General Writing Course: Task 1

IELTS Writing Task 1: Fixed Phrases for Letters

Master the essential phrases that will help you achieve a high band score in IELTS letter writing tasks.

Types of Fixed Phrases

To start your letter:

  • Formal: “I am writing to express my concern about…”, “I am writing to inquire about…”
  • Semi-formal: “I hope this letter finds you well.”, “I just wanted to let you know that…”
  • Informal: “How have you been?”, “It’s been a while since we last spoke!”

To explain your purpose:

  • Formal: “I would appreciate it if you could…”, “I hope that you will take action soon.”
  • Semi-formal: “I was wondering if you could help me with…”, “Hope I am not causing you too much inconvenience.”
  • Informal: “I just wanted to ask you about…”, “Do you think you could…?”

To end your letter:

  • Formal: “I look forward to your response.”, “Yours faithfully,” (unknown name), “Yours sincerely,” (known name)
  • Semi-formal: “Best regards,”, “I hope to hear from you soon.”
  • Informal: “Lots of love,”, “Best wishes,”, “Hope to catch up with you soon!”

Letter Examples with Fixed Phrases

Formal Complaint Letter

Click to see example

Dear Sir/Madam,

I am writing to express my dissatisfaction with my recent stay at your hotel. I encountered several issues including poor room cleanliness.

I would appreciate it if you could look into these matters. I hope that you will address these concerns promptly.

I look forward to your response.

Yours faithfully,
John Doe

Semi-Formal Request Letter

Click to see example

Dear Mr. Smith,

I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to kindly request a reference letter as I’m moving to a new city.

I was wondering if you could provide a brief letter about my reliability as a tenant. Hope I am not causing too much inconvenience.

I hope to hear from you soon.

Best regards,
Jane Doe

Informal Letter

Click to see example

Hi Sarah,

How have you been? It’s been a while since we last spoke!

I’ve been busy with work, but I’d love to hear about you. Do you think you could message me when free?

Hope to catch up with you soon!

Lots of love,
Mary

Match the Phrases to Their Types

Phrases

I am writing to inquire about…
Hope to catch up with you soon!
I was wondering if you could…
Yours sincerely,

Categories

Opening Phrase
Middle Phrase
Closing Phrase

Test Your Knowledge

1. Which opening phrase would be most appropriate for a formal complaint letter?

2. What is the correct formal closing when you know the recipient’s name?

3. Which phrase would be inappropriate in a formal letter?

4. What type of phrase is “I was wondering if you could help me with…”?

5. Which of these is NOT a fixed phrase category?

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