time and the reason, and 'describe the types of accommodation' needs more than one type (IDP). IDP Canada adds that 'explain your problems' means at least two problems, and that writing about only one problem is penalised (IDP Canada).

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Plan, then write

IDP suggests highlighting the information and question words and making notes before you write (IDP), and setting yourself a time limit for Task 1 to save energy for Task 2 (IDP). ielts.org says to spend no more than 20 minutes on the letter (ielts.org).

Frequently asked questions

How many bullet points are there?+

Three. ielts.org says the task tells you what to include in the form of three bullet points.

What if a bullet point has two parts?+

Answer both. IDP says to watch for 'and' because some bullets contain more than one element.

Does the task tell me who to write to?+

Yes. IDP says the question gives you the situation, the reader and the bullet points.

How long should I plan?+

No official page sets a time. ielts.org says to spend no more than 20 minutes on the whole letter.

Keep reading

Related

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.

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