Nowadays, if people want to communicate in writing to someone else it is usually by e-mail, SMS (text messages) or MSN. Text language has become the norm - LOL, BTW, IMHO are just a few of the many abbreviations used. It seems that the art of writing is a thing of the past. People who want to take the General IELTS exam need to be able to write a formal or informal letter that is at least 150 words in length and do this in about 20 minutes. This is Writing Task 1. By following the suggestions given in this book, and with some actual writing practice, you will find that you will be able to write the kind of letter that will impress the examiner and, more importantly, get the grade you need.