✉️ IELTS General Task 1: How to Write the Opening and Purpose Statement
In IELTS General Training Writing Task 1, the first impression of your letter matters. A clear and appropriate opening line that states the purpose of your letter sets the tone for your response. Whether the letter is formal, semi-formal, or informal, your opening should match the required tone and immediately address the prompt.
📌 Why the Opening Matters
- ✔️ It sets the tone (formal, informal, or semi-formal)
- ✔️ It shows the examiner that you understood the task
- ✔️ It helps organize your letter logically
🔍 Identify the Tone Before Writing
- Formal: Writing to a company, manager, landlord, or government office
- Semi-formal: Writing to someone you know in a professional context (e.g., a teacher or neighbor)
- Informal: Writing to a friend or family member
✍️ Sample Purpose Statements by Tone
📄 Formal:
- I am writing to express my dissatisfaction with the service I received at your store last week.
- I am writing to request information regarding your language courses.
- I am writing to apply for the advertised position at your company.
📄 Semi-formal:
- I’m writing to let you know that I’m moving out next month and to ask about the notice period.
- I wanted to inform you that I’ll be away from work for two weeks next month due to family matters.
📄 Informal:
- Hey! Just wanted to let you know I finally booked my flight — I’m coming to visit in June!
- I hope you’re doing great. I’m writing to invite you to my birthday party next weekend.
📑 How to Format Your Opening
- Greeting: "Dear Sir or Madam" (formal), "Dear John" (semi-formal or informal)
- Opening line: Write the purpose of the letter in the very first paragraph
✅ Do’s and Don’ts
- ✅ Do match your tone with the recipient and purpose
- ✅ Do state your purpose clearly in the first 1–2 sentences
- ❌ Don’t leave the reader guessing why you’re writing
- ❌ Don’t be too casual in formal letters (avoid “Hi” or “Hey”)
🧪 Practice Prompts
- You rented a car but it broke down during your trip. Write a letter to the rental company.
- Your friend has invited you to a holiday party, but you can’t attend. Write a letter explaining why.
- You need to inform your landlord about a repair needed in the apartment.
Start every IELTS General Training letter with a clear, well-phrased opening line that sets the tone and addresses the question directly. Practicing your openings across different tones will make your writing more confident and organized.
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