IELTSWritingGT Task 1 — House-Sitting Instructions
General Training Task 1Informal Letter20 min · 150+ words

IELTS GT Task 1: House-Sitting Instructions (Informal Letter)

The Task

A friend has agreed to look after your home while you are away on holiday. Write a letter to your friend. In your letter: thank them for their help, explain what you need them to do, and tell them where to find important things in your home. Write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any addresses.

You should cover

  • Thank your friend for agreeing to help
  • Explain what you need them to do
  • Tell them where to find important things
Start Writing This Letter →

Sample Band 8 Response

164 words

Written by EduForEveryone — for guidance only. Not an official examiner response.

Dear Aisha,

Thank you so much for agreeing to look after my flat while I'm away for two weeks — it's a huge weight off my mind, and I really appreciate it.

There isn't much to do, but a few things would be a great help. The main one is watering the plants, especially the ones on the balcony, which need a drink every couple of days. If you could also pop in to collect the post and put the bins out on Thursday morning, that would be wonderful.

You'll find everything you need quite easily. The spare key is with our neighbour, Mr Khan, at number 12. The watering can is under the kitchen sink, and I've left the heating instructions and my contact details on the fridge door.

Please feel free to help yourself to anything in the kitchen and to relax there whenever you like. I'll be sure to bring you back something nice from my trip!

Thanks again, [Your name]