IELTS General Training Letter Samples

Formal letter

Your train journey was cancelled and you arrived several hours late. Write to the train company. Explain what happened, describe the inconvenience it caused, and say what you would like the company to do.

Illustrative sample answer

Study the task response, organisation, and register; this example is not an official band score.

Dear Customer Service Manager, I am writing to complain about the cancellation of the 7:30 train from Bristol to London on 12 September. The cancellation was announced only ten minutes before departure, and staff at the station were unable to explain when the next service would leave. As a result, I arrived in London more than three hours late and missed an important appointment with a client. I had to pay for a taxi to reach the meeting, which added an unexpected expense to the disruption. I understand that services can sometimes be affected by technical problems. However, passengers should receive clear information and practical assistance when this happens. Please explain why the train was cancelled and consider refunding my ticket and the reasonable taxi cost. I have attached copies of both receipts. I look forward to hearing from you within the next two weeks. Yours faithfully, Jordan Lee

Semi-formal letter

You recently moved into an apartment and are having a problem with noise from another resident. Write to the building manager. Describe the problem, explain how it affects you, and say what you would like the manager to do.

Illustrative sample answer

Study the task response, organisation, and register; this example is not an official band score.

Dear Ms Patel, I am writing about the noise coming from the apartment above mine. For the past two weeks, loud music and the sound of furniture being moved have continued until after midnight on most weekdays. This has made it difficult for me to sleep before work. I have spoken briefly with the upstairs resident, who said the noise would stop, but the problem has continued. I have also noticed that it is loudest near the bedroom in my apartment. I would appreciate your help in resolving the matter. Could you please remind residents of the building's quiet hours, or contact the tenant directly if the noise continues? I am happy to discuss this with you at a convenient time and can keep a record of when it happens. Thank you for your understanding. Yours sincerely, Alex Morgan

Informal letter

Your friend let you stay in their home while you were visiting their city. Write to your friend. Thank them, explain what you enjoyed about the visit, and invite them to visit you.

Illustrative sample answer

Study the task response, organisation, and register; this example is not an official band score.

Dear Maya, Thanks so much for letting me stay at your place last weekend. It made the trip much easier, and it was lovely to have time to catch up properly instead of rushing between cafés. I especially enjoyed the walk along the river on Saturday. I would never have found that quiet route by myself, and the little bookshop you showed me was exactly the sort of place I like. Your city felt much more relaxed once I saw it through your eyes. You should come and stay with me next month if you are free. There is a new exhibition at the museum that I think you would enjoy, and I can take you to the market near my flat. We could also try the Italian restaurant I mentioned; I have heard their weekend menu is excellent. Let me know which dates might work, and I will keep the spare room free. Thanks again for being such a generous host. Best wishes, Sam