General Training Task 1 · Informal letters
A friend is visiting
An original IELTS practice question with a planning route and a sample answer to learn from.
Aim for at least 150 words in about 20 minutes. Suggested practice level: foundation, not a predicted band.
Your writing task
A friend from another country is coming to visit your area. Write a letter suggesting where they should stay, describing activities you can do together, and giving advice about what to bring.
How to approach this question
Cover all three task points with specific details and a natural, friendly tone.
Informal letters: develop friendly apologies and practical requests →
Suggest a suitable place to stay and explain why it suits your friend. Connect the accommodation to transport, budget or the activities you will share.
Offer two specific activities and packing advice that fits them. Keep the tone friendly and include a weather alternative if useful.
These are possible directions, not required opinions or facts to memorise. Develop your own response and check every claim against the task.
A possible plan
- Opening: greet your friend naturally and explain why you are writing.
- First task point: give a useful detail or personal suggestion.
- Remaining task points: address every request with concrete details and a friendly tone.
- Closing: invite a reply or mention your next contact, then use a friendly sign-off.
Vocabulary you can use precisely
Choose language that fits your meaning. You do not need to include every phrase.
- catch up
- Talk about what has happened since you last met.
It will be lovely to catch up over dinner when you arrive.
- make yourself at home
- Feel relaxed and welcome in someone else's home.
You can stay in my spare room and make yourself at home.
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