General Task 1IntermediateTarget: Band 7.0–7.5

Semi-Formal Letter Template

A structurally sound professional letter expressing mild dissatisfaction or a structured request using standard business English phrases.

Paragraph Structure

Salutation & Opening

Dear Mr. or Ms. Last Name, I am writing to you regarding Subject or Issue at Location or Work.

Open with standard business phrasing ('writing to you regarding').

Point 1 (The Problem)

I am writing to bring to your attention that Problem. This has been causing some inconvenience because Reason.

Use polite but slightly formal phrases for complaints ('bring to your attention', 'causing some inconvenience').

Point 2 (Elaborating on the Issue)

Specifically, the issue started when Detail. Furthermore, it has resulted in Negative Consequence, which is impacting my daily routine.

Use cohesive devices ('Specifically', 'Furthermore') to add detail. Explain the *impact* of the problem.

Point 3 & Closing (The Request)

I would greatly appreciate it if you could look into this matter as soon as possible. Specifically, I would like Desired Action. Kind regards, Your Name

Ask for action politely using conditional modals ('would greatly appreciate it if you could').

Useful Phrases

I am writing to you regarding...

I am writing to bring to your attention that...

This has been causing some inconvenience because...

Specifically, the issue started when...

Furthermore, it has resulted in...

which is impacting my daily routine.

I would greatly appreciate it if you could look into this matter...

Specifically, I would like...

Sample Answer

Dear Mr. Smith, I am writing to you regarding the heating system in my apartment at 4B Park View. I am writing to bring to your attention that the main radiator in the living room has completely stopped functioning. This has been causing significant inconvenience because the temperatures have dropped well below freezing recently. Specifically, the issue started two days ago when the unit began making a loud clicking sound before powering off entirely. Furthermore, it has resulted in the apartment becoming unbearably cold, which is impacting my ability to sleep and work from home comfortably. I would greatly appreciate it if you could look into this matter as soon as possible. Specifically, I would like you to arrange for a maintenance technician to inspect and repair the unit by the end of the week. Kind regards, John Evans

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Being too informal

Writing 'Hey Mr. Smith' or 'Fix this ASAP man' severely penalizes the Tone score.

Fix: Use polite, complete sentences. Avoid slang entirely.

Stating the problem without the impact

Just saying 'the heater is broken' limits vocabulary.

Fix: Always expand: 'The heater is broken, *which means the flat is freezing and I caught a cold*'.

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