About this IELTS Writing Template
Memorising complete essays is a poor strategy for the IELTS exam. Instead, learning the underlying framework of a high-scoring response allows you to adapt to any prompt. This Formal Letter template for General Task 1 demonstrates exactly how to structure your ideas, connect your paragraphs logically, and deploy appropriate vocabulary to achieve a Band 7.0–7.5. Use the paragraph-by-paragraph plan below as a skeleton for your next practice draft.
Paragraph-by-Paragraph Plan
Detailed sentence formulas
Salutation & Opening
Dear Sir or Madam,
Sentence 1: Clearly state the purpose of your letter. Use formal language to express dissatisfaction with a specific service or product.
Sentence 2: Provide a brief overview of the situation, including the date and nature of the transaction.
Point 1 (Contextualizing the Issue)
Sentence 1: Describe the initial transaction or service interaction, including specific details such as the item purchased or service received.
Sentence 2: Introduce the problem encountered with the product or service.
Point 2 (Elaborating on the Negative Experience)
Sentence 1: Detail the negative aspects of the experience, focusing on the discrepancy between expectations and reality.
Sentence 2: Discuss any attempts made to resolve the issue and the response received.
Point 3 & Closing (The Call to Action)
Sentence 1: Clearly state the resolution you are seeking, such as a refund or replacement.
Sentence 2: Provide any additional information or documentation that supports your claim.
Sentence 3: Conclude with a formal closing statement, expressing your expectation for a prompt response.
Sign-off: Use a formal closing phrase and your full name.
Full Sample Response
Written by an expert IELTS examiner
Dear Sir or Madam,
I am writing to formally address my dissatisfaction with a laptop I purchased from your online store on the 12th of May.
When the package arrived last Tuesday, I immediately noticed that the box was significantly damaged. Upon opening it, I discovered that the laptop screen was cracked in the bottom left corner, rendering the device entirely unusable.
To my dismay, the exterior packaging had no fragile warning labels whatsoever. Furthermore, when I reached out to your telephone customer service team regarding this the next day, I was left on hold for over an hour before the line simply disconnected.
Under these circumstances, I am requesting an immediate replacement laptop be sent to my address, or alternatively, a full refund to my credit card. I have attached photographs of the damaged item and my digital receipt for your reference.
I anticipate your prompt response to this matter.
Yours faithfully,
David Chen
Examiner Commentary
Why this response scores highly
The sample essay effectively meets the requirements for a Band 7.0-7.5 score across all four assessment criteria.
Task Response: The writer clearly addresses the task by outlining the issue with the product, the negative experience with customer service, and the specific resolution sought. The inclusion of specific dates and details enhances the clarity and completeness of the response.
Coherence & Cohesion: The essay is well-organized, with a logical progression of ideas. Each paragraph serves a distinct purpose, and cohesive devices such as 'Furthermore' and 'Under these circumstances' are used effectively to link ideas and guide the reader through the argument.
Lexical Resource: The vocabulary is appropriate for a formal letter, with phrases like 'formally address my dissatisfaction' and 'I anticipate your prompt response' demonstrating a strong command of formal language. The writer avoids emotional language, maintaining an objective tone throughout.
Grammatical Range & Accuracy: The essay demonstrates a good range of grammatical structures, including complex sentences and passive voice. There are no grammatical errors, and the punctuation is used correctly, contributing to the overall clarity and professionalism of the letter.
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