Letter to a Friend Considering Dropping Out of University
An IELTS Writing Task 1 General Training letter prompt. Read the scenario carefully, then respond with the required tone and three bullet points in a timed session.
20 min
2
150+ words
Question Prompt
Review the prompt carefully before you open the timed writing workspace.
A close friend of yours has recently told you that they want to drop out of their third year at university and start a business. Your friend says they have lost interest in their studies and are confident about their business idea. Write a letter to your friend. In your letter: - show empathy for their situation and feelings while urging them to consider the decision carefully - mention the realistic challenges and risks that dropping out and starting a business could bring, using specific examples - suggest alternative approaches such as starting the business after graduation or taking a leave of absence, and share your own experience or examples from people you know
How to Approach This Question
A quick, practical checklist for this specific task type.
- 1
Use an informal opener (Hi, Hey) and friendly closer (Take care, Cheers); contractions are welcome.
- 2
Cover all three bullet points in a natural conversational flow rather than strict paragraphs.
- 3
Add a personal detail or question to keep the letter warm and relational.
- 4
Aim for 160–180 words in 20 minutes; keep vocabulary everyday but accurate.
Key Topic Vocabulary
Useful terms and concepts to weave into your answer for this prompt.
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