IELTS General Writing Task 1 – Complaint Letter about a Faulty Electronic Device | LangorAi.com
IELTS General Writing Task 1 – Formal Complaint Letter about a Faulty Electronic Device | © LangorAi.com
IELTS General Writing Task 1 – Faulty Electronic Device Letter

IELTS General Writing Task 1 – Faulty Electronic Device Letter

You recently bought an electronic device that stopped working after one week. Write a letter to the store requesting a replacement or refund.

Model Answer (Band 8–8.5)

Dear Sir or Madam,

I am writing to express my dissatisfaction with a wireless headphone set that I purchased from your store last week. Unfortunately, the device malfunctioned only seven days after the purchase, which is extremely disappointing considering its advertised quality.

At first, the headphones worked properly, but soon the left speaker began producing static noise, and the battery started draining abnormally fast. I have followed all recommended troubleshooting steps, yet the problems remain unresolved. Since the product is still under warranty, I believe I am entitled to an appropriate solution.

I would like to request either a full replacement with a functioning unit or a complete refund. I can bring the defective item and the original receipt to your store at your earliest convenience.

I would appreciate it if this matter could be addressed without delay, as I rely on this device for my daily work tasks.

Yours faithfully,
Mino

Analytical Review – Strengths, Weaknesses & Improvements

1. Strengths
  • Clear formal register ideal for a complaint letter.
  • Strong verbs and precise vocabulary such as “malfunctioned,” “advertised quality,” “entitled,” “addressed without delay”.
  • Well-structured flow: issue → evidence → request → closing.
  • Good coherence supported by concise connectors: “Unfortunately,” “At first,” “Since,” “I would like to request”.
2. Weaknesses
  • Lacks a small detail about purchase cost to strengthen the persuasive tone.
  • A stronger closing sentence could further elevate the formal impact.
3. Recommended Improvements
  • Add a brief reference to consumer rights to increase authority.
  • Use one or two advanced collocations such as “prompt remedial action,” “under warranty terms,” “fully compliant replacement”.
  • A slightly more assertive closing would strengthen the argument.
4. Stronger Synonyms & Useful Collocations
  • dissatisfaction → discontent, frustration
  • malfunctioned → became defective, failed to operate
  • problems remain unresolved → issues persist, faults continue
  • I would like to request → I formally request / I seek
  • addressed without delay → resolved promptly, handled swiftly
5. How to Reach a Higher Band
  • Insert one clear justification for urgency.
  • Maintain fully advanced lexical choices in every paragraph.
  • Use slightly more authoritative closing expressions.