IELTS Writing Task 1

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.

General TrainingExpert
Estimated time

20 min

Credits

2

Recommended length

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. 1

    Use an informal opener (Hi, Hey) and friendly closer (Take care, Cheers); contractions are welcome.

  2. 2

    Cover all three bullet points in a natural conversational flow rather than strict paragraphs.

  3. 3

    Add a personal detail or question to keep the letter warm and relational.

  4. 4

    Aim for 160–180 words in 20 minutes; keep vocabulary everyday but accurate.

Informal Letter·Expert

Key Topic Vocabulary

Useful terms and concepts to weave into your answer for this prompt.

dropping outentrepreneurshipuniversitycareer decisionadvice

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Official IELTS criteria focus

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