Task 1 (G.T) Structure Your Letter Logically 🧭

A well-structured letter makes it easy for the examiner to follow your ideas. It improves Coherence and Cohesion, one of the four key IELTS writing scoring criteria. For a band score of 8+, your letter must have a clear purpose, logical progression, and be organized into distinct paragraphs, each with a specific focus.

Letters that are unclear or disorganized – even with good vocabulary and grammar – will not reach top band scores because the reader struggles to follow your message.

🧩 Ideal Structure for IELTS GT Letters

A high-scoring IELTS General Training Task 1 letter should follow this 4-part structure:

📌 1. Salutation (Greeting)

This depends on the tone (formal/informal).

• Formal:
  • “Dear Sir/Madam,”
  • “Dear Mr. Ahmed,”
• Informal:
  • “Dear Ali,”
  • “Hi Sarah,”

📌 2. Opening Paragraph (Purpose of the Letter)

Clearly state why you’re writing in the first sentence.

🔹 Examples:

• Formal:
  “I am writing to express my dissatisfaction with the recent service I received at your bank.”
• Informal:
  “Just wanted to let you know about something exciting that’s happened recently!”

✅ Tip: Do not delay or hide your main purpose – be direct and clear from the start.

📌 3. Body Paragraphs (2–3 Paras)

Break your content into separate paragraphs, each focusing on one idea.
Each bullet point from the task prompt should be covered in a separate paragraph.

🔹 Example Task:
You recently moved to a new neighborhood.
Write a letter to a friend and include:

1. Explain why you moved.
2. Describe the new place.
3. Invite your friend to visit.

🔹 Ideal Body:

• Para 1: Reason for moving
• Para 2: Description of the new place
• Para 3: Invitation to visit

Use cohesive devices like “Firstly,” “In addition,” “Moreover,” “Another reason is…” to improve flow.

📌 4. Closing Paragraph & Sign-Off

Wrap up your letter politely with a final thought or request. Then sign off accordingly.

• Formal Closing Lines:
  • “I look forward to your response.”
  • “Thank you for your time and attention.”
• Informal Closing Lines:
  • “Can’t wait to catch up!”
  • “Let me know what you think!”

🖊️ Sign-Offs:

• Formal:
  • Yours sincerely,
  • Yours faithfully,
• Informal:
  • Best wishes,
  • Cheers,
  • Take care,

🛠️ Formatting and Paragraphing Tips

✅ Use clear paragraphing with a blank line between paragraphs.
✅ Each paragraph should have a single focus and flow logically from the one before.
✅ Avoid one big chunk of text – it makes it hard to follow.
✅ Keep the letter 150–180 words (minimum word count is 150).

❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid

🚫 Mixing up tones (formal greeting with informal content)
🚫 Not dividing the letter into paragraphs
🚫 Starting abruptly without an opening
🚫 Ending the letter without a proper sign-off

🔍 Sample Layout (Formal Letter)

Dear Sir/Madam,

I am writing to inquire about the availability of part-time courses in your institution.

[Paragraph 1: Explain your current situation]
[Paragraph 2: Ask about course details]
[Paragraph 3: Request for next steps or additional info]

I would appreciate your prompt response.

Yours faithfully,  
[Your Full Name]

📬 Summary

• Use a clear structure: Salutation → Purpose → Body Paragraphs → Closing
• One bullet point = One paragraph
• Ensure smooth transitions and logical flow
• Format neatly and avoid mixing ideas

A logical structure makes your letter easy to read and helps you hit high scores in Coherence & Cohesion and Task Achievement. So, think like a builder 🏗️—lay your foundation clearly and stack your ideas neatly!