Reply to a Noise Complaint from Neighbours — IELTS General Training Writing Task 1

General Training A · Writing Task 1

Write to neighbours who have complained about noise from your household. Cover all three parts: explain the cause, apologise and describe the action you will take. The relationship and the purpose should determine the tone of the letter.

Practice target: 150+ words in about 20 minutes.

Open the task and write your response

Plan your response

1. Open by acknowledging their complaint so the reader immediately understands why you are writing. Choose a courteous greeting and a closing that suit the relationship.
2. Explain the source of the noise briefly and honestly. Give enough detail to clarify the situation without allowing the explanation to become an excuse or to dominate the letter.
3. Apologise directly, then give specific and realistic corrective action. A promise to be quieter is less informative than explaining what will change and when.
4. Check that each required bullet point has clear coverage. Keep a letter format with connected paragraphs, write at least 150 words and omit postal addresses as instructed.

Planning example

A useful plan is acknowledgement and apology, explanation of the disturbance, and practical steps to avoid a repeat. For example, if repairs caused the noise, describe a realistic restriction on the working hours instead of inventing an unrelated dispute.

This is original planning guidance, not a full sample answer or a promised band score. Compare any supplied sample critically and check it against the task requirements.