General Training Task 1 · Semi-formal letters
Requesting a temporary shift change
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 need to change your working hours temporarily to attend a training programme. Write a letter to your manager. Explain the programme, describe the change in hours you need, and suggest how your work could be covered.
How to approach this question
Write to someone you know in an official context, such as a manager or neighbour. Stay polite and direct without sounding either distant or overly casual.
Semi-formal letters: make clear requests and workable proposals →
Explain the training programme, its dates and a relevant benefit. Specify the exact temporary change you are asking for so the manager can consider it.
Offer a realistic plan for covering essential tasks, such as swapping an agreed shift. Do not promise a colleague’s consent if the scenario does not provide it.
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 the known recipient appropriately and state your purpose without unnecessary ceremony.
- First task point: explain the situation with specific details and a respectful, direct tone.
- Remaining task points: cover every request while reflecting the existing relationship.
- Closing: invite a response and choose a polite sign-off that is neither highly formal nor casual.
Vocabulary you can use precisely
Choose language that fits your meaning. You do not need to include every phrase.
- temporary adjustment
- A change that applies for a limited period rather than permanently.
I would like to request a temporary adjustment to my working hours.
- subject to your approval
- Only if the person with responsibility agrees.
I could complete these tasks earlier, subject to your approval.
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