How to Write an Invitation Letter – IELTS Writing Task 1

In the IELTS Writing Task 1 General Training test, the Invitation Letter format can be challenging for many test takers. However, with a clear structure and appropriate language, you can approach this task confidently and effectively. This guide will provide step-by-step instructions on how to write a complete invitation letter, including identifying the purpose, choosing the right tone, and applying suitable sentence structures to help you achieve a high band score in the IELTS exam.

In IELTS Writing Task 1, the invitation letter requires you to write a letter inviting someone to a specific event or special occasion. Your response must be at least 150 words and completed within 20 minutes.

There are two common tones used in invitation letters:

Formal tone

Used when writing to someone you do not know well or someone in a professional or higher-status role. In this case, use polite and formal language, and avoid contractions or casual expressions.

Sample prompt – Formal tone

You are interested in applying for a scholarship program to study at a foreign university. Write a letter to inquire about the course. In your letter:

• Explain which course you are interested in

• Tell what you know about the university

• Explain why you should receive the scholarship

Semi-formal tone

Used when writing to friends or family members. This tone is more relaxed and can include contractions or friendly expressions, but should still maintain a respectful tone.

Sample prompt – Semi-formal tone

You are organizing a family party.

Write a letter to your friend inviting him/her to attend the party. In your letter:

• Explain why you are organizing the party

• Say why you want your friend to come

• Describe what you are planning to do

Step 1: Analyze the task requirements

Make sure your letter clearly expresses the purpose of the invitation and includes key details such as:

• Event name

• Time and location

• Planned activities

Step 2: Choose the appropriate tone

Decide whether to use a formal or semi-formal tone based on the recipient.

Step 3: Outline your letter

Your letter should have a clear structure with the following sections:

• Greeting

• Introduction (reason for writing)

• Body (event details and invitation)

• Conclusion (expectation and sign-off)

Greeting

• Formal: Dear Mr./Ms./Dr. [Last name], Dear Sir or Madam

• Semi-formal: Dear [First name],

Introduction

• I am writing to invite you to [event/reason]

• We would be honoured to have you join us for [event]

• You are invited to attend [special occasion]

• It would be a pleasure if you could attend [event]

Body

Event details

• The meeting will be held at [location]

• The seminar will commence at [start time] and conclude by [end time]

• I am hosting a [type of event] at [place and time]

Activities

• The agenda includes [list of activities]

• The evening promises fun games, delicious food, and a dance floor

• It is going to be a great time with lots of [entertainment]

Reason for inviting the recipient

• Your presence would mean a lot to us

• Your participation will add value and encourage engagement

• We would be delighted to see you there

Conclusion

Expectation and confirmation

• We look forward to welcoming you

• Kindly RSVP by [date] to help us finalize arrangements

• Please let us know if you will be able to attend

Sign-off

• Formal: Yours sincerely, Kind regards, Respectfully

• Semi-formal: Best wishes, Hope to see you soon, Take care

You are organizing a family party.

Write a letter to your friend inviting him/her to attend the party. In your letter:

• Explain why you are organizing the party.

• Say why you want your friend to come to the party.

• Describe what you are planning to do.

Sample letter:

Dear Julie,

I have some exciting news to share with you - Helen is getting engaged! We’re having a big party and I am writing to invite you along. It’s on Saturday 25 July at our place starting at 2 p.m.

Can you believe it, our little girl all grown up and getting married? Josh, her fiancé, is a lovely man and will make a wonderful husband. Helen will be so thrilled to introduce you to him. She often says how much she misses you since you moved away. You were like an aunt to her when she was young and gave her so much good advice that she would never listen to coming from her parents.

Anyway, we’ve decided on a hog roast for the party and have booked a jazz band to play during the afternoon and again in the evening. Hopefully, the weather will be fine, and we can be outdoors for most of the time, but we will have a marquee in case of rain and for when it gets cooler later in the day.

We would be absolutely thrilled to have you with us in July. 

All the best,

Melissa

• Not meeting the word count Always write at least 150 words. Short responses may lose points.

• Going off-topic Carefully read the task to ensure you include all required information. Missing any key detail (such as time or location) can negatively impact your score.

• Using inappropriate language Even in semi-formal letters, avoid slang or overly casual phrases. Maintain clarity, respect, and purpose throughout.

Master Invitation Letters with IDP IELTS

To write an effective invitation letter, you need to express your purpose clearly while maintaining appropriate tone and language. By practicing diverse sentence structures and adapting your vocabulary to suit the situation, you will improve both the clarity and coherence of your writing.

IDP provides both IELTS Academic and IELTS General Training test formats, with flexible test dates and the option to choose your Speaking test time.

Register for your IELTS test with IDP today and move one step closer to achieving your target score.