Band 7.5 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.5 · Cambridge IELTS 12 · 2026-08-07

IELTS Writing Task 1 question

You work at home and have a problem with a piece of equipment that you use for your job.

Write a letter to the shop or company which supplied the equipment. In your letter

• describe the problem with the equipment
• explain how this problem is affecting your work
• say what you want the shop or company to do

You do NOT need to write any addresses.

Begin your letter as follows:

Dear Sir or Madam,

Student answer (Band 7.5)

Dear Sir or Madam,

I am writing this letter to express my disappointment towards the laptop I bought from your company in December 2025. There has been a problem with the screen of the laptop since I bought it, which is hard to avoid.

Last week, I had a very important presentation with one of the international clients in the office. As soon as the meeting started, I was told to start the presentation, so I was trying to turn on the laptop. It didn't happen, although the screen started getting blurry and then disappeared instantly. Additionally, the screen also got damaged on the edges due to the heat released from the processor. This incident not only made me feel very embarrassed in front of everyone but also tarnished my reputation in front of my superiors. Moreover, this laptop carries all of my important data and files; it is non-negotiable to lose them.

I kindly request that either the laptop be repaired under the terms and conditions or replaced at your convenience. If either of these options is not possible, to do provide me with a full refund so I can buy a reliable alternative.

I appreciate the prompt response on this matter.

Thank you,

Dimpal.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 8.0

The letter successfully addresses all three bullet points: the problem is described, the impact on work is explained, and a clear request for action is made. The tone is appropriate for a formal complaint. The ideas are relevant and well-developed, particularly the description of the screen failure during a presentation. The response is fully focused on the task requirements, and the purpose of the letter is clear from the outset. No parts of the prompt were omitted, and the development of the ideas is sufficient to meet the requirements of the task.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 8.0

The letter is logically organized with a clear introduction, body, and conclusion. Paragraphing is used effectively to separate the problem description from the requested solution. Cohesive devices such as 'Additionally', 'Moreover', and 'If either of these options is not possible' are used to link ideas smoothly. The progression of information is logical, moving from the purchase details to the specific incident and finally to the desired outcome. The flow of the letter is natural and easy to follow throughout.

Lexical Resource — Band 7.0

The vocabulary is generally appropriate and precise, such as 'tarnished my reputation' and 'non-negotiable'. There is a good range of vocabulary used to describe the technical issues and the professional impact. While some phrasing is slightly standard, it is accurate and fits the formal context well. There are no significant errors in word choice or collocation that impede communication. The student demonstrates a sufficient range of vocabulary to convey their message clearly and professionally.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.5

The student uses a mix of simple and complex sentence structures effectively. Most sentences are error-free, and the grammar is generally accurate. There is a minor error in the final paragraph: 'to do provide me with a full refund' should be 'please provide me with a full refund' or 'do provide me with a full refund'. However, this does not impede communication. Punctuation is used correctly, and the overall control of grammar is strong, supporting the formal tone of the letter.

See this exact question answered at other band scores — the same prompt compared across bands.

Browse more IELTS Writing model answers or get your own writing scored by the same AI examiner.