Band 8.0 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 8.0 · Cambridge IELTS 12 · 2026-08-13

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 8.0)

Dear Sir,

I am writing to complain about a problem with my HP laptop, model number [redacted phone], which I purchased from your company two months ago. My receipt number is 4563.

Unfortunately, the device has recently started shutting down unexpectedly, particularly when I am working on large files or attending online meetings, which is causing considerable inconvenience for me.

This issue is seriously affecting my work because I work from home and rely on this laptop to complete my daily tasks. The sudden shutdowns cause me to lose important work and interrupt virtual meetings with my colleagues and clients. Consequently, I am unable to complete my assignments on time, which is affecting my productivity.

I would appreciate it if you could arrange for the laptop to be inspected and repaired as soon as possible. If the problem cannot be fixed, I would prefer to receive a replacement under the warranty. I would be grateful if you could resolve this matter promptly.

I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Regards,

Martina Luther

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 8.0

The response fully addresses all three bullet points of the prompt. You clearly describe the technical problem with the laptop, explain the negative impact on your work-from-home responsibilities, and provide a clear request for a repair or replacement. The tone is appropriate for a formal letter of complaint, and the purpose is clear from the outset. The ideas are well-developed and supported with specific details, such as the mention of losing work during virtual meetings, which adds depth to your explanation. You have successfully fulfilled all requirements of the task.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 8.0

The letter is logically organized with a clear progression of ideas. Each paragraph serves a distinct purpose, moving from the introduction of the problem to the consequences and finally the proposed solution. You use cohesive devices effectively, such as 'Unfortunately,' 'Consequently,' and 'If the problem cannot be fixed,' which help guide the reader through your argument. The paragraphing is appropriate, and the flow between sentences is natural, ensuring that the message is easy to follow throughout the text.

Lexical Resource — Band 7.5

You demonstrate a good range of vocabulary appropriate for a formal business letter. Phrases such as 'considerable inconvenience,' 'rely on this laptop,' and 'resolve this matter promptly' are well-chosen and fit the context perfectly. The language is precise and natural, showing an ability to use collocations effectively. While the vocabulary is functional and accurate, incorporating a few more sophisticated or less common lexical items could elevate the response further, but the current range is more than sufficient for a high band score.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 8.0

The grammar is highly accurate throughout the letter. You use a variety of sentence structures, including complex sentences with subordinate clauses (e.g., 'I am writing to complain about a problem... which I purchased...'). Punctuation is used correctly, and there are no noticeable errors in tense or subject-verb agreement. The majority of your sentences are error-free, and the control over complex structures is consistent. The writing is clear, professional, and free from any slips that might impede communication.

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

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