# Letter asking a friend to look after your pet: IELTS Writing Task 1 samples

Writing Task 1 - General Training - Home

You are going away for two weeks and need someone to look after your pet.

Write a letter to a friend. In your letter

Write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear Alex,

You should say:
- explain why you are going away
- describe what your friend would need to do
- say what you could do in return

Source: Sample answers and examiner notes are written by Testmigo.

## Band 7 sample

Dear Alex,

How are you? I hope everything is going well with your studies. I'm writing to ask you for a favour.

Next month I'm going to visit my parents in Brazil for two weeks, because my dad is turning sixty and the whole family is having a big celebration. The problem is that I can't take my dog, Max, with me, and I don't want to put him in kennels.

Would you mind to look after him while I'm away? You would need to feed him twice a day and take him for a walk in the morning and in the evening. He is very friendly and loves playing with a ball in the park, so I think you will enjoy it. I will bring his food and everything he needs to your flat.

In return, I could help you with your car, which I know needs a repair, or I will bring you some Brazilian coffee and chocolates from my hometown.

Thanks a million!

Love,

Mariana

**Examiner notes.** This Band 7 letter covers all three bullets and keeps a friendly, natural tone, with a clear reason for the trip and simple instructions. The offer in return is relevant but brief, and the two options are joined awkwardly with "I could... or I will...". The error "Would you mind to look after" is noticeable. A Band 8 letter would give more precise, practical instructions and make the offer in return feel more generous and specific.

The Band 8 sample is free with an account on the [topic page](https://testmigo.com/ielts/writing/topics/task-1/letter-asking-friend-to-look-after-pet).

## Common questions

### How many words should I write?

At least 150 words for Task 1 and 250 for Task 2. Writing a little more is fine; an answer under the minimum loses marks.

### Can I use these sample answers in my test?

No. Memorised material is marked down and you will not get this exact question. Use the samples to see what each band does with the same task.