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General Task 1BeginnerTarget Band 5.5–6.0

Semi-Formal Letter Template

Basic, polite professional language used to state a problem to a landlord or manager without overly complex grammar.

Paragraph Structure

Salutation & Opening

Dear Mr. or Ms. Last Name, I am writing to talk about my Apartment or Job.

Start with 'Dear Name' if you know them. State the topic simply.

Point 1 (The Problem)

I have a problem with Subject. It is Description and I need help.

Explain what is wrong using simple present or past tense.

Point 2 (The Details)

Last week, Event happened. Because of this, I cannot Action.

Give one specific example or detail about how the problem affects you.

Point 3 & Closing (The Request)

Can you please fix this by next week? It is very difficult for me. Thank you for your help. Best regards, Your Name

Ask for a solution directly. Sign off with 'Best regards'.

Useful Phrases

I am writing to talk about...
I have a problem with...
and I need help.
Because of this, I cannot...
Can you please fix this by...?
It is very difficult for me.
Thank you for your help.

Sample Band 9 Answer

Dear Mr. Smith, I am writing to talk about my apartment at 4B Park View. I have a big problem with the heating system in my living room. It stopped working completely two days ago and I really need your help to fix it. Last week, it was making a strange noise, but now it is totally broken. Because of this, my apartment is very cold at night, and I cannot sleep well. I had to buy an extra blanket yesterday. Can you please send someone to fix this by tomorrow? It is very difficult for me to live here without heating in the winter. Thank you for your help. Best regards, John Evans

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Being too aggressive

Writing 'Fix this immediately or I will call the police!' is completely inappropriate for a standard semi-formal request.

Fix: Keep the tone calm but firm: 'I would appreciate it if you could fix this soon'.

Using 'Dear Friend' for a landlord

A manager or landlord is a business relationship, not a friendship.

Fix: Always use 'Dear Mr. or Ms. Last Name' for semi-formal letters.

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Semi-Formal Letter (Beginner) - IELTS Writing Template