General Training Task 1 · Informal letters
Asking a friend for moving help
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: intermediate, not a predicted band.
Your writing task
You are moving to a new home and would like a friend to help you. Write a letter to your friend. Explain when you are moving, describe the help you need, and say how you will thank your friend.
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 →
Give the exact day and approximate time, then explain why your friend is the right person to ask. Describe only the practical help needed, such as carrying bulky items or driving one load.
Offer a specific, friendly thank-you that fits the relationship, such as dinner after the move. Make it easy for your friend to decline or suggest a shorter time.
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.
- lend me a hand
- Help someone with a practical task.
Would you be able to lend me a hand for an hour on Saturday morning?
- make it up to you
- Do something kind in return for another person's help or inconvenience.
I will make it up to you with dinner at the new flat once the boxes are unpacked.
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