In our previous articles, we discussed how to write apology, complaint and invitation letters, examining both their structures and tones. Today, we’ll shift our focus to another important type of letter — request letters.
Request letters are a popular task in IELTS and appear frequently in the test. Some request help from a friend (e.g., General Training IELTS 10 Test A Task 1), while others ask for permission from a manager (e.g., General Training IELTS 9 Test A Writing Task 1, General Training IELTS 19 Test 1 Writing Task 1) or make requests for insurance claims (e.g., General Training IELTS 9 Test B Writing Task 1). Writing a clear and respectful request letter can make a big difference, not only in IELTS exams but also in real-life situations.
In this post, we’ll explore an examiner’s sample answer from General Training IELTS 10 Test A Task 1, breaking down its structure and key elements to help you craft a strong request letter.
Writing Task
You are going to another country to study. You would like to do a part-time job while you are studying, so you want to ask a friend who lives there for some help.
Write a letter to this friend. In your letter
- give details of your study plans
- explain why you want to get a part-time job
- suggest how your friend could help you
Sample Answer
Dear Sally,
My departure date for New Zealand is drawing near, and I am busy with preparations. I have enrolled at an institution called ‘ABC English’ in Wellington, for a six-month Advanced course, full-time. It is quite expensive but I am hopeful of improving my pronunciation, especially.
To assist in covering the costs of my study, I aim to find a part-time job. Not only are the college fees rather high, but also I know that rental accommodation in the capital city will not be cheap, to say nothing of food and heating expenses! So I would very much like to arrange some temporary employment before I arrive.
I was wondering if you could ask around among your friends and colleagues to see if anyone wants a house-cleaner, gardener, or nanny for their children. I know you have a wide social network in Wellington which you could canvas for me, if you wouldn’t mind. I’d be so grateful.
I look forward to seeing you soon.
Best wishes,
Margot
Let’s break down this letter based on IELTS writing criteria and explore the key takeaways for writing an effective request letter.
Overall Analysis Based on IELTS Criteria
Key Takeaways
Here are some important points to remember when writing a request letter:
- Polite and Respectful Tone: Whether you’re writing to a friend or someone in a professional context, a respectful and polite tone is essential. Even in informal letters, maintaining politeness shows that you value the other person’s time and effort.
- Clear Purpose and Request: Clearly explain the reason for your request and make it easy for the recipient to understand. Avoid ambiguity by stating exactly what you need and why. In this example, the writer explains that they need a part-time job to cover living expenses and suggests specific roles the friend could help with.
- Personalize Your Letter: Adding personal details such as your study plans, challenges, or reasons behind the request makes your letter more genuine and engaging. By sharing your situation, you help the recipient understand your need and may encourage them to respond positively.
- Provide Suggestions for Help: Offering specific ways the recipient can help gives clarity and increases the chances of a positive outcome. Instead of making a vague request, give your friend or recipient clear ideas on how they can assist, as shown in the sample (“ask around among your friends and colleagues“).
- Friendly Closing: End your letter with a warm and friendly sign-off. In informal letters like the example above, phrases like “I look forward to seeing you soon” and “Best wishes” maintain a personal touch.
