Rules, comparisons and data

What should the first sentence of an IELTS letter say?

Why you are writing. IDP says the purpose must be clear in the opening paragraph and respond directly to the situation in the question, and the key assessment criteria list 'clearly explain the purpose of the letter' under Task Achievement. Refer to the situation in your own words rather than copying it, and keep the first bullet point for the body.
  • 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

What examiners look for

IDP lists 'purpose of the letter is presented' first among the features examiners check, and says the reason for writing should be clearly presented in the opening paragraph (IDP). The key assessment criteria put it first under Task Achievement for the letter.

Four rules from IDP

Each comes from IDP's General Training guides (IDP; IDP Australia; IDP).

RuleWhy
State the purpose at the startThe reader should not have to work out why you are writing
Respond to the situation in the questionThe purpose must match the task, not a different problem
Save the first bullet point for the bodyIDP suggests not using the first bullet point in the purpose sentence
Do not copy the words of the questionRefer to the situation in your own words

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Formal and informal openings

IDP's formal examples begin 'I am writing to...' and name the reason, such as expressing dissatisfaction with a product and asking for a refund. Its informal example reacts to a friend's news and says, in the same sentence, that you are writing to give travel advice (IDP). On copying task wording, see do copied words count?

Frequently asked questions

Can I start with 'I am writing to'?+

Yes. IDP's formal example openings use that pattern to state the purpose.

Should I copy the situation from the question?+

No. IDP says refer to the situation but do not copy the words in the question.

Should the first bullet point go in my opening sentence?+

IDP suggests keeping the first bullet point for the body of the letter.

Does an informal letter need a purpose too?+

Yes. IDP's informal model states its purpose, giving travel advice, in the first sentence.

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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