How to Write an Informal IELTS Letter: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction

Richard | Love to Learn English

In the IELTS General Training Writing Task 1, you may be required to write an informal letter. This guide will help you structure your response, use natural and conversational language, and improve your grammar and vocabulary to achieve a high band score.

By the end of this guide, you will:

• Learn how to identify an informal letter.

• Understand how to plan and structure your response.

• Discover useful phrases and vocabulary.

• Get a checklist to ensure your letter meets all requirements.

• Receive tips to enhance your grammar and writing skills.

Identifying an Informal Letter

Before writing, determine whether the letter is formal, semi-formal, or informal. Informal letters are written to friends, family, or close acquaintances and have a more relaxed tone.

Example Situations for Informal Letters:

• Writing to a friend about a recent trip

• Inviting a family member to visit

• Thanking a friend for a favor

• Apologizing for missing a social event

• Congratulating a friend on an achievement

Key Differences Between Formal and Informal Letters

Planning Your Letter

A well-structured letter is essential for clarity and coherence. Follow this format:

1. Salutation:

• "Hey [Name],"

• "Hi [Name],"

2. Introduction (Reason for Writing):

• Start with a friendly opening. Example: "Hope you’re doing well!" or "It’s been a while since we last talked."

3. Body Paragraphs: Each paragraph should cover one of the bullet points given in the task.

• Paragraph 1: Explain the situation.

• Paragraph 2: Provide details relevant to the question.

• Paragraph 3: End on a friendly note and request a response if needed.

4. Conclusion (Friendly Closing Statement):

• Example: "Looking forward to catching up soon!"

5. Sign-off:

• "Take care,"

• "Cheers,"

• "See you soon,"

Useful Vocabulary and Phrases

Using appropriate language enhances your score. Here are some useful phrases for different sections of an informal letter:

Opening Statements:

• "Hope you're doing great!"

• "It's been ages since we last caught up."

• "I just wanted to drop you a quick note to say…"

Making Requests or Suggestions:

• "How about we meet up next weekend?"

• "Would you mind helping me with…?"

• "Let me know what you think!"

Expressing Apologies:

• "Sorry for not getting back to you sooner."

• "I feel awful about missing your party."

• "Hope you’re not too mad at me!"

Closing Statements:

• "Can’t wait to hear from you!"

• "Let’s catch up soon!"

• "Take care and talk soon!"

IELTS Informal Letter Writing Checklist

Before submitting your letter, ask yourself the following:

1. Have I read and understood the instructions?

2. Is my letter appropriately informal?

3. Have I planned my response?

4. Did I cover all three bullet points?

5. Have I used natural and conversational language?

6. Is my letter structured in paragraphs?

7. Are my ideas clear and easy to understand?

8. Did I vary my vocabulary and avoid repetition?

9. Have I checked for grammar and spelling errors?

10. Is my letter within the 150-200 word limit?

Sample Band 9 Informal Letter

Task:

You have recently moved to a new city and want to invite your friend to visit. Write a letter to your friend. In your letter:

• Describe your new home.

• Explain what they can do in your city.

• Suggest when they should come and visit.

Hey Sarah,

Hope you’re doing great! It’s been way too long since we last met, and I really miss spending time with you. We need to catch up properly!

I recently moved to San Diego, and I have to say, it’s absolutely incredible! My apartment is super cozy, and the best part? It has a balcony with a breathtaking view of the beach. The sunsets here are stunning—you’d love them! The weather is perfect almost every day, with a cool ocean breeze and endless sunshine.

There’s so much to do here! We could spend the mornings at the beach, check out some amazing cafés in the afternoon, and even go hiking at Torrey Pines. Plus, the food scene is incredible—there are so many taco spots that I know you’d go crazy for!

You should definitely come visit next month! The weather will be ideal, and we’ll have an amazing time exploring the city together. Let me know what you think—I’d love to plan something fun!

Can’t wait to see you!

Take care,
Emma

Conclusion

Writing an informal letter for IELTS is all about sounding natural, warm, and engaging. By following the structure outlined in this guide, using appropriate informal language, and checking your grammar, you can achieve a higher band score.

Practice writing letters to different prompts and review them using the checklist. The more you practice, the more confident you’ll become!

Happy writing!