Task 1 (G.T) Structure Your Letter Like a Pro 🧱📬

🧠 Why Structure Matters

Your letter should not just have good language — it must be well-organized, logical, and easy to follow. The IELTS examiner is looking for a clear structure that shows purpose, coherence, and completeness.

💡 A well-structured letter ensures that all bullet points in the prompt are addressed, and your ideas are presented in a logical flow.

🔍 The Perfect 4-Paragraph Format

Let’s break it down into a winning 4-paragraph template that works for nearly every Task 1 prompt:

📍 Paragraph 1 – Opening / Purpose

• Start with a greeting (appropriate tone).
• State the reason for writing (purpose of the letter).

Examples:

• Formal: “I am writing to inform you about a problem I have experienced with my recent purchase.”
• Informal: “Just wanted to tell you what happened last week — you won’t believe it!”

📝 Paragraph 2 – First Bullet Point

• Address the first task given in the prompt.
• Give relevant details clearly and concisely.

✉️ Paragraph 3 – Second & Third Bullet Points

• Cover the remaining bullet points here.
• Combine them if they’re related, or separate into short sections.
• Use connectors for flow: Also, Moreover, In addition, However, As a result, etc.

✅ Paragraph 4 – Closing & Action

• End with a polite request, suggestion, or closing line depending on the prompt.
• Finish with the right sign-off.

Examples:

• Formal: “I look forward to your response. Yours sincerely, Ali Khan.”
• Informal: “Hope to hear back from you soon! Cheers, Ahmad.”

🧱 Visual Breakdown: Structure at a Glance

🚫 Common Structural Mistakes

• Mixing up bullet points.
• Skipping one bullet point altogether (major band dropper!).
• Writing in one long paragraph or two very short ones.
• Having a body without a clear beginning or ending.

💪 Mini Task for Practice

Prompt:
You are applying for a part-time job at a bookstore. Write a letter to the manager. In your letter:

1. Introduce yourself
2. Explain why you want the job
3. Describe your availability

Challenge:
🖊️ Draft the first sentence of each paragraph using the 4-paragraph format. This helps you outline and get into the habit of structuring correctly!

🧠 Pro Tip

💬 Use transition words at the beginning of each paragraph:

• To begin with…
• Furthermore…
• Regarding…
• In conclusion…

They help guide the examiner through your thoughts and boost Coherence & Cohesion, a key scoring area!

🚀 Final Thoughts

✔️ Stick to a 4-paragraph format
✔️ Address all bullet points clearly
✔️ Maintain a logical progression
✔️ Use linking words to create flow

📌 IELTS General Training Writing Task 1 Sample Letter according to this Structure

🟨 Prompt:
You are applying for a part-time job at a bookstore. Write a letter to the manager. In your letter:

1. Introduce yourself
2. Explain why you want the job
3. Describe your availability

💌 Sample Answer:

Dear Mr. Reynolds,

I am writing to express my interest in the part-time position recently advertised at your bookstore, Readers’ Haven. My name is Sarah Malik, and I am currently a third-year English Literature student at the University of Sydney.

As someone who has been passionate about books from an early age, working in a bookstore feels like a natural fit. Not only does it align perfectly with my academic background, but it also gives me the opportunity to share my love for reading with others. I have previous experience working in a local library, which has equipped me with excellent customer service and organizational skills.

Regarding my availability, I am free during weekday afternoons from 2 pm to 7 pm, and on weekends throughout the day. My university schedule is quite flexible, and I am more than willing to adjust my hours during exam breaks or holiday periods if needed.

Thank you for considering my application. I would welcome the chance to discuss my suitability in person and am happy to attend an interview at your convenience.

Yours sincerely,
X.Y.Z

🔍 Why This Letter Scores Band 9

A well-structured letter doesn’t just get read — it gets remembered (and rewarded with high bands!). 🏆📄