Band 7.5 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.5 · Cambridge IELTS 19 · 2026-09-24

IELTS Writing Task 1 question

You would like to reduce your working hours in order to study part time.

Write a letter to your boss. In your letter

• explain why you want to reduce your working hours
• say which hours you would like to work
• describe how your part-time studies would benefit your employer

You do NOT need to write any addresses.

Begin your letter as follows:

Dear ....................................,

Student answer (Band 7.5)

Dear Mr Smith,

I am writing to request a reduction in my working hours so that I can pursue my part-time studies. I have been working for your IT company for the past eight years, during which I have worked with several important clients and was promoted to the position of personal assistant last year.

Recently, I enrolled in a PhD programme, and my classes will begin on 15 October. They are scheduled from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. Although my university offers online classes, I would prefer to attend every session regularly so that I do not miss any important parts of my course.

Therefore, I would like to work from 5 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. instead of my current working hours. I believe that I can complete all my responsibilities within this timeframe. Furthermore, I will remain available by phone in case of any urgent work-related queries or emergencies.

I also believe that my studies will benefit the company in the long term. The knowledge and skills I gain through my PhD will help me develop professionally and contribute more effectively to the organisation. As an employee with greater qualifications and expertise, I will be able to take on more challenging responsibilities and contribute to the company's future goals.

I would be grateful if you could consider my request and approve the proposed working hours.

Yours faithfully,

Venus

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response: Band 7.5

The candidate has fully and effectively addressed all parts of the task prompt. The letter adopts an appropriate semi-formal tone and clearly explains why the reduction in working hours is desired, stating that the writer has enrolled in a PhD programme. The specific hours requested are outlined transparently, proposing a shift from 5 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Additionally, the benefits to the employer are well-articulated, highlighting that the advanced knowledge and skills gained will enable the employee to take on more challenging responsibilities and contribute more effectively to future goals. The ideas are fully developed and logically supported throughout the response, meeting all requirements of Task Achievement at a high level.

Coherence and Cohesion: Band 7.5

The letter exhibits a clear logical organization and smooth progression throughout. Each paragraph serves a distinct purpose, moving smoothly from the context and purpose of the letter to the specific schedule request, the benefits to the company, and the polite closing. Paragraphing is used appropriately, and cohesive devices such as 'Therefore', 'Furthermore', and 'Although' are handled naturally and effectively without becoming mechanical. Referencing is consistently clear, ensuring the reader follows the writer's argument effortlessly from beginning to end.

Lexical Resource: Band 7.5

The student demonstrates a wide, flexible, and natural lexical range appropriate for a professional workplace communication. Expressions such as 'pursue my part-time studies', 'contribute more effectively', and 'future goals' are used accurately. There is successful manipulation of less common lexical items and collocation, such as 'urgent work-related queries' and 'professional development'. Word choice is precise throughout, and spelling and word formation are entirely accurate, reflecting a strong command of vocabulary.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Band 7.5

The writing displays a wide range of complex structures used with a high degree of accuracy. The majority of sentences are completely error-free, featuring well-controlled subordinate clauses, conditional elements, and modal verbs (e.g., 'Although my university offers online classes, I would prefer to attend...'). Punctuation is used correctly throughout the text, and grammatical control is consistently maintained from the opening salutation to the final sign-off. There are no noticeable errors that impede communication, demonstrating firm command over the grammar.

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